http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specificationHome en-uswww.ravenperformancegroup.comLinda Laitalanohttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.comMon, 24 Apr 2017 18:20:10 GMTHome Home Thu, 20 Apr 2017 01:44:47 GMTHow do you make your "Vampire Decisions?"http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april202017Thu, 20 Apr 2017 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaLife is filled with decisions.  Some small: what am I going to have for breakfast?  Some more serious: what kind of car should I buy?

 Some decisions are profound and life changing: getting married, having children, entering the military or changing ...MORE

]]>Life is filled with decisions.  Some small: what am I going to have for breakfast?  Some more serious: what kind of car should I buy? Some decisions are profound and life changing: getting married, having children, entering the military or changing ...MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april202017Are you an "Efficient Multitasker?"http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april132017Thu, 13 Apr 2017 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI’m the kind of woman who likes to get things done.  I can wash clothes, fix dinner and keep track of characters in my favorite Netflix series at the same time.  I can even browse Facebook and text my daughter on top of all that.  Efficient, right?

]]>I’m the kind of woman who likes to get things done.  I can wash clothes, fix dinner and keep track of characters in my favorite Netflix series at the same time.  I can even browse Facebook and text my daughter on top of all that.  Efficient, right? 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april132017I’ve had a #!%@#! day!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april062017Thu, 06 Apr 2017 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWe have all had them - a day that starts bad and gets worse:  The dog wouldn’t come in which made you late for work. In a hurry and fumbling for keys, you drop...MORE

]]>We have all had them - a day that starts bad and gets worse:  The dog wouldn’t come in which made you late for work. In a hurry and fumbling for keys, you drop...MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april062017How do you attract "Cream-of-the Crop" employees?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march302017Thu, 30 Mar 2017 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaA topic that crops up frequently in our CEO Roundtables is how to attract great employees.  The labor pool has plenty of average candidates, but businesses who want the best may have to brush up on the latest hiring strategies.

Brand your company as a great place to work.  No tells your story better than you and the people who work for you.  Put video testimonials of employees telling why they enjoy their job on your website, and social media channels.  Apply for “Best Employer” and “Great Place to Work” awards.  Emphasize what makes you unique in your industry. MORE...

]]>A topic that crops up frequently in our CEO Roundtables is how to attract great employees.  The labor pool has plenty of average candidates, but businesses who want the best may have to brush up on the latest hiring strategies.Brand your company as a great place to work.  No tells your story better than you and the people who work for you.  Put video testimonials of employees telling why they enjoy their job on your website, and social media channels.  Apply for “Best Employer” and “Great Place to Work” awards.  Emphasize what makes you unique in your industry. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march302017How Will You Dent the Universe?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march232017Thu, 23 Mar 2017 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaIn high school I participated in speech competitions called forensics, as did many of my friends.  One friend had a speech impediment which made it difficult to understand what she was saying.  I often wondered what made Carol brave enough at 16, to speak in front of an audience and panel of judges. MORE...

]]>In high school I participated in speech competitions called forensics, as did many of my friends.  One friend had a speech impediment which made it difficult to understand what she was saying.  I often wondered what made Carol brave enough at 16, to speak in front of an audience and panel of judges. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march232017Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march162017Thu, 16 Mar 2017 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI heard an interesting phrase last week: “The juice isn’t worth the squeeze”.  It caught my attention because it could mean so many things.  The context in which it was used was attempting to determine if trying to achieve a goal MORE...

]]>I heard an interesting phrase last week: “The juice isn’t worth the squeeze”.  It caught my attention because it could mean so many things.  The context in which it was used was attempting to determine if trying to achieve a goal MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march162017Your Competition Isn't Who You Think It Ishttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march092017Thu, 09 Mar 2017 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWhen anyone starts a business, one of the first things their banker wants to see is their business plan. Every good business plan has a section called Competition.  MORE....

]]>When anyone starts a business, one of the first things their banker wants to see is their business plan. Every good business plan has a section called Competition.  MORE.... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march092017Sacred Cows Make the Best Hamburger*http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march022017Thu, 02 Mar 2017 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI’m a farm girl; on the Best Valley Dairy Farm, we milked Holsteins.  We often had our “favorite” cows, but when the industry developed the capacity to measure how much milk each cow was contributing, we were shocked to realize our favorites ...MORE

]]>I’m a farm girl; on the Best Valley Dairy Farm, we milked Holsteins.  We often had our “favorite” cows, but when the industry developed the capacity to measure how much milk each cow was contributing, we were shocked to realize our favorites ...MORELinda here.
I’m a farm girl; on the Best Valley Dairy Farm, we milked Holsteins.  We often had our “favorite” cows, but when the industry developed the capacity to measure how much milk each cow was contributing, we were shocked to realize our favorites were not the producers who kept our farm in business.  Sadly, one of the few options available was hamburger.

 According to the dictionary, a sacred cow is an idea, custom or institution held to be above criticism.
 As business owners, sacred cows can cause us to endanger our entire operation by refusing to scrutinize long-held beliefs that may need to be reevaluated.

 Common examples of sacred cows are:

Businesses grinding to a halt
 Kodak’s inability to recognize an industry disrupter in the digital camera cost the company its’ entire existence.  Where are the video rental stores that once peppered every neighborhood?  Entire industries have disappeared due to changes in technology and consumer behavior.

Your target market wants something new
 You’ve been servicing a set of customers or a region that once was the backbone of your business.  However, if you properly analyze the feedback from sales, you may realize those customers are actually costing you money!  These sacred cows are easily overlooked, but they can be incredibly dangerous or even fatal to your business.

