The Gray Cat Blog

A comprehensive collection of blogs designed to assist small business owners and multi-unit operators. 

Business Planning, Part II Sep 03, 2024

Recently, I had a terrific session with one of my clients on business planning. I have written articles before on the importance of business planning, but this session resonated with me. What was rein...

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Woo Hoo! Time For Business Planning! Sep 03, 2024

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…..”

Ah yes…..the annual business planning cycle is upon us.

The time of the year to huddle all of your business colleagues in a room to hash out the key ini...

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Making Prudent Capital Investments Aug 27, 2024

When it comes to the long-term success of a business, one of the key drivers is prudent capital re-investment. Unlike operational expenses that are used to run the daily business or working capital to...

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Capital Management Best Practices Aug 27, 2024

Hopefully your business is growing, cash flow is strong, and if that is the case, what a fantastic scenario to be enjoying! Now, one must determine what are the best ways to put those earnings to use....

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Gray Cat: Micromanagement & Leadership with John Lofstock Aug 19, 2024

Recently, I appeared on a podcast hosted by John Lofstock where we discussed a myriad of topics including micromanagement and leadership.

Here is a short clip discussing this subject.

Want more idea...

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Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 6: Profit & Loss (P&L) Analysis Aug 15, 2024

 

Few operators take the time to better understand both revenue projections as well as variable and fixed expenses so that they can see what contributes or detracts from profitability.
 
A “P&L (Pr...
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Conducting Performance Reviews Aug 12, 2024

If I were to ask employees and managers what their favorite part of their job is, my guess is that performance reviews wouldn’t be at the top of the list.  There is something that is administratively ...

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Talent Management Aug 12, 2024

Over my career – both in the corporate world and on my own – I have had the privilege of working with some fantastic and talented people. In most cases, I have learned more from them, than they probab...

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48 Questions To Ask Your Future Employer Aug 12, 2024

The interview is coming to a close, and it has gone well. Points have been made in the most articulate fashion. Chemistry has been established. The wrap-up is near and then the interviewer asks, “what...

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Gray Cat: Developing a Plan of Action Aug 04, 2024

 At Gray Cat, one of the areas of expertise is Interim Executive Management.

Have a underperforming or newly-acquired division and need some external leadership?  Gray Cat fills the gap and assists i...
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Gray Cat Leadership Lessons: Be Part of the Program Jul 28, 2024

 

Not every team and member is built the same way. It is critical for the manager to understand each of the personalities and manage the group with its myriad of personalities. 
 
In some cases, it...
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Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 5: Operational Excellence Jul 23, 2024

Managing a retail store is tough work.

Between operations, merchandising, marketing and facility upkeep, retail business owners have their hands full. Managing the details of retail is the difference...

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