David Colavita is in charge of business development/operations for Delisa Pallet Corporation in Middlesex, New Jersey. Delisa Pallet was founded in 1958 and provides a wide range of services and pallet products, including custom pallet inventory management and new, used, and reconditioned pallets.
Pallet Enterprise: What is the best business book that you have ever read? Why did you like it so much?
Colavita: One that really hit a chord with me is The Daily Drucker by Peter Drucker, an educator and management consultant. I read this book for the first time just after I obtained my MBA in management. I had already been working in the pallet industry for about a decade when I discovered this easy read. It takes you through 366 days (a page a day; 2004 was a leap year) of insight and motivation for business minds, particularly those in executive positions. The book encouraged me to step back and look at our business on a daily basis, as each day’s topic is very thought provoking. The book was like a coach as it motivated me to accomplish my business goals.
Pallet Enterprise: What is one thing you wish you knew a long time ago that could have helped your company along the way?
Colavita: Wayne Gretzky is famous for saying, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” After nearly 27 years in the pallet industry, I now know that in order to see gains, I need to take risks. I certainly wish I did not overthink things so often. However, I guess it’s better than acting first and thinking later.
If I knew then what I know now, I’d tell my younger self to add that piece of machinery, hire more laborers (ironic considering the current environment), and quote that piece of business rather than assume it would be too involved and cause too many headaches. My years in the business have taught me to take more shots!
Pallet Enterprise: What is the best piece of business advice that you have ever received?
Colavita: I have received a lot of good advice over the years. What really sticks out is an observation I made years ago in my early days in the industry. John Delisa Sr., the company’s founder, would enter the office with a smile, say good morning, and look at our sales staff and ask, “Any irons in the fire?” This occurred every Monday morning. This question left a lasting impression. I always want to answer “yes” to that question. I strive to have many projects or opportunities going on at one time. It is a pattern of success that John established for our business. It is what a leader does, provide food for thought, and I am grateful I learned that many years ago.
Pallet Enterprise: What advice would you give someone entering the industry for the first time?
Colavita: I love this industry, its members, and the many dynamic companies we sell or buy from. I love that our product truly moves the world and plays a critical role in the supply chain. Over the past three decades, the industry’s landscape has completely changed. To survive in business. you need to understand how dynamic it can be. I would say to someone entering this industry: buckle your seatbelt. Most of us are enjoying the ride now, but we all know the ride has not always been smooth or fun.
