From What I've Gathered
Perspective Before Planning
How many times have you been part of a strategic planning session where your dominant thought was something like, “This has been such a waste of time. We’re not planning, we’re just throwing ideas on the wall to see which ones stick. We have no direction, no focus, no real plan. I could have spent…
Umpiring and Leadership
A few weeks ago, I spent a weekend umpiring a baseball tournament for 9 and 10 year olds. For two days, it was baseball, hot dogs, apple pie and…well, I don’t remember seeing any Chevrolet’s. Anyway, the weather was great, the teams were competitive, and after 13 games, there were no major confrontations with coaches…
A Different Take on the SWOT Analysis
Using this version of the SWOT Analysis will give you a different perspective on how to maximize opportunities for your company.
What Is My Brand?
About a year ago, I wrote a blog post entitled “What is a Brand?” In it, I reprinted an article that my father, Carlos Hidalgo, had written answering that very question. In the post, my dad calls out three parts of a brand: Character, Physical Attributes, and Style. (I won’t take time here to elaborate…
What Are You Being Called To Build?
I recently met with a young man (OK, he was in his thirties, but I’m pushing 50 so he was young to me) who is struggling in his job. He described his company as a place where ownership is building their empire on the backs of the rest of the staff; how he’s overworked, but…
What Drives Your Business?
Last week, I was speaking with a business leader at a consulting company. We were discussing his firm, and the growth challenges they were having. I asked, “What are the key drivers for the business, and what strategies are in place that focus on those drivers?” His response was, “We need more sales, and our…