November 2013 Newsletter

You can’t make sound strategic decisions for your organization unless you have a solid understanding of what makes it special and unique. Answer these three fundamental questions:

• What value do you provide customers? This is the reason you’re in business—to fill a need for people that no one else can. Why should people come to you and not the next guy down the road? The answers will let you identify strengths and set priorities more effectively.

• What value do you offer your workforce? If you want to attract and retain good people, you have to offer something other employers can’t. A competitive salary is just the start. Does your atmosphere encourage innovation, creativity, and trust? If not, a few extra dollars in the paycheck won’t buy the loyalty of anyone worth keeping.

• What do you have to do better than anyone else? The first two questions lead naturally to this third one. How can you continue to distinguish yourself from your competitors? How can you measure your success in these areas? Re-examine your answers every few months to make sure you’re staying on top of the trends in your industry.