in the toolbox: earl wilcox/plannerzone...it all about knowing people

i have many weaknesses in business, directness is not one ;)..when I was in architecture...i would show up to product showrooms and whispering could be heard...don't give her any sales bs..only answer her questions-show her what she wants to see...her yes is yes, and her no is no, but if she asks why explain.... my strength is knowing who gets it....i will never be an expert in all things, don't try to be...I only strive to know those who are..and who get it....so as part of [i am small] from time to time I will introduce you to people you should listen to...make your own conclusions..they will always make you think and challenge you to up your game...

Earl Wilcox of Plannerzone
(special thanks to Earl for taking the selfie, when I asked..didn't expect it...,
that just proves what kind a person he is..details count)     

Earl Wilcox, owner of Plannerzone..not your everyday consumer research firm...and that is because of Earl..it all flows down from the top...his is half philosopher and half theorist with a strong background in the arts. Their client list includes movers and shakers in their respective industry from Apple to Viagra...and oohh so many in between. You should listen just because of that...yet..

what separates them is they are not brand advocates, they are people advocates.....so when you are all  caught up in your business and lose site of the people you serve...their diligence and skill at deciphering the ever changing consumer is why the big guys choose them...a secret weapon. It is not all about numbers, spreadsheets...it is about people....that right brain creative perspective adapted to precise analytical process...phew.....

all that to introduce :) Earl..and really I only had a few seconds with him on the fly....clients first...rambling friends second... I asked him what three stupid things or mistakes small businesses make from his point of view?  ...and this is how he replied:

1. make up their minds, then stubbornly refuse to consider other possibilities

2. pennywise and pound foolish

3. not listen to their customers

my second question...how can people correct those issues?....

1. listen

2. look for the forest in the trees.

3. see a therapist

as a designer, it is all about getting things down to basics....to build a strong brand, launch a new product....and it has to be honest... blunt... take 20 and think about what he said and how it applies to you...

I will follow up during the week on this concept...just remember what makes good business at its essence it the ability to be honest.

:) alyse