Benchmark Business Group - Business Owner Newsletter

Benchmark Business Group - Business Owner Newsletter http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/rss/2016 Benchmark Business Group en-US Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:17:09 +0000 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:17:09 +0000 Copyright 2026 Benchmark Business Group. All rights reserved. postmaster@globalreach.com (Benchmark Business Group) postmaster@globalreach.com (Benchmark Business Group) Global Reach News Aggregator v0.96 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 Thank You http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/thank-you http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/thank-you Tue, 13 Dec 2016 06:00:00 +0000 Why You Should Ask Why http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/why-you-should-ask-why http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/why-you-should-ask-why Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:00:00 +0000 What? Who? How? When? Where? As you ask these questions, you are most likely requesting specifics about a person, place, or thing. However, when you ask "why" you are seeking reason, thought, and insight. "Why" is a powerful question that makes the recipient take a moment to articulate their perception of the question. At times it may make them uncomfortable, or dig deep into their minds for the answer. The answer to a "why" question is often subjective based on the person's experiences and values.    Your Metric Tips http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-metric-tips--management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-metric-tips--management Tue, 29 Nov 2016 06:00:00 +0000 When you are ready to involve your team in discussing metrics it's important to look at and understand the language that you will use to introduce the concept to your employees. Sure, setting metrics is nothing new, but if handled wrong it can create the wrong mindset with employees.  Quantification the 14 Letter Word http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/quantification-the-14-letter-word--management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/quantification-the-14-letter-word--management Tue, 22 Nov 2016 06:00:00 +0000 We once overheard a client referring to Quantification as that 14 letter word. It made us laugh, because we've also felt the pain of trying to decide how and when to quantify results. It seems simple enough, but the truth is sometimes it's a struggle. This month we've been discussing the importance of metrics to a position and we've mentioned the need to track metrics in the last insight, but it's important enough to dive deeper. Build Your Toolbox http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/build-your-toolbox http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/build-your-toolbox Tue, 15 Nov 2016 06:00:00 +0000 Quote: "A good leader should focus on making sure everyone is being given the tools to do their job, not just expecting - poof! - that they're going to produce great work." Anne Sweeney Check Your Assumptions http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/check-your-assumptions http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/check-your-assumptions Tue, 08 Nov 2016 06:00:00 +0000 If  you <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/metrics-make-a-list-and-check-it-twice" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="font-weight: bold; color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/metrics-make-a-list-and-check-it-twice" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">followed along last week</a>, you've made your "nice" list or rather the list of metrics that you will use in order to evaluate the performance of an employee. This week we're going to discuss checking that list twice. Here's the thing about metrics; they have to be set-up correctly or the results will absolutely fail. Metrics: Make a List and Check it Twice http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/metrics-make-a-list-and-check-it-twice http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/metrics-make-a-list-and-check-it-twice Tue, 01 Nov 2016 05:00:00 +0000 "He's making a list, and checking it twice; Gonna find out who's naughty and nice." J. Fred Coots, Henry Gillespie Your System Mantra http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-system-mantra http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-system-mantra Tue, 25 Oct 2016 05:00:00 +0000 As business development experts we are systems junkies! There is nothing we love more than working with our clients to design a new system or getting to the bottom of why an existing system doesn't work and then helping to redesign it. Ideally, businesses are full of documented work systems and people are using those systems to achieve predictable consistent results. This might lead one to think that when all systems are in place the business is set, right? That would be true only if businesses are stagnate. But as you know businesses are not stagnate... they are dynamic... they are constantly changing.  Systems Question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-question Tue, 18 Oct 2016 05:00:00 +0000 <div _mce_style="color: #0067ac; display: inline !important;" style="color: rgb(0, 103, 172); display: inline !important;">Quote: </div>  "Your system is perfectly designed to give you the results you're getting." W. Edwards Deming <div> </div> Systems Should be Owned by the Business http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-should-be-owned-by-the-business http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-should-be-owned-by-the-business Tue, 11 Oct 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Last week we started <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-are-not-just-it" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-are-not-just-it" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">exploring systems</a> beyond the electronic programs and applications your business relies on. We expanded your point of view that your business is run on different kinds of systems. Everything that happens in your business is based on a system. This week we want to challenge you to explore the degree to which your business is at risk as a result of not owning the systems being used to achieve results.  