Running behind today? Feeling like you’ll never get done with that to-do list? Always playing catch up? Wishing there were a few more hours in each day, or maybe even another day added to the week? If we’re able to understand exactly how these questions would make someone feel, that’s and example of empathy. Empathy can be a valuable instrument …
Gut Instincts: Following Where It Leads You
I have recently been consumed with the world of podcasting. For the uninitiated, podcasts are digital recordings, often in a series, typically available for free on the internet. They can be listened to on your computer or on your smart phone. There are many different topics available to listen to, and many of them provide excellent quality content, all for …
Learning From the Pain
Everyone that has been in business for a while can tell you, sometimes customers are the worst part of your job! We recently had one of these clients, and it really tested me emotionally. Fortunately, I was able to do what we should all do when we have a difficult client: grit our teeth going through the ordeal, but keep …
Listen for Lessons Learned
A quick search on the internet will reveal an untold number of quotations about lessons in life. If we think back to our childhood, most of us would recall many conversations (lectures as I recall it) with parents, teachers and relatives. They often extolled the benefits of the lessons that we learned from something that we had done, which, invariably, was …
Treat them like they want to be treated: Dealing with toddler clients
We start today’s post with a reference to a 1990 song by the artist Father MC. And while it is not necessary to have a working knowledge of the lyrics and melody of this song (but if you do know it, feel free to sing along), the title is the perfect launch point for this discussion. I recently completed a Case Study …
Snooze Button
Procrastination. It’s defined as intentionally putting of something that needs to be done. It’s one of the biggest problems facing a small business owner. Without a boss looking over your shoulder, the temptation to procrastinate can be overwhelming. It’s a common human condition: we all like to avoid things that are difficult and uncomfortable, so we put them off for …
Everyone Loves a Field Trip
Like many of you, I am blessed with the job of being a parent. Like most jobs, its got its ups and downs, Sometimes it’s the best thing in the world, and other times I can’t imagine why anyone would choose to subject themselves to such torture! (Sounds just like a real job, doesn’t it!) Lately, one of the rougher …
Become the Authority. Gaining the Trust of Your Clients
I have recently become fascinated with the possibilities of digital marketing. As a result, I’ve spent a good bit of time researching the different methods and applications available for small business owners to efficiently and effectively market their products on the web. One of these methods is the podcast, which allows businesses (with a relatively small up-front investment) to have …
Education, Education, Education.
I thought that I would title this post in honor of Sidney Chaisson, by using his most familiar quote: “Education, education, education.” Sidney is one of the venerable inspectors in our industry. He was the first home inspector licensed in Louisiana (LA LHI# 10001) served as chairman of the Louisiana State Board of Home Inspectors and an active member of ASHI. He …
Who The Hell Am I? An introduction to me…
I hope that this post finds everyone doing well. I figured that since this may be the first material that you’re reading from me, some introductions are in order. My name is Joseph Cook Jr, and I am a licensed home inspector in Louisiana and Mississippi. My hope is that, through this blog and my other offerings, I can help …