All articles by Matt Palmquist
When molehills are worse than mountainsFebruary 15, 2021 Small, persistent customer service failures may pose a bigger threat to customer retention than large, isolated incidents.
Riding out the wave of disruptionJanuary 14, 2021 A new mathematical model helps incumbent firms forecast consumer response to novel tech offerings.
Make the most of your influencersDecember 4, 2020 New research offers a taxonomy that can help marketers choose the right partners and deploy them effectively.
Boycotts unsettle boardsNovember 13, 2020 A director’s beliefs can prompt his or her departure when the company finds itself targeted by the public.
When it’s “us vs. them” in the executive suiteOctober 1, 2020 Clearing out long-serving executives might seem a natural first step for a new CEO, but it can backfire in challenging times.
Clocking in, 21st-century styleSeptember 3, 2020 In the era of telecommuting, what qualifies as “working time”? A new paper proposes a way to track employees’ hours on the job while respecting their time off.
When the CEO gets divorced, who else pays the price?July 16, 2020 More marriages are expected to end following COVID-19 lockdowns, and boards should be aware of what that means for CEOs.
Embracing the impersonal approach to customer serviceJune 18, 2020 Businesses should consider the pros and cons of adopting digital customer service systems.
Want your employees to behave on social media? Spell out the rulesMay 14, 2020 Many employees are unaware of their firm’s policy on personal social media use, which creates perceptions of unfairness when they cross the line.
Climate change risks and shareholder activismApril 22, 2020 It isn’t mandatory for U.S. firms to report potential environmental risks, but shareholders increasingly seek the information.
A deep dive into cause-related marketingMarch 19, 2020 Corporate charity campaigns and donations are popular marketing tools. But do they pay off?
The three Ts of handling consumer dataJanuary 23, 2020 Customers give personal information to companies that are careful about trust, transparency, and the type of data they request.
Help old habits die easierDecember 13, 2019 A "stop-doing" culture frees employees from embedded routines and perspectives, which makes room for innovative thinking.
Taking a closer look at female board appointmentsNovember 14, 2019 Firms facing pressure to add women to the board tend to increase the number of seats, not replace incumbent men — which dilutes the female directors’ power.
How subsidiaries can emerge as “centers of excellence”
October 23, 2019 A case study shows how a small business arm can deliver real value and innovation to a multinational.
Electronic word-of-mouth can make or break a product launchAugust 23, 2019 It’s the sentiment, not the volume, of posts that matters.
Keep your CSR programs on trackAugust 8, 2019 Corporate social responsibility can be tricky, especially for multinationals. A new study lays out some guidance.
How fake news can taint a brand’s imageJune 6, 2019 When a company’s ads run next to fabricated articles, its reputation suffers.
The hidden perils of temp turnoverMay 2, 2019 In the gig economy, more companies are employing temporary workers for greater flexibility. But that strategy comes at a cost.
The silver lining of an aging populationMarch 4, 2019 Economists often warn that an abundance of elders will be problematic for the economy. But new research shows that such a demographic shift could be a good thing.
How to Tell When It’s Quittin’ TimeJanuary 31, 2019 To deter turnover, managers can watch for the behaviors that employees exhibit when they are considering leaving.
The Jolly and Folly of Holiday Decor for RetailersDecember 21, 2018 Christmas displays make shoppers more forgiving of employee mistakes but more judgmental of unfairness.
Try a New Hiring Framework to Attract Knowledge StarsNovember 15, 2018 Traditional HR practices won’t suffice when firms seek to attract the sometimes quirky, and always necessary, idea people.
What happens when the salary-secrecy taboo is broken?October 25, 2018 Employees who know what their bosses earn work harder, but the opposite is true if their colleague’s paycheck is bigger.
Workplace perks: Wasteful indulgence or powerful profit driver?August 20, 2018 A study of firms in 43 countries finds that treating employees well pays off.
The Unfunny Side of Wisecracking BossesJuly 2, 2018 Although supervisors’ humor can boost workplace morale, too many jokes or the wrong sort can leave employees feeling disengaged and more apt to break the rules.
The balancing act of corporate social responsibility programsMay 31, 2018 Employees often take a pay cut to participate in CSR programs, but many do so to gain career skills.
The Risks and Costs of Cyber-AttacksMay 9, 2018 High-profile companies that frequently use consumer data are targets, and negative effects linger for years.
When Cookie Monster Goes on a DietMarch 9, 2018 Consumers’ bonds with brand characters are much like trusted friendships. And when that old pal gets a makeover, certain consumers will be resistant to the change.
Can Workaholism Be Good for You?
January 18, 2018 For people who put in long hours but love their jobs, a sense of fulfillment seems to offset unhealthy stress.
Four rules for courting the 21st-century customerNovember 27, 2017 In the era of social media and big data, maintaining consumer relationships is a lot trickier than it used to be.
Want More Ethical Employees? Give ’Em a NudgeOctober 26, 2017 A subtle suggestion from management can positively influence employee behavior, but a heavy-handed approach is likely to backfire.
Does Online Crowdfunding Reward Actual Innovation?September 27, 2017 Although crowdfunding has been hailed as a brilliant new tool for edgy entrepreneurs, Internet investors tend to back safer, less groundbreaking products.
Looking for a Better IT Project Manager? Try the Hybrid ModelAugust 24, 2017 As business and technology strategies become more integrated, companies need an IT manager who can watch the bottom line and communicate, as well as do the hard coding.
