Where do you see yourself in 20 years? For most of us, our career paths are unpredictable. And I mean that in a positive way. Looking back, I realize that my journey took a number of twists and turns that enabled me to learn and grow; and to build a successful company with a unique…
There are certain things that you just can’t teach people. Of course, drive and determination are great examples of attributes that either you have—or you don’t. During this holiday season of giving, there is one characteristic that is quite relevant to me, and that’s generosity. In my mind, giving freely of yourself—sharing your time and…
People throw the term world class around a lot. But, what is its true definition? Curious, I went to the web site www.businessdictionary.com to see what was considered business world class, and here’s what they state: “Goods, services, and processes that are ranked by customers and industry-experts to be among the best of the best.…
This year’s home opener sold out in 6 minutes on Feb. 25, marking the 21st consecutive home opener sellout and the 20th at Progressive Field, which opened in 1994. It was one of the fastest sellouts in Indians history. Was it playing our nemesis, the New York Yankees that created this sellout frenzy? Maybe part…
Just as Spring training gives rookies an opportunity to show their stuff and ultimately shine their light, so too does being on their first big project give newer employees a chance at sharing the limelight. And that’s just one of many comparisons between baseball and business. Recently, Fast Company interviewed baseball columnist Jeff Angus The…
In Spring we train for many different things. Sports, of course, comes to mind immediately. Maybe we exercise our bodies more to get in shape for swim season. We may even beef up our workload in anticipation of free time to enjoy summer vacations. Not everyone is lucky enough to breeze through Spring “training”. Some…
Each February we celebrate Presidents’ Day as a national holiday that honors two of our country’s greatest presidents: George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Both men were great presidents because, despite their vast difference, they shared similar leadership traits that are just as important today — in the private and the public sector — as they…
It’s nice to know there’s a week set aside to practice random acts of kindness. It falls on the week of Valentine’s Day, which is a nice extension of the meaning of Valentine’s Day, and was first introduced in 2000. This year even the Super Bowl got into the act. But way before there was…
In any relationship actions often speak louder than words. Sometimes it’s easier to say “I care” than to show you care. For example, losing a customer is always difficult. Sometimes the loss happens through change: a business acquisition, a change in direction, or a change in personnel. That’s why, at Shamrock we follow the rule…
Groundhog Day has passed and groundhogs across the northeast did not see their shadows which, at least in groundhog circles, means an early spring. We may have an early thaw. Speaking of thaws, what can be done to rekindle a customer relationship that, for whatever reason, begins to chill? Like any entrepreneur, I don’t like…
