The ESOP solution

March 1, 2026  |  Business, Markets

What happens to an owner’s company when they retire and no successor is available to take the reins? The answer might be all around them—on the shop floor, among the sales staff or within human resources, finance and legal departments.
A presentation survival guide

February 15, 2026  |  Business, Markets

If you’re like most people, the thought of giving a presentation ranks somewhere between a root canal and rush-hour traffic on the list of things you’d rather avoid. In fact, studies estimate that nearly 75% of the population experiences some level of anxiety about public speaking.
When loyalty hurts a family business more

December 2, 2025  |  Business, Features, Markets

“I can’t fire them—they’re family” can be a dangerous phrase in a family business. This deep-seated loyalty can create complications in the business if loyalty over performance is prioritized. Among the many excuses for not parting ways with family are: “It’s not a good time”; “Thi…
Your business: What’s it worth?

October 1, 2025  |  Business, Markets

Your most valuable asset may be your business. A business owner can spend decades building a business and reputation. As they approach retirement age, they likely have questions such as: How do they value their business? How do they maximize the value and minimize taxes upon sale or succession?
Making AI work for your business

August 1, 2025  |  Business, Markets

How can textile companies use artificial intelligence to improve business efficiencies? Nelson Valderrama and Dan Hughes share their insights.
Improving warehouse safety and efficiency

June 1, 2025  |  Business, Markets

Several months ago, I ran across a particularly interesting query in one of the LinkedIn groups I belong to: What are some basic questions warehouse managers ask?
Positive recruiting practices

April 1, 2025  |  Business, Markets

As the recruiting manager for Made in the Shade Tent Rentals, I embody the first hurdle on the road to employment. If 100 people apply for one job, close to a quarter will make it to the first interview with me over the phone. Of that quarter, fewer than half will make it to an in-person interview. …
Four-dimensional leadership

February 1, 2025  |  Business, Markets

Traditional leadership philosophies focus on what it takes for a leader to have sway over a team, to drive toward an outcome and to create coordinated movement. These aspects of reaching a goal are critical components of leadership, but they are one-dimensional.