140 Characters Can Make or Break Your BrandJuly 20, 2017 An informal social media style can backfire on an unknown company or boost trust among an audience that is already familiar with the firm.
Next-Level Cybersecurity: Preparing for Internet ShutdownJune 29, 2017 Companies around the world need a comprehensive plan in place to ensure that critical business can still get done in the case of a prolonged Web outage.
Your Next Corporate Leader Should Have a Pilot’s LicenseMay 18, 2017 CEOs who fly planes in their spare time take on risks and seek out new experiences, traits that lead them to preside over firms with better innovation outcomes.
For Startups, Giving Up Control Is Key to Creating ValueApril 19, 2017 Young firms are valued significantly higher and attract more financing after their founders relinquish some power.
How TiVo Confronted the Disruptor’s DilemmaMarch 23, 2017 Upstart firms that want to break into an established sector often must collaborate with the very power brokers they seek to unseat.
Turn a Growth Bump into a BoonFebruary 23, 2017 Traditional marketing tends toward rigidity and long-range planning, but firms must break out of this framework to exploit unexpected, one-off events.
How Strategy Talk Creates ValueFebruary 16, 2017 Investors appreciate hearing about a new CEO’s strategic vision, and they respond by bidding up the stock price.
Return on DesignFebruary 9, 2017 Companies that receive awards for product design see an immediate uptick in stock price.
Doing the Super Bowl Ad MathFebruary 1, 2017 Popular commercials aired during the big game can drive up a firm’s stock price, but only if the brand is relatively unknown or has a flagging reputation.
Sorting through Corporate Protest TacticsJanuary 26, 2017 Activist groups’ ideological stance, as well as a company’s own characteristics, shape the types of strategies used to effect change.
How Smartphone Apps Influence the Way We ShopJanuary 19, 2017 Consumers who use mobile apps tend to make more-frequent purchases, spend less per transaction, and return items more often than those who don’t.
A Silver Lining in Gray Markets? It’s Complicated.January 12, 2017 Although manufacturers can derive some short-term benefits from unauthorized retailers, outright bootlegging is harmful to profits and reputation.
What It Takes to Stay Ahead of the CompetitionJanuary 5, 2017 For companies, sustaining a consistently high level of performance requires unique capabilities that may differ sharply from the strategies they used to succeed in the first place.
Understanding the “Ricochet Effect” of Bad NewsDecember 22, 2016 Profit warnings not only hurt a company’s domestic rivals, but also international competitors, and can cause industry-wide investor skittishness.
Female CEOs: A Steady Hand at the WheelDecember 15, 2016 The number of women presiding over large companies still lags far behind men, yet the firms they lead tend to be more risk averse and more profitable over the long term.
The Myth of the Coveted Loyal ShopperDecember 8, 2016 When it comes to consumer goods, infrequent purchasers, not faithful customers, seem to drive market-share growth.
Want an Innovative Culture? Be Kind to Your Creative ThinkersDecember 1, 2016 Companies with employee-friendly policies produce more patents, which shareholders highly value and result in long-term financial benefits.
Joint-Venture Road Map for the Little(r) GuyNovember 17, 2016 International partnerships can put parties at odds, but there are ways for smaller firms to avoid common conflicts and stick up for themselves.
The Pros and (Mostly) Cons of Cracking Wise in Online Job AdsNovember 10, 2016 The use of humor in job listings posted on the Internet can grab people’s attention, but it may turn them off to the actual job and company being advertised.
Serendipity in the CloudNovember 3, 2016 Shifting from physical to virtual data platforms can reduce companies’ costs and improve sustainability.
Delivering Bad News Weighs on HR StaffOctober 27, 2016 Managers can recognize and mitigate the stress experienced by employees responsible for “necessary evils” such as laying off colleagues.
When Companies Should, and Shouldn’t, Tout Their Global ReachOctober 20, 2016 Being recognized as an international brand is usually a decided competitive advantage. But some markets and certain consumers prefer local firms.
When Customer Loyalty Programs BackfireOctober 13, 2016 Customers who don’t hit the target to qualify for a reward are apt to hold it against the company and make fewer subsequent purchases.
What Does the Rise of 3D Printing Mean for Global Companies?October 6, 2016 With manufacturing put into the hands of small firms and even consumers, traditional value chains may no longer be as advantageous.
Agreeable vs. Disagreeable CEO: Who Do You Want at the Helm?September 29, 2016 An executive’s character traits are linked to certain patterns in a firm’s investments, strategy decisions, and overall performance, a new study finds.
Managers Need to Understand Their Sales Reps’ Cultural ValuesSeptember 22, 2016 Employees who push innovative products have a tough job, but can be encouraged by managers who grasp their motivations to succeed.
Stressed at Work? Tell It to Social MediaSeptember 15, 2016 Tweets and other posts reveal that employees experience varying levels of stress throughout the workweek, and weekends aren’t necessarily a reprieve.
Far-Flung Shareholder Meetings May Be a Red FlagSeptember 8, 2016 When a company chooses to hold its shareholder meeting in a distant location or at an odd time, executives might be trying to avoid revealing bad news.
The legal perspective on wellness programsSeptember 1, 2016 Recent ADA-related challenges raise questions over corporate initiatives designed to improve employees’ health.
What Can the Cola Wars Teach Us about Brand Loyalty?August 25, 2016 In mature product categories, the top companies usually compete fiercely for one another’s customers. But they might be better off focusing on the fringe consumers who haven’t yet picked a side.
