By David Deeds Special to the Star Tribune NOVEMBER 27, 2020 — 9:58PM Many times, business owners need to come face to face with their customers to see what is appealing to them. Q: Why is it important to listen to consumers in the early days of a startup? A: Focusing on listening to consumers and narrating…
By John F. McVea NOVEMBER 8, 2020 — 2:00PM Q: How do you know when it’s the right time to scale up and grow your business? A: One of the biggest challenges you face as an entrepreneur is growth. In the early years of a startup, an entrepreneur is often desperate for cash flow to make the…
It breaks down to two main groups, the enablers and the touch points. By Gino Giovannelli Special to the Star Tribune OCTOBER 18, 2020 — 2:00PM Q: How would you describe digital transformation and the benefits to a business? A: Digital transformation means different things to different people. I describe it as using digital advancements, like technology, processes,…
As COVID-19 drags on, smaller businesses face different challenges now than when things began in the spring. By Mike Porter Special to the Star Tribune OCTOBER 4, 2020 — 2:46PM Q: What can I do to be as successful as possible in leading my company through the pandemic? A: As COVID-19 drags on, smaller businesses face different challenges…
First, create an environment that is a psychologically safe space because establishing an atmosphere of trust is crucial. By Jill Hauwiller Special to the Star Tribune OCTOBER 11, 2020 — 2:21PM Q: How can I facilitate better brainstorming from my team? A: The first step in facilitating a fruitful brainstorming session is to create an environment that is…
Once in the business, following the franchiser system becomes central to success. By Mike Porter Special to the Star Tribune SEPTEMBER 26, 2020 — 6:33AM Q: What are some of the best practices of starting and building a franchise business? A: Franchising represents a specialized area of business. Many options exist for kinds of businesses to consider,…
By Glenn Karwoski SEPTEMBER 22, 2020 — 2:43PM Q: What are some examples of businesses that creatively pivoted during the pandemic? A: Businesses are always in the process of reinventing themselves, whether intentionally or in response to events and circumstances. There’s no better example of reinvention and forced innovation than what has transpired during the past six months.…
Think about what captivates your mind and heart to work in a setting and build a career that is inspired by your passion and principles. By Amy Finnegan and Christopher Michaelson SEPTEMBER 6, 2020 — 2:49PM Q: As a recent college graduate, I am having a hard time finding a job that makes ends meet that also…
Those sources come with their own set of challenges. By Mike Porter Special to the Star Tribune SEPTEMBER 13, 2020 — 2:00PM Q: What are the potential pitfalls of borrowing startup capital from friends and family? A: Every new business needs an influx of cash to start and grow. While I have been a partner in a couple…
No matter where you are in your continuum, you can follow your purpose. By Marcella de la Torre Special to the Star Tribune AUGUST 23, 2020 — 2:00PM Q: What tips do you have to turn a passion into a profession? A: Let’s start by looking at change. First, we need to understand that life is a series of…