It's been a while since we've posted a business update, so here are some odds and ends from our world for those of you who are curious.
For those of you who don't care, skip this post and check back in with us in a few days for more content.
The Economy Isn't the Problem, But it's not our Friend Either!
There is a lot of talk in the business community about the impact of the economic slowdown. Despite the ongoing paranoia about the economy, we find that because we are adding value to our clients, they continue to invite us back for more. Spending a dollar in development to earn back twenty dollars in retention and productivity improvements continues to be a compelling deal. Companies that believe employee development matters will continue to invest in it, although possibly at a slower pace over the next couple quarters.
Near Seattle? We'd love to meet you sometime.
It's been a challenge to keep our main website updated with all of our public speaking engagements and workshops. On November 11th, 2008, we're speaking on Management Coaching Skills (Download nov_08_program.doc) at the Society for Design Administration in downtown Seattle. Other talks and workshops are forthcoming. If you'd like to be informed when these happen (and most are in the Pacific Northwest), just let us know. We also have a half-day coaching intensive scheduled for January 17th.
We're no Longer a One-Woman Show!
Emergence Consulting® continues to grow through the addition of partner consultants. Over time, I hope to add more information on our partners to the site, and invite them to contribute to the blog as well. We're lucky to have such talent on our team - and our clients are delighted too. At this point we're not recruiting more partner consultants (we have some great talent waiting in the wings) but that may change in the future. If you have something compelling to offer and you're in the pacific northwest - reach out to us.
(Extra credit if you noticed our ®! Emergence Consulting is now a registered service mark with the US Patent and Trademark Office. According to our smart legal people, that means we need to start using that little symbol. Don't worry, we promise not to let it go to our heads!)
New Service Offerings
Adding to our team means adding to the services we can offer. In addition to our outstanding team and leadership development programs, we now offer the following additional services.
"HR Manager On Call" - Can't afford an HR manager but have the need for HR support? We now have the capability to connect you with an experienced HR professional who can support you on an as-needed basis. Use "HR On Call" on either by project or on an ongoing basis.
"Employee Handbooks & Policies" - We will research and develop a customized employee handbook and/or employee policies for your organization.
Planning for 2009
Like many of you, we're actively involved in planning for an outstanding 2009, and working out our annual budgets. It's been a great year so far, and next one will be even better. Thanks for continuing to be a part of the Enlightened Manager Blog, and making this one of the best places to learn about leadership on the web.
Now, back to the articles!
Cheri Baker
President
Emergence Consulting
Author of The Enlightened Manager Blog