CUT to the Chase

Business Briefs While we continue to see, hear and read nothing but negativity when it comes to the U.S. business scene … fear not, all is certainly not lost! There are a number of organizations, across industries, that continue to do well in spite of today’s chaotic environment.

Here are just a few examples.

McDonalds: The U.S. fast-food giant reports that same-store sales are up 6.8%, lifted by growing demand from consumers seeking low-cost meals in a deepening global recession.
Google: The Wall Street Journal reports that Google is still doing well and is firmly positioned to weather the economic storm that has been so detrimental to competitors.
Wal-Mart: The world’s largest retailer reported strong sales … an obvious bright spot in an otherwise gloomy retail market. U.S. same-store sales increased 5.1%, and its stock enjoyed its highest close since March of 2005!

I could go on, but I think the point is quite obvious. The media has and always will focus on the negative side of any issue. That approach attracts advertisers, sells papers, and garners attention. However, examples such as those noted above occur in every industry, and we should be searching for the reasons why … in hopes of duplicating those success stories.

In researching these organizations and others experiencing similar results, there are several common threads to be found. Here’s one that’s short and to the point. It’s a strong combination of sense of urgency, tenacity, execution, and closing the knowing-doing gap.

CUT to the Chase
C ollect
U tilize
T enaciously Execute and Follow Through

Collect:
Assemble the right people, information, data, processes, tips, tools, strategies, experience, education, and technology.

Utilize:
It’s one thing to possess what you need—it’s another thing to actually use it. Close the knowing-doing gap.

Tenaciously Execute and Follow Through:
Develop a sense of urgency, get it done and prepare for the next challenge.

Success Many organizations and individuals simply refuse to acknowledge that some strategies—short and simple as they may appear—can be powerful, productive and profitable if only executed properly. If in doubt, research those, in every industry, that are proving it.

The gathering storm in the U.S. economy can and is being weathered. The choice is yours!

Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of motivational speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services.