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"get Me The Ball!"

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 16:29:35 GMT

The Juggle

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 22:12:19 GMT

Entrepreneurs have to be masters at performing multiple duties, playing a variety of roles, and generally doing whatever is required to get the job done. Most start-up ventures are woefully understaffed and owners and employees realize that they have to be flexible in performing a variety of jobs and can’t be too rigid in conforming to any makeshift job description. Additionally, owners realize that a job remains undone, and there is nobody left to do it, or there is no money to hire someone, the task will undoubtedly be added to the owner’s to-do list. It just goes with the job, you may have to juggle multiple tasks at any one time, on any given day! Early in my business career, a trusted advisor urged me to delegate duties, and whenever possible, hire folks to do what I didn’t do very well. Secretly I thought he didn’t understand the reality of my financial position; I didn’t think I could afford that kind of help. With a little time and experience, I came to understand his wisdom. Entrepreneurs, managers, and employees only have a limited amount of time and energy. We are only human and everyone has limitations. We can’t be good at doing every task, and we can’t work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week…at least for very long. ..so at some point, we need to decide how to get it all done and still maintain our sanity. In one of my start-up ventures, I decided to do my own bookkeeping and handle payroll too. Before long I was consumed with the complexities of learning the task, and realized that I was probably making mistakes along the way. It took up an extensive amount of time and I was not very confident in my skills… Not good! I soon gave into the wisdom of allowing a payroll services to do my payroll, and hiring a “bookkeeper” to do my “books”… I got my productive time back was able to use that time to make enough sales to pay them and to make some profit too! I didn’t have to do it all, I just needed to do it more efficiently. Knowing your limitations is critical in managing your workload. By assigning tasks and responsibilities to the right employees, or outside contractors, you increase your likelihood for success, and your can focus your time and energy on what you do the best. Now, I admit there are times when you may have to do-it-all; maybe to get things started, or just keep things afloat in a tough time, however that can’t last forever if your intent is to grow your business. Sooner or later you realize that you can’t do it all, be everywhere, and do everything may be required in a given day, and that’s ok. Some days you just have to do the best you can, get a good nights sleep, and juggle it all again tomorrow.

The War On Excellence

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 15:14:34 GMT

The problem with trying to do something exceptionally well is that it is much easier to be average, and for some people and most organizations, that is acceptable. Jim Collins, in his book Good to Great starts out with the sentence, “Good is the enemy of great.” The older and more experienced I become, the more I understand the truth and the depth of that statement, and the more terrifying it becomes.

Closing Time

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 04:53:33 GMT

As an entrepreneur, I have spent many an evening in the office long after all the employees had gone home. It was just an accepted part of being an entrepreneur. Working late is the norm for most small business owners, not the exception. Filing, paperwork and other administrative tasks always wait until after the clients are served, and believe it or not, many sales occur after the business is technically “closed.” In fact, if there is a willing client with a check, my business is always open, and I am closing the sale!

When You Know That You Know...

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 04:26:53 GMT

As a small business owner, there are always times that you wonder what you should do. Do you expand or contract? Do you hire now? …or wait until you are sure that things are going to get better? For the decision maker, there is usually not a clear answer. Many times the decisions that can make you a hero, or a hound dog, are split second decisions that are based not on your research, or your training, but on your gut. You just know that you know, what to do. Others can doubt me, people can question and even ridicule my decisions, but more often than not, when I know that I know what to do, it is the right decision… even if it takes some time to be evident to others. Now, I have certainly made my fair share of wrong decisions, (just ask my wife!) however, there are very few times have I gone wrong when I followed that deep feeling in my gut that I should choose a certain path. In fact, most of my really bad decisions occurred when I listened to others and did not follow that small quiet voice inside. Decisions are a part of doing business every day, and some can make or break your business. So, with the tempo of life accelerating exponentially, it is imperative that you consider the impact of each decision, factor in your training, experience, education, and the circumstances, and then do your best to be decisive. However, there are times when you do not have all the information or experience that you would like to have…but you still have to make a decision… and in my experience, you have got to trust your instincts and listen to that small quiet voice inside … especially before you choose a direction.

When Up Is Down...

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 08:51:23 GMT

For the last few months, conversations at most business events eventually touch on the upcoming election. People freely discuss and debate the various candidates and their nuanced positions on the serious matters of the day. I mostly listen to the debate to hear what really matters to business people, and what messages seem to resonate with each. It is always interesting to me what issues attract some individual business owners, and what issues seem to transcend gender, industry, or business size.

So... In The Meantime...

Sat, 25 Sep 2010 06:18:51 GMT

The last 2 months have been incredible… so many things to do, so many things to be decided, trying to just keep up, and life still happening all around. The new normal is busy at the speed of thought and so in an attempt to catch you up on my last month (in which I have failed to blog), I offer the following synopsis of happenings in my life... For some time we have been evaluating the idea of moving The Disney Entrepreneur Center to The Fashion Square Mall. We now have agreement from most of our resident providers, our Executive Board, and just recently from the Orange County Board of County Commissioners. So, we are taking an entire wing of the mall and plan to move in April of 2011. Now begins the process of “how are we going to make that happen in six months?”

Are You Ready For Some Business?

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:29:17 GMT

Our annual Entrepreneur Fair takes place this Thursday at the downtown Sheraton. (formerly Marriott) From 1- 5 pm, we have six educational sessions featuring experienced professionals who are speaking on subjects ranging from The Body Language of Business” to “Government Contracting.”

Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty, and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer once again, will attend our networking reception in the evening, and the best part is that the whole day is FREE! Even FREE parking at the Amway arena!

Even though we are in our 5th year, my excitement is at an all time high! Maybe it is that we have changed locations, maybe it is that this year is our biggest Fair ever, or maybe it is just my nature, but in any case, the Entrepreneur Fair is going to happen on Thursday.

The E-Fair is designed specifically for you! Each year we work hard to produce an event that will provide practical and tactical assistance to our small business community… and each year we are overwhelmed by the attendance, the feedback, and the active engagement of our small business community. This year promises to be our best ever and I look forward to seeing you there! Make sure you find me at the DEC table to say hi!

2 Ears, 1 Mouth

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 22:20:35 GMT

Is it possible to make a point, express an idea, or even have a disagreement anymore without being interrupted, challenged, attacked or demonized? When did folks change from wanting to entertain healthy debate, and discuss the best ideas, to the desire to turn every discussion into an argument? Did I miss a memo? Can’t we disagree anymore, without being disagreeable?

Vision...or Not!

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 22:34:07 GMT

How do you know the difference between real insight, or vision, and a bad idea? I have both regularly, but I always struggle to distinguish between the two. Sometimes, I recognize a great idea (or a really bad one) immediately, but other ideas only reveal their true worth over time; long after the decision has been made and the results are in. So, what do you do when you don’t know whether you have a visionary insight, or a very bad idea?

I usually test my idea by asking as many people as possible to get diverse input and perspectives. Sometimes folks are immediately taken with the idea, and they get excited, however others ideas are met with skepticism and doubt. Some are true skeptics at first and then warm up after some serious consideration. And then there are those ideas that are met with immediate rejection or even worse, ridicule!

I always listen to my group of “focus group” /confidants because I know they will always tell me the truth, and share their concerns with me. I also know that they are open minded enough to consider an idea that is out of the box, and yet independent enough to share their opinions freely. Now, that doesn’t mean that I always agree with them, do what they say, or follow their advice… but it sure helps me to consider all the angles… and prepare for the anticipated challenges if I decide to move forward.

Being a successful entrepreneur always requires some creative and unique ideas. However being successful requires that you listen to those around you who have unique perspectives, experience, and non-biased input. If you can identify a truly bad idea and avoid the expense and headache of doing the wrong thing, it is valuable and will increase your odds of success. I have learned much from my inner circle of confidants, and they have helped me avoid disaster many times with my ill-conceived ideas. However, I also know that many times creative vision is something that is very is unique to you and your particular experiences. Vision requires individual courage, and can mean the difference in doing what others do, or taking things to a new level of success… a level that is called….visionary. So visionary ideas may not always get the approval of those around you.

Vision can be a scary and lonely thing… but doing what you always have done can only produce what you always have gotten. If you truly want to excel, you are going to have to get out of your comfort zone, take some chances, and trust your vision!

Go Blue!

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 21:48:32 GMT

I toured the new retail facility for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida this week and I saw the future of healthcare. The new facility located in Winter Park Village off of 17/92 gives you the feeling of an Apple retail store; high tech, inviting, interactive, and staffed with knowledgeable and personable employees. The idea is to engage, educate, and enlighten healthcare consumers, whether they are BCBS clients or not, and in the process, provide easy access to healthcare options offered by the company.

I played the WII bowling, competed in the I-Pad coffee table game that tested my nutrition knowledge, and auto calculated my body mass index. It was informative, educational and fun too! Now I happen to be a BCBS client so I intend to visit regularly to ask specific questions about my policy and my healthcare plans, because they have 2 nurses available, a bundle of data about local pharmacies and doctors, and private consulting areas. (beats talking to an 800#)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida is on to something here. While this is their 4th location in Florida, this is a unique offering for Central Florida healthcare! You have to check it out and see if you don’t agree that Blue in on the right track with a new approach to this new era in healthcare coverage. The new facility is very impressive, I think it is a great way to engage folks in healthy living, and I applaud the companies innovative thinking. Go Blue!

What's In Your Wallet?

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 07:03:39 GMT

I admit it, I enjoy those funny commercials with the Vikings that always end with the question, “what’s in your wallet?” They use that tagline to entice you to carry a Capital One credit card and use it for all your purchases. For over 15 years I have carried a CitiCard credit card in my wallet, and believe me, it got used! My card is labeled “black diamond” because it has been used through the start up of several business ventures. I always pay my bill in full and on time. Sadly, during my last business trip, I reached my limit of frustration with Citi and have begun the search for a new credit card provider… I travel for business regularly, and when on vacation, my wife and I love to travel. Over the last 18 months, I have begun to encounter problems using my credit card if I am not in Orlando. My card was rejected at a) the airport in Detroit b) a WalMart in Tiffin c) a department store in Columbus d) an ATM in Sorrento Italy and e) a variety of gas stations…this drives me CRAZY! Now, before you start telling me that I need to call the company to inform them of my business travel in advance, you need to know…been there, done that! I have called before, during and after trips to report my whereabouts. I have answered all the security questions, I have asked them to put a note in my file that reads “Jerry tends to travel for business so let him use his card, OK?”. I have written letters, and even begged for mercy, but none of that seems to work. I am left with no alternative… I need to find another supplier…one I can count on! One that will service my needs! One that will listen and respond! One that values my business! You know it is time to leave a company when just the thought of doing business with them increases your hear rate. When I have the audacity to travel outside my designated zip code and reach for my credit card…my mind begins to race…Is is going to work? Should I just carry cash? Is this line of people behind me going to freak out when they seem me searching for my glasses to read the microscopic “customer service” number on the back of my card, then reaching for my cell phone and then uttering security code gibberish like, “huckleberry”, “Orlando Magic” and “1796bootstrapper”. (This is also a particularly impressive scenario when you are entertaining a client at dinner!) In an effort to prevent fraudulent use, and protect the company’s assets, Citi has forgotten the needs of their customer! They reassure me each time that I call that this is for “my protection” but what good is protection if it prevents use? Do we prevent boating to protect people from boating accidents? Should we prevent business start-ups to “protect” entrepreneurs from financial risk? Is Citi really concerned with “my protection” or are they just forcing their client to conform to what they would like me to do, rather than what I need? ?(that is rhetorical, we both know the answer) Every business, large and small, needs to view policies and procedures through the eyes of their customers first! If you remove the benefit of doing business with you, simply because it is easier, faster, or better for you, then you need to be prepared to find new clients as quickly as you lose the clients who can, and will, go elsewhere. Remember, it is much cheaper to keep a good client than it is to find a new one! So, I have removed my black diamond credit card and placed it in a very secure and secret location…for my protection. I occasionally take it out just to remember the good old days when I could travel the world and rely on my trusty old credit card. Today, I even thought about calling customer service just to change my password, and because I miss speaking with Ann, Charlie, Mary, and the customer service and fraud prevention gang,.. but I didn’t want to interrupt them...they are probably busy protecting other customers! By the way, the last time I saw that funny commercial, and they asked “what’s in your wallet”, I actually answered out loud for the first time…“cash.”

Tax Day

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 09:45:08 GMT

High and unfair taxes were a catalyst for The American Revolution. Fair taxation was a hot topic at the birth of our nation and continues to be a vital concern to our country today…at least to the 53% of Americans who actually pay federal income tax. You see, in today’s system, there are 47% of the folks who do not pay any income tax. In fact, only 10% of the top earners in our country pay 75% of ALL income tax for the country. Is that fair? Does that generate an incentive to be creative, innovative, and successful as a small business owner…or does it sound like the system that sparked the original American Revolution? Free flow of capital, and the reinvestment of that capital is crucial to the growth and development of small businesses and the jobs they create! If there is no real reward for investing my money in my business, why wouldn’t I just keep it in the mattress? The latest news today is that there were 484,000 new jobless claims LAST WEEK! No surprise to me. No reward for risking your money in a small business, no investment. The fallacy of “taxing the rich” is that they CAN go someplace else to invest. They CAN exist without hiring new people. They CAN choose to not buy the car or a tanning session that may be vital to your job. Those “rich” folks CAN choose to close their small business rather than risk it all to hire and rain new people, make a product that they do not know will sell, design a sales strategy to make it work, hire graphic designers and printers to create the marketing material, purchase advertising, and actually make a sale, only to have to pay employees, pay the invoices, pay the insurance, pay the rent, hire the accountants, worry about the economy, pray they are left with some profit. Now comes the decision on whether to reinvest that profit or keep it ….. then go home to hear how they are considered the “rich elite” who should pay more in taxes. What would you do?...if your job depended on it? My personal opinion (not that of the management, ownership, affiliates, or anyone connected with my life, either living or dead) is that individuals and businesses are taxed way too much, Sales Tax, Gas Tax, Real Estate Tax, School Tax, Estate Tax, Sin Taxes, Tanning Taxes, Social Security Tax, Medicare Tax, Employee Matching Taxes, Intangible Tax, Income Tax, and in some areas of the country, an additional State Tax… when you add them all up, and then add the costs of the requirement to get financial planners who help you avoid tax (legally) and the accountant that is required to prepare your return (if you are part of the 53% who actually pay) the rate can be over 50% of every dollar you make! Now, before I get flooded with all the questions about the services we receive for those taxes, I do believe that we should fund our national defense with federal taxes and fund our local schools with some sort of SALES tax, so I do believe that we have to have some taxes to pay for the services we get, but can’t they be fair? I am beginning to see the logic of the Flat Tax proposal which sets one tax rate ( say 15%) that is paid on federal tax and EVERYONE pays something. If you make 100 Million tax is $1.5 Million. If you make $1000 you pay $150 dollars for National Security and the Federal Government. If you want local services, you pay tax on what you buy to support the local area. I am not a tax expert, however, it doesn’t take much study to know that our current system is broken and we need to fix it now and quit just talking about it…and there is no better day to start than today... the day when taxes are due.

I Hate To Interrupt...

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 08:17:57 GMT

Everyone knows the next word in that phrase. …BUT! Usually that phrase is completed with a variety to reasons that one might think of to interrupt a private conversation, a phone call, or yes, even a meeting. There seems to be a rising epidemic of reasons and/or causes that rise to the level of importance required to interrupt others… or could it be that our society has just become more selfish and rude? Interruptions seem to relay the message that your conversation is not as important as my need to interrupt you. Maybe that should be inserted in the remainder of my opening title. “I hate to interrupt…but your conversation (train of thought, phone call) is not as important as my need to interrupt you.” To improve on this issue, I have begun to ask myself, “Is my question something that I absolutely need to know the answer to right now? or can it wait? Additionally, I have begun to take notice of the number of people who walk into my office (uninvited) and stand in front of my desk while I am engaged in a business phone conversation… and wait for me to finish! …or actually stand in my doorway while I am engaged in a private meeting, until I ask them how I might assist them… only to find they are looking for directions to the bathroom! (OK … that could be an emergency, but interrupting a private meeting?...could go either way.) Research has shown that when someone deep in thought is interrupted, it can take up to 20 minutes to get back to the same level of concentration, so even though someone may be “just thinking” a knock on the door may cost 1/3 of an hour in production, and you may not get their full attention on formulating an answer. In our efforts to multi-task, and be efficient with OUR time, we may be causing others in our organization to be less efficient with THEIR time by constantly asking them to stop their work to assist us. Sometimes a question or an issue really can wait to be addressed at a mutually productive time, rather than constantly requiring others to tend to our needs when WE want them to. By combining issues and questions into a list and covering them when you both have time might prove to be more efficient and you might even get better quality answers because you are both focused on the items at hand. It may even require setting a meeting time to adequately address the items. Now I am not talking about emergencies here! If the building is on fire, feel free to interrupt everyone in the building, however, if you just want to know if the Magic are in the playoffs, you might want to hold that question for lunchtime. I had a big ending for this blog entry in mind, however, I just got interrupted and now I can’t remember what it was going to be. So, I guess that will be all for this one. Thanks for stopping by to visit!