Your employees don’t seem to produce like they used to
 Take the example of an employee who has been with you through thick and thin.  Your sense of loyalty to them is understandable.  Unfortunately, when you take time to analyze what they’re really producing, the ROI may not be there.

 Or the employee who manipulated himself into being beyond scrutiny.  An owner was amazed to realize how costly and unproductive this person was to his business.  He eventually realized the employee kept distracting him with criticisms and suggestions about how things needed to be done differently.

Ideals can be sacred cows too
 Sometimes we hold the belief that the pendulum will eventually swing our way again, when in reality, we must constantly reevaluate and change as our industry changes.  Refusing to accept what the facts and figures are telling you because of your ideals or your vision, may be putting your business at risk.

Acceptance
 Forcing yourself to offer a new product, dumping a costly customer segment or letting go of people who no longer fit into the future direction of your business isn’t easy.  But it may be the antidote that your company needs to survive and thrive into the future.

Do you remember Maxwell Smart and 99?  They met the Sacred Cows.  Click here to take a walk down memory lane. 

*Mark Twain 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march022017Are You Lucky or Are You Good?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february232017Thu, 23 Feb 2017 10:40:00 GMTLinda Laitala Dean Johnson, owner of Arcon Construction Company was my first boss when I moved to Mora.  The year I joined Arcon, he treated all the employees and spouses to a week MORE...

]]> Dean Johnson, owner of Arcon Construction Company was my first boss when I moved to Mora.  The year I joined Arcon, he treated all the employees and spouses to a week MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february232017Plan B - Snow Maker & Manure Spreadershttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february162017Thu, 16 Feb 2017 10:00:00 GMTLinda LaitalaLast weekend was big in our community.  It was the Mora Vasaloppet Cross Country ski race.  People from all over the world come to Mora (Population 3571) to ski the race; the size of the town literally doubles on race weekend.   MORE...

]]>Last weekend was big in our community.  It was the Mora Vasaloppet Cross Country ski race.  People from all over the world come to Mora (Population 3571) to ski the race; the size of the town literally doubles on race weekend.   MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february162017Do you have the Guts to be Candid?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february092017Thu, 09 Feb 2017 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI am often struck by comments people make when they miss an opportunity to speak up.
 
“That man pushed right in front of me without even an ‘Excuse me’.  I wish I’d have told him how long I’ve been waiting.” MORE...

]]>I am often struck by comments people make when they miss an opportunity to speak up.  “That man pushed right in front of me without even an ‘Excuse me’.  I wish I’d have told him how long I’ve been waiting.” MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february092017How do you know the Price is Right?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february022017Thu, 02 Feb 2017 10:00:00 GMTLinda LaitalaHarold owns a plastic injection molding company.  They ship millions of parts each month to customers all over the country.  One of his biggest customers demands special packaging, just-in-time delivery and small batch quantities. MORE...

]]>Harold owns a plastic injection molding company.  They ship millions of parts each month to customers all over the country.  One of his biggest customers demands special packaging, just-in-time delivery and small batch quantities. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february022017Where everybody knows your namehttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january262017Thu, 26 Jan 2017 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaMost months I spend a weekend in Boyceville with my 90-year-old father and nephew Charlie.  Our Friday night ritual is to go downtown for fish and chips at the Buckshot Bar. MORE...

]]>Most months I spend a weekend in Boyceville with my 90-year-old father and nephew Charlie.  Our Friday night ritual is to go downtown for fish and chips at the Buckshot Bar. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january262017Are you the sharpest tack in the pack?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january192017Thu, 19 Jan 2017 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala Of all the jobs I’ve had in my career, my favorite (other than Raven Performance Group) was with Job Masters in corporate recruiting. MORE...

]]> Of all the jobs I’ve had in my career, my favorite (other than Raven Performance Group) was with Job Masters in corporate recruiting. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january192017Forget them! 92% of resolutions failhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january122017Thu, 12 Jan 2017 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWe’re only 12 days into the new year, but you might have noticed the gym was a little less crowded this morning. MORE...

]]>We’re only 12 days into the new year, but you might have noticed the gym was a little less crowded this morning. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january122017It's all good.http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january052017Thu, 05 Jan 2017 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaIt was late in the day; the store was packed.  All around me unhappy people were complaining about long lines and slow cashiers. MORE...

]]>It was late in the day; the store was packed.  All around me unhappy people were complaining about long lines and slow cashiers. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january052017Cats That Jump On Hot Stoves...http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december292016Thu, 29 Dec 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala Mark Twain was fond of saying, “When a cat jumps on a hot stove, he’ll never jump on a hot stove again.  He’ll also never jump on a cold stove.” MORE...

]]> Mark Twain was fond of saying, “When a cat jumps on a hot stove, he’ll never jump on a hot stove again.  He’ll also never jump on a cold stove.” MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december292016Santa's secrets to successhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december222016Thu, 22 Dec 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI received a wonderful book this year called “The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus” by Eric Harvey. MORE...

]]>I received a wonderful book this year called “The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus” by Eric Harvey. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december222016On the edge of tomorrowhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december152016Thu, 15 Dec 2016 10:40:00 GMTLinda LaitalaHere we stand, on the brink of a new year, peering over the edge trying to figure out what 2017 holds in.Here we stand, on the brink of a new year, peering over the edge trying to figure out what 2017 holds in. MORE...

