Every January writer, speaker, and business-owner-helper Chris Brogan chooses three words that will frame his focus and energy for the coming year. Hundreds (thousands?) of his fans and followers follow suit. Choosing three specific words to aid them in making the new...
Are you a Master of the Welcome? Hope so. The first words out of your mouth frame the entire customer experience. Consider these two facts: According to The Wall Street Journal from February 17th, 2006, you have less than five seconds to make a first impression....
Another day, another marketing post, am I right? These days, it’s a challenge getting people excited about receiving yet another promotional email. How do we know this? We asked a number of business owners and found that they often throw in the towel because they...
Check out your competition. Too many business people neglect to do this. How in the world will you know where you stand in your market and your category if you don't keep an eye on the other guy? Do competitive shopping, but go with an open mind. Don't waste a lot of...
With all the news and technology about the continual emergence of the internet of things, you're likely becoming quite the smarty-pants. You can buy Smart Phones, Smart Cars, Smart Thermostats, Smart Watches, Smart TVs, etc. (heck, if you have a minute or two and we'd...
Midwest Retail Services just returned from attending the most recent Cardinal Health Rx Business Conference. We've been proud to attend and serve this community of pharmacy professionals over the years. The Cardinal Health RBC is an opportunity for us to meet many of...
I woke up this morning to the announcement that Dollar Shave Club, the monthly subscription service that sends razor blades costing as little as $1 per pack to your home, was purchased by the Unilever company for One. Billion. Dollars. (Cash!) As a charter member of...
Ever go into a store and have someone who worked there asked: “Can I help you?” Of course you have. And 9 times out of 10 you replied with a “No thanks, I’m just looking.” That four-word question, “Can I help you?”, simply BEGS that response. It’s programmed into our...
Know your customer, know your customer, know your customer. Three very important rules of business. But let me ask you this: How well do your customers know YOU? Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart, asked himself this important question several decades ago. His answer:...