This Is Not a Dress Rehearsal!

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 06:31:30 GMT

Those words were repeated on many opening nights for play productions while I was in college. This was a director’s saying to insure that all the actors knew that this was the big night, the real thing, and that there were no “do-overs” when you had an audience full of patrons. Opening night was the culmination of all your rehearsal, and now it was time to shine. Those words always gave me a sense of focus, anticipation, and a little bit of fear. I have a big yellow button in my office that reads, “This is not a dress rehearsal.” I have carried it from job to job, office to office and it always is given a prominent area of display. It provides me a constant reminder that every day is like opening night, and a performance that I will never get to repeat. It’s a “carpe diem” kind of thing, and believe me, some days I am better at “seizing the day” than others. Today, I am attending a funeral for a friend who died too young. She fought a determined fight with cancer, and she lost that battle on Monday. Kelly was an inspiration to others; a truly caring and giving person. She lived each day like “opening night” and she will truly be missed. Greg was by her side every minute and he, too, provided an example of courage, love, and dedication. He has an amazing gift of giving comfort to others even in his time of pain. As I write this, I’m thinking about how precious each day really is, and about how much time I spend consumed with the small stuff; things that, in the long run, really don’t matter. Today my “to do” doesn’t seem so important. It really doesn’t matter much if my dry cleaning is done, or the grass gets mowed. I have decided that I am going to concentrate on enjoying that blue sky and sunshine that we are treated to each day here in Orlando, because I think I have been taking that for granted for a while. I have decided that I may have to wait an extra minute or two for the driver in front of me today, or that I may even get cut off in traffic and it is going to be ok…. Life will go on for me, and the curtain of dawn will rise, we will say goodbye to Kelly…and pray that life is only our dress rehearsal.

The Reality Of Birds & Business

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:40:13 GMT

I love to hear the birds in the morning as they welcome the dawn. With daylight saving time upon us, I am awake in the morning while it is still dark outside, so I have noticed the symphony of sounds that accompany each new day. We have owls, hawks, eagles, woodpeckers, mockingbirds, and a variety of songbirds that reside in the wooded areas all around my home. I am always entertained by the antics of how they all attack my backyard birdfeeder at feeding time. They are beautiful and they have provided a real source of entertainment and enjoyment for my family.

100 Club Has 40 Members!

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 10:16:10 GMT

Our center recently launched an effort to raise operating funds for our center called the Disney Entrepreneur Center’s 100 Club. This idea came from a group of entrepreneurs who have been volunteering at our center from many years. They saw the need for us to broaden the base of financial support for our non-profit center, while increasing the business community input to our mission. The goal: find 100 community leaders who would donate $1000 each year to join in the funding of our efforts ...and in return we would limit this group to ONLY 100 members, provide some exclusive programming and some great networking and promotional opportunities.

We have already attracted 40 members! (that means only 60 spots left!) At our kick-off meeting Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resorts gave an inspiring talk on entrepreneurship and their importance to an innovative business environment and robust economy. From Walt Disney, as the ultimate entrepreneur, to the creative methods of Zappos Shoes, Meg gave our new initiative a great start, and we are extremely grateful for the support that she, and the entire Walt Disney World team provides to our ongoing efforts at the E-Center.

It is a tough economy for everyone, especially a non-profit organization who supports 13 other non-profit organizations! The 100 club members have provided a critical financial boost to our efforts in a very difficult time and I am amazed daily at the folks that are pitching in not only support our current efforts but to expand our efforts to serve the increasing demands for the services of our resident organizations.

Just another example of how our region is unique…cooperation, collaboration, and providing real support and not just lip service. That is why Entrepreneur Magazine referred to Orlando as “The Coordinator” when listing us as a “top 10 City of Starting a Business” in their August ’09 edition…

Thank you to all of those who support us through volunteering, coaching, referrals, sponsorship, and 100 club membership! We can’t do it without you!

Nice Guys Can Finish First

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 06:24:16 GMT

Main Street Gardening

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 03:23:25 GMT

Lately there has been a lot of discussion in Florida about “economic gardening” The term refers to the success of Littleton, Colorado in growing their local economy by equipping, and accelerating the growth of “second stage” companies. Second stage companies have between 10 and 100 employees and usually are doing more than $1 million in sales. They are the companies that are expanding (adding jobs) and usually experience rapid growth. In Florida, that represents only about 10% of our companies, however, those companies produce almost the same number of jobs as the other 90% of the stage 1 businesses! So it makes good economic sense, if you want to create jobs quickly, (other than cutting taxes) invest in this group of companies, provide funding, get them what they need and then get out of their way! However, you can’t just ignore the needs of all the stage one companies (less than 10 employees and less than $1 million in sales). They make up 90% of the businesses in Florida! It seems obvious that without stage one businesses surviving, there will be very few stage 2 companies tomorrow. At the Disney Entrepreneur Center, we assist any size business, and it is no surprise that about 90% of them have fewer than 10 employees and sales of less than a million. We want to accelerate the potential for a first stage businesses to become a second stage as quickly as possible, because that should create an exponential increase in jobs…but, not every stage one business wants to grow into a second stage business, not every seed you plant will sprout, and some seeds may never get planted. Our creative and supportive environment provides fertile soil for innovation, but before you can harvest, you must plant, water, weed, feed, and show some patience! (and in my case, protect the plants from the #$%$# raccoons) So, if we ignore and postpone addressing the needs of our struggling “main street” garden, we do so at our peril. Innovation does not have a single recipe and it operates on a time schedule all it’s own. There are no two entrepreneurs that are alike, nor two businesses the same; but as any gardener will tell you, if we do not invest in the seeds, and tend to our main street garden, there will certainly be a smaller harvest for the economic garden down the road.

It Is What It Is!

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 09:26:11 GMT

Welcome to 2010! I enjoyed having some time off, especially when everyone else had time off too! That way I didn't have to come back with my desk piled high with stuff. I had a great holiday season, enjoyed my bonus time off with the family and now I am ready to take on 2010 with renewed energy and enthusiasm! ...So, look out! I hope your holiday season was great as well!

Ticket Czar

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 13:26:59 GMT

Last night as my wife and I pondered the newest way to eat leftover Christmas turkey, (felt like Bubba from Forrest Gump movie..turkey sandwich, turkey and rice, turkey salad…) when just then we happened to hear an ad for the Magic Game at 7pm. Spontaneously, I began to chant, “Lets go magic” and within seconds we were both sorting through the closet for our lucky Magic shirts and my #1 foam finger! We were going to a Magic game! We arrived downtown just in time to be caught up in the sea of loyal fans streaming together toward the Amway Arena. No sooner had I parked than the Redi-Pedi bicycle cab appeared to whisk us to the arena in a flash. As we jumped out of Catherine’s chariot I spotted the ticket office and got in line. The line moved quickly and soon I was jolted into the reality of the moment….The game was SOLD OUT! How could this be? No tickets? No game? No Magic…. No way! Wasn’t there a ticket czar to appeal to? Wasn’t there a bail out program for those poor fans who failed to plan? I turned slowly to break the news to the Magic’s second biggest fan when a booming bass voice rose above the crowd noise….”hey man, you need a couple of tickets?” Life began to move in slow motion as I glided across the street to the friendly fellow who was waving two tickets in the air. Could this be fate? Was I about to complete the perfect spontaneous vacation plan? Hope was running high. Christmas angels burst into song…. As I neared my newest best friend I noticed that he was one of a dozen folks sporting a fistful of tickets and all of them seemed so anxious to get us into the right seats with the best view of all the action…and then I received the initial price estimate for those fans who had failed to plan ahead…(there is a reason that these folks are called scalpers!) My wife and I located a bench to steady ourselves and discuss our plans for such a large purchase. We considered taking on a new mortgage, possibly cashing in some stock or returning a few Christmas presents, but after careful consideration we decided that watching the game from a downtown watering hole with big screens, replays, plenty of drinks, and free popcorn was more in our budget…. and ironically we ran into a few other spontaneous folks who had made the same decision, shared some scalper stories…and we had a really good time cheering on the hometown team! On the way home after a great comeback win, I pondered how the evening had turned out. Washington could learn a few things from this experience. The free market works! 1) The game was sold out – (good product attracts more customers) 2) The scalpers got paid a premium for thinking ahead and taking the risk of buying multiple tickets – (raw capitalism) 3) I did not plan ahead and that did not warrant a bail out. —(Sometimes you don’t get everything you want and you are never too big or too small to fail) 4) I found a creative and affordable way to enjoy the game. (Innovation and creativity will always emerge in a free market) 5) The local pub recognized a need in the marketplace (budget minded, spontaneous and thirsty magic fans) 6) Competition is part of the process – (winning is not guaranteed) --The Magic won! Bucks lost --Some scalpers made great money – some were left with tickets unsold --We failed to plan ahead – we did not get in the game- nobody was to blame – our responsibility! --The $6 beer place sold us two – the other place.. well you get it! 7) Today we are looking at which games we would like to attend in the future so that we can buy the tickets in advance and if my schedule changes…. who knows…. I might just try scalping them....although... what if I commit to purchase tickets in advance and the government names a ticket czar to guarantee that no fan is left behind, no matter how late they try to buy a ticket, and that those who purchased in advance could subsidize my ticket price, or set an income cap for scalpers….Maybe I should just wait? Yes? No? Maybe? Who knows… stranger things are happening today….

Merry Christmas!

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 20:47:05 GMT

Merry Christmas to all my Christian friends! May this season of endless hope, love, caring, and new beginnings bring you renewed purpose and direction, and a sense of true purpose in your life! My wish for everyone is that peace surround you and your family, and that you all be blessed abundantly in 2010! During this season of hope, always remember that you are so much more than what you do for a living, to keep life’s challenges in perspective, establish your priorities, and never, never, never give up on your dreams!

Lester

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 19:51:35 GMT

As the holidays were rapidly approaching it became clear that all of my “projects” were not going to get completed by Christmas. My son who was home for a break was enlisted as my “project manager” in the hopes of achieving the impossible. Painting, fix-up, repair, and long overdue maintenance required full time attention, and I needed help. One evening as I received an update from my “project manager,” he mentioned a visitor who had dropped off a flyer advertising his new lawn care business and was offering a great rate. Now, my son has worked in all of my businesses for many years, so he knows my style and my exacting standards, so when he took the time to tell me about Lester’s cold call, I paid particular attention. You see, Lester had been laid off for some time, and had not located a new job, so he decided to “make things happen” and start his own lawn care business. My son said, “Dad, you would like this guy” and somehow I knew he was right. I called Lester the next day and hired him to help out with my yard projects. (Maybe there was hope that my “projects” could be completed by Christmas!) Lester showed up the next day and he made quick work of the lawn and even trimmed a shrub on the way! I asked him about doing some mulch and by the end of the week he had that done too. I asked Lester about his foray into his own business and he just smiled and showed my his list of appointments. “I knew if I could just get a few clients, the rest would come” Lester said, I figured if I cold called long enough, and did what I promised to do, then people would want to hire me.” From that cold call, through my son’s screening, and to closing the sale, Lester has been a true study in persistence, integrity, and hard work. He has cheerfully performed every task I have assigned and he has over delivered on every promise. I have watched his client list grow and I enjoy talking with him about managing company growth, re-investment in new equipment, and the importance of cash management. Yesterday, Lester stopped by to drop off a Christmas card for my family and to let me know that he would soon get to the various projects in the back yard. I laughed and told him not to worry about me until after Christmas, because my project manager had finished the entire list and returned to London, my project list had disappeared,(except for a few shopping items) and it was time for us to enjoy the holidays! As we shared a cup of coffee and some fresh baked cookies, we both agreed that he would be busy for a long time with my yard projects, and that 2010 could be a much better year for small businesses that want to work hard and make it happen!

Pricing

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:25:42 GMT

Pricing

There is no doubt that price plays a big role in our buying decisions. From my first class in Marketing 101 to my MBA projects, price is always a topic for long and passionate discussion. How do I price my products to make the most profit, while still attracting the most buyers? It is a simple question, but it is a complex issue.

In a tough economic time many companies believe that the right strategy is to lower your price , however, dropping your price, even just a little, requires a significant increase in volume just to make the same profit as before. Sometimes a price reduction is required to create activity, but sometimes adding value to the offer (instead of dropping the price) will accomplish the desired sales.

Pricing will sometimes affect our perception of the value of a product or service too. Have you ever considered buying something and then deciding not to purchase because it seemed so cheap that you thought it might not be any good? On the other hand, I have often decided not to buy because something cost too much. So, it is extremely important to do your market research, and know your expenses before you set your price, and then be ready to defend it with good knowledge of your value.

PS. Just had an example of poor pricing strategy today. Went to get the car serviced today and was quoted $38 to change a tail light bulb. Price at the parts store- $1.99/ time to install-5 minutes/ personal satisfaction – priceless!

Great Expectations

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 12:44:47 GMT

Lately, I have been a little grumpy and I have not been able to muster my usual enthusiasm. I knew it, I could feel it, but I was not sure why I was “out of sorts.” It was a very busy week and I did travel a bit, but I have those weeks all the time and don’t feel discouraged. So what’s up?

I can work tirelessly for weeks, overcome challenges, and multi-task with the best, but every once in a while, the smallest comment or slight can get me down in an instant. I usually do not see it coming, it just arrives out of the blue and there I am, wondering where all my energy went. Maybe I expected more, or maybe what I got was totally unexpected, however, the difference in addressing a real concern or dealing with hurt feelings may just be a matter of managing my expectations.

I always set high expectations for myself, but then if I don’t (can’t) achieve them, I get disappointed with myself…maybe even a little grumpy. I may create my list of weekend chores and after achieving 5 of the 6 tasks on the list, I will sit down on Sunday night and wonder why I was unable to get #6 done…and then consider getting up from the couch to go do it! Is it just a little crazy to always be driven to achieve more, accomplish more, and produce excellence in everything? Are my personal expectations realistic or do I need to seek counseling? Is that a personality trait that I required for me to be an achiever or is it some mutated entrepreneurial gene?

Other times I get discouraged when I am pressing to achieve my own (sometime unrealistic) goals, and others do not respond, react, approve or appreciate my effort. I expect a certain level of support, commitment, and cooperation from those around me that sometimes is not communicated to them. I just expect them to know what I expect, so when it does not arrive, I wonder, “What is up with them?” and they are wondering, “What is up with him?” They aren’t even aware that I need them to show their support, join my effort, or acknowledge my hard work or dedication… but somehow I have manufactured an “expectation” that they should act in some special way. In reality, they are busy with their own world, trying to meet their own personal expectations, and they are probably wondering why I am not doing what they expected from me!

Managing expectations of yourself, and your expectations of others is critical to keeping your sanity. We are humans, not super-humans and as such, we are never going to be perfect and perform flawlessly all the time…and it is OK! We can just be human and still enjoy life. Or, expecting family, friends, co-workers, or bosses to do all of those things you “think” they should…is not realistic. They are never going to be the “perfect” people that we expect them to be. They may forget your birthday, overlook your nine latest accomplishments and highlight the one thing you did not accomplish, but is that really an issue or did you expect too much?

In business, we must constantly set, communicate, and manage the expectations of our clients, (return policy, hours of operation, customer service) but we need to manage expectations in our work life and home life too. Have you communicated your expectations to your employees to your boss, or your family members? Do they know what you expect from them, and what they expect from you?