Inbox Zero: Can Employees Be Persuaded to Abandon Email?August 18, 2016 The rise of Web 2.0 platforms and social media programs has the potential to enhance the way colleagues collaborate, but old work habits die hard.
Tailoring Your Approach to Consumers in Different CountriesAugust 11, 2016 Appealing to the cultural and economic specifics of a foreign market is the key to getting consumers to shop more frequently and spend more.
Nice Guys Finish FirstAugust 4, 2016 When hiring CEOs, companies appear to focus on interpersonal skills while overlooking the candidate’s capacity to get the job done.
When Shareholders Speak Their MindsJuly 28, 2016 A large proportion of shareholder proposals contested by firms receive support from other investors when put to a vote.
Is the End Looming for Razor-and-Blades Pricing?July 21, 2016 Companies might want to rethink the storied model of charging less up front to get more down the line — especially as e-commerce offers consumers ever greater flexibility, information, and selection.
The Double-Edged Sword of Overseas ExperienceJuly 14, 2016 Executives who accumulate international know-how are no more likely than others to advance their career at multinational companies.
For Innovators, a Drawback to Data AnalyticsJuly 7, 2016 Number crunching can be valuable for firms exploiting their existing resources, but can backfire for companies seeking to branch out with new products or services.
Putting Your (Charitable) Money Where Your Market IsJune 30, 2016 Manufacturing and service firms differ in their approach to domestic and international philanthropy.
A Little Distance from Colleagues May Spike CreativityJune 16, 2016 Physical separation among coworkers isn’t necessarily an obstacle to innovative collaboration, and other types of breathing room may actually help productivity.
Repeat Partnering Leads to Lower ProfitsJune 9, 2016 Working with the same firms over and over again may boost a company’s revenue, but it can be costly.
Knock, knock, who’s there? Your bossJune 2, 2016 In most cases, when managers joke with their employees, it’s no laughing matter.
Cracking the Search Engine CodeMay 26, 2016 E-tailers create sponsored ads in a bid to attract online consumers, but lower-cost improvements to search placement can be more profitable.
Are Good Corporate Citizens Rewarded?May 19, 2016 Large U.S. firms with a sustainability program see an uptick in financial performance and have a positive impact on the environment around them.
Listen, Do You Want to Know a Secret?May 12, 2016 Creating a company-wide culture that prizes sensitive brand, process, innovation, and database information is the key to extracting value from proprietary jewels without giving them away.
Who’s the Boss?May 5, 2016 When companies are run by co-CEOs, sharing power equally doesn’t necessarily translate into better results.
A Side Effect of Imports: They Encourage Homegrown InnovationApril 28, 2016 Large U.S. firms react to competition from high-quality foreign importers by investing more in their own R&D efforts and producing more patents.
Do You Have a Calling? For Gay Employees, the Answer Is Complicated April 21, 2016 Working in a supportive environment boosts LGB employees’ belief that they are living up to their professional aspirations.
“We Know Who You Are” Is a Profitable PitchApril 14, 2016 Despite privacy concerns, businesses can benefit from including personalized information about potential customers in their email advertising appeals.
Is There an Upside to Economic Downturns?
April 7, 2016 Forward-looking companies used the recent recession as an opportunity to restructure their workforce through a combination of hiring, layoffs, and training.
Lost in Translation? Marketing to Bilingual ConsumersMarch 31, 2016 The key to selling products to an ethnically diverse audience may not be as obvious as you think.
When Consumers Are More Than Customers March 24, 2016 Companies can turn consumers into active online volunteers who offer consistently valuable input on existing and yet-to-be-designed products.
Why Are There So Few Women in the C-Suite?March 17, 2016 A new study finds that despite progress on gender equity, there seems to be an implicit quota on women holding senior positions at large companies.
How to Make the Long Commute WorkMarch 10, 2016 Employee self-control and subtle prompts from employers can turn the hours spent getting to and from the office into productive time.
Rolling with the Changes in R&DMarch 3, 2016 A study describes how companies can adopt a flexible innovation strategy that is responsive to changes in rapidly shifting markets.
OMG! This Online Marketing Campaign Rocks!February 25, 2016 Companies rolling out social media marketing campaigns should keep their messages casual and general.
No Credit Where Credit Reports Are DueFebruary 18, 2016 A study shows that employees with poor credit are no more or less productive than their colleagues with better standing.
One Bad Apple Spoils the CompanyFebruary 11, 2016 Don’t let the performance of superstars distract you from the damage toxic employees inflict.
Beauty Is in the Eye of the ShareholderFebruary 4, 2016 A new study finds that the design of new products can help move a company’s stock — especially if those products appear to be very useful.
Superstars at Your ServiceJanuary 28, 2016 Managers in restaurants and other service businesses can maximize sales by carefully filling teams with top performers and underachievers.
Weak Links in the ChainJanuary 21, 2016 Flexible, adaptive supply chain management is an overlooked but vital component of a company’s overall innovation strategy.
Click BaitJanuary 14, 2016 Companies can maximize their investments in Web analytics if they focus tightly on priorities, layer human intelligence on top of smart technology, and enlist senior management to lead the charge.
How Not to Police Employees’ Social MediaJanuary 7, 2016 Companies seeking to balance the rights of their workforce against the safety of their reputation have to craft clear social media policies.
The Business Benefits of Marital BlissDecember 23, 2015 Working spouses are more likely to emotionally support each other when they work for companies that offer flexibility in balancing home and professional life. This support has important implications for company productivity and turnover as well.