Systems are not just IT http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-are-not-just-it http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/systems-are-not-just-it Tue, 04 Oct 2016 05:00:00 +0000 It happens often. When you mention systems to a business owner, their first thought is IT, the electronic information systems, software, or mobile apps that hold and communicate information. We want to expand this point of view to include all the moving parts in your business that are required for it to exist, function, be efficient, and realize the best return of investment on your time and money. Systems are the foundation of how your business runs. So You Got the Referral, Now What? http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/so-you-got-the-referral-now-what--leadership--prospecting--business-strategy http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/so-you-got-the-referral-now-what--leadership--prospecting--business-strategy Tue, 27 Sep 2016 05:00:00 +0000 This month we are setting you up to be refer-able. We looked at why you want to be <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/are-you-refer-able" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="font-weight: bold; color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/are-you-refer-able" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">pro-active in planning a referral strategy</a>. Also, we shared <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/what-should-you-change-to-be-more-refer-able" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="font-weight: bold; color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/what-should-you-change-to-be-more-refer-able" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">ideas to implement a better, consistent experience to your customers</a>. Basically, setting the groundwork so your business is refer-able. Finally this month we want to discuss what to do after a customer refers yo Refer-Able Question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/refer-able-question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/refer-able-question Tue, 20 Sep 2016 05:00:00 +0000 "Do what you do so well that they will want to see it again and bring their friends."  ~Walt Disney What Should You Change to be More Refer-Able? http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/what-should-you-change-to-be-more-refer-able http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/what-should-you-change-to-be-more-refer-able Tue, 13 Sep 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Last week <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/are-you-refer-able/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/are-you-refer-able/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: blue !important; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" target="_blank" track="on">we explained the necessity in having a referral strategy</a>. We also introduced you to three reasons a customer refers your business to others. And, we challenged you to think like your customers and experience why you would refer your business to others. The next step, and what we are covering this week, is starting to make the necessary changes so you are more referable. Are You Refer-able? http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/are-you-refer-able http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/are-you-refer-able Tue, 06 Sep 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Personal introduction, referral, recommendation - whatever the word or phrase you use, it can be defined as "your current customers bringing others to your business to also be customers." All businesses want their customers to have a remarkable experience. Even better, is a customer having such a remarkable experience, they want to share that experience with others. Resources http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/resources http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/resources Tue, 30 Aug 2016 05:00:00 +0000 As we've discussed before, there are always things that are happening to your business. Those things that happen to your business are difficult, because even when they are good they are outside of your initial control. This month we've looked at the <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">point of view to take</a>, <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">how you can prepare</a>, <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-you-need-a-different-solution/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-you-need-a-different-solution/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">tools to assist in problem solving</a>, and the <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/leading-through-a-crisis/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/leading-through-a-crisis/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">importance of leadership</a>. We want to leave you with a quick reminder. There will always be things that happen to your business. You may not be able to control them, but you can always choose to control how you react to them. Having the right resources is an important step in reacting to all the things that can happen to your business. Listed below are a few resources for you to consider: Leading Through A Crisis http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/leading-through-a-crisis http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/leading-through-a-crisis Tue, 23 Aug 2016 05:00:00 +0000 <div class="gmail-msonormal" style="font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Over the last few weeks we've discussed the importance of being ready for things that can happen to your business. We've looked at <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">identifying those events</a>, discussed <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">why you need to be prepared</a>, and the <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-you-need-a-different-solution/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-you-need-a-different-solution/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">importance of problem solving</a>. This week our focus is on you as a leader, because when things happen to your business it's not just you that is impacted.