Once we can clearly identify what is expected from us we can manage and deliver on those expectations, or discuss how we might change them to reflect a more reasonable expectation. Likewise, when we clearly communicate what we expect from others, we can minimize miscommunication and non-performance.

Setting, communicating, managing and then understanding all of those expectations that are placed on us, and what we place on others, is critical in determining whether we have an issue that needs to be addressed, or just a case of unmet expectations and hurt feelings. Knowing the difference will minimize the time you spend discouraged, because let’s face it, we don’t have time for that….we have a million things to accomplish!

Beware Of Email

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 17:50:20 GMT

Email has changed our world. We can communicate a message, directions, or a response in a matter of seconds. We can relay information with a keystroke and even attach spreadsheets too, all without waiting for the mailman or making a twilight dash to FedEx to insure our information was delivered. Email has been a boon to efficiency and speed, but beware of all the peril that lurks in a hastily written email. With all the benefits of email, there are some pitfalls to avoid with this wonderful media. Number one is that it is so fast! Many times we receive an email and quickly respond in an effort to be efficient, however that response is now in writing and will live forever, even if what you wrote was wrong, or expressed an emotional opinion of the moment. When we respond quickly with a decision, judgements, or opinion, and then commit them to writing, we are living on the edge.. of a mistake. Secondly, email is mostly a single dimension communication. Emails do not contain our “tone of voice” or our facial expression, so they can be interpreted very differently by your reader. “Shut up” is now used as a slang term for “are you kidding me?” however if I just write “shut up!” …you might be offended at my response… unless I follow it with one of those annoying smiling face icons… right? or the old LOL. Many times I have had email recipients call me to inquire about my intention when they interpreted my words differently than what I meant to say… They needed to hear the “tone” of my message not just read the words. Sometimes an email that is interpreted incorrectly can illicit a quick-tempered response that just leads to all the wrong places! …many times to a damaged relationship that can not be easily repaired. Remember, you can’t un-break a window so if you say it via email, it is there for a long time, even if you really didn’t mean what they thought! Lastly, I think that people hide behind email and if you are not careful, this wonderful tool of efficiency can be used against you. Have you ever heard, “I sent you that last week by email?” or “if you had checked your email you would have known that” and the worst, “why haven’t you responded to the 700 email requests that I sent to you…yesterday?” People will use email to control YOUR schedule and to say things to you that they would not dream of verbalizing to you in person. Email provides them a cloak of confidence that seems to allow them the courage to be rude, demanding, and manipulative. I have received my share of insulting emails that make me wonder if email is sometimes just an outlet for temporary insanity. Psychologists used to tell you to write down your anger in a letter and then wait 2 days before you mailed it… does email somehow coax us to just let let it all hang out and just hit send? So, I love email, and yet I fear email. It makes me more efficient, yet provides a steady stream of new tasks to do. Email is a godsend, and a curse, a technology that could aid in my success, or provide the method for a big mistake. Thats why I think there should be a warning label on every computer: Beware of Email

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do...

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:59:42 GMT

For anyone who has ever been in a relationship, you know it is true: Breaking up is hard to do. For any of you who have been involved in ownership of a small business, you know that it is almost impossible to do if you want to break up a partnership, or leave the business, and “still be friends” Recently, I have been involved in several business break-up scenarios where everyone wanted to make the break amicably but in the end, the result was hurt feelings, damaged relationships, and bitterness that may be healed over time, maybe not. Only time will tell. Partnerships usually start out well intended because everyone is excited about the possibilities and the opportunities that exist. Clearly outlining an exit plan or a separation strategy seems to be an unnecessary step in the new venture, because, "you know, we have been friends since we shared a crib in the delivery room!" WRONG ANSWER. Partnerships are a very powerful tool for starting a business, and many times the partners bring distinct skills to the business that allow it to grow and prosper, however only two things can happen: either the company will make money, or it won’t. Both of these scenarios are tough on a partnership. If you do not make money, you will soon go out of business and that leads to some frank discussions on what went wrong and who is going to pay for it! If you do make money, it can be a little easier to operate but when it comes time to separate the partnership (for whatever reason) the compensation discussion emerges and insanity can take over. I have seen partners who were friends for life, emerge from this discussion as wounded, battered, and bitter…and the business that they grew together is successful, but their friendship could not survive the success. Another recent situation involved an owner leaving the company that he had built for over 35 years. The company is extremely successful, employs many workers, and has progressed well, even in this tough economy. As the owner began the process of transitioning into retirement, leaving the day-to-day operations, decision making, and the compensation perks behind has become very difficult. What do you do when you do not do the thing you have always done? One day you are making all the decisions, and all the money, however, after you sell the company, you are not the boss anymore and other people are making the decisions. People do not ask for your opinion as often, do not consult with you, and you do not have an expense budget any more. It is hard to build a business and then watch your baby go off with someone else, and not call home occasionally. Those old high school relationships broke your heart, and they hurt really bad, but given some time, they did heal…and then you look back, years later to see that it was really for the best. For all the small business partnerships and transitioning owners, I hope that it's the same way for business.

Pots, Black Kettles, Glass Houses And Stones

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 04:12:35 GMT

When I was young, I would hear the saying, “isn’t that the pot calling the kettle black?” and I always wondered what that really meant. As I grew older, I began to understand the meaning more thoroughly and then recognize the application in real life. Usually, one person complaining about the behavior of others, when they regularly do the same thing themselves. I think we all have tendency to do that at times, some of us more than others, some of us pots, some black kettles. It seems easy to identify and enumerate all the shortcomings in other people and other organizations, however, “upon further review” sometimes those are exactly the same shortcomings that we have ourselves, or are present in our own organization. It is really easy,( especially as a business coach) to identify what people should be doing, and tell businesses how they should be acting, but are those really things that you practice yourself? Sometimes the answer is “yes, absolutely!” and sometimes it is “notsomuch.” Recently, I approached a gentleman at an event and introduced myself. He seemed very reluctant to engage, yet I persisted in trying to learn more about him. He informed me that he had been unemployed for a few months, yet had recently found a job and was now doing some networking. Then he blurted out that he had called me a few months ago, left a voice message and had never received a return call. Ya know, sometimes you feel bad, and sometimes you feel really bad! I apologized for not calling him back and muttered some lame explanation, and then apologized for my excuse. I teach people to respect others and to treat the client professionally and here before me was an example of how I had failed to practice what I was preaching! (another good saying but that is another story) Now, earlier this year I told you about being overwhelmed with demands on my time and that one of my goals was to get more organized, and more efficient, however this encounter forced me to once again realize that phone messages, emails, letter requests, facebook, tweets, breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and coffee are really about people, and not goals to be managed, and that there are only so many hours in a day to serve. So, what do you do? If you want to perform at 100%, you must reduce and restrict access to insure that you can fulfill all the demands on your time. Or, do you continue to allow free access and just do your best to meet all the demands you can, knowing that some are going to be disappointed? Tough call, but the decision will lead you to coping with the overwhelming demands that today’s business environment places on us as business professionals…and I do not see it slowing down in the future! I try to remember that these requests, demands, and inquiries are not just tasks on the to-do list but behind each one is a person! For me, it has become an ongoing struggle to balance the “task oriented” mentality required to raise fund, and manage the center, with the “people oriented” needs that are part of every small business that we serve in a given day. It is a good challenge, and one that keeps me wondering, writing, and seeking a solution. If you have any solutions, or suggestions,… why not write a response below and share it with other readers… or maybe I am alone in this …would not be the first time! So, for all of those whom I have not called back, I sincerely apologize, I am working through my call backlists! …and for those who owe me calls, reports, and decisions…relax. I understand and I forgive you… because people in glass houses should not throw stones!

Entrepreneur Fair

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:29:32 GMT

The Disney Entrepreneur Center’s 4th Annual Entrepreneur Fair was another great success. Over 400 people attended the educational sessions and the networking reception. In a difficult economy, it is critical that business people connect and engage with each other to create those business relationships and uncover potential opportunities that can help get you through a tough time. On Wednesday, there was a great group of knowledgeable speakers in Joe & Dawn Pici, and Jack Veale who provided some great insights for businesses of any size. The representatives from Regions Bank, BankFirst, Banco Popular, and the SBA provided updates and perspectives on the credit crunch and the stimulus package. It was an afternoon full of new insights, followed by a great opportunity to meet and mingle with business owners from all over Central Florida. The event was also attended by Mayor Richard Crotty and Mayor Buddy Dyer. One of the unique aspects of the Disney Entrepreneur Center is the widespread support by our hometown university, our corporate community, and both Orange County Government and The City of Orlando! With this kind of support, and this kind of content, it is no wonder that 400 people showed up on Wednesday to get connected. If you were there, I hope you connected with new opportunities! If you were not able to attend, you missed a great time and a great business opportunity. Remember to sign up for our newsletter, check out our calendar of events, and get connected with a service provider organization at our center, because small business is a team sport!

Would You Like Fries With That?

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 05:25:46 GMT

There are only two ways to increase your sales. Sell more stuff to the customers you have, or attract new customers. Anyone in sales will tell you that it is not easy to constantly prospect for new clients, qualify them, make a compelling presentation, negotiate terms, and bring a new client in the door. It is a process that is filled with the potential for failure all along the way. It is much easier to connect personally with the clients that you already have, and sell them a little more. On a recent trip to the grocery store, I was roaming the aisles like a middle-schooler on a scavenger hunt, when I merged into the wine aisle. Being in very familiar territory, I paused in my quest for low cholesterol, high fiber, sugar free …well you know…. because my highly trained eye for bargains caught the two-for-one wine special. Hmmm. Maybe the low taste, no fat chewing squares might taste better with a glass of vino. As I pondered my choices, I noticed a gentleman who was re-stocking the shelves and looked like he might know something about wines. I casually inquired about my purchase and his eyes lit up, and he eagerly pointed out several wines that might fit my tastes and my budget. He made suggestions and recommendations that made me WANT to buy more wine. Heck, I even wanted to invite him home for dinner so we could sample them too! I listened intently to his council and HE listened to me too! I came home with six bottles of wine! (got a free wine bag holder and an additional 10% off the entire wine purchase too!) It is not hard to connect with your current customers. You already have a relationship with them and they have already agreed to buy from you once. If you listen to their needs, and recognize the opportunities to sell more stuff, you might be surprised at how your average sale can grow. Maybe it is a tie to go with the shirt purchase, a fuel additive to go with the oil change, or re-visiting the life insurance while you take care of the car insurance…who knows what you might be able to add on. So, driving home with my wine treasures, (having abandoned my search for the healthy dinner option) I decided to visit the fast food drive thru and now I was in a hurry. I was anxious to get home and share this idea with you, (over a glass of wine) when the cashier said something that confirmed my choice of topic for today. Upon completion of my order, the cashier diligently asked me, “Would you like some fries with that?” For the record, I declined the fries because they do not have a low fat, low carb, no salt version.

Branding

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 04:52:47 GMT

When I say the name Mercedes Benz, what image do you see in your head? Is it the hood ornament symbol? Maybe the image that popped into your head was one of luxury, safety or even status. Why do you think that happened with just the mention of the company name? What if I said Apple…do you think of the Apple with a bite taken out of it? Or the sleek laptop design or maybe even an i-pod, an i-phone, or an i….. well you get the picture! Branding is a deliberate and managed effort to transfer images, feelings, and value of a company, or a product with just the mention of a name, the writing of a symbol, or sometimes it is just a catchy phrase. (can you hear me now?) Your brand can speak volumes in a single word or symbol. Now, what do folks think of when they mention your company name? Is it the image that you want? Look around today and see if your office, your marketing material, or your employees are representing the brand image that you want to promote. The good thing is that with the right attention and some diligence, you can improve your brand image pretty quickly and in today’s economy, it might make the difference in winning your next sale.

Entrepreneur Magazine

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 15:40:20 GMT

The August issue of Entrepreneur Magazine names Orlando as one of the “Top 10 best cities for starting a business.” I’ve known for a long time how unique our community is for entrepreneurs because I have launched several new ventures here in the last 20 years. Believe me, there is no better place to start a business! As the article points out, we are unbelievably fortunate to have community leadership that is creative, open to partnerships, and willing to give a new idea, (or a new business) an opportunity. I mean how many cities have an Entrepreneur Center that is funded by local government, the local university AND private enterprises too? Huh? Can you name three? Secondly, there are numerous small business assistance organizations in Central Florida, each comprised of talented, experienced, and passionate folks who work diligently to support the small businesses of our region. The Small Business Development Center, SCORE and The Hispanic Business Initiative Fund are just a few of the resident organizations in our center that serve an amazing array of small business needs. Our community is full of individuals, and organizations that are willing to help others who want to improve, and are willing to work. Could this collective attitude result from most folks in Central Florida are from someplace else originally? Could it be that local businesses have learned to help others survive and succeed so that they can have more and better local suppliers? Maybe it’s just the sunshine and blue skies that make everyone a wee-bit more cooperative. But does it really matter why? Maybe we just acknowledge that we have captured lightening in a bottle here in Orlando, recognize our good fortune and work together to ensure we make the most of it! Here is a link to the story. http://www.entrepreneur.com/magazine/entrepreneur/2009/august/202666-3.html

"tough Times Don't Last, Tough People Do!

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:30:35 GMT

I first heard those words almost 30 years ago on a tape where Robert Schuller was speaking to a crowd of disheartened folks who were dealing with the economic difficulties of the early1980’s. Unemployment was over 10%, inflation was rising, and interest rates were approaching 20%. Times were tough and people were hurting; sound familiar? Almost every small business I speak to today is hurting. Many businesses are barely hanging on, some are already gone, and many folks are out of work just hoping that things will improve soon. With each new day comes news of more troubling issues, more politics that maneuver rather than fix, more blame, and little movement toward achieving economic stability. It seems like some of the fundamental rules of small business are being yanked out by the roots, making it impossible to plan or even react quickly to the rapidly changing rules of the road. Questionable credit markets, changing tax policies, and a steady diet of bad news is never a good mix for business. Even if things are going well for an individual business, there is a tendency to wait and see how things go…and we slow down even further. As an experienced entrepreneur and a small business advocate, I am constantly being asked how for my opinion or my strategy for making progress, or just surviving during such turbulent times. My first thought is “I really don’t know anymore!” This is a time that seems to be unlike any other because the rules of the road seem to change overnight, every night. Rather than leave folks with a pat on the back and a “have a nice day”, when they approach me expressing real needs, and a genuine quest for direction, I read articles, ask others, and search for some advice that I can offer that might truly help, (because, as you all know, I don’t have all the answers!) Lately, in my search for answers, I have begun to rely on the common sense wisdom that my mother offered me all my life in similar situations. When the road ahead looked difficult or impossible, mom would hug me, and then challenge me …” to focus on what I could impact, and then just get through it!” ….When college looked too difficult, mom would tell me to quit worrying about all the external things, let go of the things I could not control and then do everything in my power to “just get through it” My mom’s advice to all of us for raising our teenagers, (and she raised 10) “just get them through it!” Mom’s advice, applied to certain unique life situations, has worked for me over and over again. In it’s simplicity, there are times when you need to just put your head down, tune out the noise, and just do what you need to do to just get through it! So, while I watch the changing business landscape, changing laws, and listen to the opposing views on what is happening, I believe that there will be some opportunities that disappear and there will be new ones emerging for small businesses in our changing economy. As for what to focus on today?... I offer the sound advice of my 91 year old mom who has truly seen some tough times, “Focus on what you can impact, and together we will get through this!” because I’ve also heard, “tough times don’t last, tough people do!”

Tip That Man!

