Articles
Articles and Insights by Lea A. Strickland, MBA, MA, CMA, CFM, CBM, GMC
Lea A. Strickland is a seasoned entrepreneur, small business owner, business strategist, and thought leader with decades of experience in corporate finance, management, marketing, compliance, and analysis. She holds advanced degrees in business administration, operations management, finance, marketing, and change management. She has also achieved prestigious certifications, including CMA, CFM, CBM, and GMC. Lea brings unparalleled expertise to her incisive commentary. Her articles deliver actionable insights on complex business and economic issues, from global market trends to strategic decision-making. With a proven track record of navigating dynamic business environments from Global 50 and Fortune 500 to small businesses, Lea’s authoritative perspectives empower readers to excel in today’s fast-evolving business world.
TheStreet.com, Mainstreet.com, Fox Business.com, MWorld, Fast Company, Entrepreneur Magazine, and numerous other outlets have published Lea’s articles, commentary, and analysis.
Topics Covered
-
- Corporate Finance, Accounting Systems, and Compliance Strategies
- Global Economic Trends and Regulatory Environment
- Strategic Business Management and Leadership
- Economic Policy and Its Business Implications
- Financial Risk Management and Mitigation
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Dynamic Markets
- Government Funding Requirements and Compliance Systems
- Enterprise Resource Planning
- Business Strategy and Planning
- Business Funding and Compliance
- Organizational Leadership (Boards, C-Level, etc.) and Employee Relations
- Procurement and Vendor Relations
- Business Growth and Scalability
- Case Studies
- Tools and Templates
Disclaimer
The information provided in these articles, case studies, and resources is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or professional advice. Readers should not rely on this content as a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult a qualified professional, such as a licensed attorney, accountant, or financial advisor, for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. The author and publisher are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information in this article.
Recent Articles and Podcasts
- Misplaced Priorities – Pursuing the “Get Out of Work Strategy”
- Choosing Your Business Name, Five Crucial Steps
- Managing Operational Messes? You Need a Company M.O.M.℠
- Quiet Quitting: A Timeless Challenge for Workforce Engagement
- The Critical Role of Business Continuity and Keyman Insurance
- 10 Proven Ways to Increase Customer Retention for Small Business
- Closing Strong: Actions to Take in 2025 and 2026
- Budget and Forecast: Control Cash Flow and Fuel Growth
- From TikTok To TOC TOC: Total Ownership Cost and the Theory of Constraints in Manufacturing
- Incorporate Values into Your Business
Quiet Quitting: A Timeless Challenge for Workforce Engagement
by Lea Strickland | October 7, 2025 | Business Articles, Human Resources, Uncategorized | 0 Comments
Quiet quitting signals a more profound disconnect within the workforce. It is a signal for leaders to listen and act. Organizations can transform disengagement into enthusiasm by addressing the core needs of clarity, fairness, trust, and growth. The challenge isn’t new, but the opportunity is timeless: build a workplace where employees feel valued, empowered, and inspired to contribute their best. When leaders prioritize these principles, quiet quitting fades, not through coercion, but because employees genuinely want to engage.
Incorporate Values into Your Business
by Lea Strickland | September 25, 2025 | Business Articles, Leadership, Small Business, Strategy | 0 Comments
Incorporating your values into your business is about authenticity and integrity. Expressing political views, however, requires careful consideration of the potential risks and rewards. Values-driven businesses can create loyal customers and build lasting goodwill without creating unnecessary conflict. But when politics takes center stage, the consequences can be far-reaching, positive or negative. Ultimately, it’s about knowing where your company stands and ensuring your stance aligns with your brand’s greater purpose.
Taking Care of Business: A Blueprint for Resilience and Success
by Lea Strickland | August 21, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management, Human Resources, Uncategorized | 0 Comments
Taking care of business means staying vigilant, prepared, and adaptable. It’s about scanning the horizon for risks, leveraging technology strategically, and safeguarding financial stability. It’s about fostering open communication with clients and customers to build lasting relationships.
Ten Ethical Questions to Drive Better Business Decisions
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2025 | Business Articles, Credibility, Human Resources, Leadership | 0 Comments
Asking these questions isn’t just about avoiding pitfalls—it’s about building a business that thrives on trust and integrity. Ethical decision-making strengthens relationships, boosts your reputation, and drives sustainable growth. Start applying these questions today to lead with clarity and purpose.
US Department of Labor Changes Ease Regulatory Burdens
by Lea Strickland | July 24, 2025 | Business Articles, Human Resources | 0 Comments
So far in 2025, Trump’s US Department of Labor (USDOL), shifting its focus toward deregulation and pro-business policies, has rolled back several rules established by the Biden administration.
T.A.M.E.℠ Your Goals to Achieve Them!
by Lea Strickland | July 22, 2025 | Business Articles, Execution, Leadership, Results | 0 Comments
When you make your goals TAME℠ , you don’t just achieve; you transform. And in that transformation lies the power to create a life that aligns with your deepest aspirations.