</div> <div> </div> When You Need a Different Solution http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-you-need-a-different-solution http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-you-need-a-different-solution Tue, 16 Aug 2016 05:00:00 +0000 This month we're focusing on how you react to things that happen to your business. We've discussed the <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">importance of attitude</a> and<a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">making time for preparations</a>, but what do you do when it's go time? When you're in the middle of a crisis, or a new opportunity or challenge is coming straight at you? After all it's not like you can have a system for when things go wrong; a system for how to think through a problem; or, an opportunity that is happening or just on the horizon... or can you? Question: How prepared are you for things that can happen to your business? http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/question-how-prepared-are-you-for-things-that-can-happen-to-your-business Tue, 09 Aug 2016 05:00:00 +0000 QUOTE: "Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe."    ~ <a _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #000000;" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Abraham Lincoln</a> In Case You Missed Bob on the Radio http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/in-case-you-missed-bob-on-the-radio http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/in-case-you-missed-bob-on-the-radio Fri, 05 Aug 2016 05:00:00 +0000 When Things Happen "To" Your Business http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/when-things-happen-to-your-business Tue, 02 Aug 2016 05:00:00 +0000 One of the criticisms we often hear about systems is that you can't cover all scenarios with a system. The truth is, we couldn't agree more! As a business owner, the number of items that you HAVE to be concerned about can be overwhelming. The sheer amount of threats and opportunities out there are exactly why you need systems in the first place. You need to be free to react and even better take advantage of things that are outside of your control, which is difficult to do if you're putting out day-to-day fires from things that are within your control. Taking Ownership of Management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/taking-ownership-of-management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/taking-ownership-of-management Tue, 26 Jul 2016 05:00:00 +0000 This month we've focused on how, as a business owner, you get your team to take on ownership of a single task. If you've followed along you've <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/do-your-employees-own-their-position/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/do-your-employees-own-their-position/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">defined what taking ownership of a task means</a>, you've <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/frustration-free-management/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/frustration-free-management/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">created a guide to handing ownership of a task over to an individual</a>, and you've looked at the time you need to devote to this. The last step is making sure that the idea of ownership is not a one-and-done topic in your business. Time to Build Ownership of a Task http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/time-to-build-ownership-of-a-task http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/time-to-build-ownership-of-a-task Tue, 19 Jul 2016 05:00:00 +0000 <div style="font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Quote: "The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence."  Denis Waitley</div> <div style="font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </div> <div style="font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Our thoughts: Your business is designed to get the results it is getting.  If your employees are not taking ownership of a task then you need to look at how to design your business to get those results.  Last month we wrote about the <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/three-key-systems/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/three-key-systems/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">Top Three Systems</a> your employees need to have ownership of their role or the roots of responsibility.  This month, we're focusing on a micro view of each task so that you can give your employees the wings of independence. We won't pretend that this is easy.  It's not.  In fact, it can be frustrating.  We all want the result, but the businesses that succeed are the ones that are willing to do the work.  This week, we challenge you to think about the time devoted to making sure your employees have both the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.</div> Frustration-Free Management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/frustration-free-management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/frustration-free-management Tue, 12 Jul 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Last week we discussed that in order to have your employees take ownership of a task you first need to define what taking ownership means to your business. If you haven't yet defined taking ownership, we encourage you to do so now or at least look at <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/do-your-employees-own-their-position/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/do-your-employees-own-their-position/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">our sample definition</a>. This week, we recommend you focus on one task one employee should take ownership of.   