How to find the 'secret sauce' for building a great restaurant franchise
All leading franchises have solid infrastructure. They have a rigorous business model, strong management team, and sound financial strategy. They select, train, and support the right franchisees. Because they run such consistent operations, consumers understand the business and what it stands for.
Data: A path to value, action
Cows, combines and cars have a lot more in common than you might think. In Chicago and across the Midwest, they’re at the heart of some of the biggest companies doing business here. Businesses located in this region share more than just geography — they’re collecting masses of data. Some of that data comes from […]
Take these steps to maximizing meeting and event ROI
Are you maximizing the ROI for your meetings and events?
A Google search shows thousands of articles on the importance of calculating meeting and event ROI, however, there is little guidance on how to improve event effectiveness.
Seven ways to ensure that you’re understood when you speak
Those who have developed or grown up in an environment where a specific concept is the norm must remember that communication fails without a base understanding. Effective communication requires that one never assumes that the listener listens from the same mental place from which the speaker speaks.
AB 1513: What the new California piece-rate 'safe harbor' law means for your business
For California employers who use a piece-rate compensation system, a new law called AB 1513 codifies significant changes to how they must pay their employees for time spent on so-called “non-productive” activities — and potentially bring relief from liability for past violations.
Five secrets to successful onboarding
If you’re thinking about starting or improving an existing new hire program at your organization, there are a few things you should know first.
Self-discipline makes it happen
There are many disciplines needed to be successful but it will take self-discipline to make it happen.
It requires three important ingredients: doing what you are supposed to do, when you are supposed to do it and the most important one is whether you feel like it or not.
Take time and identify the area where you are currently lacking discipline and apply this principle. (Whether you feel like it or not.)
How enhancing relationships and automating processes can help oil and gas organizations prosper during the slowdown
It’s well documented that any companies facing the current downturn in the oil and gas industry resort to headcount and operational reduction, neither of which solves the long-term financial challenges of your company; however, these decisions are avoidable.
How to encourage progressive change in your business
The world is changing at a rapid pace and as business owners and entrepreneurs we have to change with them. Without constantly modernizing processes and offerings you could easily find yourself out of business. Just look at Hollywood Video and Blockbuster. Opportunities are easily lost if we don’t stay on top of changes and aren’t willing to make the changes that will help us and our business grow.
Here are five ways to encourage progressive change in your business.
Furry fans unite for Anthrocon
If you’re fascinated with animal characters, Pittsburgh is the place to be. The world’s largest convention for anthrpomorphics will be held from June 30-July 3, which includes a fursuit parade for spectators.