Most companies proclaim to hire for attitude and train for skill. But the “attitude” most sought in potential employees is actually soft skills, which are widely believed to be unteachable. Therefore, the training provided to employees once hired is predominantly focused on the hard skills needed to do a specific job, even though it is soft skills which better guarantee employee success and longevity, and lately, seem harder to come by.
We live in a world of disappointments, broken promises and under delivery. Okay, so maybe it’s not quite that bleak. But I think we can all agree that when it comes to doing what you say you will do, most people fall short. What a tremendous opportunity to excel with your customers and make a powerfully positive impression.
Virtually every conflict in every relationship, both personal and professional, could have been avoided (or certainly lessened) had the communication been more effective. Electronic methods of communication add yet another lawyer to the complication.
Virtually every aspect of your company can be upgraded. You can purchase newer and faster equipment, develop better processes and update pricing. But your greatest asset, and the one that deserves the most attention, is your employees. Investing in employees provides tangible and intangible benefits to your company in every area. It is also your greatest opportunity for increased returns.
Here in mid-Missouri, we are all recovering from perhaps that worst case of spring fever anyone can remember, after what seemed like months of a winter that wouldn’t let go and a spring that lost its sprung.
My six-year-old daughter holds up three pens (pictured) and asks, “Mom – can you tell which one of these is different?” Without hesitation, I answer “The one in the middle.” I mean, isn’t it obvious? More style.
Planning events. That’s what does it for me. It’s that thing that’s just… in me. The checklists, phone calls, scheduling, décor… seeing it all come together and then looking on, watching everyone enjoying themselves. I get immense satisfaction from it.
Most business owners have at some point thought, “Half of my marketing is not working. If only I knew which half.” First of all, let’s clarify the difference between marketing and advertising. Advertising is utilizing various channels to deliver a message that promotes your business. Marketing is the process by which you build your brand, and includes your advertising, among many other things.
I read an article recently that talked about a natural tendency to treat prospects differently than we do clients. It’s kind of like a new relationship – what my mom calls “love’s rose-colored glasses.”
Why do movies win Oscars? A great story. Why do we all love to hear songs from our youth? They take us back to a great story. What will make your brand relevant to more customers? Your great story.
