It is generally a good idea — in fact, in many cases it is required by OSHA for employers in the U.S. — for employers to have a first aid kit at the workplace. Prepared kits are available from several recognized sources, among them the American Red Cross – which is also long known for providing first aid training. Here are some options of kits and cabinets: AMERICAN RED … [More]
Customer Loyalty Management Is a Must
On the critical importance of service marketing to be competitive
In today’s hyper-competitive marketplace, customer loyalty management is no longer a luxury — it is a necessity for every firm. As markets become increasingly saturated and products become harder to differentiate, businesses must shift their focus from customer acquisition to the deliberate cultivation of long-term customer relationships. Service marketing plays a central role … [More]
The Importance of Business and Community Resources for Small Businesses
Small businesses face numerous challenges, from financial struggles to competition and market fluctuations. During tough times, having access to business and community resources can be the difference between failure and survival and even growth. These resources provide essential support, helping entrepreneurs navigate obstacles and scale their businesses toward … [More]
Boosting Business Value: What Buyers Really Look For
For many business owners, exiting their company is a once-in-a-lifetime event — yet far too few prepare for it early enough to maximize value. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to build a stronger company, understanding what buyers look for is essential to achieving a successful transition. Key Value Drivers Buyers are most focused on profitability, … [More]
Automation and Efficiency, The Perfect Match
Small Business Advertising & SIMPLI.FI (simpli.fi): Whether you’re a local boutique owner, a neighborhood coffee shop guru or a hopeful entrepreneur turning ideas into reality, we understand the journey small business owners go through. Running a small business means wearing multiple hats, from CEO to marketer to customer service rep. It’s exhilarating, but let’s face it — … [More]
Feedback Loop: Building a System for a Thriving Workforce
Creating a communication system that encourages input and interaction
A strong workforce thrives on communication. When employees feel heard and valued, they’re more engaged, productive and invested in their work. However, according to Gallup, only 33% of the American workforce feels actively engaged at work, while 16% are actively disengaged. This gap highlights the need for stronger communication and feedback systems that encourage and nurture … [More]
The ‘Why’ & ‘How To’ of Gratitude at Work
It can be simple, but the benefit is grand – and it benefits all
Business owners will routinely claim that employee retention is one of their ongoing challenges. I disagree. It’s employee defection that causes migraines! For businesses that don’t have the capacity to offer significant annual raises and/or year-end bonuses, one way to build morale and engender loyalty is by showing deep gratitude to the staff. This can be accomplished … [More]
Top Questions Entrepreneurs Should Ask Their Financial Advisors
Financial planning helps protect wealth and adapt to new goals
Building a profitable business is hard work and a major accomplishment. But as entrepreneurs focus on daily operations, planning and adapting their enterprise to market conditions, proactively managing wealth oftentimes takes a backseat to their work. Ultimately, long-term financial success isn’t just about how much money an entrepreneur makes; it’s about how much they keep … [More]
Feedback: June 2025
Q: How do you foster a workplace culture of employee engagement such that everyone’s voice and concerns are heard in a real and practical way? Jolean Fleck SVP of People & Organizational Development Delta Dental of Arizona Sector: Healthcare We are intentional about fostering an environment where everyone’s voice is valued, concerns are addressed and collaboration … [More]
The Power of Community Partnerships for Local Businesses
When it comes to locally owned restaurants and small businesses, the power and importance of community involvement cannot be overstated. Businesses are key economic and social players within their local communities. Beyond offering products or services, local establishments can become integral parts of their neighborhoods by actively engaging with the community. For many small … [More]
Over Easy Philanthropy Gives Kids a Chance
Over Easy, a local breakfast restaurant with locations throughout the Valley, brings a unique connection to its philanthropic partnership with Phoenix Children’s. Part of its year-round commitment to supporting Phoenix Children’s includes the “Kids Helping Kids” initiative that earmarks a portion of proceeds from every kids menu item sold at all locations to benefit the … [More]
Visual Storytelling Is the Heart of Hard Copy Media
Hard Copy Media is a film and media production company that specializes in brand storytelling. It works with businesses to help them tell their stories and connect with their audience, driving results with film and media assets — from commercials to social media content to podcasts to long-form documentaries and corporate events. “I’m on a mission to build a more connected … [More]
Business Genie Smooths Operations for Home Services
Business Genie is a software platform designed to help home service businesses — such as landscaping, HVAC, pest control and cleaning — run smoother and grow faster. It simplifies day-to-day operations with tools for scheduling, dispatching, estimates, invoices, customer communication and payment processing, all in one app designed to be easy to use on desktop and … [More]
Low-Coverage Development for an Evolving Industrial Demand
ATLAS Exchange, a project planned for a 38-acre parcel in Mesa by Scottsdale-based ATLAS Capital Partners with Hawkins Development Company, breaks with traditional land-usage development with its low-coverage building designs with large, secured and screened yards, offering operational flexibility to an increasingly diverse Arizona industrial market. “This style of product is … [More]
They Built Their Family Business by Leading with Trust, Not Title
Chef Rocco and Marco Pezzano of Sfizio Modern Italian Kitchen on building a family business, one decision at a time
Tucked into a busy corner of north Phoenix, Sfizio Modern Italian Kitchen is more than just a neighborhood favorite, it’s a family dream realized through mutual respect, evolving roles and shared leadership. Founded by Chef Rocco Pezzano and his son Marco, Sfizio pairs authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist and a philosophy rooted in trust over titles. But the road to … [More]
Customary, Elevated & Unexpected: Amenity Trends across the Real Estate Spectrum
Nearly every trend report for 2025 is saying that amenities are leaning more personalized and user focused. The interesting part of that is it’s not industry specific; it is across the board for offices, travel and hospitality, multifamily, and single family. HqO, a leading office building operations company, has conducted research that stresses, “Understanding tenant … [More]
Boutique Travel Advisors: Pioneering Philanthropy in the Travel Industry
Using travel as a force for positive change
When two professionals with unique skill sets and a shared passion for philanthropy come together, something extraordinary can happen. That’s precisely the story behind Boutique Travel Advisors, founded by Angie Rice, a CPA and business consultant, and Janet Semenova, a nurse practitioner with a background in wellness and healthcare. Combining their expertise in business … [More]
Why Apprenticeship Is the Workforce Strategy More Businesses Need
Achieving outcomes that are difficult to achieve through traditional hiring alone
Across industries, employers are facing a frustrating paradox: There are open jobs, yet too few candidates with the right skills to fill them. As companies adapt to rapidly changing technologies, demographics and workplace expectations, it’s clear that traditional hiring methods are no longer enough. One proven, but often overlooked, solution is apprenticeship. Long … [More]
