Customer service | The Barefoot Spirit

Put Your People on the Same Team

““IT’S NOT THE JOURNEY OF 1,000 LEAGUES THAT WEARS DOWN THE MIGHTY SOLDIER, BUT THE TINY PEBBLE IN HIS SHOE”

by Michael Houlihan & Bonnie Harvey | Business Blog

No matter what kind of business you think you’re in, you quickly find out you are in the personnel management business. With careful hiring, mentoring, recognition, and compensation plans, your people can be your greatest asset. Recurrent, personnel issues can be a...

World’s Best Sale Pitch: “My Product will help you Increase Sales”

BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!

by Michael Houlihan & Bonnie Harvey | Business Blog

We’ve spent over two decades in sales, and it’s true – nothing happens until the sale is made. We have a friend who described her sales job as “conveying the value proposition of (her) product to (her) buyers.” There are many books written on the subject of...

Kindred Spirits, Fellow Travelers, and Strategic Partners

GOING MY WAY - NEED A LIFT?

by Michael Houlihan & Bonnie Harvey | Business Blog

One of the most effective and often over-looked resources to build and grow your business is strategic alliances. “Partnerships” with other businesses and organizations who benefit by your success can help you meet your bills, get the word out about your company, and...

5 Ways to Increase Your Service Business

YOU CAN’T UNRING THE BELL

by Michael Houlihan & Bonnie Harvey | Business Blog

In this two part series we are addressing service businesses. Last time we identified a way of classifying your clients and customers. This time we will offer some ways to increase your business. Your goal is to get more referrals. These are new customers who were...

How to Improve your Service Business

“YOU GOT TO SERVE SOMBODY” – BOB DYLAN

by Michael Houlihan & Bonnie Harvey | Business Blog

Over half of all businesses are service businesses. These industries include many professions from legal and engineering to hair cutting and plumbing. All these services require excellent management, positive company culture, and most important, return clients. Brian...