]]>Here we stand, on the brink of a new year, peering over the edge trying to figure out what 2017 holds in.Here we stand, on the brink of a new year, peering over the edge trying to figure out what 2017 holds in. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december152016December Is Lost Only If You Want It To Behttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december082016Thu, 08 Dec 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI’ve heard many people lament over the years, “We might as well close down in December.  No one’s mind is on their business; it’s all about the holidays”.

If you follow that thinking, then you can’t do business in January because no one has any money,...MORE

]]>I’ve heard many people lament over the years, “We might as well close down in December.  No one’s mind is on their business; it’s all about the holidays”.If you follow that thinking, then you can’t do business in January because no one has any money,...MORE  

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december082016You're not born with integrityhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december012016Thu, 01 Dec 2016 10:00:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI was having coffee with a successful realtor friend recently.  She’s growing her business by building a team of the brightest and best professionals she can find.  She recently...MORE

]]>I was having coffee with a successful realtor friend recently.  She’s growing her business by building a team of the brightest and best professionals she can find.  She recently...MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december012016Reflectionhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november242016Thu, 24 Nov 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaIt’s one of life’s great ironies: right after Thanksgiving and its celebration of gratitude and family, we go marathon shopping on Black Friday. MORE...

]]>It’s one of life’s great ironies: right after Thanksgiving and its celebration of gratitude and family, we go marathon shopping on Black Friday. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november242016Don't try to boil the oceanhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november172016Thu, 17 Nov 2016 10:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaWorking with business owners is over-the-top fun!  They’re smart, savvy, interesting and willing to share their hard-won wisdom. MORE...

]]>Working with business owners is over-the-top fun!  They’re smart, savvy, interesting and willing to share their hard-won wisdom. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november172016What Bugs You?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november102016Thu, 10 Nov 2016 10:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaRoundtables are a great place to make you think outside the box and pick up new ideas.  A couple months ago, a business owner shared the “What Bugs You?” campaign she started in her manufacturing company.  MORE...

]]>Roundtables are a great place to make you think outside the box and pick up new ideas.  A couple months ago, a business owner shared the “What Bugs You?” campaign she started in her manufacturing company.  MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november102016You’d better not complain if you don’t do this..http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november022016Thu, 03 Nov 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaA week from today the election will be over: no more partisan ads, no more polls, no more political robocalls.  Candidates won’t be bad-mouthing, badgering and outright lying about their opponents. Millions of us will heave a sigh of relief. MORE...

]]>A week from today the election will be over: no more partisan ads, no more polls, no more political robocalls.  Candidates won’t be bad-mouthing, badgering and outright lying about their opponents. Millions of us will heave a sigh of relief. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november022016Can a Superhero out-class a Princess?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october272016Thu, 27 Oct 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaIt happened this year – Halloween superhero costumes outsold princess costumes the first time in 11 years! MORE...

]]>It happened this year – Halloween superhero costumes outsold princess costumes the first time in 11 years! MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october272016Pay attention to your chickenshttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october202016Thu, 20 Oct 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaLinda here.

Back in the days of the Roman Empire, armies carried cages of chickens; when a decision needed to be made they would crumble food at the bottom of the cage. MORE...

]]>Linda here.Back in the days of the Roman Empire, armies carried cages of chickens; when a decision needed to be made they would crumble food at the bottom of the cage. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october202016Critical lessons from a 10-year oldhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october132016Thu, 13 Oct 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda Laitala
Linda here.

In fifth grade, I learned one of my most important business lessons: the benefits of clearly communicating a message to an audience. MORE...

]]>Linda here.In fifth grade, I learned one of my most important business lessons: the benefits of clearly communicating a message to an audience. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october132016I can get it done cheaperhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october062016Thu, 06 Oct 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaLinda here.

Mike’s manufacturing company employs 50 people. For years Mike and his employees have been frustrated with inefficiencies due to cramped space and disorganization.  One major area of concern is the tool room. MORE...

]]>Linda here.Mike’s manufacturing company employs 50 people. For years Mike and his employees have been frustrated with inefficiencies due to cramped space and disorganization.  One major area of concern is the tool room. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october062016Many have tried, but few succeed. Will you?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september292016Thu, 29 Sep 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda Laitala

Linda here.

What are the chances that you have the self-discipline (i.e. self-control) to do something for 90 days that’s difficult, but critically important to your business? MORE...


]]>Linda here.What are the chances that you have the self-discipline (i.e. self-control) to do something for 90 days that’s difficult, but critically important to your business? MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september292016Friday Philosophizing – Part IIhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september222016Thu, 22 Sep 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaLinda here.

Last week I shared Steve Shurt’s “Seven Expectations”. This blog is a continuation of his August 5, 2016 “Friday Philosophizing”. MORE...

]]>Linda here.Last week I shared Steve Shurt’s “Seven Expectations”. This blog is a continuation of his August 5, 2016 “Friday Philosophizing”. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september222016My 7 Expectations of Youhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september152016Thu, 15 Sep 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaLinda here.  Who do you think of when you think of a famous business leader?  Warren Buffet?  Indra Nooyi?  Bill Gates?  Sheryl Sandberg?  Each one has created a great organization and changed lives.  MORE...

]]>Linda here.  Who do you think of when you think of a famous business leader?  Warren Buffet?  Indra Nooyi?  Bill Gates?  Sheryl Sandberg?  Each one has created a great organization and changed lives.  MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september152016Did you kill vermin, flip burgers or supervise children?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september082016Thu, 08 Sep 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaI am having a lot of fun with my intern.  This is Emma’s first job her enthusiasm and energy – especially on payday remind me a lot of myself. MORE...

