Why people are the key to all of our technological advances
Chad Albrecht loves technology, but he understands that it takes the creativity and innovation of the human spirit for technology to continue to broaden its reach. In this month’s Uniquely Chicago feature, we take a look at Techweek Chicago, which was held in June. The annual gathering to celebrate all things technology was an opportunity […]
Why what you disclose may reveal more than you think
The confidential requirements of many business decisions can create a feeling of isolation for leaders. By nature of their roles, they may already feel constrained in sharing their real feelings with subordinates. Yet, leaders are expected to exhibit high emotional intelligence, as author Daniel Goleman has emphasized. There is also an expectation of high engagement […]
Joe Sheetz steps in to lead Sheetz, where the line between family and employees blurs
Since he took over as president and CEO last year from his cousin, Joe Sheetz is doing his best to follow in the footsteps of the company’s three former CEOs who are all still part of the family ownership group.
To make the best use of good tools, have good people
Developing a robust technology platform can deliver a huge range of benefits in the workplace. Computers, phones, servers and even tablets can and have increased office efficiencies in many business functions. Technology doesn’t replace good people. You must first have great people and then provide them with good tools. And with those tools, employees will […]
Who you know can trump what you know … Being a know-it-all can be self-defeating
Sometimes who you know is much more important than what you know. As an example, although it’s not always fair, being acquainted with a CEO of a non-related company to get your kid a scarce summer job trumps his or her being a genius. Knowing someone who has previously solved a thorny problem also beats […]
In business, loyal customers are paramount to success
Along the way, you will undoubtedly lose customers for a variety of reasons — they go out of business, they discontinue the product or service you were providing, they switch to a competitor. When you can obtain a loyal customer, it’s basically an annuity and an important aspect of growing a business. When pursuing a […]
All in the family / A homecoming can be evidence of what teamwork brings out in a business
The Feast of the Assumption set for Aug. 15 in Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood attracts more than 100,000 people, and many families consider it a type of homecoming. As you will find out in this issue’s Uniquely Cleveland feature, there are generations of people coming back to see the old neighborhood and rekindle with family. […]
Why Jett McCandless does not allow CarrierDirect to dwell on mistakes
Jett McCandless helped the company grow to $80 million in revenue and began to accrue all the symbols of wealth. And then in the blink of an eye, he lost it all.
Local resources help keep the region’s economic engine churning
Investment is the driver of success. Investing in education, in home ownership or the market are all ways to build for the future. The same is true of investment in our community. At the Greater Akron Chamber, our Investors — members who contribute at least $2,500 annually to the Chamber’s initiatives — are the backbone […]
Why the divestment of underperforming business units can be a smart play
Today’s business environment is one of continuous change. Amid fast-paced technological innovation, shifting consumer demands and increased investor scrutiny, companies have no room to idly sit by and maintain the status quo. Top priority for executives today is facilitating financial growth and deriving more value from their company. For many businesses, divestments are now a […]