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 08:26:08 GMT

I just returned from a wonderful weekend getaway and while I always enjoy a little R&R, I am always observing how business is done in different places. Such was the case last weekend as I repeatedly took a hotel shuttle into the city. The shuttle carried 15 passengers, ran on time, and was pretty mundane, until Ken got in the drivers seat! Most of the drivers were polite, and performed their duties professionally. They greeted the passengers, drove safely, and assisted each on exit from the van. But as I approached the van on my last day, I knew things were going to be different. Ken greeted me with a big smile, asked if we had been enjoying our stay, and proceeded to engage the entire group in lighthearted conversation. I liked this guy! As we filled the van, Ken began to share some tid-bits about the history of the area, and as we began the familiar trek into town, Ken began to identify landmarks, and items of interest. It was interesting, engaging, and unlike any of my previous trips. Our group began to pepper Ken with questions and as he drove he would share insights to the area, suggestions for making the most of our remaining time, and allowed us to truly appreciate some of the scenery that we had passed by previously. This trip to town was too short, nobody wanted to get out of the van! So, Ken agreed to take the long way to the drop off point to include a few “must see” locations and we all agreed to keep our detour secret. Needless to say, as we arrived at our appointed spot, money was flying in Ken’s direction. I eagerly tipped Ken for his service, his knowledge, and his engaging personality, but I was not alone. There were 15 people in line behind me to tip Ken, and I am sure that the folks waiting to get on were not surprised…you see, Ken had already dropped them off and they were eagerly awaiting the new adventure of riding back to the hotel. I wonder if the other drivers will learn Ken’s secret, or if they will just continue to wonder why everyone who rides with him wants to “tip that man!”

Brand Rude?

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 14:36:16 GMT

Companies spend countless hours and significant money in developing a brand and a brand strategy. Some brands convey quality, (Mercedes) cool, (Apple) fun, (Disney) or strength (MicroSoft). A brand is built to convey a specific message to a target market and can contribute significantly to the success of a company’s marketing effort. Do you know what your brand says? Have you spent any time developing a vision of how you could transmit your message through your letterhead, your business cards, your office decor, or how you answer the phone? Good branding does not happen by accident! It must be developed, shared with all of your people, and protected on a daily basis! With so much time, and resources dedicated to developing a brand, why do so many executives forget that when they are in public, they represent their brand in everything they say and do? I recently attended an event where the guest speakers were a real attraction. After the networking and connections portion of the event, I was really impressed with the folks in attendance, some who happened to be seated at my table… but my admiration for them began to diminish as soon as the program started. It seemed they just could not stop talking! They talked through the introductions, they talked through thanking the sponsors, and they just kept talking. Now, an occasional whisper is fine by me, but talking loudly through the program is just plain rude. I grew more frustrated by the minute as I strained to hear the speakers, and noted the disapproving glances from the adjoining tables. It was annoying, frustrating, and embarrassing. Where were their manners? Later, several people inquired as to who was talking all through the program. As I identified the culprits, I wondered how their actions might affect the business that I presume they were there to build. Would their rudeness be identified with their company, or would it be attributed to just an overall decline in society’s manners? Is there no longer respect for a speaker, the other attendees, or the host of the event? I think most people attend an event to hear the speaker, not the schmoozer, and if you attend an event, you owe it to the host to pay attention to the program. At the very least, I think it is critical to realize that when you appear in public on behalf of your organization, you have a responsibility to professionally represent your company, and their brand…and I can’t think of a brand that would benefit from being associated with being rude!

My $40 Tomato

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 19:55:30 GMT

I need to admit up front that I do watch infomercials. Not all the time, but occasionally there is a must-have product that captivates me and I find myself on the phone with an operator as times is running out, begging them to take my money and focus all their efforts on getting my “limited time”, “not sold in any store” wonder product into my hands as fast as the Fed EX truck can drive. With that disclosure, I need to share my latest experience. I love a vine-ripened, just picked, deep red tomato. I can eat tomato slices, stewed tomatoes, bacon lettuce and tomato, tomato soup, any pasta covered in tomato sauce, heck, I can even eat a tomato like an apple, so it should be no surprise that when I glimpsed the “Topsy Turvey” (TT) tomato growing implement on TV, I was mesmerized. It produced HUGE tomatoes and so many on each vine that I would need to fix up my old wheelbarrow just to keep up. The topsy-turvey tomato system consists of a hanging bag that you fill with dirt and then the water goes in the top and the vine grows out of the bottom…allowing the water to drain down into the huge tomatoes! I know! Unbelievable right? …and for $19.95 plus shipping, they will send you TWO. I could not dial the phone fast enough. In fact, I think I ate a tomato while I was on hold to give them my credit card information. Well, the box arrived and soon I was up to my elbows in my tomato adventure. Trip to Lowes— bag of good soil and TWO tomato plants. Back home to fill the TT, assemble the bags and now I am ready to hang my turbo growing creation…but where to hang such a heavy, soil soaked bag? Back to Lowes – PVC pipe for hanging—back home for assembly… too wobbly---back to Lowes for angle iron and wood screws. Back home for major fence construction, rehab, mounting of TT… success! I had only a few short weeks to wait. This week, I harvested a single tomato, which is the size of a small plum. I had planned to host a harvest festival to share my overabundance of tomatoes with my neighbors, while rejecting repeated inquires as to my secret weapon for creating such a volume of produce… but I think I will forgo the festival for this year. Who knows, I may find someone willing to pay $39.99 to purchase this amazing tomato growing machine at our community garage sale… and I’ll offer to throw in a second one at no additional charge! Hey…. Whatta ya want? There are no shipping charges!

Screech-n-dent

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 19:49:49 GMT

I know a little about advertising, not a lot, but enough to make me dangerous, as they say. However there is an advertising phenomenon that I just can’t explain and maybe you can help me out. There is a style of ad that is running on local TV and radio that must be working (or they would not continue to pay for the time to run them) but when they come on… I will run like the wind, jump small children and pounce like a puma on the TV remote to change the channel. I can’t stand them even for an instant. The ads are for Scratch n Dent World (or Appliance Direct) and Leigh screams at me to “be the man” and drive my truck on down there to haul one home” but it is not “what she says” but how she says it! As she screams at me, (sitting there on my couch, at peace with the world) I can feel my fight/flight response kick in and all I want to do is run away… but I can’t… I am already at my house. Leigh repeatedly intrudes on my solace with her black knee brace, bright orange dress, and her over-amplified pleas to consider visiting her for a scratch-n-dent sale… are you kidding me? Not only would I not visit a company that has verbally assaulted me in my own home, many times I am even afraid to re-visit the channel that she was on, fearing that she is lurking behind the next commercial break to yell at me again. Does everyone who works there, scream? Do they think I am hard of hearing? Would I have to scream at the sales person or the check out person if I visit there? Does this kind of ad work for you? Now, somewhere, someone is saying…The ad is working because you seem to remember a lot of detail about the ad… huh Jer? …to which I reply… yes, I know where I will not be purchasing my next side by side… Now to be fair, Billy Mays, (the infomercial pitchman) has the same effect on me. I have sprained many an ankle getting him off my TV or radio too. So this has nothing to do with the bright orange dress, the bright green dress, or the bright yellow shoes…ok? It is simply too much yelling… for me…However, these ads must be working for someone which just proves the point I made in my opening sentence…while I know a little about advertising, I obviously don’t know it all!

Medical Things You Should Know...

Thu, 28 May 2009 09:33:59 GMT

I have been out of the office for a few days to catch up on some chores at home, do some long overdue writing, and experience a small adventure into the world of high tech medical testing… Knowing that Orlando is growing as a center for medical research, bio-science, and medicine, I thought I would share with you the top 10 things I have learned from my recent medical testing experience... 1) "you are going to feel some pressure" means grit your teeth now because this is really going to hurt. 2) "your groin area" is code for "you will have no modesty left when we are through with this" 3) a "procedure" is the description for a series of events where you will "feel some pressure" 4) "we need you to change into this gown" means you are about to display your backside to the staff, unsuspecting visitors, other patients, and possibly wind up in youtube video. 5) XL in hospital gowns is really a SMALL in the real world 6) There is real world time and then there is "doctor time" Calculated ( RWT + 1.5 hrs+ commute time+rate of coffee consumption - mean time for exam table chilling + time for explaining wait to patient) 7) Every piece of information in the "procedure" is on a "need to know basis" If you want to know, you really need to ask!... but be careful what you ask about... you might "feel a little pressure" in your "groin area" 8) "Do you have your insurance card with you" means "there is no way you are ever going to be able to pay for this in your lifetime" 9) When you consider the possibility of bad news from your tests, you immediately think of all the people you love. 10 Hearing "I have good news" from a doctor is priceless When you consider all the amazing health care access that we have here in Orlando, and the caring professionals who provide cutting edge care, there is truly no better place to be than Orlando for getting or staying healthy. Trust me, I know this! Currently, I am waiting the required 48 hours before I try out the pogo stick that my wife got me for being such a good patient... because right now I am still feeling a little pressure in my groin area from the procedure.

Buy Local Orlando

Sun, 10 May 2009 11:56:15 GMT

In a pro-active effort to get the cash registers ringing again, The City of Orlando just launched an initiative called “Buy Local Orlando.” Mayor Dyer and the economic development folks at the city announced this idea and I jumped at the opportunity to assist them in their efforts to support our business community in this tough economy. On May 1, The Disney Entrepreneur Center hosted the launch event for the city and it was well attended and well received. Over 100 businesses are registered with the program already. The idea behind the Buy Local Orlando initiative is to encourage consumers in Central Florida to consider spending more of their money locally. Any business located within the City of Orlando can join the program for $49 to get all the marketing materials and to have their discounts & specials listed on the Buy Local Orlando website. (www.buylocalorlando.net ) Consumers can get a free Buy Local discount card by visiting the city offices, participating merchants, or the Disney Entrepreneur Center. If folks pick up a card, visit the website to locate all the special deals, and then shop at those merchants, maybe we can buy what we need and help some businesses survive this recession. I like the fact that the program is pro-active, highlights the support of our local community, and that it capitalizes on the supportive resources of the city. Many other efforts around the country do not have that kind of support. Some folks argue that the definition of “buying local” should include some businesses but exclude others, which is extremely difficult for any government to do. How can a city be expected to choose between a locally owned retailer, or a chain store who employs lots of “locals”, especially when they are both taxpayers to the city? Who decides whether a local franchisee owner is really “local” or not? I simply applaud and appreciate the city for taking action (and the heat) to do something pro-active, and that is why I joined in to support their efforts. As an advocate for our entire business community, I welcome any support that the city can provide to our collective business community, especially in this economic time. The Buy Local Orlando initiative has renewed and increased my efforts to engage more local entrepreneurs for goods and services. I support the variety of “Buy Local” initiatives in our region and I encourage every citizen, community, and community group to do whatever they can to stimulate commerce in Central Florida as a whole. Since the Buy Local Orlando program is funded by the City of Orlando, it is limited to Orlando based merchants, but it could be grown to include a wider area of our region collectively known to the world as "Orlando", however, that will be determned by the tangible results of this pilot program, and the willingness of others to collaborate. This program does not prevent any other initiative from existing and it has already provided national media exposure, numerous billboards, and a heightened awareness in the media of a message that will benefit any program in our entire region. So, in the end, however we define “buying local”, or however we choose to engage in the process, if we just do it instead of arguing about it, we could benefit our entire business community at a time when they really need our support…and isn’t that something we can all agree on?

Mother's Day

Sun, 10 May 2009 11:40:54 GMT

Mother’s day… when you really think about it, it doesn’t seem like one day is enough, does it? I know single moms who continually awe me with their daily courage and persistence. Mothers have natiural skills that are too numerous to mention...ilike knowing how to cut through chaos with a single sentence…”You really want me to come over there?” Mothers can provide clarity, focus, or make everything better with a simple hug…without uttering a word. Mothers are a force of nature that can move mountians! With each visit to my mother, I am still transformed into that little boy who wants mom's approval, and her hugs, and at 91years old, she is still my biggest cheerleader. She had 11 kids; I was number 10, and I thank her each visit for not stopping at 9. I love my mom, I love watching my wife in her role as a mom, and I love (and need) all of those moms who “mother” me and are not even in my family…

Derailed!

Sun, 03 May 2009 16:54:49 GMT

I am disappointed that Central Florida has, once again, missed an opportunity to seize the future. Back room politics, individual grandstanding, regional stubbornness, and personal vendettas, all combined to prevent Central Florida, from joining the big-leagues when it comes to transportation. What a shame and what a missed opportunity! Most of our local leaders (with the exception of Senator Siplin) along with our Washington representatives, were behind this initiative, however that was no match for the deal-making between representatives from all over the state to hamper any progress in little ‘ol Central Florida. This short-sighted and selfish approach in our legislature prevented federal funds, jobs, and a foundation for a 21st century transportation plan coming to our region, and our State! How sad that an opportunity for real progress in transportation was held hostage, and then cast aside because our legislature could not come to some sort of collective compromise. So our region loses the funding, (it was only allowed for transportation use) we lose momentum, we lose the money invested in the project so far, but most of all, we just lose. I intend to follow those who derailed this chance at progress, and observe what projects they DO support, and I am curious to see what details might emerge about the alliances that were made to thwart those pesky folks in Central Florida who dared to build a world class region to compete with theirs. I also intend to follow our local representatives too, because it would be a shame for them to forget how progress was derailed by politics when it really mattered to Central Florida! Central Florida’s vision of the future was derailed by our state Legislature this term. However, anyone who knows this region should know that we have no lack of vision, creativity and drive, so despite this setback, I am confident that our future is bright and we will continue to be a leader in job creation, innovation, and business development, despite the challenges presented by a group of myopic state legislators.

Stimulus Money

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 10:09:10 GMT

Yesterday, I met with staff members from Congressman Alan Grayson’s office regarding the difficulty small businesses are having in gaining access to capital. Two weeks ago, I attended a similar meeting with Congresswoman Suzanne Kosmas, representatives of the SBA, some local bankers, and many of our business support organizations. It is encouraging that there are now a growing number of inquiries into why business capital is not flowing. The question that keeps surfacing is, “Where’s the cash?” It is a very difficult and confusing process. The SBA is waiting on rules for some of the new loan products, and since they only “insure” loans, they rely on the banks to make them. The banks are reeling from the drop in housing values, and regulators that are pressuring them to shore up their cash reserves. The small businesses hear about all the money that is coming, but struggle to keep the doors open until needed capital arrives. What should be done? Who should do it? When will it happen? The questions are good ones, and each question seems to bring up others. Are we experiencing a classic case of paralysis by analysis? (←--Another question) I applaud our Representatives for engaging in this critical issue and for seeking input from the front lines. It is encouraging that they are not relying on those who view the problem from afar with little knowledge of small businesses. I am hopeful that having identified the problems, roadblocks, and obstacles, our small businesses might soon have access to the capital they need to survive. Stay tuned!

Biz Incubation

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 08:19:54 GMT

Just returned from attending The National Business Incubation Association’s Annual Conference in Kansas City. Because our center supports many clients from the UCF Business Incubators, it was a valuable experience to hear first-hand how the incubator process works, the newest ideas in the field, and to meet some very talented people who are also dedicated to helping small businesses grow.

Speaks For Itself

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:57:23 GMT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk

The Need For Speed

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 05:12:34 GMT

Yesterday at lunch, I heard a story that seemed to be a perfect example of what happens to me if I don’t occasionally stop for lunch, and make time for stories.... Ken told us of his love for snow skiing, and how as a kid, he would ski down the mountain as fast as he could time after time. He loved the wind rushing in his face and the thrill of that kind of speed on two small pieces of wood facing the challenge of the mountain. And then he shared an “ah ha” moment when he came upon another ski trail, and was forced to stop to check for other skiers. In that brief stop, as he looked around the slopes for other skiers, he was captured by the beauty of the mountain. He saw the snow, the trees, and the giant white landscape in a whole new way. A scene that had always been present, was hard to observe while racing down the mountain. This moment of pause had produced a whole new perspective of enjoyment of the skiing experience.... For me, at that moment, in Omega deli, Ken's story was the perfect illustration of my day. I had been racing through my day at 50 miles an hour, to “get up my mountain” when suddenly, unexpectedly, I stopped and just enjoyed the moment, without thinking of the pressing deadlines of my afternoon. Even the rest of my day was a little more enjoyable because sometimes you do feel the need for speed, but sometimes, if you just pause for a moment, you can enjoy the beauty that surrounds you on the journey down the mountain.

...and Finally, F Is For...

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:40:03 GMT

FOCUS

E Is For

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 08:56:28 GMT

Engage

Thank You, Dr. Ford

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 08:10:45 GMT

Congratulations to Dr. Cameron Ford!

The Saga Continues...