Do Your Employees Own Their Position? http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/do-your-employees-own-their-position http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/do-your-employees-own-their-position Tue, 05 Jul 2016 05:00:00 +0000 We often hear frustrated business owners question why they can't get more of their employees to take ownership of their roles. Is it the hiring? Is it the culture? Can you not hire great employees anymore? We've covered this in other articles and know there is a combination of factors at play here, but mostly it's that your business is designed to get the results you are currently getting. If you want more employees to take ownership, your business needs to do something different. This month we're going to look at what "something different" means.  What Might Happen While You are Away http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/what-might-happen-while-you-are-away http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/what-might-happen-while-you-are-away Tue, 28 Jun 2016 05:00:00 +0000 This month we gave you things to consider "<a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away--business-strategy--management/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away--business-strategy--management/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" target="_blank" track="on">while you are away</a>" so your business continues as smoothly as possible. By having a plan in place for a vacation or emergency, you will return from your absence stress-free and without putting undue stress on your employees. While You Are Away Question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away-question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away-question Tue, 21 Jun 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Quote: "The person who owns the business doesn't truly know how to build a company that works without him or her - which is key." Michael Gerber Bob Clements' Tribute to Michael Gerber for his 80th Birthday http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/bob-clements-tribute-to-michael-gerber-for-his-80th-birthday http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/bob-clements-tribute-to-michael-gerber-for-his-80th-birthday Fri, 17 Jun 2016 05:00:00 +0000 It all started with a book.  The E-Myth Revisited:  Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael Gerber was the catalyst behind <a href="/about-us/our-story/company-timeline">the business we know today as Benchmark Business Group</a>.  In close collaboration with Michael Gerber, Bob and Susan Clements set out to design a prototype E-Myth Coaching Center, hiring, training, and mentoring business coaches. Susan Clements' Tribute to Michael Gerber for his 80th Birthday http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/susan-clements-tribute-to-michael-gerber-for-his-80th-birthday http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/susan-clements-tribute-to-michael-gerber-for-his-80th-birthday Thu, 16 Jun 2016 05:00:00 +0000 It all started with a book.  The E-Myth Revisited:  Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael Gerber was the catalyst behind <a href="/about-us/our-story/company-timeline">the business we know today as Benchmark Business Group</a>.  In close collaboration with Michael Gerber, Bob and Susan Clements set out to design a prototype E-Myth Coaching Center, hiring, training, and mentoring business coaches. Jenn Pierce's Tribute to Michael Gerber for his 80th Birthday http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/jenn-pierces-tribute-to-michael-gerber-for-his-80th-birthday http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/jenn-pierces-tribute-to-michael-gerber-for-his-80th-birthday Wed, 15 Jun 2016 05:00:00 +0000 It all started with a book.  The E-Myth Revisited:  Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael Gerber was the catalyst behind <a href="/about-us/our-story/company-timeline">the business we know today as Benchmark Business Group</a>.  In close collaboration with Michael Gerber, Bob and Susan Clements set out to design a prototype E-Myth Coaching Center, hiring, training, and mentoring business coaches. Three Key Systems http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/three-key-systems http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/three-key-systems Tue, 14 Jun 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Last week we showed you the need to have a <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away--business-strategy--management/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away--business-strategy--management/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">Quick Reference Guide (QRG)</a> for your business. This week's focus on "while you are away" is how to make sure each staff member has clarity on what they own within their role in your business. While You Are Away http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away--business-strategy--management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/while-you-are-away--business-strategy--management Tue, 07 Jun 2016 05:00:00 +0000 We see it again and again; business owners rarely take a vacation or planned time away from their business. They are drawn to the fact that the business will explode or implode in their absence. How can you leave when you (or another key person on your team) are the one who keeps the business together? External Hiring Alternatives http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/external-hiring-alternatives http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/external-hiring-alternatives Tue, 31 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Last week we focused on <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-alternatives---internal/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-alternatives---internal/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">internal solutions</a> to capacity issues other than hiring. This week we're going to look at external solutions.  