Download | Duration: 00:04:52

Who ARE you working for? Dick Ollek challenges each of us to answer that question. It doesn't matter what kind of company you work at or what your position is - the answer is the same. Dick uses some interesting stories to help us understand that the answer to this question is very important. The answer might surprise you or you might say - "of course." In either case, think about what that answer REALLY means.

We're getting closer to the launch of The Inner Circle. Next week I will share the titles and a bit about some of the first episodes we have on tap. I am also excited to tell you that we have a new CD that contains the 1st year of Tripodcasts. All 50 of the first year episodes have been collected on one CD and is available at http://www.consultantsincleaning.com/index.html.

Be sure to check back next week for an update of the progress toward the launch of The Inner Circle and another informative Tripodcast.

        

Download | Duration: 00:05:50

Ron Segura starts this Tripodcast with a comment that it is for distributors. Don't let that fool you! The tips, techniques and ideas he discusses are relevant whether you are a distributor, manager of an in-house cleaning operation or a BSC. And they are timely. Too often in a slow economy we tend to neglect important activities like training as we try to "do more with less." In this Tripodcast, Ron offers solid advice for improving your training program in any economy and in any operation.

Last week I mentioned that Tripod Learning Associates would be introducing an exciting new product in the near future. I can tell you a bit more this week. We have created a new podcast called The Inner Circle. This is a subscription base podcast that will explore topics in greater depth. We've had a great response to the free Tripodcasts every week (and they WILL continue to be free) but have had requests for a series of podcasts with more "meat".

The inner circle will be delivered once a month. The topic for the month will be explored in greater depth and detail - Inner Circle Tripodcasts will average 15 - 20 minutes in length. We may use video or other tools from time to time as well. And we will have special offers for Inner Circle Members on a frequent basis.

We are anticipating an April launch, so stay tuned for more details by checking back here.

        

Download | Duration: 00:04:27

Dick Ollek has been doing some research about the future of the cleaning business. In this episode, he shares his learning and predicts a very positive outlook for our industry.

We are also excited about the future for Tripodcast and Tripod Learning Associates. In fact, we are about to introduce a brand new.... Well, actually, you'll have to listen to next week's Tripodcast to learn all about it. "See" you then!

        

Download | Duration: 00:03:27

Do you have a system for bringing on a new manager? Do they have the support and tools to get off to a good start? As the executive of an in-house organization or a BSC, you are responsible for making sure this new manager has the best chance for success. In this Tripodcast, Ron Segura explains how to help the new manager swim and avoid being shark bait.

        

Download | Duration: 00:05:24

Contractors typically look to new sales to generate new profits. However, as Dick Ollek explains, that isn't the only way to find profits. By looking at current operations in a new way, he demonstrates how to create significant new profit potential in your operation. If you are running an in-house operation, profits aren't what you are looking for, but by using these techniques, you will find increased flexibility when your budgets are frozen or cut. Whether we are in a difficult, normal or booming economy, these tips can make your operation even stronger.

        

Download | Duration: 00:04:41

Training - we talk about it, you talk about it, everyone talks about it. You may have invested in some of the industry's best new training programs. You may have created state of the art training facilities... But, WHO is doing the training? Listen in as Ron Segura explains how to choose the right trainer. Who does your training may be one of the most important questions you should be asking...

        

Download | Duration: 00:03:56

Ron Segura asks the question - do your inspections motivate or demoralize your employees? Inspections as a motivational tool? They are meant to uncover problems and find out whose responsible - right? Well, maybe not.

In this episode, Ron looks at inspections in a different way. He suggests you use inspections as a tool to help train and motivate your employees and offers some specific examples to support this point of view along with tips to get you going.

Oh, and by the way - you'll still be able to ensure that your facility is being cleaned properly - in fact maybe even better...

        

Download | Duration: 00:04:15

Well, it's pretty clear that no one has made a New Year's resolution to raise maintenance budgets. In fact, they are likely to be squeezed tighter if the economy doesn't improve soon. As a manager or department head, how do you motivate your employees in this environment? Raises and bonuses aren't available, prizes and dinners are probably not in the budget either. So how do you keep your people interested in doing their best?

Listen in as Dick Ollek explains the oldest and maybe the best way to provide positive motivation to your employees. Here's a hint - interest plays a big part of this tip...

        

Download | Duration: 00:04:14

You know image is important, but when was the last time you really looked at yours? Maybe as we start a new year this would be a good time to take a new look at your uniforms, vehicles, equipment and more. In this Tripodcast Ron Segura reminds us of the importance of image to our companies, employees and ourselves. He also offers some good advice for how to evaluate the impression we make and how to make sure our image is saying what we want it to.

        

Download | Duration: 00:05:49

Sometimes the only constant in life seems to BE change. We've all talked about the difficulties of change. In this Tripodcast Dick Ollek encourages us to seek out change and make it our ally. Dick is no stranger to change - successfully inventing and re-inventing his company and his career several times. Here's a chance to learn how to use change from an expert.