Taking care of your own
Besides being at the forefront of the revitalization of downtown Cleveland, Ernst & Young also does all it can to take care of its clients and employees. No. 1, says Misheff, protect your foundation in a difficult economy and make sure you don’t lose any clients.
“It’s all about service, service, service,” Misheff says. “Deliver the highest quality of service you can. Be loyal and proactive with clients. Maybe that means you have to take a hit on your fees, but that’s OK. You’re in it for the long haul.”
Doing so can only lead to growth, says Misheff. Plus, your clients will appreciate it and thus be more likely to send other business your way.
“Focus on the short term but still think long term,” Misheff says.
Focusing on clients is one thing, but how do you continue to motivate and encourage employees during tough times? With low morale and people worrying about their jobs, families and futures, this is no easy task.
“Treat people fairly, treat them with respect and treat them with as much loyalty as you can,” Misheff says.
Encourage people that the hard times will end and that there will be opportunities in the future. Bottom line, stay in the game and really take care of your people.
Related content
Don Misheff discussing the importance of a diverse culture.
Don Misheff on how he builds up his employees and client base at Ernst & Young by never being afraid to admit a mistake.
Find out more about the Ernst & Young Strategic Growth Forum 2009.
Executive Editor Dustin S. Klein conducted several question-and-answer sessions with past Entrepreneur Of The Year award winners and Growth Forum panelists, including:
Howard Schultz, CEO of Starbucks Corp.
Lynn Elsenhans, chairman and CEO of Sunoco Inc.
Chris Dalton, co-founder, president and CEO of Acquity Group LLC
Mervin Dunn, president and CEO of Commercial Vehicle Group Inc.
Pamela Chambers O’Rourke, founder, president and CEO of 850-employee ICON Information Consultants LP
Celeste Ford, founder, chairman and CEO of Stellar Solutions Inc.
Shelly Lazarus, chairman of Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide
Robert Klein, founder and CEO of Safeguard Properties
Do you know a company that might be a good fit for the 2010 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year program? Contact Caroline Calfee at [email protected]