The Most Profitable Way to Divest a SubsidiaryDecember 17, 2015 When firms want to shed a subsidiary, they must decide whether to spin off or sell the business. New research shows that selling, rather than spinning, may be the more profitable option.
Why Loyalty Programs Based on Consumer Spending Can Be a Win-WinDecember 10, 2015 Despite the bad press about spending-based rewards programs, companies and consumers can both benefit if firms are willing to give up a small amount of revenue.
For Startups, Ideas MatterDecember 3, 2015 Predicting a startup’s success before the venture is even launched may seem impossible. But entrepreneurs and investors should never overlook the value of assessing the basic concept behind the business.
Can Networking at the Office Become Too Much of a Good Thing?November 19, 2015 It’s generally presumed that employees who accrue political power at work are higher performers. But those who schmooze a little less are actually the best at their jobs.
The Next Generation of Social Media in the OfficeNovember 12, 2015 Email is still the king of office communications, but company-hosted social networking platforms are gaining in popularity, especially among younger workers.
Don’t Sweat the Swanky StuffNovember 5, 2015 C-suite executives with criminal records in their personal lives are more likely to commit fraud than their law-abiding but free-spending counterparts.
Merging across BordersOctober 29, 2015 Given the growing number of international mergers, managers must overcome cultural differences with foreign colleagues to avoid the type of friction that can devalue a deal.
Putting the Naysayers in the SpotlightOctober 22, 2015 Early adopters get most of the attention from analysts and marketers, but focusing on consumers who are resistant to innovations is another way to bring new products to market.
What to Expect from Off-Site MeetingsOctober 15, 2015 Workshops in another setting can provide employees with a valuable means of thinking critically about their company’s vision.
How Ads for Big Brands Could Benefit Rivals InsteadOctober 8, 2015 When market share is concentrated among a few companies, they advertise more. But that dynamic could actually benefit the competition.
A blueprint for forays into emerging marketsOctober 2, 2015 Analysts often discourage risky expansions into developing markets, but three distinct strategies have been associated with success.
The Subtleties of CSR in Hard TimesSeptember 24, 2015 Many corporations reduced their investments in sustainable initiatives during the recent recession — but some relatively high-performing firms actually increased their long-term commitment to CSR.
Navigating the Crowdfunding LandscapeSeptember 17, 2015 Online peer-based fundraising tools have the potential to disrupt traditional investing models, but entrepreneurs and investors must overcome existing cultural and government barriers.
Serving the Silver GenerationSeptember 10, 2015 Firms on the forefront of innovation often concentrate on introducing new products to younger consumers, but an aging population gives companies fresh opportunities as well.
The How and When of Getting Back to WorkSeptember 3, 2015 Employees who get injured or sick on the job are returning to work much sooner than they did in the past, but companies have varied reasons for accommodating their injured workers.
A New Perspective on Chief Information OfficersAugust 26, 2015 CIOs are staying longer in their jobs, another sign that supply chain management is becoming more vital to large companies.
Making Room for Mr. MomAugust 20, 2015
Working fathers are placing more importance on their familial obligations, and companies must react to this societal shift.
What Makes a Company More Likely to Protect LGBT Rights?August 13, 2015
Attracting new employees and doing right by its current workforce aren’t the only factors that lead a company to adopt LGBT-friendly HR policies.
Frenemies with BenefitsAugust 6, 2015
When their profit goals differ, fiercely competitive firms may decide to collaborate with each other on complementary offerings.
The Not-So-Rosy Reality of StartupsJuly 30, 2015
Managers of startup companies should carefully balance their goals of expansion against the reality of cutbacks and downsizing.
The Unexpected Benefits of Product ReturnsJuly 23, 2015
Product returns are typically seen as a necessary headache and a cost drain. But companies can use their return policies to enhance customer loyalty and increase profits.
Are Online Reviews the New Focus Group?July 16, 2015 Online consumer reviews of new products are more than just word of mouth — they also can provide companies with early (and free) advice on how to improve products.
How Corporations Can Slim Down with a Bottom-Up ApproachJuly 9, 2015 The streamlining of corporate operations is usually executive-led, but engaging frontline employees is crucial to genuine reform.
What Does “Closing Time” Mean to Your Retail Business?June 30, 2015 Although supervisors profess to have stores’ closing routines under control, consumers and employees alike bemoan the lack of consistency in related management policies.
When CEO Star Power BackfiresJune 25, 2015 Companies can significantly influence the media visibility of their CEO with certain kinds of press releases — but having a prominent CEO can also work to shareholders’ detriment.
The Advantages of a Diverse BoardJune 18, 2015 When it comes to corporate multiculturalism, it’s the relationship between an ethnically diverse board and its CEO that makes the biggest difference for leading firms.
Decentralization of the Corporate Structure Is Key for Workers with DisabilitiesJune 11, 2015 Firms can best accommodate employees with disabilities by delegating authority to their immediate supervisors and providing clear instructions in the HR manual on how to handle workers’ individual needs.
Oops! I “Dropped” My Phone: A Consumer’s Justification for Buying New ThingsJune 4, 2015 Contrary to the popular notion that consumers care for the products they own, people are more likely to act recklessly toward certain items when a more appealing upgrade reaches the market.
So Happy Together: The Right Kind of CollaborationMay 28, 2015 The success of projects involving several stakeholders can depend on achieving the right balance of internal and external contributions.
International Investors Can Be a Hidden AdvantageMay 21, 2015
Courting investors with expertise in foreign markets can provide companies with a crucial, but often overlooked, advantage in pulling off international M&A deals.