Why Queen Bee Leadership Is Vital to the Beehive
by Lea Strickland | July 8, 2025 | Business Articles, Leadership | 0 Comments
The beehive offers a powerful lens for leadership, revealing the queen bee as a unifying, purpose-driven figure who ensures continuity and empowers collaboration. Far from the negative stereotype, a queen bee leader, male or female, is essential for aligning teams, fostering resilience, and driving long-term success
Build Adaptive Systems for Growth: Future-Proofing Finance
by Lea Strickland | July 1, 2025 | Business Articles, Change Management, Leadership, Operations | 0 Comments
Are You Ready for the July 2025 Minimum Wage Changes?
by Lea Strickland | June 26, 2025 | Business Articles, Human Resources | 0 Comments
With July 1, 2025, just days away, businesses nationwide are preparing for a surge of minimum wage increases across states, cities, and counties. These changes are not uniform. Rates and requirements vary widely by location, and companies operating in multiple jurisdictions face heightened compliance risks and administrative burdens.
When Leaders Aren’t Ready: Lessons from Wolf Pack Leadership Dynamics
by Lea Strickland | June 25, 2025 | Business Articles, Leadership | 0 Comments
Wolf packs, with their cooperative family-based structures, offer profound insights into effective leadership and management. But what happens when an unprepared wolf, say, a young “gamma” or mid-ranking member, is thrust into a leadership role it’s not ready for? In human organizations, placing an ill-equipped individual in a leadership position can mirror this scenario, leading to dysfunction, mistrust, and failure.
Managing Operational Messes? You Need a Company M.O.M.℠
by Lea Strickland | October 11, 2025 | Business Articles, Capability, Operations | 0 Comments
The Company M.O.M℠. may not seek the spotlight, but its role is indispensable. The unsung heroes keep operations humming, ensuring businesses can weather disruptions and thrive. No matter if you’re running a startup or a global enterprise, empowering your Manager of Operational Messes, through clear roles, robust processes, and a culture of accountability, can mean the difference between chaos and success. Invest in your M.O.M., and watch your business flourish.
Time to Upgrade: Why Clinging to Floppy Disks and Legacy Systems is Holding Your Business Back
by Lea Strickland | August 19, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management, Capability, Operations, Small Business | 0 Comments
Clinging to floppy disks or legacy systems isn’t just inefficient, it’s a strategic misstep that jeopardizes growth, security, and competitiveness. It’s time to upgrade.
Ten Ethical Questions to Drive Better Business Decisions
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2025 | Business Articles, Credibility, Human Resources, Leadership | 0 Comments
Asking these questions isn’t just about avoiding pitfalls—it’s about building a business that thrives on trust and integrity. Ethical decision-making strengthens relationships, boosts your reputation, and drives sustainable growth. Start applying these questions today to lead with clarity and purpose.
Want Peak Performance? Find Out What’s Holding You Back
by Lea Strickland | June 27, 2025 | Business Articles, Capability, Results, Viability | 0 Comments
Organizational performance requires the company to align resources with objectives. Diagnosing organizational issues starts with an internal assessment and must include customer feedback.
11 Strategic Actions to Increase Your Business’s Agility and Resilience
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Capability, Strategy | 0 Comments
By focusing on financial flexibility, operational excellence, and cultural strength, you create a business that doesn’t just survive change—it leads through it. By recognizing you need the right people and a plan, you are already on the road to strengthening your business. You need agility.
Maximizing Profit and Purpose: A Consultant’s Guide
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Results, Viability | 0 Comments
That biotech CEO didn’t just resolve a challenge; they redefined their industry’s potential, proving that profit and purpose can thrive together. To quote Peter Drucker, who said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” In 2025, you have the tools, foundations, donations, and PBCs to create a future where your corporation excels financially and socially. Lead with profit, embrace purpose, and set a new standard for success.
Looking for Oz, Behind the Curtain: How Business Really Works
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management, Business Plans, Capability, Execution | 0 Comments
Have you ever wondered what makes a business tick? Like Dorothy when she pulled back the curtain in The Wizard of Oz, peering behind the scenes reveals the actual mechanics of how businesses operate.
Balancing Short-Term Performance with Long-Term Growth
by Lea Strickland | June 13, 2025 | Business Articles, Execution, Results, Viability | 0 Comments
Balancing short-term performance with long-term growth requires aligned incentives, strategic foresight, and stakeholder engagement. Executives can drive sustainable success in a competitive landscape by fostering a culture that values both immediate results and future potential.
Teamship Model: Pros, Cons, and Impact on Leadership
by Lea Strickland | June 12, 2025 | Business Articles, Capability, Execution, Leadership, Operations | 0 Comments
Manufacturing Inventory Crisis Uncovered: Mismanagement and Financial Fraud Exposed
by Lea Strickland | June 11, 2025 | Business Articles, Operations, Viability | 0 Comments
Acme Contract Manufacturing (a pseudonym to protect the company’s identity), a division of a publicly traded industrial conglomerate, is grappling with a severe operational and financial crisis. The company’s mismanagement of inventory, coupled with incompetent leadership and fraudulent financial reporting, has led to a situation where excess and obsolete inventory far exceeds the components needed to produce current products.
One Big Beautiful Act Reistates Immediate Expensing for Domestic R&E Costs
by Lea Strickland | July 17, 2025 | Funding, Small Business | 0 Comments
The OBBB Act isn’t just legislation; it’s a strategic win for U.S. companies, big and small. It delivers the flexibility, liquidity, and assurance to invest boldly in tomorrow’s innovations.
