too Much Green?
Avoid the inevitable boredom with or backlash against “going green”
Before you join the hordes of “eco-friendly” businesses, be aware of the potential backlash against companies who profess they are going green. Some consumers are frustrated with conflicting advice about being environmentally conscious or are just tired of hearing companies tout their new eco-awareness. They may doubt your
sincerity or integrity if you are pushing a green agenda. (more…)
Performance Appraisals Benefit Small Businesses Too!
It may seem unnecessary to conduct a performance appraisal with only one employee or a few. However, it can be an opportunity to reinforce your appreciation of an employee’s talent and to strengthen an employee’s performance. It can serve as a guide to achieve future objectives or set an underperforming employee back on track.
Even though you may have plenty of face time with a crackerjack small staff, sitting down with each of them to talk more formally on a regular basis gives you the opportunity to tell each what results or behaviors they have displayed that you think are most advantageous to your business.
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Looking for Your Silver Lining?
Coming off one of the worst global recessions, one can’t help but be anxious. However, history shows that every great loss has potential for great rebounds. The trick is to find that silver lining. If you think globally, you just might find your pot of gold.
According to Global Finance, this global recession is proving to be a “springboard” for China and India (as well as other Rapidly Developing Economies (RDEs) like Asia, Brazil, Mexico, and Eastern Europe). Companies in China and India were not immune to the recession and those that were in debt have struggled. However, many companies in those two countries were able to advance or position themselves for growth during the recession.
Many companies from China and India had cash on hand or were able to use stimulus funds to grow. They were in a better position to acquire weaker businesses, make large investments in technology, enter new business areas, or turn their focus to their home markets to foster growth. While “most American companies were in a holding pattern” these global companies have prepared themselves for a post-recession leap. There are obstacles to business growth in both China and India and many other RDEs; a high poverty rate, tight government controls, and lack of financial transparency are a few of the stumbling blocks. To service companies in RDEs, it will be crucial to know both the legal system and cultural customs of those RDEs.
It won’t happen overnight, but China, India, and other RDEs are poised to become global industrial and financial centers, and this century may prove to be “The Asian Century.” In the coming years, it may pay for you to increase your global business awareness and search for new opportunities, especially in Asia.
Global Finance, http://www.gfmag.com/latest/features/9932-cover-story-global-leaders-in-waiting.html
10 Deadly Business Traps
- Getting wedded to an idea and sticking with it too long. Do not marry a single idea. Remember, ideas are the currency of entrepreneurs. Play with many ideas and see which ones bring money and success.
- No marketing plan. A marketing plan creates (more…)