]]>I am having a lot of fun with my intern.  This is Emma’s first job her enthusiasm and energy – especially on payday remind me a lot of myself. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september082016Get the most out of the time you have lefthttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september012016Thu, 01 Sep 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaIt’s almost Labor Day – that invisible divide between summer and fall.In less than a week school starts.  Children will refocus on friends and homework while their parents get back into the groove at work. MORE...

]]>It’s almost Labor Day – that invisible divide between summer and fall.In less than a week school starts.  Children will refocus on friends and homework while their parents get back into the groove at work. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september012016What are your strategic questions?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august252016Thu, 25 Aug 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaIn the world of competitive advantage, strategic thinkers win the war, tactics win battles.Joe runs a profitable company, providing value to his customers and availing him of the lifestyle he wants to live. MORE...

]]>In the world of competitive advantage, strategic thinkers win the war, tactics win battles.Joe runs a profitable company, providing value to his customers and availing him of the lifestyle he wants to live. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august252016Can you hear me now?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august182016Thu, 18 Aug 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaOn a trip to the Rocky Mountains I learned first-hand about the “echo effect” when shouting at a mountain.  My voice sounded incredible, as I listened to it bounce against the peaks and valleys. MORE...

]]>On a trip to the Rocky Mountains I learned first-hand about the “echo effect” when shouting at a mountain.  My voice sounded incredible, as I listened to it bounce against the peaks and valleys. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august182016How the Olympics make a differencehttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august112016Thu, 11 Aug 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaIt’s Olympic season; for some, this season is more riveting than football, baseball, basketball and golf. The 16 days from opening to closing ceremonies will have people from all over the world glued to their televisions and electronic devices, cheering on their favorite athlete or team. MORE...

]]>It’s Olympic season; for some, this season is more riveting than football, baseball, basketball and golf. The 16 days from opening to closing ceremonies will have people from all over the world glued to their televisions and electronic devices, cheering on their favorite athlete or team. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august112016Open mouth, insert foot!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august042016Thu, 04 Aug 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaWe’ve all done it; said something we shouldn’t have: thoughtless, unkind words you wish you could take back. The moment the words slip through your lips you want to unsay them, but unfortunately, it’s too late.  The damage is done. MORE...

]]>We’ve all done it; said something we shouldn’t have: thoughtless, unkind words you wish you could take back. The moment the words slip through your lips you want to unsay them, but unfortunately, it’s too late.  The damage is done. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august042016Are you industrious?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july282016Thu, 28 Jul 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaMy father is having an auction in a couple weeks.  My siblings and I have been helping him sift through a lifetime to determine what he wants to save and what he wants to sell. MORE..

]]>My father is having an auction in a couple weeks.  My siblings and I have been helping him sift through a lifetime to determine what he wants to save and what he wants to sell. MORE.. 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july282016Don't Fall Into the All Work and No Play TRAP!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july212016Thu, 21 Jul 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaGrowing up on a farm in central Wisconsin, we prided ourselves on how hard we worked.  Some task, big or small, was always waiting to get done..MORE

]]>Growing up on a farm in central Wisconsin, we prided ourselves on how hard we worked.  Some task, big or small, was always waiting to get done..MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july212016Yikes - Six Months Down! How's it stacking up?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july142016Thu, 14 Jul 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaEach year about this time, I encourage you to assess where you are and what it will take to accomplish your annual goals by year end. MORE..

]]>Each year about this time, I encourage you to assess where you are and what it will take to accomplish your annual goals by year end. MORE.. 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july142016That wasn't one of my better ideashttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july072016Thu, 07 Jul 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaI love County Fair season in Minnesota:  the smells of cotton candy, popcorn and 4-H animals waft through the air. MORE...

]]>I love County Fair season in Minnesota:  the smells of cotton candy, popcorn and 4-H animals waft through the air. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july072016Why we celebrate July 4thhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june302016Thu, 30 Jun 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaThe Declaration of Independence was written and signed 240 years ago by fifty-six men who knew they could be put to death for treason.  The document is a symbol of what America stands for. MORE...

]]>The Declaration of Independence was written and signed 240 years ago by fifty-six men who knew they could be put to death for treason.  The document is a symbol of what America stands for. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june302016Life is amazing and no one is happyhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june232016Thu, 23 Jun 2016 09:40:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaWe take for granted the advances that continue to make our lives easier:  We eat foods grown around the world, talk to friends who are thousands miles away, pay for lunch with a wave of our smart phones and our cars can parallel park themselves! Pretty amazing. MORE...

]]>We take for granted the advances that continue to make our lives easier:  We eat foods grown around the world, talk to friends who are thousands miles away, pay for lunch with a wave of our smart phones and our cars can parallel park themselves! Pretty amazing. MORE... 


]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june232016If you could give graduates advice, what would it be?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june162016Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaJune.  The month of  endings and beginnings for millions of students across the country.  Commencement speakers bestow wisdom on graduates in hope that some of it will make an impact. MORE...

]]>June.  The month of  endings and beginnings for millions of students across the country.  Commencement speakers bestow wisdom on graduates in hope that some of it will make an impact. MORE... 


