A series of articles exploring the seven critical areas that can indicate a partnership is in trouble.Conflict Becoming the Norm - Part 2In a previous article, I wrote about how unresolved conflict can create havoc in your business and can often end in a failed partnership. Today, I share with you a story about a pair of clients I recently worked with.Sue and Vicki were partners in a service organization that thrived on new membership and putting...more
A series of articles exploring the seven critical areas that can indicate a partnership is in trouble.The 4th C: CUMULATIVE MONEY PROBLEMSConflicts over money are very high on the list of reasons that 70% of business partnerships fail. I'm not referring necessarily to lack of money. The damage to business partnerships stem from the fact that each of us have different attitudes about money and therefore handle it in different ways.The most...more
A series of articles exploring the seven critical areas that can indicate a partnership is in trouble.The 5th C: Control IssuesWhen control is in the picture it is a lose/lose proposition.First, it is an illusion that anyone can control a person or a situation. The need to control is born of fear, lack of trust and insecurity. A person who feels it is necessary to control is robbed of a sense of well being. In business, control or the attempt to control can occur in many venues.The attempt to control can go on at the top between partners or anywhere else in the organization where two or more people work together. It may be between a group of managers, or between a CEO and direct report. It can be a manager and the team for whom he or she is responsible. It might be an owner CEO and stock holders, or a member of the board of directors. Family members such as siblings often attempt to control each other, or a father hands the business to his son, but won't let go of the reins.When someone attempts to control, they expend enormous mental and emotional energy to hold things within boundaries. Controlling behavior is constrictive and confining. It takes its toll on one's...more
A series of articles exploring the seven critical areas that can indicate a partnership is in trouble.The 6th C: Changing VisionIn order for a business to be a success the vision and mission must be reflected in all aspects of the structure, the culture and the strategy by which business is conducted. Contained in these are core values and...more
Having a great resume is the first critical step in a successful job search. Unfortunately, most people don't know the best ways to get that resume noticed. In today's job market, where you are competing with hundreds of other resumes, knowing the right way to distribute your resume can make all the difference.First of all you need to...more
Office politics! It's just another way of saying: "The employees are not getting along!"When so much of a company's success depends on the employees' ability to work together as a cohesive team, it is critical that people understand and appreciate the differences in each other.Symptoms of Office Politics: Conflict Stress Job Dissatisfaction Poor communication skills The Results: High employee turnover Reduced productivity and profitability The Solution: Improve employee communication and understanding The Disc Classic behavioral assessment is widely used by the nation's largest companies to improve the working relationship amongst its employees. The disc profile provides a nonjudgmental way to explore the "Dimensions of Behavior" across these 4 dimensions: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. D types like to be in control, and are direct, impatient, and strong-willed. I types are people-oriented and are expressive, outgoing, and they need recognition. S types are stable, predictable, and they like to work behind the scenes. They are good listeners and are sympathetic. C types are analytical, and concerned with quality. They...more
The most important aspect of a successful business is developing the correct mindset toward your customers. And this is not the over used phrase The customer is always right. Actually the correct mindset we are referring to here is to always think in...more
Ok, let's face it, everybody hates high credit card rates, and they drain hard earned money out of your wallet. As a valued consumer, it is apparent that you learn how to negotiate to get the absolute best rate that you possibly can. The good...more
When your eCommerce business grows to the point where you can no longer package and ship the orders yourself, it's time to begin outsourcing your order fulfillment. Although all order fulfillment centers offer the same basic services, their...more
What if I were to tell you that almost everything you have been told about what to do with your home has been absolutely wrong and that one of the worst ways to build wealth is through your home? And what if I further went on to show you that anyone...more
Creditors will measure your credit rating based on the following three main things. Capacity Collateral CharacterThe three "C's" show creditors your: "Capacity" or income to pay the debt "Collateral" or assets to secure the...more
You bet! Especially for business, non-profit and association managers who REALLY need to persuade their key outside audiences to their way of thinking. Then move them to behaviors that lead to the success of their department, division or subsidiary....more