The Double-Edged Sword of SuccessMay 14, 2015
If firms become mired in the successful practices that got them to where they are, they may stop looking for new ways to exploit resources and opportunities.
For New Product Design, “Likes” Can Lead You AstrayMay 7, 2015 Your next innovation breakthrough probably won’t come from social media.
In Customer Service, In with the New Doesn’t Mean Out with the OldApril 30, 2015
Customer service websites can help B2B firms keep their costs down, but they must invest in traditional hotlines and tech support to satisfy their neediest clients.
Taking an Innovative Step ForwardApril 23, 2015 Conventional wisdom suggests that delays during the new product development cycle can hinder a project, or even kill it entirely. It’s time to rethink this narrow outlook.
When the Search for People Skills BackfiresApril 16, 2015 Job ads that specifically seek team players can have the unintended downside of scaring away potential hires with technical rather than collaborative skill sets.
Demand Growing for Supply Chain ExecsApril 9, 2015 Large companies are recruiting an increasing number of top executives with experience in supply chain management. But the financial payoff remains elusive.
Protecting IP from 3D Printing: What Companies Need to KnowApril 2, 2015 Many companies were caught unawares by the threat of online music piracy in the 1990s. But the lessons they learned then can teach them how to deal with new technological dangers.
A Culture of PersonalityMarch 19, 2015 A CEO’s character can change a company’s culture, the way it operates, and its performance.
Sometimes It Pays to Be the UnderdogMarch 3, 2015
Large chains that compete too aggressively against small businesses may suffer the wrath of consumers.
The Buzzkill BossFebruary 25, 2015 The joys and struggles that leaders experience at home have a major impact on their attitudes at work, as well as on their subordinates’ moods and performance.
Using Wikipedia to Your Firm’s AdvantageFebruary 18, 2015
Establishing a profile on Wikipedia can be a boon for companies, but managers must forge ties with the site’s contributors rather than relying on typical marketing strategies.
The Dangers of Too Much Workplace CohesionFebruary 10, 2015 Although personal relationships among coworkers are usually viewed as positive, excessive socialization can lead to a decline in team performance.
Honesty (about Your Costs) Is the Best PolicyFebruary 6, 2015 Being honest about the expenses that go into developing and distributing a product can increase sales and enhance a firm’s bond with consumers.
Nice Companies Finish FirstJanuary 29, 2015
Firms that make an effort to be responsible are rewarded more than those that seek only to make money.
Gone Phishin’: A Threat Companies Can’t IgnoreJanuary 22, 2015
The loss in stock value and trading volume for companies targeted by phishing scams proves that firms have plenty to lose from these high-tech attacks.
The Value of the CEO Variety PackJanuary 15, 2015 A chief executive with a diverse background usually brings innovation and new ideas to a company, but the shake-up doesn’t necessarily pay off.
Pay Well, But Not Too WellJanuary 7, 2015 While compensating managers generously might induce more of them to stay, paying anyone too much can upset the balance of the executive suite.
Gossip in the Workplace Could Signal Larger ProblemsDecember 23, 2014 Potentially harmful rumors can start because employees feel inadequately informed, and they can spread when companies fail to keep their promises to their workers.
Why a CEO’s Trip to the Bahamas Could Be Good for BusinessDecember 18, 2014 Vacations taken by CEOs provide an unlikely, but highly reliable, way to approximate a firm’s corporate activity and anticipate its stock returns.
A Different Kind of C(E)ODecember 11, 2014 To stay ahead of political and social upheaval, multinational firms should consider elevating external affairs to the same level as other top management spheres.
Go Big or Go Home: Factors for a Successful RebrandingDecember 4, 2014 Companies that winningly reposition their brands tend to do so by anticipating market trends and overcoming or minimizing common challenges.
An Upside to Brand GenericideNovember 20, 2014 Despite lawyers’ conventional wisdom, becoming a household name can actually be a brilliant marketing strategy.
Don’t Brag: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Getting CapitalNovember 13, 2014 Young firms seeking outside funding can attract investors by acknowledging they have room for improvement, while also playing up their strengths.
The Security Risk in the Cubicle Next DoorNovember 3, 2014 Your own employees may pose a bigger IT hazard than outside threats.
In with the New Products, and the Old Ones TooOctober 30, 2014 By selling a mix of novel and existing items, retailers can optimize their profits; to do so, however, managers must use their salespeople in the right way.
A Lesson for Marketers on Mobile AdvertisingOctober 3, 2014 Advertisers are eager to take advantage of mobile channels, but they must carefully position their products to get consumers’ attention.
Enticing Consumers to SwitchSeptember 25, 2014 For service companies seeking to lure customers away from their rivals, success lies in keeping it simple.
A Historical Lesson for Supply FirmsSeptember 16, 2014 To keep growing amid volatility, companies should remain adaptable in their approach to supply chain management.
Pushing CEOs to Be Bold after the IPOSeptember 9, 2014 By structuring CEOs’ contracts to focus on the long-term health of their company, newly public firms can encourage an emphasis on innovation.
Young CEOs’ Risks Can Pay OffSeptember 2, 2014 Executives who take more chances may prove to be a better long-term bet than those who play it safe.
Strategies for Small-Business SurvivalAugust 27, 2014 Bad economic conditions don’t necessarily mean a death sentence for small companies. They can employ multiple strategies to keep growing.
How to Use a Cell Phone at WorkAugust 18, 2014 If you want to keep your co-workers happy, you should resist the temptation to look at your mobile during meetings.
