“Culture eats strategy for breakfast” is an often-used phrase to describe an essential element of organizational success. Here’s my take: You need both. Without a comprehensive, well thought out strategy, businesses tend to operate in a state of constant randomness. And while short term success may be found in reacting to opportunities and circumstances as…
Read MoreEditorial Type: Columns/Opinions
Ask the Accountant: What Is Equity, And How Is It Different from Assets?
Ask the Accountant… Question: What is equity in my business and how is that different from assets? Answer: In accounting, equity is assets minus liabilities. Equity is the portion of your business that is yours after debts or liabilities are considered. As an example, if you purchased a house for $300,000 and took a mortgage…
Read MoreWhy You Should Talk to Printing Industry Students at Trade Shows
In the printing industry, there are plenty of opportunities for professionals and students to come together. These events offer a chance for students to learn real-world insights and gain valuable connections, while professionals can receive fresh perspectives and new ideas from the next generation. Staying ahead of industry trends and maintaining a fresh perspective are…
Read MoreBe a Student of the Game to Drive Long-Term Success
Game, what game? This is serious stuff and not some kid’s game. You’re right, it is serious. Your employees, customers, suppliers, and shareholders are all counting on you and your team to get it right. Being a student of the game is crucial for business leaders, as it fosters continuous learning, adaptability, and strategic thinking.…
Read MoreA Big Pile of Money
Several years ago, when I wanted to build a new home, I needed ideas for what I wanted it to look like. So, I drove around nice neighborhoods and took pictures of attractive homes. I came upon an awesome home and decided to ask the owner if I could take some pictures. The owner answered…
Read MoreA New Look at ‘Customer Focus’
It’s not uncommon for business leaders to stress the importance of “customer focus” through all areas of their enterprise. On the surface, not a bad idea. However, upon closer look, this approach may be keeping your business from realizing its full potential. Here’s why. We’ve all heard of the Pareto Principle, sometimes referred to as…
Read MoreDefense Wins Sales Championships
When it’s football season, one saying you often hear is, “Offense wins games. Defense wins championships.” That is also true in sales. Offense — or outbound selling — gets new accounts, but defense keeps them producing revenue year after year. What does playing a strong “defense” mean for a sales pro? It comes down to…
Read MoreYour Fall Sales Plan
Watch this week’s Short Attention Span Sales Tip here. Good morning! Well, here we are. It’s the last week before the three most important selling months of the year. What’s your plan? I roll out this same message every year at this time because I believe it’s one of the most important sales tips I…
Read MoreStop Over-Automating Your Emails
Targeted email automation can be great I use it a lot: I can send a targeted response to someone. If they click on a link in a previous email and I can send them more information or an offer to encourage them to take action. If they don’t, I can send them a reminder. But…
Read MoreWorst Case Scenarios: Sales Edition
Salespeople are, by nature, optimists. If they weren’t, they would never be able to endure the beatings taken along the way to a successful career. Tomorrow will always be better than today. Your business will grow. Your client base is secure and your customers are happy.…
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