Hiring Alternatives - Internal http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-alternatives---internal http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-alternatives---internal Tue, 24 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 In the last few weeks, we've encouraged you to study your capacity and the division of work in your business. As we've noted, the knee-jerk reaction for many businesses when things start to get busy is to hire, but it's not always the only solution. Below are a few internal solutions that can sometimes prevent the need to hire. Hiring Problem http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-problem http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-problem Tue, 17 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Last week, <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-question/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-question/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">we asked you to start digging into why you think you need to hire by looking at the true problem</a>.  This week, continue to get clarity around the problem your business has, which is capacity, by looking at the functions of your business by position. Hiring Question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/hiring-question Tue, 10 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Quote:  "If I had an hour to solve a problem I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and 5 minutes thinking about solutions." - Albert Einstein Small Business Week Spotlight: Hair Designers, Oskaloosa, Iowa http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-hair-designers-oskaloosa-iowa http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-hair-designers-oskaloosa-iowa Fri, 06 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Each day during Small Business Week we are featuring some of our favorite small businesses. Check back each day to see who is featured! Small Business Week Spotlight: Advanced Landscape Solutions, Urbandale, Iowa http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-advanced-landscape-solutions-urbandale-iowa http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-advanced-landscape-solutions-urbandale-iowa Fri, 06 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Each day during Small Business Week we are featuring some of our favorite small businesses. Check back each day to see who is featured! Small Business Week Spotlight: Paper Moon, McGregor, Iowa http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-paper-moon-mcgregor-iowa http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-paper-moon-mcgregor-iowa Thu, 05 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Each day during Small Business Week we are featuring some of our favorite small businesses. Check back each day to see who is featured! Small Business Week Spotlight: Creme Cupcake & Dessert, Des Moines, IA http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-creme-cupcake--dessert-des-moines-ia http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-creme-cupcake--dessert-des-moines-ia Wed, 04 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Each day during Small Business Week we are featuring some of our favorite small businesses. Check back each day to see who is featured! Time to Hire http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/time-to-hire--business-coaching--hiring--management http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/time-to-hire--business-coaching--hiring--management Tue, 03 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Is it time to hire?  The question seems so simple to answer on the surface, especially if someone has just handed in their notice or worse, just quit on the spot. This month, we're going to challenge you to dig deeper into the hiring question. We're going to challenge you to view hiring decisions not just from the business' short term needs, but also from its long term strategic needs. Small Business Week Spotlight: Pryde's Kitchen & Home, Kansas City, MO http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-prydes-kitchen--home-kansas-city-mo http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-prydes-kitchen--home-kansas-city-mo Tue, 03 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Each day during Small Business Week we are featuring some of our favorite small businesses. Check back each day to see who is featured! Small Business Week Spotlight: Birchwood Cafe, Minneapolis, MN http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-birchwood-cafe-minneapolis-mn http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/small-business-week-spotlight-birchwood-cafe-minneapolis-mn Mon, 02 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Each day during Small Business Week we are featuring some of our favorite small businesses. Check back each day to see who is featured! Thank You Small Business Owners http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/thank-you-small-business-owners http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/thank-you-small-business-owners Mon, 02 May 2016 05:00:00 +0000 We begin this week with a big thank you to all small business owners.  Sales Process Journey http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-process-journey http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-process-journey Tue, 26 Apr 2016 05:00:00 +0000 This month we've focused on taking your prospects on a <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-road-trip/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-road-trip/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">sales road trip</a>. One that is clearly mapped with <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/appointment-objective/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/appointment-objective/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">each step in the process identified in advance</a>. By doing so, you and your prospects know what's coming next. The final piece is to make sure you do it consistently. Sales Process Question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-process-question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-process-question Tue, 19 Apr 2016 05:00:00 +0000 <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Quote: "If you don't know where you are going, you will end up someplace else." - Yogi Berra</div> Appointment