Taking action in uncertain times

Business faces a high level of uncertainty, particularly in current times. The challenge for management is to find ways of maintaining momentum without risking everything. Inertia, however, is the enemy. Sometimes you just have to make a decision.

Profitable survival

Slashing prices may not get you through the hard times. Focus your product range on what you can sell at a reasonable margin rather than what you can sell at the lowest price. Customers want solutions. Look to add value that they will pay for.

Value statements vs building values

Value statements and corporate governance may be the cliches du jour, but do they have any relevance in the workplace. Real values are outcomes, not starting points. They come from how you behave rather from lofty statements in annual reports.

Networking vs having a network

You don't need massive numbers of relationships to have an effective network. It's about quality, not quantity. For an effective network, keep it small, keep it diverse and put in as much as you take out.

Getting out at the top

Optimising your exit value is a matter of eternal vigilance.

The Leadership Thing

Has the leadership thing lost its way? This week Alan touches on all that talk about engagement and empowerment.

Using diversity to make better decisions

The real driver behind the diversity debate is not social justice for women or minorities; it’s the need for better decision-making.

Getting your price right

Price is the most powerful profit lever.