I would say most companies I come across have one or more core values focused on high levels of customer service. It’s one of those “must have” elements in how a company continues to exist. Yet we know that “high quality” customer service is subjective, both from the company’s perspective and the customer’s perspective. On... View Article
As small business owners, we often wear many hats, including head of finance, customer service and HR. As CEOs, we are tasked with strategy and leading the execution plan. The “doing” work of a business owner can get separated from the “strategy” work of the CEO. In my experience, when this happens, we get lost. ... View Article
The recent focus on employee retention, from what we’ve seen at Equinox, arises from two trends. First, it’s really tough to find the right people in the current market. Once you find them, it’s essential that you keep them. Second, business owners are seeking people who can take over when they retire and key employees... View Article
Talk of effective leadership abounds in business circles. I know you have come across many books and seminars on the topic and hundreds of quotes as to what makes a great leader — yet it seems something that’s a bit tough to grasp in reality. Part of the challenge in reading about and “implementing” leadership,... View Article
Yes, there are “favorite” things to do for end of year planning… here’s what’s on our list: Financial goals. First and foremost, your planning should evaluate your financial performance this year. If you had financial goals for your business, did you achieve them? If not, why not? Many business owners have sales goals that are... View Article
While I was abroad the past two years, Thanksgiving was a particularly special holiday. It is a day that is uniquely (North) American; and although other cultures are aware that we celebrate this day, there exists some curiosity around its meaning and its customs. I found a special connection in sharing our family’s favorite holiday... View Article
In last month’s blog and FOCUS event, we discussed the strategy and foundation needed to expand your business in not only a “smart” way, but in a way that leverages what you do best. Knowing your “secret sauce” and building a plan to bring on the people and resources to build upon it is core... View Article
Last Monday the Seattle City Council passed (9-0) a “Secure Scheduling” Ordinance that is sure to shake things up (again!) in the world of labor and employment. We are just understanding how other recent City legislation works in light of the 2016 Labor Standards Amendments that made changes to Paid Sick and Safe and... View Article
On May 18, 2016, the Department of Labor finally issued its much anticipated white collar exemption rules. Here is what employers need to know: Beginning on December 1, 2016, the salary requirements for exempt status will be $913 per week or $47,476 per year. How did the DOL arrive at that number? The amount represents... View Article