matlen: strategy & business model innovation

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the gift of letting things go

Well, this is awkward. I’m wondering, is it inappropriate to make a post after abandoning a blog for over a year? Would I be a complete...

15 realities after the start-up honeymoon

Starting a business is hard. The experience is different for everyone and, for many, the realities of post-start-up honeymoon hit quicker...

4 mandatory habits on the road to business BEAST MODE

My knee was killing me. I tried everything: rest, ice, compression, elevation, sports-physio, Google/YouTube research, etc. Despite...

CRYING OVER SPILLED MILK: when to ignore clients and competition

We had spent about 3 full-day sessions trying to map out the competition. In light of a recent loss of one of our most prominent (and...

SANTA'S GOT A BRAND NEW BUSINESS MODEL

With the year winding down and our spirits being lifted by the joys of the festive season, there is no better time to reflect on the...

RedFlag #2: YOU'RE BORING (5 tips for selling a common service)

You don't sell stainless steel kitchen bowls. Over the years, I have been privy to many sales masterminds, literature, strategies and...

RedFlag #1: THE DATED WALLPAPER

We all take great pride in our homes. As our most valuable asset, we ensure that our homes are kept in pristine condition—even if it...

BUILDING A BRAND IN THE FACE OF FEAR

The 30 second elevator ride with only you and the company CEO. The networking event at which you know absolutely nobody. Getting grilled...

MARKETING IS DEAD.

Marketing, as it was intended, is dead. A bold statement, indeed, but one worth the attention it seeks. What happened to marketing? When...

BEST STRATEGY ADVICE EVER.

Brevity. When getting a point across, get to the point. #marketing #strategy #brevity

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