]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june162016So many good ideas - how do you choose the right one?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june092016Thu, 09 Jun 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaSean and Dave are brothers and business partners.  They’ve built their company by working hard, paying attention to the numbers and listening to customers.  Their business has been stable and successful for years.  Lately though, changes in technology, increasing...MORE

]]>Sean and Dave are brothers and business partners.  They’ve built their company by working hard, paying attention to the numbers and listening to customers.  Their business has been stable and successful for years.  Lately though, changes in technology, increasing...MORE 


]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june092016Want to Create Hair-On-Fire Situations?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june022016Thu, 02 Jun 2016 09:30:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda Laitala  Avoid problems. Bob got promoted to supervisor the way many did; he was good at his job.  Technically, he was the best in the company; unfortunately, problem solving skills were not his forte.  MORE...

]]>  Avoid problems. Bob got promoted to supervisor the way many did; he was good at his job.  Technically, he was the best in the company; unfortunately, problem solving skills were not his forte.  MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june022016Do you know the Rules of Life?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may262016Thu, 26 May 2016 09:40:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda Laitala  So often we think we know the rules of a game and then when actually read the game rules we realize that we had invented a couple of our own rules along the way.  Life can be like that.... MORE

]]>  So often we think we know the rules of a game and then when actually read the game rules we realize that we had invented a couple of our own rules along the way.  Life can be like that.... MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may262016Having a Grease Gun That Doesn't Work is Worse Than.....http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may192016Thu, 19 May 2016 09:40:00 GMTlogin@ravenperformancegroup.comLinda LaitalaMy husband and I were chatting over dinner about what he’d accomplished that day. He commented, “Having a grease gun that doesn’t work is worse than having no grease gun at all.” MORE...

]]>My husband and I were chatting over dinner about what he’d accomplished that day. He commented, “Having a grease gun that doesn’t work is worse than having no grease gun at all.” MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may192016Are you a tortoise or a hare?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may122016Thu, 12 May 2016 09:40:00 GMTLinda LaitalaGetting what you want fast can be addicting. Getting where you want to go in a hurry is exciting. Achieving your annual sales goal by mid-year is exhilarating. But slow and steady will produce more long term, stable results..MORE

 

]]>Getting what you want fast can be addicting. Getting where you want to go in a hurry is exciting. Achieving your annual sales goal by mid-year is exhilarating. But slow and steady will produce more long term, stable results..MORE   

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may122016My Mama taught me to always say thank you!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may052016Thu, 05 May 2016 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWhen did we stop using the magic words?

I was waiting in line at a small bookstore at the end of a day; there was only one clerk behind the counter.  Suddenly the door opened and a woman stepped in front of me, interrupting the clerk (who was helping another customer) and totally ignoring those patiently waiting their turn.  She demanded immediate service.
Attitude and expectation oozed from her...MORE

]]>When did we stop using the magic words? I was waiting in line at a small bookstore at the end of a day; there was only one clerk behind the counter.  Suddenly the door opened and a woman stepped in front of me, interrupting the clerk (who was helping another customer) and totally ignoring those patiently waiting their turn.  She demanded immediate service. Attitude and expectation oozed from her...MORE  

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/may052016Don’t believe everything you thinkhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april282016Thu, 28 Apr 2016 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThe bumper sticker on the car ahead of me read:  Don’t believe everything you think.
My reaction was, “Say what??”  Then I stepped back and considered the statement. MORE...

]]>The bumper sticker on the car ahead of me read:  Don’t believe everything you think. My reaction was, “Say what??”  Then I stepped back and considered the statement. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april282016What Would You Do If This Happened To You?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april212016Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaSean, owner of a successful family business, was thrilled that his son had gone to work in the business right out of college. Things were going well and Sean had visions of turning the business over to Dan “when the time was right”.  MORE...

]]>Sean, owner of a successful family business, was thrilled that his son had gone to work in the business right out of college. Things were going well and Sean had visions of turning the business over to Dan “when the time was right”.  MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april212016Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april142016Thu, 14 Apr 2016 09:40:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWhat do you see when you look in the mirror?  A face so familiar you hardly “see” it anymore?
What do you see when you look at your business?  The same machines, the same equipment, the same people doing...MORE

]]>What do you see when you look in the mirror?  A face so familiar you hardly “see” it anymore? What do you see when you look at your business?  The same machines, the same equipment, the same people doing...MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april142016Have you ordered your Tesla?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april072016Thu, 07 Apr 2016 09:40:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThe Quartz Daily Brief (www.qz.com) is one of the first things I read every morning! This article by Steve LeVine made me think about visionaries, the people who draw us into their dreams and make us believe the impossible is possible. MORE...

]]>The Quartz Daily Brief (www.qz.com) is one of the first things I read every morning! This article by Steve LeVine made me think about visionaries, the people who draw us into their dreams and make us believe the impossible is possible. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/april072016It Only Takes One Bad Apple!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march312016Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaIn almost every roundtable I facilitate, one business owner laments the difficulty in finding skilled employees in today’s economy.
That’s why it’s easy to talk yourself into keeping a “bad apple”, but beware.  A bad apple is a person MORE...

]]>In almost every roundtable I facilitate, one business owner laments the difficulty in finding skilled employees in today’s economy. That’s why it’s easy to talk yourself into keeping a “bad apple”, but beware.  A bad apple is a person MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march312016I Think I Need A "Think Week"!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march242016Thu, 24 Mar 2016 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaTwice a year, for the past twelve years, Bill Gates has gone into seclusion for a “Think Week”, retreat where employees, friends and even family are banned.  The insights gleaned from “Think Week” help determine Microsoft’s future.
Gates first few “Think Weeks”, went through the following process.  (Advances in technology, have streamlined things today.)  MORE...

