Don’t be gross

Here’s an idea for business owners (big or small): Never think in gross top-line terms. How often do we think of a $10,000 or $200 sale as ‘our’ money or profit? A few years ago, when I went into business for myself, I learned Net-Net thinking. When I earn revenue, say from a speaking or …

Try being a know-em-all

On my way home from a lecture in Lisbon, I changed planes in Newark. During my 3 hour layover, I had a mysterious experience: I recognized almost everyone I made eye contact with. I don’t know if it was because I was sleep deprived or just hopeful, but I’m telling you I thought I knew …

For your next meeting: Show up!

Here’s a simple piece of advice: Attend your next meeting device-free. There was a cool LA Times article last week about going laptopless to meetings. While I like that idea, I think it doesn’t stretch nearly far enough. Don’t bring a cell phone, laptop, crack berry, anything! Bring a pen, paper and your attention. Why? …

Abundance VS Scarcity Part 2

Here’s the second installment of my video series on conquering scarcity thinking in your life. For fans of The Secret or The Law Of Attraction, this will resonate with you. Check out this video, and take away a new perspective that might change your life today! The video outlines the symptoms of scarcity. If you …

Never underestimate the power of people

As I boarded the plane I said to myself, “I’ll never fly Jet Blue again!” The incoming flight on that plane had been a nightmare for passengers. Incredible turbulence created a vomit chain reaction on the plane, with over a dozen people getting sick. Jet Blue, as a way of saving money, doesn’t have full …

Stamp out scarcity thinking (part 1)

A few weeks ago, I shot some footage for a leadership program by Skillsoft. The topic is one that’s near and dear to my heart: Scarcity VS Abundance thinking. If you don’t own any of my DVDs, you should visit my media store. Make any purchase between now and April 1 and I’ll give you …

Harvard says “be nice”.

I’ve waited about eight years to report this: A study at Harvard concludes that Nice Guys Actually Do Finish First. Many of you met me via my first book, Love Is The Killer App, that argued that nice smart people succeed. They grow other people, and in turn, get positive feedback and help along the …

Get the demo underway!

Jacqueline and I are in the middle of some serious home remodeling. For over a year, we’ve spec’d, planned and dreamed about new doors, decks and a studio. A few weeks ago, the wrecking crew showed up and started doing demolition work. They tore out walls, ripped off siding and carted away debris. While the …

Send something back this week

The secret to quality is in the finest of all details. A fantastic design is completely vetted, with no imperfections allowed. A winning sales report contains great assumptions, perfect math and has easy to understand metrics and narrative. None of these attributes come easily. Often, designs or products or documents must go through several versions …

Adopt-A-Partner

One of the best ways to make a difference is by adopting one of your business partners as a mentee. Stanley Marcus Jr. did just that for broadcast.com back in 2000. His company, Neiman Marcus, had hired us to webcast their annual launch of their big book luxury holiday catalog. Even though I was just …