A Full Mouth during Ads Means Half the AttentionAugust 7, 2014 Marketers probably don’t want consumers to watch commercials while they eat.
The Art and Science of Add-On FeesJuly 31, 2014 Companies must find a balance between the luxuries customers will pay for and the necessities they expect.
Using Social Media for Your Company’s GoodJuly 28, 2014
Employees who feel their managers listen to their complaints are more likely to use social media to benefit their company than to air their grievances.
Not-So-Mad MenJuly 7, 2014
How advertising execs’ relationships with clients can shape their firms’ fortunes.
Employees Missing Deadlines? Pile on the AssignmentsJune 13, 2014
To discourage procrastination, managers should give their employees more work, not less.
Following the (M&A) Example of OthersJune 9, 2014 Learning what other companies did to acquire firms in developing economies may help U.S. companies be more successful in their own M&A efforts.
The Amazon Model: If You Can’t Beat ’Em, Work with ’EmJune 2, 2014 A company that collaborates with its rivals can create more business for itself.
The Collective’s Crystal BallMay 15, 2014 Crowdsourcing offers companies the opportunity to analyze large amounts of data in innovative ways.
Female Directors and Their Impact on Strategic ChangeMay 12, 2014 The effectiveness of women in the boardroom can depend on whether the company is having a period of good performance or bad.
How Subsidiaries Can Gain Power in Multinational CorporationsMay 5, 2014 Business units abroad that focus on technology and R&D exert more influence with the home office than those that focus on sales or marketing.
I Scream, You Scream (But Only When the Price Goes Up)April 25, 2014 The ice cream market reveals that consumers don’t mind smaller packaging as much as they do bigger price tags.
(Tacit) Knowledge Is PowerApril 9, 2014 Sharing soft data between salespeople and marketers can boost a company’s innovation efforts and improve its relationship with customers.
Is Apple’s Meteoric Rise Leading to a Devastating Drop?March 27, 2014 The very business model that made the company so wildly successful could eventually cause its downfall.
Unleashing CreativityMarch 20, 2014 To take advantage of employees’ innovative efforts, managers must first learn how to encourage and nurture them.
Meeting Employees HalfwayMarch 12, 2014 By keeping group sessions tightly focused and on schedule, managers can earn their employees’ respect and commitment.
Building a Megaproject Without the Mega ProblemsMarch 6, 2014 Large initiatives such as oil pipelines have a higher chance of succeeding when stakeholders work together to manage the risks.
Customers Behaving BadlyFebruary 27, 2014 When consumers are rude and abrasive, it’s up to managers to help employees deal with the stress.
Are Corporate Sponsorships Worth It? Investors Say NoFebruary 20, 2014 Unless a company is backing a philanthropic event, U.S. investors tend to be unhappy with corporate sponsorships.
The Vicious Cycle of CEO Pet ProjectsFebruary 13, 2014 Incoming leaders follow a predictable pattern of disinvesting from their predecessor’s flops and eventually investing just as unwisely.
The Power of Positive AdvertisingFebruary 6, 2014 Consumers respond better to commercials with emotional appeal than to neutral ads or those that are too informative.
Taking Advantage of the Kinder, Gentler TakeoverJanuary 30, 2014 Hostile acquisitions may be largely a thing of the past, as they’ve been replaced with gentler—and more effective—M&A strategies.
Make Room for a Successful IPOJanuary 23, 2014 New high-tech companies are more attractive to investors when they show room for growth.
Maximizing the Impact of Outsider CEOs January 16, 2014 External leaders who take over in good times make a greater strategic impact than those recruited during unstable periods.
For Companies, It’s Not Easy Being GreenJanuary 9, 2014 Companies that implement socially and environmentally responsible strategies tend to profit—but the benefits take time to show.
Four Crisis Triggers Multinational Companies Can AvoidJanuary 2, 2014 For multinational companies operating in Russia and China, the key to success is finding ways to avoid PR crises, rather than managing them after they happen.
Bad News Is Worse through EmailDecember 24, 2013 People prefer old-fashioned voicemail messages to emails when receiving bad news.
Being Nice to New Hires Is Good for BusinessDecember 19, 2013 New hires who receive positive support from their bosses and co-workers during their first 90 days on the job tend to have better long-term performance.
Breaking through the (Second) Glass CeilingDecember 12, 2013 As GM’s new CEO, Mary Barra, may discover, many women who get to their company’s top spot find themselves facing yet more obstacles to achieving full power.
Dear Santa: Consumers Prefer DIY ProductsDecember 5, 2013 As consumers increasingly expect to be able to customize the products they buy, giving them creative control over the assembly process makes them value a product more.
Is Your CFO’s Confidence Losing You Money?November 27, 2013 Financial officers tend to overestimate their own abilities to predict the stock market, which can adversely affect their firms.
The Psychology of Pricing: Customers Prefer Round NumbersNovember 21, 2013 Business managers may think they’re fooling customers with a $4.99 price tag, but a new study shows most consumers would rather pay $5.00.
Conglomerates Bounce BackNovember 14, 2013 Borrowing clout gives large companies an edge in a financial crisis.
Looking Outside: A Fresh Approach to Project ManagementNovember 7, 2013 When planning large projects, managers should base their forecasts for costs and timelines not on their own optimism, but on statistical data from previous ventures.
Working Capital Isn’t as Important as It’s Cracked Up to BeOctober 31, 2013 When it comes to managing a company’s working capital, CFOs must balance the need to stock inventory against the need to provide value for shareholders.
