Keeping in the same thought pattern as our example coffee shop, our article this month deals with the need for a business to look at updating the products offered. Our example business outlines many new service and product offerings that were added. It is an example of a business focusing on "who" the customer is instead of focusing "what" the product offering is.

Margin is not markup. The words are often used interchangeably, but there is a big difference. This calculator from the Profits Plus website will help you to understand the difference as well as see the formula to calculate each. Next time you are determining how much profit you are going to make in the sale of a product or service, be sure you have looked at margin and markup, and know which one you are using.

Attitude matters. It has been my frequent experience to visit with a business owner of which the question is asked, "Are you enjoying being in business?"

While the answer is not always "yes", the problem I see is with those who say they are, but you can't tell by looking at their facial expression. If you want to have a positive attitude displayed by your staff, it has to begin with the first person walking in the door each day (most often the owner) and continuing throughout the day. Attitude matters.

We want to recognize A Carrot A Day by Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton, whose book provides the basis for each month's incentive idea.