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 10:51:15 GMT

NO Bailout for You, Mr. Ross!

Choices

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:03:49 GMT

Choices …“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference” Those words come from a poem by Robert Frost and it describes the choices we all make. What if he had taken the road more traveled? Would that have made all the difference too? We live our lives by our choices, the good and bad ones affect our daily lives and ultimately, we will be required to take responsibility for our own choices, deal with the consequences, and then prepare to make the next choice that will soon be presented. Some will argue that they have no choices, or they were dealt certain circumstances that were not of their choosing. While that may be the case initially they have to make a choice on how they will react to that situation, or how they will change it…so, we are still making choices about our circumstances, and sooner or later, ( I know it doesn’t seem like it now with all the bailouts) we all have to deal with the consequences of the life choices we make. Even choosing not to make a decision, is a choice in itself. Our community, our state and our nation is in the process of making some HUGE choices that will affect our future…your future, and mine. We are each be affected by the choices of our leaders, so you can choose to get involved and let your voice be heard, or just go with the flow and live with the results… the choice is yours.

The Magic City

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 07:09:14 GMT

Last night I attended the Orlando Magic basketball game and it was great! The Magic blew out the Chicago Bulls and it was never really close…just the way I like it. The real Dr. Laura. (my wife) was supporting the charity fundraising efforts of the Honors Institiute at Seminole Community College by selling tickets to the game. So we bought tickets and joined a whole bunch of SCC fans to cheer on the Magic while raising money for two charities. The Seminole County Meals on Wheels program which delivers meals to the elderly, and the Free the Slaves organization, which works for prevention of modern day slavery. As I got home, it once again occurred to me, what a cool place Orlando is…so here is my top 10 from last night…… 1) I had a great time for less than $20 bucks! 2) We raised money for two great charity organizations 3) I had a great time with the folks I was sitting around 4) the older Magic players are still around and still seem to be such nice guys…Nick Anderson and Bo Outlaw judged the half-time slam dunk contest. 5) The players seemed to have such fun playing together.. Dwight, Hedo, Rashard, JJ, and Courtney, and Rafer, were all cheering each other on…even the bench players 6) the fans were all having such a great time too…it was contagious 7) Stuff and the “mini stuffs” caused me to laugh out loud several times 8) in the parking lot, people actually allowed other cars into the exit line to get out 9) We got home before 10pm, which is when I have actually been known to fall asleep in mid-sentence 10) SCC students were participating in the community, helping others and having a great time… it just doesn’t get any better than that! We’re number 1! We're number 1! We're number 1! sorry... just got a little carried away with the cheering thing.....

D, E & F

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 06:54:43 GMT

While I try to operate on the ABC method most of the time, I am told repeatedly that this is the most dire, critical, unbelievably worst economic time known to modern man, so I am feeling the need to add a few more items for surviving these especially unique times. So, I will add D, E, and F and then call it quits on this ABC exercise...

D is for Diversification…

I am always looking for new uses for my products, or new users for the core strengths of my businesses. The Orlando Magic used their knowledge and resources from men’s pro basketball to develop the Orlando Miracle, a women’s pro basketball team. Same basic concepts, but new target markets. From there the Magic developed the RDV Sportspex from their knowledge of sports, sports medicine and recreation… existing skills, new delivery methods. Marriott did it with hotels to timeshares. Same basic concepts, skills and resources, different market. I did it by taking searchlights that I used in theme parks and adapt them to light up the launch pad for the Space Shuttle… same technology, little different angle. Can you use your skills, talents or resources in a little different way, to serve a new market? It could mean the difference in a tough time.

Chili Dogs

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 06:40:05 GMT

I LOVE my job but there is one job that could lure me away in a heartbeat. Chili Dog taster. While I love a good garage sale, my car will NOT drive past a good hot dog cart. As evidenced by my figure, I have experience in the world of street cuisine. From Billy Boys, to the Weiner Wagon I have sampled the menu. I wear my sunglasses, and sunscreen, while I patiently wait for an umbrella table to open up while visiting the wiener-mobile at the Colonial and Summerlin gas station, but everyone knows you can’t hurry art. Yesterday, while I was shopping the farmers market in Sanford, (see Garage Sale blog) I happened upon “The Jolly Dogger”, a pirate themed hot dog cart. Rebecca wore the pirate bandanna,and even had a pirate banner bearing the saying, Let the people eat!” I was immediately drawn to the cart and the friendly pirate bearing treasure but I was facing a huge dilemma. My hands were full and it was only 9:30 in the morning. Is it even legal to eat chili dogs before 10? I know it is OK for pizza, but chili dogs? I paused, put my coffee down, took the last bite of my doughnut, shifted my grip on the extra large bag of kettle corn and pondered my next move…What was I to do…I snapped a picture with my cell phone, inhaled deeply,(through my nose) and promised to return next week, but you can rest assured that it will be closer to noon ......................... PS…the best chili dogs do not contain beans, mustard an onion are the best additions although occasional jalapenos are a wonderful addition.

Garage Sales

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 06:33:02 GMT

Some of you know that I can’t drive past a good garage sale. It is a fascinating microcosm of marketing, sales, customer relations, accounting systems, and best of all …negotiation that I find fascinating. When I find a good garage sale, I am like an astronomer watching a flaming comet enter the atmosphere, a mechanic hearing an a newly tuned engine hum, or a hairdresser admiring a finely coiffed head of hair. On my Saturday errands, a quick stop at the right sale provides a combination of watching the true free market at work, and the ability to unearth an elusive treasure, at the absolute best price, which will probably end up in my next garage sale…

Where's My Bailout?

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:31:57 GMT

I called my mortgage company today and asked if they would lower my interest rate, or give me a month or two of no payments, as part of the stimulus package for those who actually make their payments and pay their mortgage. I was put on hold four times, spoke to Akea, Giana, and Beth and was repeatedly told that because I paid my mortgage, and was not delinquent in my payments that there was no help for me. I asked how long I had to go without paying my mortgage to get some assistance too...and was again, put on hold… I never did get an answer from Chase Mortgage so I am still waiting for an answer to a very simple question… Where is the bailout for those of us who follow the rules?

C Is For

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 17:19:10 GMT

Costs – Controlling and reducing your costs is the fastest way to generate cash-flow. When you reduce costs by $1, it drops immediately to the bottom line. Trying to generate that same dollar through selling may require $10 in sales. While you need both efforts to maximize income, examining your costs and reducing expenses is the place I always start. When times are good, we tend to add expenses in areas that are nice to have, like that additional cell phone, the gourmet coffee service, or the entire list of cable channels. When economic times get tough, it is time to get tough on your expense account. Examine every expense. Ask your staff if there are expense items that can be trimmed, and review all your invoices to insure that they are accurate. You may even want to contact your suppliers to inquire about your pricing to see if you might qualify for discounts. Ask yourself what you need to have to run the business, and what expenses are just “nice to have”…and you guessed it… get rid of anything that is not essential. Tough times call for getting tough on expenses.

B Is For...

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 11:41:34 GMT

Basics... Every small business operates on some basic business principles. Each business may be unique in offerings, delivery, and culture, but the basics are the same whether you are in Orlando or Omaha. When times are tough, I always go back to the basics of business and start the process of review. Vince Lombardi used to start each season with the Green Bay Packers with a speech that started with ...."This is a football." Coach Lombardi was a stickler for the basics of football, blocking and tackling, and he became a legendary winner, by performing the on the basics. In business, my basics begin with a few questions. How you answer them will determine how you can deliver and even grow in a difficult economic time.

A Is For...

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 09:50:09 GMT

Attitude... You alone control your attitude. Regardless of the negative news that dominates our newspapers, radio, and television, you choose how you will view that news, and how you will react to it. I read once, that your thoughts, (your attitude) actually cause your body to react as if those thoughts were real. If your are stressed, your body produces chemicals to react to that stress (real or manufactured) as if your were facing enminent danger! So, how you think, actually affects how your act… Conversely, when you take control of your attitude, and refuse to let your thinking be manipulated by the crisis du-jour, you begin to act, and react, differently to events in your business and your personal life.

Back To My Abc's

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:29:49 GMT

Some of you know that I love to do lists that relate to business topics using the ABC's. I put some of them in Maverick Business Magazine that I used to publish, and I was asked to put a few in the book that I am struggling to write. Recently, as I have been out speaking to community groups, there is great interest in how to navigate these tough economic times, and true to my roots, I have already begun to develop my ABC listing of things that may help a small business make it through a difficult time... whatever the reason...

Spending, Stimulus,or Bailout? Who Knows?

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:20:33 GMT

Do you know anyone who can explain what is contained in the latest spending/stimulus/bailout (SSB) bill, or how it is going to specifically help your business? Now, I am not talking about the usual talking points that each side uses to defend or vilify the package, I am looking for straight-talk, actual detail, no hedging facts that really matter to those of us on the front lines of small business, the so-called foundation of the American economy. “Main Street” businesses are struggling to keep it together on a daily basis, while the representatives of “we the people” on every level talk in circles about what might help…them.

Carpe Sales

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 09:08:20 GMT

Among the other unexplainable things I did in High School, I took Latin for two years. From that painful experience, I have only retained a few phrases, but I can utter them with such eloquence it would make Caesar Augustus pause and reflect on the greatness of Gaul. “Agricolae in agro est.” means “The farmer is in the field” which I am sure is related to my high school employment. “E Pluribus Unum” means “Out of many, One” which undoubtedly relates to my life long fascination with making money. (It is printed on our money)

Dance With Your Date!

Sun, 11 Jan 2009 07:29:39 GMT

Dance with your date! That sage advice was from my mother and she always had those sayings that covered a multitude of situations to provide guidance. “Dance with your date” was mom's way of saying, "when you ask a girl out on a date, you pick her up, take her to the dance, you dance with her, you do your best to insure she has an enjoyable time, and you return her home safely…at a reasonable hour". That advice also included a list of don’ts!... You don’t cancel your date if something better comes along, you don’t run off with your friends to talk and leave her out, you don’t stay at the event if there is even a hint of trouble, and you never, ever, dance with someone else! I still benefit from that simple and direct advice today, because I have been married to a wonderful woman for 26 years! So, what does that have to do with business? Glad you asked!

Resolutions For 2009

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 12:15:24 GMT

Here is my list for 2009 so you can hold me accountable...Feel free to add yours too, if you wish to go on record!

Random Thoughts...

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 11:28:29 GMT

* Is the free market free anymore?...Historically, The Federal Government has not proven to be good at running businesses…and now we (you and I are the “we” in “we the people”) own the housing crisis, the banking crisis, and the auto crisis. What is the next “crisis du jour” that we will nationalize?

Tough Times Don't Last, Tough People Do!

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 09:59:55 GMT

---below is a draft of an article that I wrote recently for the West Orange Chamber of Commerce--- It was my first real job, I was new to sales, and I was worried because it was an extremely difficult economic time in 1980. Double-digit interest rates and double-digit unemployment were gripping the country and I was overjoyed just to have a job. I was worried that sales were coming few and far between, and the future looked pretty bleak. Somewhere between worry and panic, I heard Reverend Robert Schuler on TV talking about the tough times we were facing, and he uttered a line that has stuck with me through many challenges I have faced since that time. He said, “Tough times don’t last, tough people do!” I took those words to heart and I began to get tough. I cut my expenses, delayed some purchases, and began to actively sharpen my sales knowledge and skills. It was a tough time, but it was also followed by one of the longest periods of expansion in our history! I survived and it may sound funny but, I felt a little stronger, more skilled and much more confident in my ability to take on difficult challenges. In the early 1990’s, I had just moved to Orlando and again, was facing some difficult times with my own business, and with a tough economy. Reverend Schuler’s words came back again because I began to practice all those things that I had relied on previously. His simple thought, and lots of hard work, got me through another tough time…and sure enough, the economy re-bounded, my company grew, and I emerged a little wiser, a little more confident, but with a lot more grey hair and worry wrinkles! Lately, those words have come back to me again as I read the paper, watch the news, and hear from many small businesses. No doubt, we are facing difficult times! As a nation, I’m confident that we have the ability to overcome these challenges, but it will require our collective will and our resolve to truly fix the problems, and not just talk around them. Fortunately for Central Floridians, you have resources available today at the Disney Entrepreneur Center that can assist with uncovering areas for improvement, resources for connections, or timely education on building a strong and competitive business… and many of the services are free! By visiting the website at www.disneyEC.com you can see what services are available and upcoming classes…go there and check it out! Difficult times always require us to re-focus our business priorities, examine our status quo, and develop the grit to make those difficult business decisions that we have postponed. Everyone will face their own personal challenges in this difficult time, and it can be scary, frustrating, and extremely, difficult, however, there is also some great opportunities too! So take a deep breath, make your plan, and take deliberate action, but always remember to keep in mind that tough times don’t last, tough people do!

New Year, New Business?

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 09:49:34 GMT

---This is a draft of a recent article that I wrote for the Pocono Business Journal in Pennsylvania.---

Thanks And Thanksgiving

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 04:33:36 GMT

I was out of town for the big day of giving thanks… so a belated thank you for all you do to make this a better place to live, work and play! Thank you for visiting my blog and for supporting small businesses whenever and wherever you can. Thanks to all those who are fighting or have fought for, work for, and have earned the freedom that I enjoy today. And thanks to God for all the blessings that we enjoy as a nation…including the ability to have a grand meal, a roof over our heads, and relative safety in our streets. No complaining allowed today, only thanksgiving!

No Research, Little Time, Many Musings

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 04:27:16 GMT

I spent the last 10 days in Europe (London and Paris) and while it was much to short I was amazed, confused, awestruck and dumbstruck so I thought I would share some random thoughts and observations with you… History and Antiques take on a whole new meaning when you are looking at things that are over a thousand years old rather than 200 hundred years old. Seeing things that you have only read about is always a moving experience. I had forgotten the look of pain on the faces of cold weather dwellers in the winter, and the hassle of wearing overcoats, scarves and hats. Driving on the other side of the street will freak you out, and will scare you senseless every time you begin to cross the street!..and it is even painted on the street which way to look for oncoming traffic. People are more similar than they are different. Small Business owners are too! Preservatives and long shelf life have removed the great taste of food. Food really does taste better over there! Public transportation can be great! Trains, subway, taxi, and busses were on time, cheap and a great source of people watching…and within walking distance too. When did covering your mouth when you cough, and your nose when you sneeze go out of style? Public transportation requires some common courtesy and manners! Wherever you are in the world, the newspapers, TV and public eyes are on the USA. I need to get better at learning foreign languages! That includes some British accents as well. Everyone needs to get out of town, and out of the country every now and then to appreciate how blessed we are, and to view our country from a new perspective or a little different lens. It can be rewarding, heartwarming, challenging, and sometimes a little embarrassing when observed from afar.

Shame On You!

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:14:18 GMT

Over the weekend, someone stole a laptop and a video monitor from the Disney Entrepreneur Center. While I am quite sure that anyone who would steal anything from a non-profit organization won’t understand this concept, but here goes...shame on you! This one selfish act has already produced negative repercussions that are too many to mention. The time that has been spent with the Orlando Police, the building security people, conducting an equipment audit, and the countless emails to locate serial numbers, security camera footage, and insurance procedures will never be recovered. Now, the multitude of organizations that use our center and our training rooms will be punished by having new regulations for usage, new lock- down procedures for the equipment, and a variety of new security proceedures. Lastly, as a non-profit entity, we struggle to raise sponsorship dollars from the community to pay for the operation of our center, and any unexpected loss will negatively impact our budget, so somewhere, or someone, will do with less so that we can cover the loss of our stolen equipment. We share our facility with 10 organizations who, in turn, provide coaching, support and assistance to the small business community, and in six years, nobody has disrespected our facility, our equipment, or our mission, until this weekend. Now, we must consider purchasing our own video security, new locks for all the common areas, and re-keying all the existing locks… expenses that were not in our budget, and were not even deemed necessary until this weekend, when someone decided that a laptop computer and a video monitor would serve them better at home. Shame on you!

