It’s that time of the year! With May and June upon us, the graduation season is here for some and right around the corner for many college students. Joyful families will celebrate the educational feats of their star students and graduates will ponder their future. However, as the celebrations slow and ride off into the…

As we continue the journey of discussing key components of a strategic marketing plan, let’s focus on the Mission statement. In recent blog posts, we reviewed a 30-thousand level recap of the plan and last month we focused on creating an effective vision for your company. Many businesses think about the vision, but not the…

You’ve heard the phrase “paradigm shift” or “shifting your paradigm”. Sometimes, it’s easy to fall into a comfort zone where things become routine or you’re just not feeling challenged. However, the shifting your paradigm can lead you down a path you never was thought possible. Many entrepreneurs have shifted their paradigms–which, is why they may…

The process of strategic planning your marketing strategy can sometimes be an overwhelming activity, regardless of the size of the business. Trying to understand a vision statement from a mission statement, or brand positioning relative to your customer profile can be confusing and seemingly, contradictory at times. Beginning in June 2014, Mark Lee, Founder &…

“Would you ever buy yourself?” “And if so, why?” I’ve had the opportunity of working with a CEO and started the conversation with that simple question. Initially, she was perplexed. However, it forced her to think introspectively about herself, her business and ultimately, how to position herself internally and externally. And that’s a question normally…

Starting a business is no easy task. There are many challenges–from, developing an idea, supporting it with a plan (resources) and having an effective implementation plan. Along the way, there are many challenges and obstacles which need to be overcome and effectively managed. Detroit-native, Brian L. Clark, is witness to the challenges of a starting…

I was born in Detroit and grew up in the city during the 60’s and 70’s and have been in the metro area periodically throughout my adult life–with exceptions because of my career. After listening to the Mayor’s state of the City Address, here are my thoughts on its past, present and future. Past My…

Are you improving your strategic planning process? How? I receive quite few of requests regarding developing an effective strategic marketing approach and how to do it. I’ve noticed that entrepreneurs believe they have one but, in reality, they don’t have a strategic marketing plan but, a tactical plan. There’s a difference. Let’s examine what it…

I receive many questions on where to find help if you’re considering starting a business or have simply plateaued when it comes to growth. The Detroit region is fortunate to have many colleges and universities devoting resources to supporting business owners as they chase their entrepreneurial dreams. Additionally, there are many small business incubators, i.e….

Nearly six months ago, I interviewed a young man, Brian Clark, who decided to quit his first job out of the University of Michigan to pursue his dreams in entrepreneurship in San Francisco. That particular blog post, was one of the most popular blogs I wrote last year. Since that time, I’ve been wondering how Brian’s…