Rescission Rights of Investors in Private Placements
by Lea Strickland | June 27, 2025 | Business Articles, Funding, Legal | 0 Comments
NIH Transforms Foreign Awards for Global Research
by Lea Strickland | May 8, 2025 | Business Articles, Funding, Government Contracting, Government Funding Compliance | 0 Comments
Imperfect Pitches You Can’t Make Them … or Stop Them
by Lea Strickland | August 28, 2016 | Concept, Credibility, Crowdfunding, Funding, Visibility | 0 Comments
Parents know it and live it. Consultants and other advisors have to learn it. You can’t force anyone to make a wise choice or the best decisions. You can’t stop
companies from making imperfect pitches to potential investors. Sometimes people have to learn the hard lessons themselves. Yes, it is painful to watch and to experience. It feels like watching an accident happen. You see the person stepping in front of the oncoming train, and you shout, “Don’t do it!” but still, they take that step.
Crowdfunding: The Taxman Cometh
by Lea Strickland | August 25, 2016 | Business Articles, Crowdfunding, Funding | 0 Comments
Visionary Capability: Get Practical Pursuing the Dream
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Competitiveness, Entrepreneur, Execution, Funding, Leadership, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Non-Profit, Small Business, Start-up | 0 Comments
Validating Your Business Concept
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, C.O.R.E. Business System, Commercialization, Competitiveness, Concept, Entrepreneur, Funding, Leadership, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Non-Profit, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy, Viability | 0 Comments
Ready to Raise Businesses or Children – Common Threads
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Management, Funding, Leadership, Strategy | 0 Comments
Investor Due Diligence
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Funding | 0 Comments
Investor Pitches – Get Ready
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Funding, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Start-up | 0 Comments
Get Your Business Started with a Problem to Solve
by Lea Strickland | September 18, 2025 | Business Articles, Customer, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Opportunity | 0 Comments
f you want a business that endures, one that scales, attracts investors, and thrives in a competitive marketplace, then you must move beyond ideas and into action. That action starts with solving a real problem for real people.
No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just solid strategy and disciplined execution.
Want a business that endures, one that scales, attracts investors, and thrives in a competitive marketplace? Solve a problem.
The Four Pillars That Drive Revenue and Profit
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Marketing, Sales and Business Development | 0 Comments
The marketing mix — product, price, promotion, and placement —serve as the core drivers of revenue and profit. These four pillars, often referred to as the 4 Ps, provide a strategic framework for understanding how a business can effectively position itself in the market, meet customer needs, and achieve optimal financial outcomes. When executed well, these pillars create a unified strategy that attracts customers, drives sales, and enhances profitability.
Reshoring and Onshoring
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Competitiveness, Economy and Economics | 0 Comments
Reshoring and onshoring of manufacturing and technology are more than economic buzzwords; they are strategic imperatives. As global instability, supply chain disruptions, and national security concerns continue to rise, the United States must rebuild its industrial base and technological independence. This shift presents substantial opportunities for American small businesses and entrepreneurs to drive innovation, bolster domestic production, and foster long-term economic resilience.
Reshoring in the US: How Companies Identify Suppliers and How to Become One
by Lea Strickland | May 23, 2025 | Business Articles, Capability, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Strategy | 0 Comments
US tariffs, global supply chain risks, and other factors are driving onshoring and reshoring of manufacturing. Manufacturers seeking suppliers are looking for financially stable, capable, local SME manufacturers.
From Cattle to Customers: Build a Powerful Brand on a Budget
by Lea Strickland | May 17, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Competitiveness, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Visibility | 0 Comments
Boeing’s Challenges: Production Woes, Air Force One Delays, and New Orders Amid Uncertainty
by Lea Strickland | May 16, 2025 | Business Articles, Change Management, Competitiveness, Credibility, Execution, Leadership, Operations | 0 Comments
Boeing, a cornerstone of the global aerospace industry, has faced significant challenges in recent years that have tarnished its reputation and strained its operations. The path forward demands a return to engineering excellence, strategic contract management, and transparent communication to restore confidence among customers, regulators, and the public.
NIH Data-sharing Requirements Put Funding and IP at Risk
by Lea Strickland | May 12, 2025 | Business Articles, Commercialization, Government Contracting, Government Funding Compliance, Viability | 0 Comments
Trump’s Tariffs: Strategies to Thrive in New Landscape
by Lea Strickland | May 6, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Capability, Change Management, Competitiveness, Economy and Economics, Entrepreneur, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Small Business, Viability | 0 Comments
Mastermind Groups for Exponential Business Growth
by Lea Strickland | June 30, 2020 | Business Articles, Business Growth, C.O.R.E. Business System, Execution, Leadership, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Results | 0 Comments
Do Business Like a Coyote: Why Opportunistic Predators Thrive Anywhere
by Lea Strickland | May 19, 2020 | Business Management, Competitiveness, Strategy, Viability, Visibility | 0 Comments
My Participles are Dangling, and My Modifiers are Squinting
by Lea Strickland | August 15, 2025 | Business Articles, Perspectives | 0 Comments
So, there you have it: dangling participles and squinting modifiers, the two grammar villains of the writing world. But fear not, brave writer! With some knowledge and a dash of humor, you can keep your sentences in check and your readers happy.
How Zohran Mamdani’s Tax Hikes Impact Businesses in NYC (and Beyond)
by Lea Strickland | June 26, 2025 | Business Articles, Economy and Economics, Perspectives, Small Business | 0 Comments
Zohran Mamdani’s democratic mayoral candidate for NYC, New York City, has proposed tax hikes, on individuals and businesses. His platform risks relocation to lower-tax areas, such as Florida, Texas, or nearby suburbs, is a critical concern, with the potential to erode NYC’s tax base and economic vitality [3][7][8]. Would Mamdani’s election as mayor create NYC’s own “Brexit” event?
