Many Have Tried, But Few Succeed. Can You?

Linda LaitalaBusiness, EmployeesLeave a Comment

Linda here. Do you have the self-discipline (i.e. self-control) to do something for 90 days that’s difficult, but critically important to your business? In my Executive Roundtables we have an exercise called “The Next 90 Day Focus”.  It challenges members to devote one hour a day for the next ninety days to improving “one thing” that would significantly improve their

Friday Philosophizing – Part II

Linda LaitalaEmployeesLeave a Comment

Linda here. Last week I shared Steve Shurt’s “Seven Expectations”.  This blog is a continuation of his August 5, 2016 “Friday Philosophizing”. Steve’s email referred to employee meetings that were held in March 2016.  He goes on to say: “I thought a reminder of these expectations was a good way to start another Friday Philosophizing and fits well with a

Did You Kill Vermin, Flip Burgers Or Supervise Children?

Linda LaitalaBusinessLeave a Comment

Linda here. I am having a lot of fun with my intern.  This is Emma’s first job and her enthusiasm and energy – especially on payday remind me a lot of myself.  (Emma’s first paycheck picture on the right)As first jobs go, this is a pretty nice gig: office work, writing blogs for Rusty the dragon,entering data, and being an

Get The Most Out Of The Time You Have Left

Linda LaitalaBusiness, ManagementLeave a Comment

Linda here. It’s almost Labor Day – that inevitable divide between summer and fall. Children are starting school, refocusing on friends and homework, while parents get back into the groove at work. In 118 short days it will be 2017.  Are you on track with your plan for 2016?   

What Are Your Strategic Questions?

Linda LaitalaBusinessLeave a Comment

In the world of competitive advantage, strategic thinkers win the war while tactics win battles. Joe runs a profitable company, providing value to his customers and providing him of the lifestyle he wants to live.    He did not make it to this level solely by luck and hard work.  He intentionally and strategically designed his success.

Can You Hear Me Now?

Linda LaitalaBusiness, EmployeesLeave a Comment

Linda here. On a trip to the Rocky Mountains I learned first-hand about the “echo effect” when shouting at a mountain.  My voice sounded incredible, as I listened to it bounce against the peaks and valleys. The masters of communication often make good use of the echo effect.

How The Olympics Make A Difference

Linda LaitalaUncategorizedLeave a Comment

Linda here. It’s Olympic season; for some, this season is more riveting than football, baseball, basketball and golf.  The 16 days from opening to closing ceremonies will have people from all over the world glued to their televisions and electronic devices, cheering on their favorite athlete or team.  There are 300 events spanning 35 officially recognized Olympic sports. Whether you’re

Open Mouth, Insert Foot!

Linda LaitalaBusiness, Employees, ManagementLeave a Comment

Linda here. We’ve all done it; said something we shouldn’t have: thoughtless, unkind words you wish you could take back. The moment the words slip through your lips you want to unsay them, but unfortunately, it’s too late.  The damage is done.   

Are You Industrious?

Linda LaitalaBusiness, EmployeesLeave a Comment

My father is having an auction in a couple weeks.  My siblings and I have been helping him sift through a lifetime to determine what he wants to save and what he wants to sell.      (Check out the auction items here.)