Objective http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/appointment-objective http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/appointment-objective Tue, 12 Apr 2016 05:00:00 +0000 We want you to think about your last sales appointment. What was your objective? The most common response is, "to make a sale." But, is it really? Sales Road Trip http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-road-trip http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/sales-road-trip Tue, 05 Apr 2016 05:00:00 +0000 <p _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">We want you to think about sales this month. Yes, we understand the year is almost half over and we know your sales goals for 2016 were set months ago. But, do you know how it will happen? How will you increase production if needed? How do you get back on track? Or, maintain current momentum? Ultimately how will you meet your year-end goals? Technology Implementation http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-implementation http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-implementation Tue, 29 Mar 2016 05:00:00 +0000 This month we've discussed technology, the <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/productive-point-of-view-technology/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/productive-point-of-view-technology/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">point of view</a> you have around technology, <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/working-with-tech-vendors/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/working-with-tech-vendors/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">working with vendors</a>, and <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-resources--leadership--business-coaching/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: #72afb6; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-resources--leadership--business-coaching/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: rgb(114, 175, 182) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">resources </a>to improve your tech abilities. As we wrap up this month, we want to focus on one more issue:  Implementation. It's one of our favorite words.  Technology Resources http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-resources--leadership--business-coaching http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-resources--leadership--business-coaching Tue, 22 Mar 2016 05:00:00 +0000 This month we've discussed the <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/productive-point-of-view-technology/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="font-weight: bold; color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/productive-point-of-view-technology/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">point of view</a> a business needs to have regarding technology and the importance of <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/working-with-tech-vendors/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="font-weight: bold; color: #0067ac; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/working-with-tech-vendors/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 103, 172) !important;" target="_blank" track="on">working with your IT providers</a>. Once you've created the right mindset, it's important for your business to have basic knowledge. Again, you don't have to be an expert, but you have to be knowledgeable enough to ask the tough questions. So where do you get the knowledge? Thankfully there are many resources to learn about your technology needs. Here are a few of our favorites: Technology and Inefficiencies http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-and-inefficiencies http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/technology-and-inefficiencies Tue, 15 Mar 2016 05:00:00 +0000 Quote: "The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency."  - Bill Gates Working with Tech Vendors http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/working-with-tech-vendors http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/working-with-tech-vendors Tue, 08 Mar 2016 06:00:00 +0000 Chances are you'll be working with a vendor to implement technology in your business. These vendors might be web designers, social media experts, or even sales people for technology tools such as CRMs or email marketing software. We often find that the communication between the vendors and business owners often halts, muddies, or even worse completely ruins many attempts at implementing technology in a business. Here are a few tips to ensure that as a small business owner you are prepared to talk the talk with your technology vendors. Productive Point of View: Technology http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/productive-point-of-view-technology http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/productive-point-of-view-technology Tue, 01 Mar 2016 06:00:00 +0000 Technology! You can love it or hate it, but there's one thing that is clear:  it's here to stay. This means that as a business owner you must learn to deal with it. Otherwise, your business can suffer. Does that mean you need to adapt right now to technology? Absolutely not, but it does mean you need to think about technology from a strategic point of view. Today we'll be looking at the productive points of view business owners need to adopt when discussing technology: Escaping Uncomfortable Ruts http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/escaping-uncomfortable-ruts http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/escaping-uncomfortable-ruts Tue, 23 Feb 2016 06:00:00 +0000 This month we've focused on <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-decorate-your-rut/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-decorate-your-rut/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">understanding how you decorate your rut</a>. We looked at <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/safe-and-comfortable-ruts/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/safe-and-comfortable-ruts/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">ruts that feel safe and comfortable</a>, and discussed the need for <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/decorating-your-rut-question--leadership--business-coaching/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/decorating-your-rut-question--leadership--business-coaching/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">small action steps to escape ruts</a>. This week we want to focus on ruts that feel uncomfortable.   