Rethinking Freedom in a Changing America
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Economy and Economics, Perspectives | 0 Comments
I believe freedom is alive, not a dusty relic. It continues to be an ideal that each generation has to rediscover. We’ve got to defend it not just in laws or policies but in the values we live by. That means standing up for liberty even when it’s inconvenient and balancing individual rights with the needs of our society. Let’s keep freedom resilient, adaptable, and worth fighting for, because it’s what makes America, America.
American Capitalism: A Balance of Freedom, Prosperity, and Reform
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Perspectives | 0 Comments
America’s historical strength lies in its shared commitment to core values: democracy and personal freedom as inviolable, private property and enterprise as widely supported, and free markets, competition, and limited government as foundational. These principles unify the nation, providing a bedrock for debates.
Harvard vs. Trump: A Wake-Up Call for Grant Recipients
by Lea Strickland | April 22, 2025 | Business Articles, Government Contracting, Government Funding Compliance, Perspectives | 0 Comments
When Harvard sued the Trump administration over frozen federal grant of research funds, it raised more than eyebrows—it raised questions about how far executive power can go in enforcing compliance through grant terms. At stake? Billions in research dollars, the scope of Executive Order 14173, and the role of Title VI in anti-discrimination enforcement.
Ethical Integrity: When Keeping Your Word Clashes with Sticking to Your Values
by Lea Strickland | September 28, 2016 | Business Articles, Execution, Leadership, Perspectives | 0 Comments
Bleeping Commercials
by Lea Strickland | August 19, 2016 | Business Articles, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Perspectives | 0 Comments
Switzerland Seeks to Decouple Income and Work – An Atlas Shrugged Moment
by Lea Strickland | June 6, 2016 | Business Articles, Economy and Economics, Faith Blog, Perspectives | 0 Comments
Where Was the Board?
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Leadership, Non-Profit, Perspectives, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy | 0 Comments
What Are Your Employees Saying About Your Business?
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Competitiveness, Customer Relationships, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Perspectives, Small Business, Start-up | 0 Comments
Misplaced Priorities – Pursuing the “Get Out of Work Strategy”
by Lea Strickland | November 1, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management | 0 Comments
Success doesn’t come from avoiding work; it comes from doing the right work, consistently and well. Misplaced priorities don’t just delay success; they erode it.
Choosing Your Business Name, Five Crucial Steps
by Lea Strickland | October 26, 2025 | Business Articles, Concept, Entity, Start-up | 0 Comments
Before committing to a business name, invest time in domain searches, trademark verification, online and e-commerce audits, and state-level business name checks.
Managing Operational Messes? You Need a Company M.O.M.℠
by Lea Strickland | October 11, 2025 | Business Articles, Capability, Operations | 0 Comments
The Company M.O.M℠. may not seek the spotlight, but its role is indispensable. The unsung heroes keep operations humming, ensuring businesses can weather disruptions and thrive. No matter if you’re running a startup or a global enterprise, empowering your Manager of Operational Messes, through clear roles, robust processes, and a culture of accountability, can mean the difference between chaos and success. Invest in your M.O.M., and watch your business flourish.
The Critical Role of Business Continuity and Keyman Insurance
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Business Ownership, Small Business | 0 Comments
Business continuity plans must include the right insurance coverages.
10 Proven Ways to Increase Customer Retention for Small Business
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Business Growth, Customer Relationships, Small Business | 0 Comments
Closing Strong: Actions to Take in 2025 and 2026
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Opportunity, Results | 0 Comments
From TikTok To TOC TOC: Total Ownership Cost and the Theory of Constraints in Manufacturing
by Lea Strickland | September 30, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management, Operations, Small Business | 0 Comments
In the face of global disruptions, rising tariffs, and an evolving economic landscape, American manufacturers and small businesses are rethinking their supply chain strategies. At the center of this transformation are two critical concepts: Total Cost of Ownership and the Theory of Constraints.
Get Your Business Started with a Problem to Solve
by Lea Strickland | September 18, 2025 | Business Articles, Customer, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Opportunity | 0 Comments
f you want a business that endures, one that scales, attracts investors, and thrives in a competitive marketplace, then you must move beyond ideas and into action. That action starts with solving a real problem for real people.
No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just solid strategy and disciplined execution.
Want a business that endures, one that scales, attracts investors, and thrives in a competitive marketplace? Solve a problem.
The Power of Metrics: Choosing the Right Ones for Your Business Success
by Lea Strickland | September 9, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management, Business Ownership, Results, Uncategorized | 0 Comments
Choosing the right metrics is more than just a data exercise; it’s about measuring success intentionally. The right metrics provide clarity, accountability, and a roadmap for achieving your business goals. They allow you to measure progress, adjust, and align your efforts with your overarching vision.
Optimizing Financial Systems for High-Growth Tech Companies, Build to Scale
by Lea Strickland | August 26, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Execution, Operations | 0 Comments
Early-stage companies focus on innovation, intellectual property, and speed to market. That’s understandable and essential. However, many promising ventures stall, stumble, or fail because they didn’t build the business and financial systems to support the growth.
