Today's business environment isn't getting any easier, nor will it get easier anytime in the future. I'm not psychic but I have learned that business NEVER gets simpler. More competition, shrinking profit margins, increases in fixed and operating costs are just a few of the issues we deal with everyday. You can lament this fact or, you can take proactive measures to bullet-proof your business. Here are few strategies that can help:Clearly define...more
There once was a hawk, ferocious and swift. He was young and agile with many years of life to hunt the open ranch lands. In a nearby field, a mouse scurried about the ground. The hawk saw the hurried motion and swept speedily toward the rodent.Just as the hawk's shadow engulfed the smaller rodent, the mouse fell to its back and begged, "Please, Mr. Hawk, spare me my life!" This surprised the hunter and he landed beside the mouse."Why should I...more
You open your computer, the flashing button says, "We have a new update for your software program. Do you wish to update now or later?" You choose the Update Now button and immediately your computer begins to download a new version of the software program. What is the program updating? It's fixing broken parts of the software program; it's adding new features. It does this quickly and easily. Right before your eyes you see the update taking place. You click a button and you have the newest software update.Computer software and hardware companies have learned that "updating" is a necessary tool in today's computer world. Without updates, users would drift towards other vendors who have the latest features and best programs.What about your own business? When was the last time you updated your business operations? In our fast paced, every changing business climate, your either update or customers will drift to your competitors.Your business needs are no different than computer software companies. You need to make fixes to your business operations. You need to add new features and benefits of your business and market these new features to your customers.Here is a short and...more
Fiercely combative business, non-profit and association managers use every PR weapon they can lay their hands on. Which means they employ strategic, rapid-fire print and broadcast tactics every day of their business lives. Still, many realize they need more than that to win the long-range battle. Fact is, they need a public relations budget...more
I've been both a CEO and a consultant, so I've seen from both perspectives what goes right and what goes wrong when a consultant comes in to a company. Generally the CEO or the manager who hires the consultant tells the consultant what he or she wants. Often the manager is frustrated with something that is happening at the company and expects the...more
Only one of every 5 businesses makes it to its 5th year, and fewer still make it to 10 years. What do the successful businesses have in common? 1. The experience and skills of the top managers. Over half of business failures are directly related to managerial incompetence. 2. The energy, persistence and resourcefulness (the will to make the business succeed) of the top managers. Many business owners have failed or come close several times before their "instant" success. Don't give up. 3. A product that is at least a cut above the competition and service that doesn't get in the way of people buying. There must be a compelling reason to buy; the product is great, the people love to provide service, and the buying experience is easy and fun. 4. The ability to create a "buzz" around the product with aggressive and strategic marketing. Make scarce marketing resources count. Do as much homework about your customers and their choices as you can before investing your marketing dollars. 5. Deal-making skills to sell the product at the highest possible price given your market. It comes down to your customers' perception of the value of your product and sometimes the power of your...more
Businesses and other organizations can capitalize on the interest and excitement the 2004 summer Olympic Games will create when they're held in Athens, Greece, August 13-29. Channel this heightened enthusiasm into the achievement of your...more
Promotions are everything you do to let your customers know you exist. Good marketing techniques can help eliminate the "I didn't knows" from your clients and would-be clients. Even if you believe you have more than enough business you should always...more
Sorry about my otaku with this issue (otaku = more than a hobby, a little less than an obsession).Many of you may know me, since I run Imediafax, the Internet to Media Fax Service. I send out over a million news releases a year for people via fax and...more
The design of your office and home has a great influence on your financial success. If your work or living environments are in harmony with nature they have a positive affect on your prosperity. In nature all five elements (water, fire, earth, air,...more
One: How to Create Sizzling Speech and Book TitlesDescription: Create titles that focus on what most people want all the time. Example "How to Win Friends and Influence People." Learn five ways to design your speech and/or best-selling book titles....more
Obtaining a home loan is arguably the most expensive transaction you'll experience in your lifetime. Therefore, getting the best home at the greatest value is an endeavor worth pursuing. Whether you're trying to squeeze in to a higher priced home...more