As an industry, the recent years have taken us through some lows. As we continue to look ahead and heal, it’s important to consider and overcome what could hold us back. At a recent breakfast, Brian Moore of FMI presented three challenges ahead of us, and some thoughts on how to keep them at bay. 1. Availability of entry-level employees. …
We are learning that it takes a lot out of us to be successful in these times. However, if one does not get compensated for the work, it doesn’t really matter. It’s one thing to go home tired. It’s another thing to go home tired and unpaid. Therefore, our business plan is to seek out good …
Over the years, I have learned that the just right word(s) at the right time can make a huge difference in people’s lives. At times this means motivating them to do their best, and at other times it’s helping them through a tough spell. Several years ago, I learned that one of our longterm customers …
Earlier this month, I wrote a post offering a few hints for those on the job search. It seems especially pertinent in these times, because we as managers are receiving more resumes than usual. Not a week goes by that I don’t see between 3 and 5 job applications. I would say the majority of …
Times are getting better, but still tough. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal compared job seekers now–often isolated and searching online–to those who were looking for work during the Depression. In the 1930s, folks were more likely to call in favors to friends and family or knock door to door asking for work. …
On Tuesday, I posted about our local partner Superior Mechanical and their use of Lean, a system that fuels efficiency. The Lean Enterprise Institute summarize well by saying, “The core idea is to maximize customer value while minimizing waste. Simply, lean means creating more value for customers with fewer resources.” I was intrigued by what …
Recessions don’t have many redeeming qualities, but they do create opportunities that wouldn’t exist otherwise. Let me explain myself with an example. During our current economic downturn, commercial and retail spaces have often been leasing at reduced rates. Many of the prime locations already have been scooped up by opportunistic businesses. There still are good …
There is an old story about a brilliant scientist who boasted that he could examine a book and tell you anything about it–what type of ink was used, the composition of the paper, even details about the molecules that made up the book. But when the scientist sat down to actually read, he realized the …
You’ve heard about an idea locker? Well how about an idea freezer? This post from Jeremiah Owyang talks about one of my favorite ways to enjoy time disconnected from work: The idea freezer. For him, it’s a notebook that allows you to jot down ideas and to-dos as they come to you. The thought is …
Last week while looking though Entrepreneur, an article titled “How Entrepreneurs Can Conquer Fear of Selling” caught my eye. Carol Tice lists “owners who hate selling” as a primary reason businesses fail. While I am not sure it is a primary reason, the brand of a small business is intertwined with the persona of the …
It’s no secret that the aftermath of the Recession continues to take a toll on the construction industry. Last week, as I listened to more struggling economic news, I must admit that I thought to myself, “How much longer?” I have seen several of my competitors – companies I have bid against for the past …
Thanks to several social media tools, I have been able to stay connected with increased frequency than before web 2.0. A couple of years ago we started using several of these and the effectiveness of helping with relationships has been very encouraging. I can count on a brief exchange with someone due to my blog …