Closing Strong: Actions to Take in 2025 and 2026
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Opportunity, Results | 0 Comments
Budget and Forecast: Control Cash Flow and Fuel Growth
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Cash Management | 0 Comments
You’ve built the framework of your business, structure, operations, and plans. Now, it’s time to pin down the dollars and cents. You need a budget and forecast tools.
Optimizing Financial Systems for High-Growth Tech Companies, Build to Scale
by Lea Strickland | August 26, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Execution, Operations | 0 Comments
Early-stage companies focus on innovation, intellectual property, and speed to market. That’s understandable and essential. However, many promising ventures stall, stumble, or fail because they didn’t build the business and financial systems to support the growth.
Navigating Tariffs, Tech, and Rising Costs
by Lea Strickland | August 17, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Economy and Economics | 0 Comments
While the challenges of rising tariffs, labor costs, AI, and evolving regulations may seem daunting, they provide a unique opportunity for businesses to innovate, optimize, and lead through change. By being agile, investing in technology, empowering your workforce, and staying ahead of regulatory shifts, you can not only survive in this economic transition but also thrive. By embracing change with strategic focus and foresight, businesses can capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.
Scenario-Based Business Planning: Best, Likely, and Worst Cases
by Lea Strickland | July 17, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Business Plans, Strategy | 0 Comments
Scenario-based business planning doesn’t guarantee success—but it significantly improves your ability to navigate uncertainty, minimize risk, and capture opportunity. It’s a strategic must-have in volatile environments.
Seven Steps to Maximize Resource Flexibility and Minimize Cost
by Lea Strickland | June 23, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Business Plans, Resources | 0 Comments
companies of all sizes have historically relied on their workforce to remain competitive. However, rising compensation and benefit costs have created a dilemma: businesses struggle to afford full-time, permanent employees. Competing in today’s market requires agility but demands strategic financial planning. The challenge has intensified with new overtime eligibility rules—managers earning less than $55,068 (effective as of 2024) are now eligible for overtime pay. This shift has transformed workforce planning into a complex equation balancing financial affordability, capacity, and customer service.
Controlling the Critical Elements of Your Business
by Lea Strickland | June 18, 2025 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles | 0 Comments
While you may not have all the answers upfront, asking the right questions and seeking solutions brings you closer to financial success. By understanding the interplay between operational efficiency, cash flow, and profitability, you can forecast, plan, and act to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities. Effective budgeting and forecasting empower businesses to navigate cash shortages, optimize surpluses, and achieve long-term financial stability.
Business by the Numbers: Financial Oversight
by Lea Strickland | August 24, 2016 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Ownership, Cash Management, Execution, Leadership, Operations, Resources, Small Business | 0 Comments
Business Danger Signs: Is Your Business the Frog in the Pot?
by Lea Strickland | June 18, 2016 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Business Management, Business Ownership, Economy and Economics, Leadership, Results | 0 Comments
Business danger signs may be ignored or unnoticed, much like a frog in a pot of water on a stove. Yes, I am referring to the experiment involving a frog and a pot of hot water. If you put the frog in the pot and the water is boiling, he hops
out fast! But when you put the frog in a pot of room temperature water and then turn on the heat, it won’t notice the gradual temperature rise and fails to hop out. The gradual temperature rise prevents the frog from recognizing the danger signs.
How to Develop Business Growth Goals
by Lea Strickland | November 27, 2015 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Resources, Small Business, Strategy | 0 Comments
Goals, particularly sales targets, must align with your organization’s current results, capabilities, resources, and long-term vision. Generic goals fail to account for unique organizational contexts, making personalization critical for sustainable growth.
Non-Profit Isn’t No Profit, It’s Profit for a Purpose
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Non-Profit | 0 Comments
The term “nonprofit” can often be misleading. Many assume it means no profit, no revenue, or scraping by on goodwill. Nothing could be further from the truth. Non-profits generate profit, deliberately and strategically, to fuel their mission. They’re not businesses chasing personal wealth; they’re purpose-driven organizations creating profit for impact. Let’s shatter the myth and explore how non-profits thrive by aligning financial success with their C.O.R.E. Value℠, ensuring they serve their cause and sustain their future.
Open Door, Closed Mind: Listening Well and Making Informed Decisions
by Lea Strickland | January 25, 2016 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Business Ownership, Entrepreneur, Leadership, Non-Profit, Operations, Resources, Small Business, Strategy | 0 Comments
Wrong Client
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Customer, Customer Relationships, Government Funding Compliance, Non-Profit, Small Business, Small Business | 0 Comments
Who Is Running Your Business?
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Execution, Leadership, Non-Profit, Operations, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy | 0 Comments
Where Was the Board?
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Leadership, Non-Profit, Perspectives, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy | 0 Comments
Where Is My Cash Flow?
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Budgets and Financial Tools, Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Cash Management, Entrepreneur, Non-Profit, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up | 0 Comments
When Vendor Services Fall Short
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Non-Profit, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up, Vendor Relations | 0 Comments
Visionary Capability: Get Practical Pursuing the Dream
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Competitiveness, Entrepreneur, Execution, Funding, Leadership, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Non-Profit, Small Business, Start-up | 0 Comments
Validating Your Business Concept
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, C.O.R.E. Business System, Commercialization, Competitiveness, Concept, Entrepreneur, Funding, Leadership, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Non-Profit, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy, Viability | 0 Comments
Vision, Strategy, Structure, and Results
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, C.O.R.E. Business System, Capability, Commercialization, Competitiveness, Credibility, Entrepreneur, Execution, Leadership, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Non-Profit, Resources, Results, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy | 0 Comments
The successful organization – one that is both productive currently and viable long term – has integrated the vision, strategy, and structure of the organization to enable financial success. The ability of an organization to achieve every iota of success it is capable of delivering depends first upon the organization’s clarity of vision, second on its to select the appropriate strategy (or strategies) to accomplish the vision, and ultimately on the structure the organization puts in place to deliver the “goods” to the customer.
