Who's your ideal client? If you plan on describing someone in the C-Suite of Fortune a 500 company, let me...

I've been a Marriott customer for a long time. When I started my solo career as a consultant, my travel agent encouraged me to pick one chain and stick with it. At the time I chose Hilton, stayed mostly at Hampton Inns and was unimpressed. The hotels were often tired and the points system was not very generous. Then I stayed at a Residence Inn somewhere I don't recall, but I clearly remember walking in and seeing a message board that welcomed elite guests by name. At the front desk they were thanking guests for being an elite guest. Recognition. I switched.

Which would you rather have? A one million dollar new customer or ten one hundred thousand dollar new customers? Careful what you wish for.

Every small business has "the elephant in the room." It might be you. Sure, you want to grow and make more money. At least make more money. I mean, growth is isn't really a thing is it? You aren't required to do that - there's no rule. You never intended to have an empire, just a good living. Am I right?

Have you ever walked into a store and been immediately pressed by a salesperson or greeter with offers of help? It is a practice that generally yields quick results for the shoppers that want to expedite their search. "Can I help you?" the greeter asks. "Could you tell me where the coats are?" you reply. There was a time when "Just looking" wasn't allowed.

The end of the year is a special time for me. It is time for reflection and I don't do it often enough. Next week - the New Year - will be time for new directions, but the week between Christmas and New Year's has always saved for thinking...and cleaning.