Slow and Steady Firms Win the Survival Race October 24, 2013 New businesses may be tempted to expand as quickly as possible, but such rapid growth can doom a fledgling company.
The Rise of the MompreneurOctober 17, 2013 Women who “want it all” are finding that starting their own business is the way to get it.
Pitchforks and Torches over CEO Pay? Maybe NotOctober 9, 2013 A higher pay differential between CEOs and their employees may encourage employees to work harder, not to slack off.
Night of the Living Board of DirectorsOctober 3, 2013 As board members become more entrenched and partisan, their institutional knowledge loses value.
Why the Steve Jobs Approach Pays OffSeptember 27, 2013 IT firms working with business-to-business clients can boost customer satisfaction and loyalty by bundling hardware, software, and services.
An Employer’s Guide to “Cyberloafing”September 26, 2013 To keep employees from goofing off on the Internet during business hours, employers have to keep them interested in their work.
The Rocket Science of Low-Cost InnovationSeptember 20, 2013 It’s possible to develop new projects on a small budget, but, as NASA’s efforts show, companies have to be committed to the process if it is to succeed.
Variety, Not Quantity, Drives Car SalesSeptember 19, 2013 Having too much inventory can hurt sales, but offering a variety of products is good for business.
Examining the Innovation Gap in the United StatesSeptember 13, 2013 Given different socioeconomic conditions, certain regions of the country may be more conducive to innovation than others.
An Embarrassment of FeedbackSeptember 12, 2013 An embarrassed consumer doesn’t automatically translate to a bad review for a company.
Come Together, Right Now—It Worked for Sony and MicrosoftSeptember 5, 2013 Companies that collaborate on certain projects with other firms can reap greater rewards than going it alone.
Identity Theft Safeguards Can Pay Off Twice September 5, 2013 Companies that trumpet the protections they offer can cut their losses and post stock gains.
Deploying the M&A CounterattackAugust 30, 2013 Sometimes it pays for a company to respond to a deal in its own backyard, and sometimes it doesn’t.
The Online Equivalent of Candy at the Checkout August 29, 2013 Retailers can trigger shoppers to make impulse buys online just as they can in a physical store.
Getting IT and Marketing Managers to Make NiceAugust 27, 2013 Differing views about technology usage can hurt a company’s performance.
Greed Is Good for Some, but Not for EveryoneAugust 22, 2013 Leaders who project their negative attitudes onto their subordinates can hamper the way their companies do business.
CEOs and Prices: Engagement Pays Off August 16, 2013 Chief executives who support pricing capabilities see significant gains in firm performance.
E-Retailers Depend on the Kindness of ConsumersAugust 15, 2013 Online retailers can encourage word-of-mouth advertising by appealing to consumers’ benevolence.
How a CEO’s High-Octane Optimism Can Fuel SuccessAugust 9, 2013 Building on solid performance, upbeat managers set ever-higher goals—and achieve them.
The Attraction of Counterfeit GoodsAugust 8, 2013 Corporations that understand why people buy counterfeit goods can learn to draw more consumers away from fakes.
CEOs with Contracts Pull Off Better M&A DealsAugust 2, 2013 Protections from the consequences of failure encourage these leaders to make riskier bets that end up benefiting shareholders more.
A Bottom-of-the-Pyramid Strategy Yields Top-of-the-Pyramid ResultsAugust 1, 2013 Companies that focus on consumers with little spending power can change the dynamics of an industry.
The Auto Industry’s Big Bailout BounceJuly 26, 2013 The rescue of GM and Chrysler came with a cost, but it put them back in the game and even benefited Ford.
How to Order a Social Media Pizza with Extra Text MiningJuly 25, 2013 Companies can capitalize on the wealth of information in consumers’ and competitors’ online posts.
The Bad Side of Good GovernanceJuly 19, 2013 Well-meaning but meddlesome boards can wreak havoc on a company during a financial crisis.
Forced Fun Is No Fun at AllJuly 18, 2013 Games in the workplace can have a beneficial effect on employees, but not when they’re mandated by management.
Persuading Consumers to Sign Long-Term ContractsJuly 12, 2013 Companies that focus on driving customer usage and spending see their conversion rates increase.
How to Win (Twitter) Friends and Influence PeopleJuly 11, 2013 There are certain rules to follow if you want to grow your Twittersphere.
The Battle to Retain Market LeadershipJuly 5, 2013 Companies that lose the number one spot don’t have long to get back on top.
How the Fortune 500 Says It’s Saving People and the PlanetJuly 2, 2013 An increasing number of companies are giving consumers specific details about their efforts to protect the environment and their workers.
Where Retail Chains Miss the MarkJune 28, 2013 Decisions about store openings and closings often leave the stock market cold.
When Good Celebrity Endorsers Go Bad, Markets Get Angry (But Not for Long)June 27, 2013 What’s the right move when your famous pitchperson takes a public beating?
Nine Ways to Avoid Project MeltdownsJune 13, 2013
New research shows how successful managers keep complex projects on track.
The Power of “Independent” Senior ExecutivesMay 28, 2013 Top leaders appointed by previous CEOs can help rein in the incumbent.
Research Perspectives on the New CEOMay 28, 2013 Academic studies of the recruitment of chief executives suggest that those from outside the industry do relatively well, companies pay more for generalists than for specialists, and “shadow emperors” hamper performance.
When Companies Become Social ActivistsFebruary 26, 2013 Joining boycotts brings tactical and long-term benefits.
Predicting “Flash Crashes”February 26, 2013 A controversial financial market indicator may be able to prevent short-term crises in the modern computerized trading world.
