2008 September

Get Excited About Customer Complaints!

Ugggghh…customer complaints. Just the thought of it probably brings up some bad memories. It’s such an uncomfortable, vulnerable feeling for any business. We’ve all had those moments. But you know the best part? Complaints aren’t a bad thing!

You should be excited about complaints because they bring about a huge opportunity to improve the status quo and get more business! Welcome the opinions of your customers and clients with open arms. Most importantly, really listen to what they have to say!

Find out exactly what has gone wrong and how the situation came to be. Likely, there are some strings that can be tightened to prevent that negative response from happening again. In fact, you most likely are aware of some of those strings right now. Get out there and tighten them now!

Making little changes now means happier customers and clients in the future…and more positive word of mouth…and an improved reputation…and more business in the long run!

Thank your customers for being honest and pointing out those little flaws that have the incredible ability to create big change!

–Joe Kiedinger–

ACTION PLAN: Take an active interest in your customers’ opinions. When you receive criticism, don’t make excuses for yourself and your business. Look at it as an opportunity to improve!

Somthing Smells Old!

I see so many local and regional brands that are outdated. This problem usually comes from the businesses that have been around for 50 years. They have developed systems and products that are truly superior to the way they did things 50 years ago, but their brand is still presented through their 1950’s logo, jingle, and sales literature which do not reflect where they are today.

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WHO ARE YOU?

Who Are You?
- Is there an easy answer for you? -

Identity is the number one cause of businesses failing in America today. Why is it so difficult to differentiate yourself in today’s marketplace? Is it the competition with intimidating resources such as big box retailers who are dominating the countryside with their monstrous infrastructure? How do you compete? The answer is differentiation. Continue reading »

CREATIVITY IS AN ACTION NOT AN OUTCOME

Creativity is an action, not an outcome!
It’s amazing what can be done through others.

We often look at a creative person through the literal translation of what they have done or what came from their hand or physical being. For example: artwork, stand-up comedy, interior design, and the list can go on.

All of these examples are one person producing an exact outcome. They are creative people. However, creativity can be a journey while you find the people who can help you express yourself.

It’s true that Mickey Mouse was the brainchild of Walt Disney. It’s also true that in the beginning it was he who drew the prototype from his earliest Mickey cartoon, Steam Boat Willie. However, the Mickey Mouse you know and love– ya know the little guy with the big feet and very round head and ears– actually was developed by his team of cartoonists. They found that the rounder Mickey gave the character more appeal to viewers. Continue reading »