The Land Of Opportunity

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 09:30:18 GMT

Barack Obama will become the next president of the United States of America. Four years ago, he was a state senator from Illinois with a dream. The last two years he has been working 24 hours a day, 7 days per week in pursuit of the highest office in our country, and in January, he will achieve his dream, the first African-American president of the United States of America. Many said it would never happen, or never could happen. Many wondered how a junior senator could have the audacity to even consider running a campaign against the established contenders with their overwhelming advantage…and who would finance such a new entry? Don’t ever forget that we live in the land of opportunity! It doesn’t matter what the odds, or what your color, it doesn’t matter if you have wealth or not, in America, everyone has the opportunity to achieve their dream. Now, it isn’t easy, and it requires education, talent of some kind, and a little luck, but it can and does happen here on a regular basis. Whether it is Barack Obama, Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Walt Disney, or you, success (however defined) can always be just around the next obstacle. Barack Obama was willing to work tirelessly, and relentlessly to achieve his goal. He overcame long odds, extreme obstacles, and a multitude of naysayers, and had 65 million people agree to support his goal and his vision…and you thought running a small business was difficult! In these difficult economic times, it would be easy for us to concentrate on the obstacles facing small businesses, but if you consider the 2008 election, it is clear that in our great country, with hard work, education, dedication, and some skills, you can make your dream can come true, in spite of all the conventional wisdom...new entrepreneurs begin that journey every day!

Tv Focuses On Small Business

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:06:26 GMT

The local PBS station aired a segment on the tough economic times recently and how some local business are dealing with the downturn in the market. I am asked a few questions at the very end of the segment so you have to pay close attention or you will miss me. http://blip.tv/file/1415793

Election Day

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 06:54:52 GMT

Tomorrow is Election Day and we will soon welcome our new president. We should never take for granted the fact that our country freely chooses our leadership through elections, and then conducts a peaceful transfer of power to those who are chosen by the people. Freedom and democracy is truly a gift that we have been given, and Election Day is always an opportunity for us to use that gift! Whoever becomes our next president, they will face huge challenges. Economic meltdown, taxes, social security, Medicare, immigration, sharply divided political parties, not to mention the fact that we have radical terrorists who want to kill us. How is that for a job description? We clearly do not pay our president enough! Our challenge at the Disney Entrepreneur Center is to remain focused on serving the needs of our small business clients. We need to constantly improve our skills, develop new resources and improve our ability to assist our community through these economic times, adapt to the changing marketplace, and remain on the cutting edge of entrepreneurial activity for the country. Regardless of who is elected to what office, small businesses remain the backbone of the nation’s economy, job creation, and economic growth, so we should never lose sight of our role in that effort. It is an awesome responsibility that we bear, at a time when we are needed more than ever!

Tough Times Don't Last, Tough People Do!

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 08:24:12 GMT

It was my first real job, and I was new to sales. It was also a very difficult economic time for our country. Double-digit interest rates and double-digit unemployment were gripping the country and I was overjoyed just to have a job, however, I was worried about the fact that sales were few and far between, and future sales looked bleak. Somewhere between worry and panic, I heard Rev. Robert Schuler on TV talking about the tough times we were facing, and he uttered a line that has stuck with me through many challenges I have faced since then: “Tough times don’t last, tough people do!” I took those words to heart and I began to get tough. I cut my expenses, delayed purchases, and began to sharpen my sales knowledge and skills. It was a tough time, but it was also followed by one of the longest periods of expansion in our history… and I had survived. It may sound funny but, I felt a little stronger, more skilled and more confident in my ability to take on difficult challenges. In the early 1990’s, I had just moved to Orlando and again, was facing some difficult times with my business, and with the economy. Reverend Schuler’s words became my motto because, in my mind, I was not supposed to be facing such an uncertain future! That simple thought, and lots of hard work, got me through…and sure enough, the economy re-bounded, my company grew, and I emerged a little wiser, but with a lot more grey hair and worry wrinkles! Just today, those words came back to me again as I read the paper, watched the news, and stood in line to cast my vote for president. No doubt, we are facing difficult times! As a nation, I’m confident that we have the ability to overcome these challenges, but it will require our collective will and resolve to truly fix the problems, and not just talk around them. We can restore freedom to the free market, integrity to our justice system, and confidence in our leadership, but it will take us all working together, with absolute honesty, creativity, and toughness. Difficult times always require us to re-focus on our priorities, examine our status quo, and develop the grit to make those difficult decisions that we have postponed. Everyone will face their own personal challenges in this difficult time, and it can be scary, frustrating, and extremely, difficult, however, somewhere between worry and panic, it always helps me to remember that tough times don’t last, tough people do!

Watch This

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:39:12 GMT

I was recently recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as one of the “top ten businessmen to watch” in Central Florida. This was a surprising, humbling, and proud moment for me, and I am honored to be associated with some of the folks who were among that group. I am also a little embarrassed by this kind of personal attention because my success is truly dependent on so many others who are connected to the Disney Entrepreneur Center. First of all, our service provider organizations are filled with dozens of dedicated professionals who counsel, train, and coach hundreds of local businesses each year. Their dedication, and willingness to serve, sometimes as volunteers, is inspiring. Secondly, our sponsors unselfishly fund the operations of our shared facility so that we can gather 10 organizations under one roof, making small business support easily accessible to everyone in Central Florida. Lastly, the entrepreneurs of our region have engaged our center and provided the input, cooperation, and synergy that have made our center a beacon of small business development that is unmatched anywhere in the country. Together, we have built something special here, and I am honored just to be a part of this organization, and part of this community. So, with such a team effort involved in what we are achieving here, you can see why I am reluctant to accept any recognition for our collective efforts unless I do so on behalf of all of you, too. Fair enough?

Views From Vegas

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:37:31 GMT

I just returned from a speaking engagement in Las Vegas. I spoke at a national gathering of Scuba Dive shop owners, manufacturers and tour operators. While there was real optimism about the future, there was also plenty of concern about our fragile economy in the near future. Many of the operators that I spoke with were echoing the same concerns that I hear on a daily basis in Orlando… times are likely to be tough for the next few months so it is critical that we focus on the fundamentals of running our businesses, now more than ever… reduce your expenses, look for opportunities to diversify, add value to your offering and don’t just indiscriminately cut your prices…and never stop learning! The convention was filled with active and energetic small business owners who wanted to learn, engage and grow their businesses! We made a decision in that session that we were not going to participate in any recession, and I am good with that! Are you in?

Developing Story

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:35:10 GMT

Last Monday, most of the organizations at the Disney Entrepreneur Center participated in a full day of education, training and connections with other professionals within the center. It always astounds me to so see all the talent and experience that we have in one room. It is also extremely rewarding to see these dedicated professionals spending a full day developing their own skills, and abilities to better serve the business community of Central Florida. The Disney Entrepreneur Center is really just a single, shared facility. What makes our center so unique is the dozens of professionals who counsel, train, and assist you! If you have not visited the center, you're missing out on something very special! There are a multitude of resources, connections, and skilled professionals available to assist you in strengthening and growing your small business, and many of their services are free. I see them every day truly impacting the small business economy, and I saw them gather last Monday to improve their skills and abilities to serve you more effectively in today’s difficult economic time. What an experience!

Hold The Phone!

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 15:30:02 GMT

A customer in front of you takes priority over a phone call!!! When you have a potential sale standing at your counter, they should always be your priority. Leave the phone to the answering machine, the UPS man can wait, because there is no task that is more important than serving the client who has come to your store, and is inquiring about purchasing your product. I marvel at the folks who find every reason imaginable to do something other than wait on a client…especially in today’s competitive economic environment. Are you losing the business right in front of you by concentrating on the potential business on the phone?

My Friend Reg

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 15:28:52 GMT

I lost an old friend this weekend. Reggie was 93 years old but was about 25 years old in spirit. He always had a twinkle in his eye, a song in his heart, and a very funny joke on his lips. Reg was everyone’s uncle and was one of those people who lights up a room just by walking in. He was a smart entrepreneur, and was willing to share his experience and life lessons if you asked him. I asked him regularly, laughed with him, I gained business perspective from him, and I will miss our occasional visits together. He was quite a guy and he will always be a warm memory for me. His stories were hilarious! 93 years is a long and full life, but now, somehow it seems short, too. So, remember-- nobody makes it out of here alive, and your hearse won’t tow a U-haul trailer with all your stuff… so while I usually focus this blog on growing and building a successful business, don’t forget that you need to take time to build strong personal relationships so that you live a fulfilling and purposeful life, and not just a successful business… come to think of it…I think Reg told me that!

Thinking Out Loud

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 06:49:31 GMT

I was thinking today about all the people that I know who are sick, hurting and in need. I attended a funeral this weekend and since then I have thought a lot about how life is really short (as I am now over 50) and how many of my friends and family are approaching that age where instead of saying they were so young, people tend to say, "well, they lived a full life" It is a little disconcerting and it makes you stop and think... even if it is out loud! Take a minute today and think about the folks that surround you who could use a kind word, a hug, a phone call, a short note, or a room full of flowers! Reach out today and say it, do it, send it, and connect. My list today includes, Dan, Bob, Ferris, Dorothy, Sean, Lisa,Mike, Sally, two Jims... and of course, all of you! Thank you for being here today!

Follow The Leader

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 06:29:51 GMT

Did you ever play follow the leader as a kid? As one of 11 children, I can remember following some very creative leaders who seemed to invent moves and motions that would put me in traction today. It was all very fun and very funny. Today, I feel like that I am playing follow the leader again, but it is not so fun, and it is not even close to funny. Where are our country’s leaders? Who should we be following? Who do you trust? Who is telling us the truth? I wonder if the next move we follow is the right one, or if it will put us all in traction. As a kid, everyone followed the rules, it was cooperative endeavor, and you could trust the leader not to put you in danger. If you did not cooperate, you could not participate. However, in our current political situation, who should we follow? Every politician seems to be trying to lead their own line, most are not following any rules, and it is difficult to hear anyone because everyone is yelling at each other. If that ever occurred in our game as children, my mom would appear and provide instant leadership to our game. In a voice that sounded like God himself, she would say, “Enough, if you cant all get along then I have plenty of chores for you to do.” That would end the fighting, the universally accepted rules of honesty, integrity and respect would apply once again, and life was good. Now that was leadership! Mom could be counted on for, fairness, honesty, decisive action, clear and concise communication that was never hedged, and a true concern for everyone involved. This lady meant what she said, and there was no doubt that she would back it up. We followed that leader, and we learned what real leadership looked like, Washington could learn a lot from my mom.

2008 Small Business Summit

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 07:57:38 GMT

Well, the 2008 Central Florida Small Business Summit is over. The posters are in the trash cans, extra brochures are packed away, and the speakers are en-route to their next engagements. I am encouraged, and a little disappointed. Our business community owes a debt of gratitude to a diverse group of dedicated people from our business community for making this event happen. Vilma Quintana, Bob Shepard, Jacob Stuart, Wendy Kurtz, George Rodon, Gary Earl, Tony Jenkins, Tom Kruzek, and the entire Chamber of Commerce support team were involved in the planning way before anyone dreamed that this event could really happen, and they were still around as the clean up crews arrived after the event. Not only did this dream team make it happen, they produced a world-class agenda, with world- class trainers, juggled thousands of individual suggestions, and then delivered a world-class event. No expense was spared, no detail left undone, and these folks were present all day to insure that no need was left unfilled. This was an example of true public service, because this Summit was for us…the Central Florida Business Community. A simple “thank you” does not seem sufficient. An email, a card, or a phone call wouldn’t hurt to let these folks know that their efforts on behalf of our region is appreciated and not get taken for granted! I am encouraged by what this Summit accomplished and exhausted by trying to capture the sheer volume of great information, creative ideas, and wonderful connections, in such short amount of time. There were probably 600-700 attendees at the event, which was much larger than I was expecting for a first time event. But as I listened to Michael Gerber, and Les Brown, I was disappointed that there were not 6 or 7 thousand in attendance. (that is their usual audience.) These are nationally known experts and there were here in Central Florida… for us! As I walked the exhibit hall and attended the learning labs, I was disappointed that more people were not experiencing the energy and the excitement that I felt as I ran to make a training session…passing the line of folks waiting for their speed coaching sessions from SCORE, hoping that there was still a seat left for me. How cool! Now, some might say that the $200 entry fee was too high in these tough economic times, but I say, “Are you kidding me?” Yesterday, your meals alone probably cost you $20 of that, and if you attended a SCORE speed coaching session, you got $100 of the entry fee back… so now you are down to about $80 to hear world class trainers, meet hundreds of prospects, AND hear the latest research on the business landscape in Central Florida…so $80 sounds like a pretty good deal to me. Booth space was a similar bargain and I was pleased with the entire day, and can’t wait to do it again. This was a well-attended event, and I benefitted greatly from being there, but I couldn’t help but worry a little for those who weren’t in attendance, especially in these tough economic times. The long term plan is for the Disney Entrepreneur Center to take over responsibility for the Small Business Summit in 2011. The bar is being set extremely high, and it will be a great challenge to match the event that took place yesterday! It requires a monumental effort to provide this opportunity for the community, but ultimately the success of The Central Florida Small Business Summit will be determined by whether this world class effort, and this world-class event, will be supported with world class attendance. On Monday morning, I am reserving my booth for the 2009 Small Business Summit because I believe we are just getting warmed up! Thank you to all who attended our booth, thank you to the wonderful speakers, and thank you to all of those who made yesterday happen for all of us!

Stay Calm, Cool And Focused.

Sun, 21 Sep 2008 20:00:52 GMT

With bad news all around, it is critical that you keep your emotions in check and your attitude in the right place to make it through this slow economy. Focus on the fundamentals of your business, cut your expenses, and look for new opportunities to increase profitability. Bad news reporting and crisis headlines are common, especially in an election year, but they are not the basis for how your strategic plans should be developed. Keep your head about you, stay calm and cool, and focus on what you can control and impact. Then focus on making 4th quarter better than last year, one client and one job at a time! That won't make headlines, but it will make for a better bottom line.

1+1= Bankrupt

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:09:28 GMT

Ok… disclaimers again. I am not a financial wizard or an economist so do your own homework and check my math. Did you know that the federal budget “entitlement” programs. (those which we have been committed to pay for every year to eternity) make up almost half of our federal budget? (State too) That means a shrinking percentage of our yearly budgets are actually under control of our lawmakers. These programs are considered “off limits” by our elected leaders for two reasons: #1 these programs were “promised to the people” and have been around so long they are now considered “rights” instead of privileges, and #2, anyone who suggests that we might need to look at updating and modernizing these programs is called vile names, accused of awful things, and run out of office faster than a speeding bullet. So, year after year, election after election, we watch the budget shrink, the entitlement programs grow, and nobody can talk about the oncoming train on the track. We are assured that the oncoming train is only an illusion and that it won’t hit us for at least another 10 minutes. In the next 20-30 years, the entire tax revenue for the entire USA will be required to pay for just 2 programs, Social Security and Medicaid. That means, no money for roads, no money for agriculture, no money for bailouts, and no money for defense of our country… zip, zero, nada. The entire federal budget will be required to pay for just 2 entitlement programs! It seems unlikely that anything will change soon because dealing with these “hard issues” will mean certain defeat in the next election…and us baby boomers are about to arrive at the buffet. Check the figures from the Office of Management and Budget. (OMB) and let me know where I might have gone wrong on the charts and graphs. I want to believe that it isn’t true but that expense arrow seems pretty clear to me. So, we have 30 years to plan for the train wreck, or decide that we really do need to engineer a more mature way to travel.

This Is Serious!

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:05:36 GMT

I am not an economist, and I am not a financial expert, … but as my mom used to say, “if it walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it is probably a duck.” As a country, a state, and a community, we are dealing with some serious financial challenges, and it is serious. Now, we have faced many difficult challenges in the past so I have no doubt that we have the ability to overcome these difficult financial times, but the question is do we have the willpower? Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Lehman Brothers, & Merrill Lynch are just the latest players in a very bad play. These are recognized names that were respected giants of industry and finance that have resorted to begging for bailouts from the government… and the government is …us. Remember that? Of the people, for the people and by the people? “We the people,” took the low interest loans, the easy credit terms with low down payments and balloon mortgages. “We the people,” did not pay attention to the corporate leaders playing with government programs like tipsy Vegas gamblers. “We the people,” elected leaders who threw the party, enabled the gamblers, and are running up our credit card and hiding the monthly bills from mom and dad! When are “we the people” going to wake up and smell the coffee? or will we just going to stay in bed, pull the covers over our head, take a couple aspirin and moan about the hangover headache? When the dot.com bust took place, the fed lowered interest rates and eased credit so that “we” would not be in too much pain. After 9/11, our country’s economy was reeling so credit was eased and interest rates were lowered to “ease the landing” and as credit got easier, rates got lower, debt became the way to have it all today and pay for it later. So, now the meal is done, the wine is gone and dessert is finished…it is time for the check to be paid and suddenly there is nobody at the table but you…and me, and our credit card was just rejected… This is a serious! We the people need to take responsibility, and take action now because having another drink will only postpone the reality, and increase the pain of the hangover.