Walking the Talk on Foreign ExperienceNovember 27, 2012 To stem the loss of repatriated employees, multinationals must show them more respect.
Venture Capital Firms Trim Their Wings
August 28, 2012 In cutting down on risky investments, the VC industry is both curbing its upside potential and shortchanging startups.
How Friendship Pays Off at the Lending DeskMay 29, 2012 Personal connections between borrowers and bankers produce better results for both sides.
Measuring the Value of Going GlobalFebruary 28, 2012 A new way to assess the pluses.
Taming the “Bullwhip Effect” in Supply Chains
November 22, 2011 How upstream companies can hedge the risks from demand cycles.
Putting a Dollar Value on Academic Business ResearchAugust 23, 2011 MBA students who attend schools where teachers publish frequently end up earning more.
Is Creativity a Bad Trait for a Senior Leader?
May 24, 2011 Supporters of the status quo — not the creative types — are seen as more effective.
Getting a New Job? It Pays to Speak Up about Salary February 22, 2011 In a soft economy, collaborative negotiation may be the winning strategy.
Building Support for ChangeNovember 23, 2010 A successful change management initiative requires commitment from all the organization’s leaders, not just the CEO.
How E-mail Privacy Affects MoraleNovember 23, 2010 Companies should adopt a moderately restrictive e-mail monitoring system, and be sure that employees fully understand it.
The Benefits of Saying You’re SorryNovember 23, 2010 Apologies, especially those that admit responsibility, can lead to faster settlements and lower demands.
Personality Type and Risk AppetiteNovember 23, 2010 Nervous CEOs take fewer risks.
Making the Most of FailureAugust 24, 2010 Organizations can learn more from their failures than their successes.
Leaving Money on the TableAugust 24, 2010 Performance-based compensation plans can appeal to both employees and employers, but for different reasons.
The Psychology of Consumer ChoiceAugust 24, 2010 Advertisements can subconsciously condition consumers to associate products with a certain feeling, which can affect the decision to buy.
Doing Well by Doing BadAugust 24, 2010 Successful firms are more likely to break the law when their managers are under tremendous pressure to exceed quarterly goals.
When It Pays to Stay in SchoolAugust 24, 2010 Students who enter the job market while the economy is strong find success earlier and earn higher wages throughout their careers than those who join the workforce during a down economy.
Listen First, Comment LaterAugust 24, 2010 When new information is introduced at the start of a meeting and opinions are held until the end, groups make smarter choices.
Follow the Money May 25, 2010 Understanding how money makes its way from institutional investors to venture capitalists to entrepreneurs.
Does Location Really Matter?May 25, 2010 For innovation-based companies, being located in an industry cluster has long been thought to enhance long-term financial prospects. This research suggests otherwise.
Broader Reach, More InnovationMay 25, 2010 Executives can promote innovative thinking in their managers by holding them accountable for more than what they directly control.
Managing CriticismMay 25, 2010 Strategies for effectively responding to negative evaluations by influential outsiders.
The Two Faces of PowerMay 25, 2010 Powerful people often hold others to high standards, but break the rules themselves.
How to Manage a Highly Volatile AssetFebruary 23, 2010 Through good governance, oil-exporting countries can shield themselves from the effects of oil-price volatility.
The Far-Reaching Effects of Deceptive MarketingFebruary 23, 2010 The cost incurred by a firm's marketing practices, once revealed by authorities, can extend far beyond the monetary amount of a fine.
Multitasking Is Not a Skill, It’s a LiabilityFebruary 23, 2010 People who juggle several tasks at once are less efficient at accomplishing their goals.
Smart CollaborationsFebruary 23, 2010 Executives should seek to remove barriers to firm-wide collaboration and help general managers work together.
Retirement may be bad for your healthFebruary 23, 2010 Retirees who transition into temporary employment have better everyday health and experience fewer major illnesses than those who quit work entirely.
The Real Reason Your Boss Is a BullyFebruary 23, 2010 Aggressive or vindictive managers often feel inadequate — and take it out on their employees.
How Emotions Affect Decision MakingNovember 24, 2009 Emotions can get in the way of rational decision making. Anger, in particular, can make employees increase their commitment to a failing plan.
How to Donate ResponsiblyNovember 24, 2009 After disasters, broker organizations can help corporations act quickly by matching corporate dollars to humanitarian need.
Catering to Nervous Customers November 24, 2009 In industries that offer necessary but often undesirable services, managers must strive to understand how their services affect the stress levels of their customers.
Staying on Your ToesNovember 24, 2009 Companies should deliberately disrupt the normal flow of work at multiple levels, because it can lead to breakthroughs for the organization.
There’s Salad on the Menu? Then I’ll Take the Fries
November 24, 2009 When presented with options that evoke a measure of self-control, consumers may behave in a way that contradicts their goals.
The Effects of Corporate Gender BiasAugust 27, 2009 Uncovering why a growing number of women are leaving the corporate workplace.
A Five-step Guide to Building Successful BrandsAugust 27, 2009 A winning product launch requires differentiation, positioning, personality, vision, and added value.
Managing TelecommutersAugust 27, 2009 How telecommuting policies affect productivity and work-family conflict.
Ads That Penetrate Consumers’ Heads and HeartsAugust 27, 2009 Consumers process only the most useful and appealing information presented in advertisements.
Strong Connections, Less ConflictAugust 27, 2009 Team leaders who foster informal social ties with their subordinates are more likely to boost performance, reduce turnover, and keep team members happy.
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