Top Characteristics to Thrive
Every company will most likely experience downturns or some crises that may threaten its survival. Companies that have the ability to weather and thrive regardless of the economic cycle have some common characteristics that are part of their company culture. This article examines what those characteristics are and is a key to understanding why some companies thrive while others survive or die.

WIIFM?
A profound acronym for “what’s in it for me?”. It covers many areas of your business, but starting from the source (your customer or prospect) and working its way upstream sometimes (a lot of times) loses its focus quickly.

Will Your Business Survive?
What will happen to your business if you were suddenly and unexpectedly removed from it? It happens. If your business is all about you the effects could be devastating. If you are like Joe and don’t prepare, it could happen to you.

Is Your Company its Own Worst Enemy?
The customer is king. We all know it and believe it. But what happens when such a critical and basic rule isn’t followed by everyone within the organization? Read Jack’s real life example of a customer service breakdown and his checklist of things to look for in your process to keep it from happening to you.

Drive Profit with Non-financial Metrics
Metrics are critical to understand your business. There are more non-financial metrics used then financial in most organizations. The best part is metrics can fit any type and size of business. You just need to think about it a bit. Tom provides some food for thought in this article about practical applications for metrics.

Strategy is Fundamental
Why do “A” companies and top sports teams win? It isn’t just about ability, teamwork, practice or a killer ap. They have a plan. So why don’t more companies use strategic planning? Read on for compelling reasons why a strategic plan will add competitive advantage to your business.

Glimmers of Optimism? You Decide.
The economic news has been bad for many months, and up to a few weeks ago there were no signs of it getting better. Certainly the headlines and story content were all negative. But that is starting to change. Are you seeing any signs at all the carnage may begin to subside for your business? The horizon seems a bit brighter than last week. Are you ready to take advantage if it is?

“What keeps you awake at night?” Survey Results
Results of survey taken of owners of small private businesses at the Providence Business Expo held on May 5 & 6, 2009. Respondents concerned with remaining cash positive and spending too much time on day-to-day activities.

Save Money Today, BIG Money Tomorrow
To unlock cash in today's environment really takes creative thinking. The simple "cab driver" advice you hear on a continuous basis isn't all that helpful. You need to find and fix systemic problems that drain cash day after day. What techniques do I recommend?

Call "The A Team"
Using variable labor for key strategic positions is an affordable way to reduce costs while still providing the support you need to run your business. It is critical for every business to have key positions in place, but can you afford the luxury of a full-time in-house resource? This article explores valuable alternatives you should consider to attract the most competent resources at an affordable price.

You Know You are in Big Trouble if...
Are you aware the first stage of business failure is denial? Could you recognize many of the obvious signs your company is in trouble? Are you trying to save your company by doing things that may not be the best for you and your family? Are you aware owners who recognize early signs they have more trouble than they can handle are more likely to take the steps necessary to successfully turn their company around?

I'm Out of Compliance... Now what???
Critical tips every business owner needs to consider if they have an outstanding bank loan about how to navigate the "new lending environment". Consensus among many bankers is that communication is key, but having a recovery plan is critical to that discussion.

Do You Have a Contingency Plan?
It is important for you to focus on yourself before you work on more business related long-term strategic planning. “Put your own mask on first” comes to mind. You did not spend all your time building a successful business just to let it disappear because you didn’t put key, and sometimes simple, safeguards in up front did you?

Start Forecasting Now!
Whether your company is on a high growth roll, merely trying to survive this recession or somewhere in between, if you aren't using forecasts, you may be incredibly lucky. The odds of continued success and building a high-value company are stacked against you. On the other hand, that may help explain why you are in survival mode. Forecasting can change the odds to your favor.

Are You in a Foxhole?
It is important for your business to continue working on your company's strategic direction regardless of the economic cycle. Although it is imperative to move carefully in light of the current economic uncertainty, you must continue to move forward. You must identify areas of opportunity to adjust or focus your strategies.

Also featured in The Woonsocket Call.

Are You an Octopus?
Is your business in control or do you control your business? Do you delegate? Do you make all decisions big or small? Is it easier to do “it” yourself? You may be stifling your business and ignoring a key resource within your company. Identify the symptoms.

Metrics Should Be Everywhere (Part 1)
Non-financial metrics are as important to all organizations (profit or non-profit, medical, service or manufacturing) as financial metrics. They help you understand the success of programs, focus on areas important for success, process control and problem solving. Using them effectively is the part most companies miss.

Metrics Should Be Everywhere (Part 2)
In these trying economic times it is critical for every business to focus on what is most important. That focus should extend to all parts of the business, top to bottom. Those companies that are able to get their workforce focused on the Company strategies and ways to execute those strategies are using metrics as a powerful competitive advantage.

What is Value?
The current turmoil in the stock markets has a severe affect on our personal psyche, but does it really affect your business’s long-term value? It shouldn’t. The long-term value of your business is built, and superior value takes effort and time. But it is something every business owner must do to ensure a valuable, lasting and transferable asset.

It’s All About Growth
Without top-line growth a business is in decline. Value is destroyed and the owner may not be able or willing to reverse the trend. It is not fair to anyone to let that happen. Are you willing to have your legacy be a shuttered business? What value will you receive in the end for all the hard work you put into building your business?

Have You Thought About Your Future Lately?
As an owner or partner of a thriving business, do you have all the pieces in place to take care of your family? Are your business strategies aligned with you and your partner’s personal goals and objectives? These questions and more may be very difficult and uncomfortable to discuss or address. But what if something sudden were to take you out of the business?