The Bunged Plunge
There is PASSION driven by Innovation, Implementation and Innovation that thrives in Tampa Bay.
Reprofitizing (TM) your old plan for the New Year
Are the bottom line results sinking? For! When we observe a child chasing a ball in traffic, we instinctively yell, “Stop!” Like that child who encounters a traffic hazard … Entrepreneurs take unreasonable risks also when pursuing individual goals without a coherent PLAN. STOP and ask yourself the following:
o Do you have a comprehensive plan?
o Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
o What are the goals?
o Do the objectives increase revenue and / or efficiency?
o Is your image portrayed consistently?
The planning concept and creative elements that are crucial in any business to stop bottom lines from falling are best described as “Reprofitizing (TM)”.
Thinking outside the box is imperative; In today’s market, it is priceless. Okay, price is a concern, but the loss of quality and efficiency will prevent you from achieving any goal. Whether it’s starting, building, reprofitizing (TM), or restructuring during an economic downturn, you need a distinctive plan to differentiate your business and create a brand that people insist on. The need for your product or service will virtually eliminate the competition; thus, achieving the goal. Below are some stories of encouragement and innovative ideas to propel Tampa Bay business owners to build their own trusted brand and generate buzz.
My first stop was PEACE Wealth Management, located in Seminole. PEACE owner Kristine Hartland has been a leader and innovator in what could be seen as a devastated financial industry. As an wealth advisor for over 20 years, Kris is in a distinguished position of trust with a brand that speaks only by name. His staff and customers agree that his customization, knowledge and technology are unprecedented in the industry. He has made some major and minor changes to reprofitize (TM) and establish businesses to bring continued success in 2009. He has partnered with accountants, attorneys, employers, etc. of customers. to create a perfect plan. Other simple changes have included reshaping its website to reflect changes in its marketing and materials, new technology for clients, and outsourcing to more qualified people to save employee costs.
From the retail / service industry, I was sure to hear negativity flow, but this was not the case at Rare Accents (a lounge in Palm Harbor). Marilyn and Gail lead an incomparable team and were the first to greet me with a friendly smile. I quickly realized that everyone was busy, smiling, helpful and wait … there was a trophy at one of the stylist stations! Gail and Marilyn have worked hard to continually reprofitize the plans and goals (TM). There is a structure for staff that values and rewards their efforts. All staff received credit for this amazing establishment. In addition, innovative awareness programs take care of your clients; making them come back and rave with all their friends. Rare Accents built its pushy brand with these basics, plus a unique product line, encouraging clients to utilize the talents of several different stylists, a private salon, full-range services, and late-night open nights. They are a great example of success.
Then I met Rosie herself at Rosie’s Clam Shack, located in Pinellas Park. Talk about fun! This place is full of energy. Rosie made me smile from ear to ear with her amazing attitude and enjoyment of life. She backs it up with truly magnificent seafood. Rosie opened her restaurant “New England Seafood with a Florida Twist” 6 years ago. With the ongoing economic decline plus last year’s construction in the plaza, Rosie must reprofitize (TM). It has implemented several new strategies and supports them in every way. I had the opportunity to speak with some of their sponsors, who were all regulars and fans. Rosie’s planning, following up, and advertising to attract new customers, coupled with the experience, food, entertainment, and salon atmosphere she provides, keep them coming back. She plans to become more “tech-savvy” and create a web appearance for customers to see entertainment, special offers, and read fun facts. Stay tuned. It also offers incentives and hospitality cards for those looking for deals.
Visiting a more established restaurant prompted me to visit a new entity. Town N Country Ale House has just reopened the doors of the old Constantino’s at the corner of Hanley and Waters Ave. The dubbed TNC Ale House faces a unique reprofitizing (TM) challenge. Modeling a new business after an old concept does not create a pushy brand, so a plan is required to stand out. Owner and manager Jay and Mike are setting up for success with a distinctive menu featuring carnival-style desserts, a children’s playroom with parental surveillance cameras, televisions, projection screens, and did I mention televisions? The truly “Cheers” style atmosphere is charming complete with pool tables, darts, jukebox, arcade games, drink specials, live entertainment … oh, and colossal wings too! Sporting events with competitions and awards will undoubtedly be a good time with good friends; that’s what you will find every time you enter this establishment.
The last interview was one that moves us all. I am talking about real estate. How the hell could this be good? If you don’t own a home, or don’t even live under a rock, you know how affected our economy is by the Tampa Bay housing market. Ok, here it goes. I grab my tissues and call Pam Pampenella from Future Home Realty. Ready to hear a sad story, I quickly put down the handkerchief and grabbed a pen. Pam created a consistent brand with an outstanding plan and the awareness necessary to recover from the market downturn. She never mentioned having clients as a concern. His biggest challenge was time. Yes, I was stumped too, but 50% is spent on educating herself and keeping up with current market situations. Give customers the service and honesty they deserve. She is confident in her faith and knows the importance of including a helpful website, being personable, and working hard to keep going. His client letters show that he lives up to his words: “No matter what your business is, we must all have the passion to excel, the desire to learn, and most importantly, the heart to serve.” The houses keep selling people. Go ahead and make sure you have a smart real estate agent.
The common thread between these businesses was a distinctive vision of reprofitizing (TM). One necessity was to dazzle customer service with cheerful morals. No one was doing it alone. Consultants, partners and educators paved the way. These business owners reject anything but success by using their own creative plans to Stop the Plunge, reprofitize (TM) their results, and “Build your TRUSTED brand.”