The AchieveMax® team takes great pride in the fact that we strive to keep our material current and relevant in our effort to assist our clients in their journey to “Achieve the Maximum®.” In my personal role as a communicator, keynote speaker, and trainer, it is imperative that I read a great deal of material daily…
I hate to contradict myself, but I was shocked, yet not surprised, to hear that 76-year-old co-founder and chairman Herb Kelleher has announced that he will step down as chairman of Southwest Airlines in May of 2008. As if that weren’t enough of a shock to one of the most unique cultures in the business…
While we’re waiting for that leadership list in next week’s USA TODAY, let’s review this week’s interesting list. In this edition they chose to focus on memorable commercials, and I must admit that I was somewhat surprised that of the 25 classics they identify, I vividly remember 23 of them. I don’t necessarily approve or…
For weeks now, I’ve suggested that you check out the Monday editions of USA TODAY as they offer a different list each week to celebrate their 25th Anniversary. You can find their full-page specials in the paper or online every week from now until September. For those of you involved with or interested in leadership of…
I always find it interesting to drive by my nearest gas station to see if the prices have dropped by 2 cents since yesterday or jumped by 30 cents as it so often does in my state of Michigan. Do you ever wonder how they figure out the cost of gasoline at your neighborhood pump?…
In researching this piece, I asked a number of people what came to mind when they heard the name Ray Kroc. I was surprised at how many people didn’t have a clue as to who he was. Others said they thought he created the McDonald’s fast-food chain, which, by the way, is incorrect. Why should anyone…
ACIPCO American Cast Iron Pipe Company Some will struggle with their attempt to pronounce the name (Ah-SIP-Co). Others may admit that they’ve never even heard of this organization. However, all of us have benefited from the products and services provided by the largest individual iron pipe casting plant in the world, nestled among the Appalachian…
From time to time, we like to offer you a “big picture” update on recent business tidbits. Nothing in depth, just a quick overview to keep you “in the know.” For instance: WENDY’S Apparently, Wendy’s International, Inc., the nation’s third-largest hamburger chain with approximately 6,600 locations, is seriously in search of a buyer. By the…
Something odd happened to me today. It wasn’t earth-shattering. Certainly not news-worthy. However, it was well-timed, and it brought a smile to my face. That’s important in this day and age. The older I get, the more I believe that things happen for a reason. I’ve stopped questioning the reason and transferred that energy to appreciation….