Whoa Nellie!

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 17:53:20 GMT

Have you ever stepped back in time and visited a place that reminded you of, “how things used to be?” Nellie’s café in Longwood is that place for me. Joyce was working behind the counter, in front of the oven, over the griddle, and at the register. She was a one-person phenomenon! They have been in business for just one year, but the food was just like “mom” used to make! People casually dropped in and she cheerfully engaged each one, as she took orders, cracked eggs, served up the fare that made every single visitor say…”That is the best I have ever tasted!” I hesitate to write about Joyce and her corner restaurant because I want to get a table next week, however, this is a small business owner who has really got the right recipe! (Get it?) I had tasted her “take home meal” of buffalo chicken lasagna a few weeks before, and have been talking about it ever since. That is what drove me out of bed and into her place on a Saturday morning…and it was worth it! What was striking was that Joyce was running the show all by herself. Everyone who came in acted like they were just coming into the kitchen for breakfast! The couple at the next table wondered if we would be back to meet them there for lunch. There was no complaining, no hassles, and no worries from Joyce. I did get the details on how I could order dinner by noon, and pick it up on the way home, and what the daily specials for lunch were. (They are not open for dinner) Nellie’s Café is a great example of what can be accomplished when you provide a great product at a fair price, and throw in service that rivals visiting family. I am not sure how Joyce does it yet, but I look forward to careful study of her business operations, and the small business practices over there at Nellie’s café. I anticipate it will take many, many visits. This could be a long-term project, and I gotta eat, right?

Speak To Me!

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 08:15:25 GMT

This space has been a wonderful outlet for my random thoughts, musings, and for venting my frustrations. However every once in a while. someone will mention a detail that was only shared here on , the blog...and I remember...oh yea, people are reading this! ...But do people stop in for a visit, and not leave me a message?...or join in the conversation? ...No way!....Now, I am used to talking to myself so I never thought much about it, but my latest web report shows that we have quite a few visitors/readers that visit this blog...Cool! ....But...very few folks have left comments, or felt the need to join in... but I would love to hear from you. As always, I will continue to share my views and opinions as I feel the urge, but I would like to know what you think about things too. What would you like to hear more about? What would you like to know more about? Whats on your mind? ...trust me...it feels good to write about it! We are all friends here...so speak to me!

I Am With Trash Can!

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 07:56:32 GMT

Life is good again... I have my trash can back! Thank you Mayor Bush, and please pardon the interruption!

What a Guy!

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 22:21:01 GMT

I have had trouble with my trash can for about three months now. Waste Pro is the trash services provider in Winter Springs and when my can broke, they took it away promising me that it would be replaced soon. Well that was over two months ago, and as of today, I still do not have the standard issue trash container, and I have become a little frustrated. I have been calling Waste Pro for weeks to find anyone who could answer the question, "When will I get my trash container?" I have been transferred, put on hold, I have spoken to supervisors, customer service and probably the janitor too, but nobody has been able to answer my question, and nobody has been willing to find out for me. Today, I called my city commissioner, but she was not in, and I was transferred to a variety of city clerks... several voice mails...and experienced more frustration... until I remembered...I know Mayor John Bush. I know Mayor John Bush because of his connection with the citizens and his activity in the community of Winter Springs. His wife even came to our door when he was running for mayor and I liked her too! He was instrumental in attracting the UCF technology incubator site to locate in Winter Springs which was a great idea. I thought I should inform Mayor Bush of the failure of our trash service, even if it was just a message on his voice mail. I called his office and I did get his voicemail... so I left a message. However, on his message he actually gave out his cell phone number! Now the next thing that happened was totally by accident... I promise! Somehow, I ended up calling Mayor Bush on his cell phone when I thought I was calling Waste Pro. When Mayor Bush heard that I was a citizen and I had a problem... he listened and offered a strategy for action. Embarrassed as I was, I could not help but appreciate the effort of the Winter Springs Mayor. He listened to my concern and gave me a plan of action to solve my problem... on his cell phone! I told him that I really didn't want to use up any "Mayor Capital" that I might have on solving my trash can problem, but after a good laugh, he assured me that I should call my city officials any time I believed they could help...That is service that makes me proud to call myself a citizen of Winter Springs! WHAT A GUY!

Focus On Accomplishment

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 14:14:01 GMT

In our multi-tasking, technology enhanced, ADD world, many times we are trying to accomplish so much that we get nothing done. Do you ever get home and wonder what you did all day? Last week, I begin to research a topic on the internet, but when I found some extremely interesting data on another topic, I begin to read it. Then, realizing that I had lost 20 minutes, I decided to print the article for later research, but when I hit the print command, I immediately got a message that said the printer was out of paper. On my way to get paper, I assisted a lost visitor. After escorting our guest to the conference room, I decided to grab some coffee while I was close to the break room. Heading toward the supply room to complete my mission, plans are being made for lunch….and…well you get the picture… this started as a 10 minute project to do a little research, which was a task that should be completed by now. Prioritize your tasks clearly and then focus on completion. Try to compete a task before moving on when possible, instead of having numerous tasks that are all partially completed. Learn to focus on accomplishment and not just activities. You can be really busy and not accomplish what you set out to do. Ask yourself 10 times per day, “Is what I am doing right now making me money?”…and if it is, then keep doing it. However, if you find yourself doing things that are off-task, then it is time to redirect your efforts and FOCUS on your priorities and get something accomplished.

Kenny Chesney

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:43:20 GMT

Last night I went to Tampa to see Kenny Chesney in concert. As with every event I attend, I am always fascinated by the unique methods for making money, (posters, calendars, hats, t-shirts) and I absolutely have to do the mental calculations of how much money I think they will generate. ( 16,000 people at $75 per ticket, $7 beers X 100,000 bottles?) Beyond the business aspect, last night was a welcome evening off, and it was a truly enjoyable time. The crowd was friendly, and they seemed to know every word of every song. The sound mix was a little muddled, but I didn’t mind too much and nobody else seemed to care either. It was true entertainment, by an entertainer who seemed to genuinely appreciate the folks who made it happen. It was fun for all and an example of a business model that obviously works… provide a good product, at the right price, mix in a lot of fun, and folks will show up and pay the price. It certainly worked for me!

Entrepreneur Fair- Part I

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:18:03 GMT

The 3rd annual Entrepreneur Fair at our center was the largest attendance ever! It was an amazing afternoon of education with standing room only for most of the sessions. The speakers for these free seminars were talented experts who shared great information from years of experience! Our talented slate of speakers included: Dave Rothfeld – Creative Sales and Management Mike Sutton- Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Florida Nathan Brainard – Insurance Office of America Hallie Middlebrooks – Network Solutions Matt Weber- Sales Growth Group When hundreds of attendees show up for the class and then stay afterwards to engage the speakers, you know that good things are happening. However, when those attendees come and find me to tell me how great the sessions were, you know that this event was something special. My heartfelt appreciation goes out to these professionals who volunteered their talent, experience, and their time to support the small business community of Central Florida. (The Official Disney Entrepreneur Center coffee mug was also a token of our appreciation!) This event was truly one that exemplifies the vision and the purpose of our center, to be a catalyst and a connector for the small business community. I hope you were there to benefit and I trust that you will let us know how we might support and connect you in the future.

Entrepreneur Fair - Part Ii

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:14:53 GMT

After the excellent educational seminars, the fair featured a vendor showcase of 31 table-top displays of local businesses and our on-site business support organizations. We concluded with a networking reception that was over-the-top! Approximately 400 businesses attended the E-Fair and the evening reception was an amazing display of the active and engaged businesses of our area. Connections, introductions and business transactions were going on everywhere you looked. The event sponsors were there to support our center and the attendees. It was truly an event that exceeded it’s promise and delivered on every level… and all of that was…FREE! Thanks to all who sponsored, volunteered, and attended!

Sick Day

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:34:50 GMT

Today, I am under the weather. As I switched on the TV, I heard a news story about legislation in Congress to force small businesses to offer 7 paid sick days each year to every employee. Even feeling as poorly as I do right now, I was able to scream at the newscaster on TV. Now before you scream at me, I realize that at this very moment, I am taking a paid sick day and this might sound a little hypocritical! I understand that my employer is paying for me to sit home and recover today and that I won’t be reprimanded for being ill. I also know this is a benefit of my employment and I have never appreciated it so much as I do today. I also inquired about the benefits of the job before I took it. Small businesses have to compete in a dynamic, competitive marketplace and we need to keep government from burdening them with regulations, and free them to compete, for customers and employees! If small businesses need to offer sick days to remain competitive…believe me they will offer them. If a business chooses not to offer sick days, an employee is free to seek other employment. That is part of the free market system! Our federal government is quick to legislate things that sound great, hoping to be re-elected, and then demand small businesses pay the bill… and that cost will usually be passed on to you and me! I have been an entrepreneur all my life, and I know what it feels like to be sick and still have to open for business. I also know what the cost of health insurance, drug testing, insurance requirements, workman’s comp, and mandated sick days do to the cost of running a business. Your choice is to raise your prices and hope you can still compete, go out of business, or to creatively craft a benefit plan that you can afford, attract the best workers, reduce your turnover costs, and provide a value to your clients that they will pay a little extra to experience. Starbucks offers health insurance, attracts some great employees and we pay $4 for a latte. I say let the marketplace determine how small businesses compete, not the lawmaker in Washington who has never had to meet a payroll. Creativity and competition is how to move a business forward, not legislation…and yes, there is a time for legislation when it comes to safety and security, but legislation of every aspect of small business is enough to make me sick…but then I would just take another sick day and that might not help my argument here…

Fay

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:50:53 GMT

Fay Tropical Storm Fay wandered through Central Florida yesterday and as I help Julie prepare our center for the potential emergency, I had visions of the 2003 hurricane season where we had multiple destructive tornadoes hit our region. At the time, I was a marketing counselor in the UCF Small Business Development Center. We were assisting many clients who had had their businesses destroyed and were struggling to put things back together. At the same time, we were helping businesses that were suddenly in great demand. (tree trimming, roofers) Fay did not produce such devastating effects to our region, but the preparation exercise reminded me that there are some essential things that every business should do as part of an emergency plan. These are just a few that came to mind on Tuesday as I assisted our resident disaster chief, Julie as she powered down our center. 1) Back up all your computer records and take them to a different (secure) site 2) Back up your customer and supplier databases, complete with phone, account numbers and email addresses…maybe on your memory stick 3) Keep your accounting information, accounts payable, receivables with you 4) Print your employee contact lists and keep them informed. 5) Prepare your offices by putting things into drawers, files into cabinets and locking them, cover your equipment with plastic and disconnect the power. 6) Locate your insurance policy and keep it with you. 7) Take pictures of your office and your equipment for your future files.

Sorry Seems To Be...

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:29:24 GMT

Elton John penned a song entitled, “Sorry seems to be the hardest word” back in my youth. (hey, don’t go there!) That song came rushing back recently, as I heard several folks relating their encounters with poor customer service. In each case the customer had obviously been wronged, and yet responded calmly and were very understanding about the situation. All they wanted was a simple apology. They didn’t throw a fit, ask for discounts, or demand to see the boss; they understood that accidents can happen. What was interesting about each of these situations was the customer didn’t mind the mistake, but were annoyed by the way the employee dealt with the problem. They either mumbled excuses on why it wasn’t their fault, or began explaining why it might have been the customers fault… not good! In each case, a simple, “I’m sorry” would have solved all the problems, and life would be right again. Why does “sorry” seem to be the hardest word?

Olympics

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:28:19 GMT

I love to watch the Olympics! There is something so awe-inspiring about the dedication, persistence and performance of all of those athletes. Whether it is fencing, ping-pong or beach volley ball, I find myself glued to each event, cheering for people I don’t even know, from countries that I couldn’t locate on a map. I am so proud of the U.S. team and the phenomenal performances of Michael Phelps, however, I have tremendous respect and admiration for any participant that has gone through the grueling process of qualifying to be there to compete. Even the person who finishes 50th in the marathon gets my respect just by becoming an Olympian. I watched as competitors winced at coming in second, or third, when in reality they have achieved at the highest level, and many times only a hundredth of a second will separate all three places. In one of the Phelps relays, the top 5 teams broke the WORLD RECORD for the event. So, you train for 4 years, travel to China and beat the world record…and you come in 5th! Incredible efforts, amazing talent, and a lifetime of memories, even for those who never get to stand on the pedestal at the medal ceremony.

Regional Cooperation

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 14:03:30 GMT

I am reading a book that was recommended by Dr. Cameron Ford of UCF, and was given to me by Central Florida Partnership President Jacob Stuart. It is a fascinating book about the myths surrounding entrepreneurship. The research is extensive and provides some unique perspectives on entrepreneurship that may surprise you. I am not finished with the book yet, however, I am very encouraged that leaders of our business community are not only reading the latest research on entrepreneurship, but are also willing to share it with each other! That is the cooperation, collaboration, and teamwork that established our region as a leader in entrepreneurial support, and what is essential to the continued development of innovative initiatives to support our small business community.

I almost forgot… the book is called The Illusions of Entrepreneurship by Scott A. Shane.

Welcome To Jamaica

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 19:05:29 GMT

I arrived in Jamaica yesterday and was immediately in love with the culture! Everyone was smiling, warm, and seemed to be genuinely pleased that we were here. Coming from a tourist destination, I understand how important it is to make visitors feel welcome, and believe me, I have felt welcome since stepping off the plane… even the customs agent said, “Welcome to Jamaica!”

With tourism being such a big part of the economy in Jamaica, and in Orlando, it is interesting to see that on this island, the word is out… make the tourist feel welcome! We do that in Orlando too. However, as a resident, I think I take it for granted… or I may even get annoyed!

How can I find myself being a bit annoyed by the chatty checkout in the US, and yet, here it seems so quaint and enjoyable? Maybe that is why we need to take time off now and then… to slow down and re-connect with life and not just get on to the next item to check off our to-do list. No worries mon!

Can You Hear Me, Now?

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 18:56:36 GMT

Listening is a verb and requires action, effort, and is essential to communication. Without truly listening to our clients, we can never be sure that we are providing for their needs, or if we have met their expectations. Many salespeople fail to listen to the customer, and as a result they end up presenting the wrong solutions or even worse, doing a sales presentation to a prospect that is not qualified, or interested in what they have to offer. How many times do we say, “How are you?” to people every day and never wait for the answer? …or actually hear the response? Are you really listening to what your clients are saying to you?

True communication involves three elements: listening, reflection, and responding…without all of them, you just get a lot of talking and not much communicating.

Can you hear me? Are you listening? Are your employees listening?

You Never Know!

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 22:44:59 GMT

You never know…

I attended an event this weekend in Ohio and was fascinated to learn of a young entrepreneur who lived in the area. He attended a local technical school and learned all about computers and circuits, but his real love was racing. He is mechanically inclined and loves working on cars and watching them race.

Today, he has combined his need for speed with his need for cash: he is self-employed and loving it. He works out of his basement (they have basements in Ohio) and manufactures a cool gizmo (technical term) that controls air/vacuum input into racing engines. I am not a racing, tech-savvy, mechanical kind of guy, but it sounds like a real competitive advantage for anyone who wanted to increase speed and win some races.

I learned that his “gizmos” are used by many of the top racing teams and now even the top motorcycle racers are using his invention. He is doing very well in sales and is a genuine nice guy according to his neighbors.

Once again, I was reminded that entrepreneurial success can be as close as your favorite hobby or passion. Combine your knowledge, skills, and experience, with an industry that you are knowledgeable in, and you might find yourself sprouting a business in your basement… if you have a basement!