]]>Twice a year, for the past twelve years, Bill Gates has gone into seclusion for a “Think Week”, retreat where employees, friends and even family are banned.  The insights gleaned from “Think Week” help determine Microsoft’s future. Gates first few “Think Weeks”, went through the following process.  (Advances in technology, have streamlined things today.)  MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march242016Can You Leap Tall Buildings in a Single Bound?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march172016Thu, 17 Mar 2016 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaYour phenomenal brain is capable of amazing feats, but sometimes it’s the simplest ones that do you in.
It was 2:15.  I was sitting in a coffee shop wondering where my 2:00 was when my phone rang.  “Where are you,” Donna asked.  “In the coffee shop by the Holiday Inn”, I replied.  Where are you?”  She was at a coffee MORE...

]]>Your phenomenal brain is capable of amazing feats, but sometimes it’s the simplest ones that do you in. It was 2:15.  I was sitting in a coffee shop wondering where my 2:00 was when my phone rang.  “Where are you,” Donna asked.  “In the coffee shop by the Holiday Inn”, I replied.  Where are you?”  She was at a coffee MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march172016Could You Be a Helicopter Boss?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march102016Thu, 10 Mar 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWe’ve all heard the term “helicopter parent,” a reference to moms and dads who constantly hover over their children, never giving them the opportunity to make their own decisions or mistakes, swooping in to save the day when things get the least bit challenging.   MORE...

]]>We’ve all heard the term “helicopter parent,” a reference to moms and dads who constantly hover over their children, never giving them the opportunity to make their own decisions or mistakes, swooping in to save the day when things get the least bit challenging.   MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march102016Do You Need A Reverse Mentor?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march032016Thu, 03 Mar 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaJack Welch, former GE Chairman popularized “reverse mentoring” over a decade ago.  He ordered his top 600 managers to find Internet junkies among their ranks and become their students. MORE...

]]>Jack Welch, former GE Chairman popularized “reverse mentoring” over a decade ago.  He ordered his top 600 managers to find Internet junkies among their ranks and become their students. MORE... 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/march032016Play LEGOs With Your Employeeshttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february252016Thu, 25 Feb 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaIt isn’t easy staying ahead of the curve these days.  It’s even harder to engage employees in creative problem solving.  It isn’t that they don’t want to be innovate and creative, they’re so busy doing...MORE

]]>It isn’t easy staying ahead of the curve these days.  It’s even harder to engage employees in creative problem solving.  It isn’t that they don’t want to be innovate and creative, they’re so busy doing...MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february252016Your Price Is Too HIGH!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february182016Thu, 18 Feb 2016 10:45:00 GMTLinda LaitalaLike most of us, you have heard (and uttered) those five dreaded words more than a few times.  It’s the most common objection encountered in every industry, and the most difficult to overcome...MORE

]]>Like most of us, you have heard (and uttered) those five dreaded words more than a few times.  It’s the most common objection encountered in every industry, and the most difficult to overcome...MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february182016Your Price Is Too HIGH!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/your-price-is-too-highThu, 18 Feb 2016 06:00:00 GMTLinda LaitalaLike most of us, you have heard (and uttered) those five dreaded words more than a few times.  It’s the most common objection encountered in every industry, and the most difficult to overcome... MORE

]]>Like most of us, you have heard (and uttered) those five dreaded words more than a few times.  It’s the most common objection encountered in every industry, and the most difficult to overcome... MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/your-price-is-too-highDo you speak in a “Love Language”?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february112016Thu, 11 Feb 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaBalance is an important topic in my roundtables. Many business owners spend years building successful companies only to discover a disconnect ...MORE

]]>Balance is an important topic in my roundtables. Many business owners spend years building successful companies only to discover a disconnect ...MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february112016You can’t buy loyaltyhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february042016Thu, 04 Feb 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaCoupons won’t do it.  Reducing your prices won’t do it; there’s always someone willing to make less money than you.  MORE... 

]]>Coupons won’t do it.  Reducing your prices won’t do it; there’s always someone willing to make less money than you.  MORE...  

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/february042016Where do you keep the ketchup?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january282016Thu, 28 Jan 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala When we consider diversity in the workplace we ofter react negatively thinking of being required to hire   MORE...

]]> When we consider diversity in the workplace we ofter react negatively thinking of being required to hire   MORE...  

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january282016Pain is Inevitable, Suffering is Voluntaryhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january212016Thu, 21 Jan 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala   Are you volunteering for pain?  MORE...

]]>   Are you volunteering for pain?  MORE...  

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january212016How do you predict the future?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january142016Thu, 14 Jan 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala(Hint: it’s through indicators) Have you ever considered the price of aluminum cans? Sam maintains when the price goes up, the economy is on the rise as well.  MORE...

]]>(Hint: it’s through indicators) Have you ever considered the price of aluminum cans? Sam maintains when the price goes up, the economy is on the rise as well.  MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january1420162016 the year to stop putting off ….http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january072016Thu, 07 Jan 2016 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala    The first of the year is a time to start new things: the diet, the exercise program or learning a new skill.  But are there issues hovering MORE...

]]>    The first of the year is a time to start new things: the diet, the exercise program or learning a new skill.  But are there issues hovering MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/january072016What will make you healthy, wealthy and wise?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december312015Thu, 31 Dec 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWe're staring at the beginning of another new year; one that can be filled with opportunity, excitement, joy and pain.  We don't know what the next 365 days will bring. MORE...