10 Proven Ways to Increase Customer Retention for Small Business
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Business Growth, Customer Relationships, Small Business | 0 Comments
Looking for Oz, Behind the Curtain: How Business Really Works
by Lea Strickland | September 2, 2025 | Business Articles, Entrepreneur, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy | 0 Comments
Pulling back the curtain on how business works reveals a complex but fascinating world of strategy, operations, leadership, and people. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a curious consumer, understanding these elements can help you confidently navigate the corporate landscape. Like Dorothy, you don’t need a wizard to succeed. However, you need a clear path, a strong team, and the courage to keep moving forward.
C.O.R.E.℠ Message: How to Catch Your Customers Attention
by Lea Strickland | August 12, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, C.O.R.E. Business System, Customer Relationships | 0 Comments
The C.O.R.E.℠ Message is a blueprint for creating clear, targeted communication that speaks to the heart of your customer’s problem and explains precisely how you can solve it. It’s more than just a marketing tagline—it’s your chance to hook the prospect into wanting to know more.
The Benefits of U.S.-Focused Operations
by Lea Strickland | June 21, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Plans, Customer Relationships, Operations | 0 Comments
Global supply chains, outsourcing, and offshoring have become the norm, many businesses are beginning to look closer to home for key operational functions, including customer service, manufacturing, and administrative support.
Reshoring and Onshoring
by Lea Strickland | June 20, 2025 | Business Articles, Competitiveness, Economy and Economics | 0 Comments
Reshoring and onshoring of manufacturing and technology are more than economic buzzwords; they are strategic imperatives. As global instability, supply chain disruptions, and national security concerns continue to rise, the United States must rebuild its industrial base and technological independence. This shift presents substantial opportunities for American small businesses and entrepreneurs to drive innovation, bolster domestic production, and foster long-term economic resilience.
Vendor Reliability: Why Showing Up Boosts Business Success
by Lea Strickland | May 22, 2025 | Business Articles, Customer Relationships, Operations, Resources, Vendor Relations | 0 Comments
From Cattle to Customers: Build a Powerful Brand on a Budget
by Lea Strickland | May 17, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Competitiveness, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Visibility | 0 Comments
Boeing’s Challenges: Production Woes, Air Force One Delays, and New Orders Amid Uncertainty
by Lea Strickland | May 16, 2025 | Business Articles, Change Management, Competitiveness, Credibility, Execution, Leadership, Operations | 0 Comments
Boeing, a cornerstone of the global aerospace industry, has faced significant challenges in recent years that have tarnished its reputation and strained its operations. The path forward demands a return to engineering excellence, strategic contract management, and transparent communication to restore confidence among customers, regulators, and the public.
NIH Data-sharing Requirements Put Funding and IP at Risk
by Lea Strickland | May 12, 2025 | Business Articles, Commercialization, Government Contracting, Government Funding Compliance, Viability | 0 Comments
Trump’s Tariffs: Strategies to Thrive in New Landscape
by Lea Strickland | May 6, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Capability, Change Management, Competitiveness, Economy and Economics, Entrepreneur, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Small Business, Viability | 0 Comments
Supply Chain Risk Oversight: Strategies for Effective Management
by Lea Strickland | June 23, 2025 | Operations, Vendor Relations | 0 Comments
Effective supply chain risk oversight is vital for business growth and survival. By identifying risks, diversifying their supplier base, leveraging technology, and planning for contingencies, businesses can effectively navigate uncertainties. Start today—audit your supply chain, adopt cutting-edge tools, and build a robust oversight framework to thrive.
SMEs Standing Out in the US Manufacturing Resurgence
by Lea Strickland | May 24, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Capability, Customer, Small Business, Strategy, Vendor Relations | 0 Comments
The US manufacturing renaissance offers big opportunities for SMEs. Develop your plan, specialize in niches, use smart tech, stay agile, tap the government for help, build relationships, get funding, act fast, research manufacturers, boost capabilities, network now, connect with MEP centers, update your website, and attend industry events. SMEs with bold moves will win.
Vendor Reliability: Why Showing Up Boosts Business Success
by Lea Strickland | May 22, 2025 | Business Articles, Customer Relationships, Operations, Resources, Vendor Relations | 0 Comments
Dog or Cat: Which Do You Want As a Vendor?
by Lea Strickland | October 5, 2015 | Business Articles, Customer Relationships, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Vendor Relations | 0 Comments
When Vendor Services Fall Short
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Non-Profit, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up, Vendor Relations | 0 Comments
Organizational Change Make It Personal
by Lea Strickland | July 11, 2025 | Business Articles, Change Management | 0 Comments
One of the most basic things we need to understand about change is that it is personal. People have to choose to change. External sources (people, events, etc.) can influence people to change; however, for true change to occur and be sustainable, each person must choose to change.