Airline Worries

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 22:38:00 GMT

Well, I did it again… I flew this weekend. While I could fill pages with my rants on how frustrated I get when I fly, I have something else on my mind today as I sit in the boarding area, waiting for my delayed flight.

Can our airline industry continue as we know it? We have the best transportation system in the world! Everyday, we have trains, planes, and automobiles whizzing across our country like roof shingles in a hurricane… and we take it all for granted. We demand strict time schedules be met, complete safety and comfort, and then we complain because the lines move too slowly. Are we asking too much?

As I passed through security for the 3rd time today, I began to consider the strain that the last few years have placed on the airlines: screening agents, high-tech machinery that can peer inside a suitcase, rising fuel prices, and the thousands of people who are needed each day to schedule this daily ballet at airports across the country. Airlines spend trillions of dollars to minimize the risk presented by that small segment of terrorists who want to blow us up, while trying to compete in a competitive market. They have done an amazing job of minimizing that risk, but it has not been cheap, and it has not been enjoyable for the majority of travelers. With the additional customer hassles, added security costs, increased regulation, and escalating fuel prices, do our airlines have what it takes to survive? And if they don’t, have the terrorists achieved their purpose?

I have developed a new respect for the airlines. They have managed to deal with these unimaginable market pressures and still keep the planes in the air. Sitting here in the airport, I am feeling that my ticket was way too cheap (did I just say that?). Sure, I am going to get home a little late today, but I felt secure, the planes operated safely, and although I could have used a few extra peanuts on the last flight, it was a pretty positive experience.

I wonder how long flying can continue to be an inexpensive transportation option. I worry that prices will have to be raised to continue to provide for the demands of regulation and security, or we will have to accept a new system of airline service that can adapt to the increasing demands of very complicated marketplace.

Graduation

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:34:04 GMT

If you ever need a lift, just attend a graduation ceremony. Triumph, achievement, overcoming adversity, and pride all rolled into a 2-hour ceremony. Better than chocolate!

We Have What It Takes.

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:16:00 GMT

I just attended the Orlando Business Journal's Economic Outlook Event, and it was well worth the time and money invested. I heard perspectives and opinions from state and federal leaders, experienced economists, and lots of local business leaders. It was very interesting, enlightening, and sometimes very funny ( to me!)...

Heather Rocks!

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 14:38:29 GMT

I was in the hunt for a flat screen TV. My search included online research, consumer interviews, flyer comparisons, and endless hours of gazing at the walls of choices at each store. I was ready to buy…and already dreaming of programming a new remote control and then form fitting it to my hand. But then it was time to go shopping.

Tend To Your Knitting

Sun, 04 May 2008 20:35:58 GMT

I am one of 11 children. My mother was a saint...and a field marshall, an enforcer, a motivator, a mediator, a CFO, and a CEO. I often find myself using her sayings from the hills of Kentucky with my son, and believe it or not, in my business life too.

"You can wear the same pants and get happy" was her way of communicating that things were not going to change so you better deal with it.

"Let your vittles stop your mouth" was her favorite at the dinner table...translation...quit talking and start eating. She had plenty of those sayings.

So, as I consider a strategy for today's economy, "just tend to your knitting" came to mind. Translation... quit worrying about all the other stuff and do what you are supposed to be doing. I know it sounds a little weird but bear with me.

My advice is to focus on the details of what you do best, and to quit worrying about what might happen someday if someone does something to somebody, somewhere else... Just tend to your knitting.

Presidential elections always bring bad news in the media. Mudslinging and negative ads seem to win elections and our current election cycle has been going on for two years! That is a long time to have a steady diet of bad news and hopefully November will end it (barring any hanging chads). Candidates focus on discontent to win elections, because change requires discontent at some level. That doesn't mean that everything is all that bad... it's politics.

Speaking of politics and bad news, our Florida legislative session is underway and we have heard for a year how bad the budget situation is for Florida. For almost a year we have been waitng to see what might be decided by our lawmakers... and soon we will know. We have survived bad budget years before, and I believe that our state have been in "pause mode" for a year just waiting to see what happens, and how bad it might be... and as we look around...and wait... and listen to the bad news... we pause. We begin to plan for what might happen, and what might be, and we begin to create our own downturn.

Lastly, Central Florida has experienced a huge expansion of our local economy in the last few years. Jobs, construction projects, housing prices, and business opportunity has exploded during the past few years. Did you think that we would not need to catch our breath at some point? Our economy was in a sprint, and we are running a marathon as a business community... so as we catch our breath, we need to use this time to tune up our businesses, focus on profit, look for creative opportunites in our current situation, and... as mom would say, "stick to our knitting!"

Negotiate

Sun, 04 May 2008 20:32:24 GMT

In business you should negotiate for everything. I have been told many times by people who are much smarter than me that you "make your money when you buy as well as when you sell." Americans are reluctant to bargain for things, however, most other cultures expect to bargain on most every exchange. It is part of the free exchange of goods and services.

If you are uncomfortable with the process, start small and practice your skills. Drop in on any garage sale you see and when you find something you like--negotiate a little. Make an offer; haggle and see how you do. Maybe you just save a dollar or two, but the process is the same whether you are buying a used CD, or saving a bundle on a truck. What is the worst that can happen... you buy it anyway! So go out there and negotiate a good deal on something... but not at my garage sale! OK?

Small Business Week

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:31:08 GMT

Last week was the SBA designated week for Small Businesses. The City of Orlando gave us a proclamation for our center declaring it small business week and we had an amazing number of events to support small businesses of all sizes. It was exhausting, but I had a great time and met some great entrepreneurs! The entire week was filled with reminders of how dedicated, diverse, and hard-working our small business community is and it renewed my vigor shop the "small business" to serve my needs whenever possible. We should consider every week, small business week when you consider buying something. When we support our small business community with our purchases, we foster an environment where small businesses start,thrive, and then we benefit from building our community with diverse businesses and a variety of local choices.. Have you shopped a local small business lately? Become intentional about your support of small businesses and you will be amazed at how we benefit as a community. Try it, you'll like it!

Fun With Expenses?

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:24:43 GMT

The fastest and most enjoyable way to increase your bottom line is to reduce your expenses, immediately! Lately, lots of folks are asking me how best to compete in a soft market and I always start with expense reduction instead of immediately going to the revenue side of the business. That is because if you cut your expenses by $100, you drop $100 to your bottom line. If you try to sell your way out of a cash crunch, you may have to sell $500 to drop $100 in profit to your bottom line. Make sense? So, check out all your expense areas and see if you can squeeze a little out of each one. Do you have a phone line you don't use any more? Is there a service that you are using that is a "nice" to have and not a necessity? I always tried to review all of my expenditures regularly... not all at once, (too overwhelming) but I would pick a major catagory of expense and tackle one each month. January might be utilities, February was insurance, (car, liability, property etc) March might be office supplies and equipment, and so on... that way I was sure that I was continually reviewing my expense decisions to insure that changes in my business and changes in the market prices were aligned regularly. I always hated learning that there was a lower priced cell phone plan, or web service and I was "somehow still on the old (higher priced) plan. It is like a treasure hunt to locate that check that you don't have to write, or that credit on your bill that means you don't have to pay this month! Now that is fun! Start today, pick an expense catagory and call your providers to see if you can save any money. You will be surprised at what you might save. I call them my $100 phone calls... save a buck and it drops right into the cash flow to fund the things that you need to pay for today.... and then go sell something!

Success

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 05:01:27 GMT

Tom is quiet, unassuming and willing to help anyone in need. He asks you questions about your business, is genuinely interested in your responses, and will offer words of wisdom based on years of experience. He worked for Xerox at one time, has owned two separate fast food franchises, and was in charge of national training at one of them. Tom has corporate experience, a wealth of knowledge and has a gentle way about him that makes you want to listen, and learn. People would look at Tom;s career and label him successful. He retired a few years ago, volunteered his time to the community to stay busy and spent time with the grandkids. He was a mentor of mine and made time to check in on me from time to time and provide guidance, a shoulder to cry on, and sometimes a needed challenge or two. I look at his "retirement" as a model for my own. Family, friends, and still engaged... Well, as you probably guessed, someone like Tom will always stay busy, so he began working part time a few years back and seemed to like the hustle and bustle of small business. In no time at all, he was engaged in all aspects of the business, and today Tom owns the company, and it is booming. I saw him this weekend and we were discussing the challenges of growth, the need for great employees, the isolation of leadership, transition planning and the importance of family balance. I am so excited and so happy for Tom and for his employees... they are experiencing the entrepreneur flow...that confusing, exciting, euphoric, and scary feeling all in one instant... and this guy is retired? Success can come in many varieties, in many sizes, and at any time. Do we know what our personal success looks like? Would we recognize it if we have it?

Age Perspectives

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 08:48:23 GMT

I sat at a table of retired folks this week and heard them discuss age...and it gave me a different perspective. The gentleman that stopped me in my tracks said that when he was a boy, he would love to talk to the "old soldiers" and when I asked him what war they had fought in, he replied, "the civil war." THE CIVIL WAR! I paused in that moment just trying to imagine the changes that these folks had experienced in their lifetime. Age is relative, and each generation has a perspective that is unique and valuable to the next. I tried to capture the conversation and the picture of this group in my mind's eye for me to keep and reflect on later.

Jerry's Bad Day

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 08:32:23 GMT

From the moment I got out of bed, things just did not go as planned. Soon a bunch of little things were piling up and getting me down. It can happen quickly to you, if you are not careful.

Tradeshow Tips

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 08:24:14 GMT

Many folks look at working a trade show as a day away from the office, a chance to chat with co-workers, or a great opportunity to visit the other vendors and pick up some really cool free stuff. But for a small business, a trade show can be the best opportunity you may have all year to accomplish your marketing and sales goals! A successful trade show begins BEFORE the show opens and will continue long after the show is CLOSED. So make time now to consider what you can do to make this year’s trade show budget really pay off!

Choices

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:25:17 GMT

Every day is filled with thousands of choices. Each business day presents a variety of opportunities to say yes or no. Many times we have no idea how our decisions might impact others and too often, we don't consider the true impact of our decisions before we render the decision.

Dealing With Today's Economy

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:05:16 GMT

In the last few weeks, I have been asked numerous times how a business should react to the current business cycle and how to prepare for the times ahead. First of all, I do not have a crystal ball so I really do not know what might be ahead but I can share with you what I have done in the past.

I'm Back!

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 14:48:14 GMT

I'm Back!

Can I Make a Suggestion?

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:52:27 GMT

I traveled to Atlanta this weekend, so I was again reminded of the hassles involved in getting through ticketing, and security. I often get disgusted when I think that a handful of people have caused us to go through this entire security exercise. TSA, metal detectors, Sky Marshals and long lines all because a handful of people want to instill terror on the world! It is such a waste of time and resources, but it is a necessity! I know that!...however, can I make a suggestion?

We Are In Good Hands.

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:51:49 GMT

I recently had the opportunity to join some college students for dinner. It was quite an experience and left me with no doubt that our future is in good hands. The food was great, wine flowed, and the conversation covered everything from classes and teachers, to world issues and international geography. Our group of nine contained, two from London, two from Kuwait and five from the U.S. which provided many laughs as we compared stories of childhood, elementary school, and international travel. What was also captivating was that the group also contained two muslims, four christians, two jews, and an agnostic. Our dinner was a true melting pot of cultures, religions, ideas, and yes,..ages. I sat back several times during dinner to just absorb the variety of ideas, the cultural perspectives and the ability of each to express themselves and their ideas. Each had travelled, was versed in international affairs, and was willing to offer input and listen to the input of others. I found myself envisioning these students as the leaders of tomorrow, and I was OK with that. These were smart students, confident in their future and embracing the diversity that has always made our country great, and the evening made me feel good about my future, and the future of our nation! I need to do this more often, especially in an election year!

Discipline

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:50:58 GMT

This weekend I attended an inspirational ceremony where my brother John was inducted into the Toledo University Sports Hall of Fame. It was inspiring to hear each inductee relate their story and to recall the coaches, mentors and parents who helped them achieve this great honor. Each story was one of overcoming obstacles, the great memories, and passion for their school and their sport. The magnitude of this kind of recognition, at this level of competition, was not lost on any who spoke or attended.

What's Your Brand?

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:50:27 GMT

Sometimes when speaking on "Branding", I only have to pull out my Mickey Mouse ears and someone shouts out "Disney." I pull out a large fry container and the instant chorus is "McDonalds!" I use an Apple logo and the Post Office box with similar results in recognition. When I probe further about what they like or dislike about these companies, the opinions vary wildly. These "brands" are universally recognized and yet the feedback on the brand is directly related to the individuals personal experience with the company...usually their last experience with the company.

Tempo

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:49:44 GMT

I heard the word tempo recently, and it has come back to me in so many instances this week that I had to tell you about it. Many times it is tempo that makes the difference in our business and in our personal lives. Sometimes I have to change the tempo to get more done, and sometimes I need to chill out all weekend in order to recharge myself from an up-tempo week!

Going Global Together

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:49:06 GMT

I attended a conference this weekend with many of the top leaders of Central Florida. It was sponsored by the Convention and Visitors Bureau, The Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission, and the newly formed organization from the Orlando Regional Chamber, called the "Central Florida Partnership." It was a fact filled update on the success of our region in recruiting businesses, tourists, and conventioneers, but it was also an eye opening forum for many of the threats and obstacles facing our region and our state in the future. I loved listening to those who are in the know about how our region works, speak openly about the issues facing our region and for the need for all of our cities, counties, and businesses to cooperate in building a better region in the future. While there is always going to be some reluctance to change, and fear of a "win-lose partnership," most of those I encountered, realized that we are all stronger when we cooperate versus trying to go it alone. We are no longer competing with each other, but with the world. (This is a message I have preached in the Disney Entrepreneur Center for the past year!) Orange County and the City of Orlando have found numerous areas for collaboration over the past few years and now, as we compete in the global economy for visitors and jobs, it requires that our entire region work collaboratively rather than search out ways to disagree. As my mom used to say, "Quit yelling and start talking." Fortunately, this weekend I saw a lot of talking about collaboration and cooperation and I believe they really meant it! Only time will tell, but I am confident that this gathering of leaders could accomplish anything they decide to do. I am extremely proud of our civic and business leaders, and I am confident in their skills, ability, and vision. The leaders who chaired this conference were Jacob Stuart, Ray Gilley, and Gary Sain who are all engaged leaders who have a world class product to market. Florida Hospital, and a host of local businesses sponsored the event and had their leaders in attendance. Even Mayor Crotty and Orange County Commissioner Bill Segal attended to listen to the business community discuss the issues facing our region. (The Orlando Sentinel ran a negative article questioning elected leaders attending but I loved the fact that these elected officials were willing to risk the media heat to hear the business community discuss our future..in public!) I do have to give Orlando Sentinel editor, Charlotte Hall, credit for taking the stage and fielding questions on Sunday, even though "free speech" and "freedom of the press" seemed like a worn and weak argument for "point of view" "news" stories. So, the upshot of the weekend? We need to complete the 417 outer-belt. Our transportation needs are getting more critical and they need to be addressed now. The medical/ biotech hub is off to a great start and has lots of potential for the future. We need to invest in our simulation industry or risk losing it to non-compliance of security mandates. Our tourism industry is facing growing budgets and hungry markets elsewhere who want our success. We all need to quit focusing on our slice of the pie... and build a bigger pie. Ultimately, it is only by working together as a 7 county region that we can gather the necessary financial, political, and intellectual resources to compete with the globe...hence the title of the conference... Going Global Together!

How To Lose a Good Customer In 5 Days

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:41:14 GMT

My wife has been going to Doctor F for many years. She likes Dr. F and feels like she has received good care. But, today my wife is looking for another doctor. It seems that the treatment of patients at this office has deteriorated to the point that the value of Dr. F has been diminished by the office staff that is supposed to "care" for the patients.

Happy New Year!!

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:39:52 GMT

Happy New Year! 2008 is a new beginning, a clean slate, a fresh start, a whole new ballgame â€¦ but how are you going to make this year really work for you? It can be overwhelming if you look at everything you need to do, everything you want to, and all the things you should do! So, grab a pencil, follow these four easy steps and in a matter of minutes you will be on your way to making this year more productive! Really! Trust me!