Even in Asia, where gains in wealth have been unparalleled, policymakers are finding it harder and harder to improve the welfare of the common man.
Skills Shortage Could Mean Opportunity for Small Businesses
Despite persistently high unemployment, there’s a shortage of skills for some critical positions, and that could mean opportunity for a small business that has the ability to train and mentor employees.
Get Unstuck When Innovating
To innovate, you need to think differently. If you find yourself struggling to get something started or you’re stuck in the middle of a project, try to get into a new frame of mind:
Why “Shareholder Value” Shouldn’t Be Our Only Value
Most of us know that things are still pretty messed up, economically speaking. If we’re honest, really messed up. But is it really that hard to see why? The same thinking that got us into this global economic quagmire continues …
Why Smartphones Won’t Be Replacing Wallets Anytime Soon
For quite some time, we’ve heard that smartphones will replace wallets. Instead of using cash or plastic, the day will come, likely soon, when consumers will simply wave, tap, or swipe their phones for payment. While there are …
Lifetime Income Stream Key to Retirement Happiness
A new study in a land of grumps reveals that retirees with a guaranteed lifetime income stream can find true happiness.
Drivers Have Embraced Small Cars – Will Minicars Be Next?
Given the popularity of small SUVs and subcompacts like the Chevy Sonic, today’s drivers appear to be buying the idea that downsizing can equate to an upgraded ride. Now that smaller vehicles are viewed as acceptable—smart, …
The Not-So-Mighty Mississippi: How the River’s Low Water Levels Are Impacting the Economy
For those who make their living along the Mississippi River, helping ship many of the country’s most vital commodities, this year’s drought has inevitably raised the specter of 1988. That’s when the river got so low that …
Europe’s Debt Crisis Seems Bad? Look at Its Car Industry
Think the bleak news flowing from Europe’s debt crisis is depressing? Check out the region’s auto industry, whose tumbling sales and excess production capacities have many experts anticipating a spate of mass layoffs and …
Why a Euro-Zone Crisis Can’t Be Avoided Very Much Longer
Each postponement of financial disaster in the euro zone seems likely to last for a shorter time, and the U.S. won’t be able to escape the fallout indefinitely
Big-Box Shrinkage: Retailers Embrace Sales on a Smaller Scale
While the big-box retail model is far from dead, stores such as Walmart, Best Buy, and Cabela’s are realizing that the enormous, one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for all shoppers—nor all locations. To grow, many …
Choose the Right Leadership Approach
When you manage a team of people, adapt your leadership style to meet each person’s needs. In general there are four types of approaches: directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating. Depending on the level of your employee’s competence and commitment, choose which will work best. When your direct report is learning new skills, be …