Build Adaptive Systems for Growth: Future-Proofing Finance
by Lea Strickland | July 1, 2025 | Business Articles, Change Management, Leadership, Operations | 0 Comments
Leading Through Uncertainty: CEO Lessons in Crisis Management
by Lea Strickland | May 29, 2025 | Business Articles, Change Management, Leadership, Viability | 0 Comments
Boeing’s Challenges: Production Woes, Air Force One Delays, and New Orders Amid Uncertainty
by Lea Strickland | May 16, 2025 | Business Articles, Change Management, Competitiveness, Credibility, Execution, Leadership, Operations | 0 Comments
Boeing, a cornerstone of the global aerospace industry, has faced significant challenges in recent years that have tarnished its reputation and strained its operations. The path forward demands a return to engineering excellence, strategic contract management, and transparent communication to restore confidence among customers, regulators, and the public.
Trump’s Tariffs: Strategies to Thrive in New Landscape
by Lea Strickland | May 6, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Capability, Change Management, Competitiveness, Economy and Economics, Entrepreneur, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Small Business, Viability | 0 Comments
Are You Doing Business with Zombies?
by Lea Strickland | June 9, 2020 | Business Articles, Change Management, Strategy | 0 Comments
The walking dead are zombies. Zombie companies are businesses that require recurring bailouts to stay in business. These firms cannot repay their debt. They are companies that are dead when you look at the fundamentals and long-term viability of their business models.
Strategic Delegation – How to Optimize Your Output and Profits
by Lea Strickland | May 19, 2020 | Business Growth, Business Ownership, Change Management, Entrepreneur, Execution, Leadership, Operations, Organizational Change, Results, Small Business, Strategy | 0 Comments
Many organizations and individuals seek to maximize output. However, maximizing output overlooks the importance of results. Output optimization focuses on utilizing the right resource for the task. It is all about the return on investment (time and money). Every business, especially small businesses, needs to understand the difference.
Successful Change Begins with a Clear Diagnosis
by Lea Strickland | July 3, 2018 | Change Management, Organizational Change | 0 Comments
Motivate Change to Get Desired Performance
by Lea Strickland | August 31, 2016 | Business Articles, Business Management, Change Management, Execution, Human Resources, Operations, Resources | 0 Comments
Is Franchising for You?
by Lea Strickland | January 17, 2016 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Plans, Change Management, Small Business | 0 Comments
Sales Capacity and Constraints: Do You Have Operational Capability?
by Lea Strickland | June 6, 2016 | Capability, Customer, Resources, Results, Sales and Service Excellence | 0 Comments
GRAB for Success – Gratitude, Resolve, Attitude, Belief – A Guide for Getting Beyond the First Day of the New Year
by Lea Strickland | June 6, 2016 | Balance Magazine | 0 Comments
Business Concept – Validating Your Idea
by Lea Strickland | May 8, 2016 | 12-Steps to Start, C.O.R.E. Business System, Concept, Customer, Focus Points, Opportunity, Viability | 0 Comments
10 Elements of Successful Businesses
by Lea Strickland | May 3, 2016 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Business Ownership, C.O.R.E. Business System, Capability, Commercialization, Competitiveness, Concept, Entity, Entrepreneur, Execution, Marketing, Sales and Business Development, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up, Viability | 0 Comments
Starting a New Business
by Lea Strickland | March 25, 2015 | 12-Steps to Start, C.O.R.E. Business System, Focus on Business Radio Show | 0 Comments
Finacial Projections (Part 1)
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2014 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, C.O.R.E. Business System | 0 Comments
Operational Aspects – The Business Plan
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2014 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Plans, C.O.R.E. Business System, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy | 0 Comments
The Business Plan “Audience”
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2014 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, Business Plans, C.O.R.E. Business System, Entity, Strategy | 0 Comments
The Business Plan – More than Planning the Business
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2014 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Management, Business Plans, C.O.R.E. Business System, Capability, Entity, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up | 0 Comments
Planning Your Business
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2014 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Plans, C.O.R.E. Business System, Capability, Entity, Small Business, Small Business, Start-up | 0 Comments
The First Step Is The Biggest
by Lea Strickland | July 29, 2014 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, C.O.R.E. Business System | 0 Comments
Get Ready – The First Step Is the Biggest!
by Lea Strickland | September 28, 2009 | 12-Steps to Start, Business Articles, C.O.R.E. Business System | 0 Comments
Think You Are Too Old to Start a Business?
by Lea Strickland | June 7, 2016 | Fox Business | 0 Comments
Think You Are Too Old to Start a Business, But Desperate to Get Out of the Cubicle?
by Lea Strickland | June 6, 2016 | Fox Business | 0 Comments
How to Grow Your Business, One Relationship at a Time – Network!
by Lea Strickland | June 6, 2016 | Customer, MWorld, Operations, Resources, Visibility | 0 Comments
Five Critical Steps to Maximize Resource Flexibility
by Lea Strickland | May 26, 2016 | Business Articles, Business Management, Execution, Human Resources, Leadership, Main Street, Operations, Resources, Results | 0 Comments
How to Bring in the First Customer
by Lea Strickland | December 11, 2012 | Business Articles, Main Street, Visibility | 0 Comments
Getting Business Is Easier Than Getting Paid
by Lea Strickland | October 29, 2012 | Business Articles, The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
Does Your Business Need an iPhone 5? Really?
by Lea Strickland | September 26, 2012 | Business Articles, The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
Is Your Business a National Debt Crisis Look-Alike?
by Lea Strickland | September 10, 2012 | Business Articles, The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
The Four Pillars of Peak Business Performance
by Lea Strickland | August 28, 2012 | Business Articles, Execution, The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
It is important to define four key criteria for PEAK performance: Purpose, Execution, Accountability, and Key performance indicators. You and your organization will benefit from the clarity of knowing what needs to be done, who has the responsibility for doing it, and how performance will be measured.
