Small Business Today Magazine DEC 2014 NOUN INVESTMENTS | Page 21

EDITORIALFEATURE

 There are five generations in workforce; more
than any time in our history.  Each generation has
different working styles and must be considered
according to their attributes.  Age discrimination
for workers over 40 is rampant and cruel.

Workplace illiteracy is higher than ever before. 
50% of employees in the business world are considered functionally illiterate.

Society must not be lulled into a false sense of
security right now.  The recovery phase of the recession has been steady and real.  Much of the
damage was done and will take years to fix.  This
could cause the next recession.

I believe that small business is resilient and
will try its best to stay on firm ground.  Wise
entrepreneurs will bring in qualified mentors,
as opposed to “wanna-be” consultants.  Cool
heads will prevail; small business will recover and
prosper.

Small business has learned many lessons from
the recession.  While some will still fight change
and adhere to the same processes that got them
into trouble, I see great opportunities for forward-focused businesses.

Paying attention to quality can realize:

• Lower operating costs.  Research shows they
can be cut in half.
• Premium pricing for preferred goods/services.
• Customer retention.
• Enhanced reputation.
• Access to global markets.
• Faster innovation.
• Higher sales.
• Higher return on investments.

The biggest source of growth and increased
opportunities in today’s business climate relies
on the way that individuals and companies work
together.

I believe that small business
is resilient and will try its best
to stay on firm ground. 
Wise entreprene