]]>We're staring at the beginning of another new year; one that can be filled with opportunity, excitement, joy and pain.  We don't know what the next 365 days will bring. MORE...  

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december312015Christmas Eve 2015http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december242015Thu, 24 Dec 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala    Thank you for joining me here each Thursday.  It's very gratifying to have the opportunity to share...MORE

]]>    Thank you for joining me here each Thursday.  It's very gratifying to have the opportunity to share...MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december242015Beam me aboard, Snap On tools!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december172015Thu, 17 Dec 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaGrowing up, I would beg to go with my Dad to get his car serviced.  The waiting room in the mechanic’s garage was a lively place, MORE...   

]]>Growing up, I would beg to go with my Dad to get his car serviced.  The waiting room in the mechanic’s garage was a lively place, MORE...     

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december172015The End is at hand! Are you ready?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december102015Thu, 10 Dec 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaSounds ominous.  This is the time to wrap up 2015 and plan for 2016!  Have you been so busy dealing with the day to day activity of your business that you’ve given...MORE

]]>Sounds ominous.  This is the time to wrap up 2015 and plan for 2016!  Have you been so busy dealing with the day to day activity of your business that you’ve given...MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december102015How Far Would You Go?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december032015Thu, 03 Dec 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaMy nephew Josh is a cool kid.  He’s 14, smart, interested in the world, and totally into science and astronomy
…this year. MORE...

]]>My nephew Josh is a cool kid.  He’s 14, smart, interested in the world, and totally into science and astronomy …this year. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/december032015Be thankful for…http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november262015Thu, 26 Nov 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala Today is Thanksgiving.  Take time to ponder and be grateful for: MORE...

]]> Today is Thanksgiving.  Take time to ponder and be grateful for: MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november262015Do you know if your customer is high touch or high tech?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november192015Thu, 19 Nov 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaIt happened again last week.  I called to ask a simple question about my account and was given four levels of voice mail options; MORE...

]]>It happened again last week.  I called to ask a simple question about my account and was given four levels of voice mail options; MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november192015Looking for Love in all the Wrong Places?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november122015Thu, 12 Nov 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThis may be the title of a Country Western song, but it's also an issue some business owners face as they try to hire new employees.
The following comment was made by a business owner...MORE

]]>This may be the title of a Country Western song, but it's also an issue some business owners face as they try to hire new employees. The following comment was made by a business owner...MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november122015Free Your Inner Geniushttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november052015Thu, 05 Nov 2015 10:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala I have a member whose manufacturing company has been doing “OK” with existing customers, but she’s unhappy about its slow growth. MORE...

]]> I have a member whose manufacturing company has been doing “OK” with existing customers, but she’s unhappy about its slow growth. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/november0520154 ways to give customers what they wanthttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october292015Thu, 29 Oct 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaEveryone needs to understand their customers better, but it’s getting harder and harder. Here is what’s happening:

•Customers are less loyal than they used to be and far less trusting, especially in industries hard hit during the financial crisis. MORE...

]]>Everyone needs to understand their customers better, but it’s getting harder and harder. Here is what’s happening: •Customers are less loyal than they used to be and far less trusting, especially in industries hard hit during the financial crisis. MORE...  

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october292015Leadership Lessons from Everesthttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october222015Thu, 22 Oct 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala “The longer you look at it the harder the climb will be.  It’s a far distance to the top; keep your head down and take one step at a time” MORE…

]]> “The longer you look at it the harder the climb will be.  It’s a far distance to the top; keep your head down and take one step at a time” MORE… 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october222015You have 77 days left tohttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october152015Thu, 15 Oct 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaPeriodically, I will walk my members through an exercise called “The Next 90 Days.”  The exercise challenges them to hone in on one issue that could significantly improve some aspect of their life. For the next 90 days, they are encouraged to devote an hour a day to that end. MORE...

]]>Periodically, I will walk my members through an exercise called “The Next 90 Days.”  The exercise challenges them to hone in on one issue that could significantly improve some aspect of their life. For the next 90 days, they are encouraged to devote an hour a day to that end. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october152015“Puppy Wisdom” and Applied Learninghttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october082015Thu, 08 Oct 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThis summer, my friend Sarah got a puppy she named Molly.  Molly has been busy educating Sarah ever since.  •When Molly chewed up her owner’s $200 Bose ear buds, Sarah learned being too attached to material things was a sure fire way to set herself up for suffering.  MORE...

]]>This summer, my friend Sarah got a puppy she named Molly.  Molly has been busy educating Sarah ever since.  •When Molly chewed up her owner’s $200 Bose ear buds, Sarah learned being too attached to material things was a sure fire way to set herself up for suffering.  MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october082015What Price Technology?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october012015Thu, 01 Oct 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaTechnology has its’ benefits:
•You can change what you write without getting eraser dust all over the desk.
•You can add up a column of numbers while typing them.   MORE...

]]>Technology has its’ benefits: •You can change what you write without getting eraser dust all over the desk. •You can add up a column of numbers while typing them.   MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/october012015Excuse me, did you hear what I just said?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september242015Thu, 24 Sep 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala If you fly at all today, it’s a fact of life that airlines overbook flights and when planes can’t take off there’s no back-up.  Such was the case on my last vacation. MORE...

]]> If you fly at all today, it’s a fact of life that airlines overbook flights and when planes can’t take off there’s no back-up.  Such was the case on my last vacation. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september242015Thoughts are thingshttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september172015Wed, 16 Sep 2015 12:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala That’s the title of the first chapter of Napoleon Hill’s book “Think and Grow Rich”. The chapter closes with the words, “Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve MORE...