It Doesn’t Work for Long When Managers ‘Work the Numbers’
by Lea Strickland | August 1, 2012 | Business Articles, The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
Business CPR: Cash, Prospects and Revenues
by Lea Strickland | July 11, 2012 | Business Articles, The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
Power Is a Scarce Commodity For Mobile Entrepreneurs
by Lea Strickland | May 25, 2012 | Business Articles, The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
Sales Tax Isn’t Killing Your Store
by Lea Strickland | May 16, 2012 | The Street (the street.com) | 0 Comments
NEW YORK (TheStreet) — The media is constantly buzzing about real world retailers being unable to compete against online stores that provide the same merchandise. The stories often focus on the advantage online retailers have in avoiding charging sales taxes. But in reality the advantage isn’t all about the taxes: It is often about variety of products, availability, the price, and when you can get the product.
Choosing Your Business Name, Five Crucial Steps
by Lea Strickland | October 26, 2025 | Business Articles, Concept, Entity, Start-up | 0 Comments
Before committing to a business name, invest time in domain searches, trademark verification, online and e-commerce audits, and state-level business name checks.
The Critical Role of Business Continuity and Keyman Insurance
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Business Ownership, Small Business | 0 Comments
Business continuity plans must include the right insurance coverages.
10 Proven Ways to Increase Customer Retention for Small Business
by Lea Strickland | October 2, 2025 | Business Growth, Customer Relationships, Small Business | 0 Comments
From TikTok To TOC TOC: Total Ownership Cost and the Theory of Constraints in Manufacturing
by Lea Strickland | September 30, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management, Operations, Small Business | 0 Comments
In the face of global disruptions, rising tariffs, and an evolving economic landscape, American manufacturers and small businesses are rethinking their supply chain strategies. At the center of this transformation are two critical concepts: Total Cost of Ownership and the Theory of Constraints.
Incorporate Values into Your Business
by Lea Strickland | September 25, 2025 | Business Articles, Leadership, Small Business, Strategy | 0 Comments
Incorporating your values into your business is about authenticity and integrity. Expressing political views, however, requires careful consideration of the potential risks and rewards. Values-driven businesses can create loyal customers and build lasting goodwill without creating unnecessary conflict. But when politics takes center stage, the consequences can be far-reaching, positive or negative. Ultimately, it’s about knowing where your company stands and ensuring your stance aligns with your brand’s greater purpose.
Looking for Oz, Behind the Curtain: How Business Really Works
by Lea Strickland | September 2, 2025 | Business Articles, Entrepreneur, Small Business, Start-up, Strategy | 0 Comments
Pulling back the curtain on how business works reveals a complex but fascinating world of strategy, operations, leadership, and people. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a curious consumer, understanding these elements can help you confidently navigate the corporate landscape. Like Dorothy, you don’t need a wizard to succeed. However, you need a clear path, a strong team, and the courage to keep moving forward.
Time to Upgrade: Why Clinging to Floppy Disks and Legacy Systems is Holding Your Business Back
by Lea Strickland | August 19, 2025 | Business Articles, Business Management, Capability, Operations, Small Business | 0 Comments
Clinging to floppy disks or legacy systems isn’t just inefficient, it’s a strategic misstep that jeopardizes growth, security, and competitiveness. It’s time to upgrade.
The Federal Reserve’s High Interest Rates: Stifling Small Business Growth in 2025
by Lea Strickland | July 22, 2025 | Business Growth, Economy and Economics, Small Business, Uncategorized | 0 Comments
One Big Beautiful Act Reistates Immediate Expensing for Domestic R&E Costs
by Lea Strickland | July 17, 2025 | Funding, Small Business | 0 Comments
The OBBB Act isn’t just legislation; it’s a strategic win for U.S. companies, big and small. It delivers the flexibility, liquidity, and assurance to invest boldly in tomorrow’s innovations.
How Zohran Mamdani’s Tax Hikes Impact Businesses in NYC (and Beyond)
by Lea Strickland | June 26, 2025 | Business Articles, Economy and Economics, Perspectives, Small Business | 0 Comments
Zohran Mamdani’s democratic mayoral candidate for NYC, New York City, has proposed tax hikes, on individuals and businesses. His platform risks relocation to lower-tax areas, such as Florida, Texas, or nearby suburbs, is a critical concern, with the potential to erode NYC’s tax base and economic vitality [3][7][8]. Would Mamdani’s election as mayor create NYC’s own “Brexit” event?
Women Mean Business – Seek Investors or Be an Investor
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Small Business, Start-up, Women In Business | 0 Comments
The Variability of Weather and Women: It’s All About Perspective
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Small Business, Start-up, Women In Business | 0 Comments
Distinguish between Your Role as an Owner and an Employee
by Lea Strickland | July 31, 2014 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Business Ownership, Leadership, Small Business, Start-up, Women In Business | 0 Comments
The “Girls’ Club” Revisited
by Lea Strickland | September 28, 2009 | Business Articles, Business Growth, Small Business, Start-up, Women In Business | 0 Comments