If you ever find yourself watching a tree company removing a tree, especially technical trees that require special skill sets and equipment, you quickly learn the importance of effective communication.
Kostner is currently the only climber that we bring on to any job that requires a top-down approach to removing trees. These are trees that are often dead or dying and leaning over homes and other structures. Yesterday’s job required three workers, and Kostner really shines as both a leader and an effective communicator. I own this business, but when Kostner’s high up in a tree, he’s the boss and I respect his tone as he shifts into leadership mode.
A lot of people mistakenly think that effective leaders are tough and stern and that kindness somehow equals weakness. Kostner debunks all of these myths. For the most part Kostner presents himself as quiet and kind, and always respectful. That’s how leaders present themselves 90% of the time. And the 10% of the time when the job gets serious, he is able to gracefully pivot to a more direct communicator. His tone shifts from kindness to a professional urgency, all without crossing the lines of becoming disrespectful. This is a quality that requires emotional finesse, which doesn’t come naturally to most people.
Many professionals mistakenly believe that trades workers lack the essential qualities that white-collar workers pride themselves on. However, there is much to learn from those who risk their lives performing dangerous jobs. We had a great time with yesterday’s leaning tree removal, and proud of Kostner and thrilled to have him and his leadership as part of Team Timber.