Decorating Your Rut Question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/decorating-your-rut-question--leadership--business-coaching http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/decorating-your-rut-question--leadership--business-coaching Tue, 16 Feb 2016 06:00:00 +0000 <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Quote: "I find that even small changes sometimes jog you out of a mental rut." - Tom Perrotta</div> Safe and Comfortable Ruts http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/safe-and-comfortable-ruts http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/safe-and-comfortable-ruts Tue, 09 Feb 2016 06:00:00 +0000 Last week <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-decorate-your-rut/" _mce_shape="rect" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-decorate-your-rut/" linktype="1" shape="rect" style="font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; color: blue !important;" target="_blank" track="on">we challenged you to identify a rut and to think about how it's decorated</a>.  This week we want to focus on the ruts that feel safe and comfortable.  Examples of ruts that feel safe and comfortable might be: How Do You Decorate Your Rut http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-decorate-your-rut http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-decorate-your-rut Tue, 02 Feb 2016 06:00:00 +0000 <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><img align="left" alt="business owners looking to escape a rut and improve leadership skills" height="203" src="/media/cms/stuckinarut1_3_C0E8C0AD97A9A.jpg" width="200" />A few weeks ago one of our business client's made the </div> <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">statement:  <div _mce_style="text-align: center;" align="center" style="text-align: center;"> </div> <div _mce_style="text-align: center;" align="center" style="text-align: center;">"They got into a rut and decorated it."</div> </div> <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </div> <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Those words quickly turned into a great conversation at our weekly business coach training.  We acknowledged that we all have ruts and joked about how each of us might decorate our own ruts, and in that conversation realized the value of this conversation.</div> How Do You Know You Are Getting There? http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-know-you-are-getting-there- http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/how-do-you-know-you-are-getting-there- Tue, 26 Jan 2016 06:00:00 +0000 <div>"What gets measured gets managed." -exact source ironically not recorded</div> <div> What is the point of measuring things in your business? What are things that should be measured? What about things that cannot be measured? What are your benchmarks for knowing your business is on track? Good questions. In fact, these are critical questions for your business, at least if you expect to meet your goals.</div> Goal Setting Question http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/goal-setting-question--leadership--business-coaching http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/goal-setting-question--leadership--business-coaching Tue, 19 Jan 2016 06:00:00 +0000 <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Quote: "If you can imagine it, you can achieve it.  If you can dream it, you can become it."  --William Arthur Ward</div> <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </div> <div style="color: rgb(76, 63, 54); font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Question:  Can you imagine a business that achieves all of the goals you set and does it consistently?  Do you dream of a business that gives you the life you want and brings you satisfaction?</div> You Actually Can Get There From Here http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/you-actually-can-get-there-from-here--goal-setting--leadership-business-strategy http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/you-actually-can-get-there-from-here--goal-setting--leadership-business-strategy Tue, 12 Jan 2016 06:00:00 +0000 Last week, we ended with a challenge to <a _mce_href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-own-design/" _mce_style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" href="/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-own-design/" linktype="1" style="font-family: Georgia, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; color: blue !important; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" target="_blank" track="on">design an end-game scenario or story for the end of this year.</a>  In other words, how would you optimally describe your business on December 31, 2016 if you could have your most desired outcome?  Today we begin with the end.  That is the only productive way to start anything with a desired result.  It is very hard to get there if you don't have any idea what it is.  You cannot create a path to something you have not identified. Engaging your team in a set of goals is almost impossible without the ability to tell them where they are going. Your Own Design http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-own-design http://www.benchmarkbusinessgroup.com/business-coaching-and-consulting/business-owner-newsletter/your-own-design Tue, 05 Jan 2016 06:00:00 +0000 Here we go again. It is January and another new year. Time for those well-intentioned New Year's Resolutions most of us never seem to be able to keep. Do we lack so much discipline, or could it be our resolutions are just a wee bit unrealistic in the first place? Are we trying to bite off more than we can chew, or have we just now come to expect failure and disappointment when it comes to our "resolutions"?