]]> That’s the title of the first chapter of Napoleon Hill’s book “Think and Grow Rich”. The chapter closes with the words, “Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve MORE... 

 

 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september172015You should file bankruptcy and get it over withhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september102015Thu, 10 Sep 2015 09:00:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThose words were spoken years ago by a member of the advisory board I had recruited.  What?  File bankruptcy...MORE 

]]>Those words were spoken years ago by a member of the advisory board I had recruited.  What?  File bankruptcy...MORE   

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september102015The Wolf Who Wins is the Wolf you Feedhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september032015Thu, 03 Sep 2015 09:00:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThere’s an American Indian legend that teaches an important lesson: A young man came to his grandfather, angry at a friend who had done him an injustice.  Let me tell you a story MORE....

]]>There’s an American Indian legend that teaches an important lesson: A young man came to his grandfather, angry at a friend who had done him an injustice.  Let me tell you a story MORE.... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/september032015Tomorrow Your Company Will Look Very Differenthttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august272015Thu, 27 Aug 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaBrian’s daughter, Carrie, teaches fourth grade in an inner city school in St. Paul.  In her class, twelve different languages and dialects are spoken.  MORE...

]]>Brian’s daughter, Carrie, teaches fourth grade in an inner city school in St. Paul.  In her class, twelve different languages and dialects are spoken.  MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august272015What if you only had one year?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august202015Thu, 20 Aug 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaI don't usually share other people's blog, but this one hit me between the eyes.  A friend, Sara Caputo shared it in her Radiant Organizing blog.  I'm passing it on. MORE...

]]>I don't usually share other people's blog, but this one hit me between the eyes.  A friend, Sara Caputo shared it in her Radiant Organizing blog.  I'm passing it on. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august202015Are Your Conversations Fierce or Fuzzy?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august132015Thu, 13 Aug 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaMy boss Bob was a dominating bully.  His idea of brainstorming was to disparage each suggestion until everyone at the table shut up and his idea was the only one left standing.  MORE...

]]>My boss Bob was a dominating bully.  His idea of brainstorming was to disparage each suggestion until everyone at the table shut up and his idea was the only one left standing.  MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august132015Have You Ever Thought Things Were Just Too Tough?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august062015Thu, 06 Aug 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaA critical task every business owner faces is finding the right people to take their business to the next level.  But this is like making a rhetorical statement.  Everyone...MORE

]]>A critical task every business owner faces is finding the right people to take their business to the next level.  But this is like making a rhetorical statement.  Everyone...MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/august062015You CAN build A Great Team!http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july302015Thu, 30 Jul 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaEveryone likes to think they know their best customers very well, but do you?  A study done by Help Scout pointed out some interesting facts. MORE...

]]>Everyone likes to think they know their best customers very well, but do you?  A study done by Help Scout pointed out some interesting facts. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july302015Things You Should Know About Your Customershttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july232015Thu, 23 Jul 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaWhat do you know about your customers?  MORE...   

]]>What do you know about your customers?  MORE...     

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july232015"You couldn't have been more wrong!"http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july162015Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:00:00 GMTLinda Laitala I love it when someone challenges something I’ve written.  My blog last week affected a few people so much they reached out to tell me what they thought. MORE...

]]> I love it when someone challenges something I’ve written.  My blog last week affected a few people so much they reached out to tell me what they thought. MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july162015Have you ever won by not following the rules?http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july092015Thu, 09 Jul 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThat isn’t fair!

How many times have we heard children cry indigently,  "That isn’t fair!”?
That’s how I felt about the 4th of July boat parade on... MORE

]]>That isn’t fair! How many times have we heard children cry indigently,  "That isn’t fair!”? That’s how I felt about the 4th of July boat parade on... MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july092015Guts, Persistence & Willpowerhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july022015Thu, 02 Jul 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda Laitala Ah, to be slimmer, more fit, healthier, richer!  If you have ever started a self-improvement program, you know what a challenge it is to stay on track. MORE

]]> Ah, to be slimmer, more fit, healthier, richer!  If you have ever started a self-improvement program, you know what a challenge it is to stay on track. MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/july022015The Opportunity to Leverage Strengthshttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june252015Thu, 25 Jun 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaThe news about the Target/CVS partnership is especially exciting if  MORE...

]]>The news about the Target/CVS partnership is especially exciting if  MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june252015Question the Unquestionedhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june182015Thu, 18 Jun 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaEarly in my career I worked in the engineering department for a Fortune 500 company.  Two or three times a week ...MORE

]]>Early in my career I worked in the engineering department for a Fortune 500 company.  Two or three times a week ...MORE 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june182015Your Banker Wants One-Your Business Needs Onehttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june112015Thu, 11 Jun 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaSitting across from your banker can be both exhilarating and excruciating.
It’s excruciating when you’re in dire need of cash MORE...

]]>Sitting across from your banker can be both exhilarating and excruciating. It’s excruciating when you’re in dire need of cash MORE... 

 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june112015I Hate to Tell you this, but You're Terminalhttp://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june042015Thu, 04 Jun 2015 09:30:00 GMTLinda LaitalaA theme I hear over and over in my roundtable meetings is time management.  "I've been so busy I didn't have time to……" MORE

]]>A theme I hear over and over in my roundtable meetings is time management.  "I've been so busy I didn't have time to……" MORE 

]]>http://www.ravenperformancegroup.com/june042015