The Gray Cat Blog

A growing library of practical business articles and insights created to help entrepreneurs, small business owners, franchisees, and multi-unit operators strengthen leadership, improve operations, drive growth, and build more profitable organizations.

 
Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 8: Merchandising Sep 13, 2024

Merchandising is a critical aspect of how "shoppable" a store will be. Conceal or confuse the customer with your merchandising and it won't matter if you carry the top brands, the customer will become...

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Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 7: Strategic Business Planning Sep 09, 2024

There is an insightful quote from John Harvey-Jones, an English Businessman that says: 

“The nice thing about not planning is that failure comes as a complete surprise rather than being preceded by ...

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Burn the Ship Podcast: What does Gray Cat do? Sep 03, 2024

Ever wonder what Gray Cat does?

Here is a short clip from a recent podcast, Burn the Ship, describing that topic.

Want more ideas?  For more information on Gray Cat Learning Series, visit: https://w...

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Gray Cat: Micromanagement & Leadership with John Lofstock Aug 19, 2024

Recently, I appeared on a podcast hosted by John Lofstock where we discussed a myriad of topics including micromanagement and leadership.

Here is a short clip discussing this subject.

Want more idea...

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Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 6: Profit & Loss (P&L) Analysis Aug 15, 2024

 

Few operators take the time to better understand both revenue projections as well as variable and fixed expenses so that they can see what contributes or detracts from profitability.
 
A “P&L (Pr...
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Gray Cat: Developing a Plan of Action Aug 04, 2024

 At Gray Cat, one of the areas of expertise is Interim Executive Management.

Have a underperforming or newly-acquired division and need some external leadership?  Gray Cat fills the gap and assists i...
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Gray Cat Leadership Lessons: Be Part of the Program Jul 28, 2024

 

Not every team and member is built the same way. It is critical for the manager to understand each of the personalities and manage the group with its myriad of personalities. 
 
In some cases, it...
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Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 5: Operational Excellence Jul 23, 2024

Managing a retail store is tough work.

Between operations, merchandising, marketing and facility upkeep, retail business owners have their hands full. Managing the details of retail is the difference...

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Gray Cat: Want Success? Be Self-Motivated Jul 16, 2024

Recently, I appeared on the Big Pixel Biz/Dev Podcast and we discussed entrepreneurial motivation.

While there is no silver-bullet in starting your own company, many reach out to me for guidance simp...

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Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 4: Time Management & Life Balance Jun 27, 2024

 What is the quickest way to reduce stress and achieve greater balance in your life? 

In my opinion, it’s developing better time management skills. I know, I know, it sounds "riveting”, but it is tru...

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Gray Cat: Tackling a Project Jun 25, 2024

Recently, I appeared on the Jada Willis Experience Podcast where she asked me how Gray Cat tackles projects.  In part of my response, I outline that I am not your typical "consultant" since I dive int...

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Gray Cat Unleashed Episode 3: Leadership Jun 13, 2024

Become an Effective and Ethical Leader

Effective leadership involves a myriad of skillsets that when properly combined and executed creates a dynamic leader that is capable of taking their teams to l...

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