by Peter Crocker

It’s easy to criticise large institutions for their bureaucratic processes and customer service shortcomings. But, by examining what they do well, there’s a wealth of ideas for small businesses. Here are seven…

1. Be firm.

Try negotiating the price of a Big Mac, or getting a cinema to change the time of a movie. It’s easy to get pushed around as a solo operator – weekend work, rush jobs and discounts. For the sake of your sanity, credibility and profits, it’s often best to confidently put your foot down. “This is how we do things around here. This is how much it costs. End of story.” (more…)

by Steve Manning

Ok, I’ll admit it. Some of my best ideas occur when I’m naked. Yes that’s right – the shower is the place where I often do my best thinking.

And that got me thinking (in the shower of course); where do other soloists come up with their bright ideas and solutions to life’s problems? Is there a certain place or time of the day when their mind is at its clearest and most productive? (more…)