Business Week recently published a summary of some of the challenges facing companies seeking venture capital. Most of the advice is pretty common, and I think, applies to obtaining capital of any kind. In short, demonstrate a realistic value proposition, plan for positive cash flow and show a sustainable, lean…
I have spoken frequently about making the tough decisions when they're presented and the painful process of the "death by a thousand cuts". Another perspective on making the tough decisions is how easily we fool ourselves into accepting as gospel that which we suspect isn't. It goes back to that…
Now, if this was a Knight of the Round Table, bearing the sword of Exkalibur, that would be one thing. Alas, not.
Rather, it’s an insidious invader disguised as a heroic force, riding to the rescue of American companies facing catastrophic economic ruin. So, as I watched portions of the Congressional hearings this week featuring the CEOs of America’s automakers, I couldn’t help but think: Where did the congressmen and senators learn about the auto industry?
How are they qualified to assess the business plans of the three U.S. automakers? (more…)
Fortune recently published an interesting list of the Top Ten Mistakes that salespeople make. Since no one can afford to miss a single sales opportunity these days, this is a useful checklist to peruse on occasion . . . and to remember that what the customer thinks is far more…
To many, the Harvard Business Review is known for both its rigorous scholarship and impenetrable prose. For me, their magazine and articles offer insightful strategies and concepts if you're willing to do a little work.In this case, they've designed an entire reference page, and collection, with various contributors offering comments,…
I have talked to many CEO's recently about pricing. There are a lot of good ideas around, too, about pricing and several articles that I recommend. The McKinsey Quarterly carried an insightful article about pricing in an inflationary economy that you might find helpful. (You'll have to register on their…
There's been an endless series of speeches and self-serving righteousness about executive compensation on Wall St., the value of golden parachutes and the egregious exit pay of chief executives.There's no doubt that there have been - and will be - excesses in executive compensation. This is also a "hot button"…
CFO Magazine summarizes what's on the minds of many CFO's as they look forward into what I'm calling the Double V Economy - BIG VOLATILITY and small visibility. It's noteworthy that most CFO's are STEPPING UP their forecasting efforts, not scaling back in the face of uncertainty. Learn this lesson…
Effective today, in cooperation with the Business Journal, we are launching a new feature entitled Surviving the Storm. Its express purpose is to your best ideas for revenue enhancement, cost reduction and general productivity improvement to share with other readers and business leaders during this demanding economic climate.Please email your…