Recently I was talking with a contractor who said at times managing the behavior of subcontractors on the job was challenging.  For example some would toss cigarette butts on the ground and play loud music with vulgar lyrics. Many times customers complained. 

I met with “Arthur” who wanted to start a business. During our conversation Arthur told me that the business owner, Dennis where he worked had promised to sell him the business in the future. However, later the owner’s son joined the company and Dennis began to transfer the business to his son.  Arthur understood that he had little choice but to accept the reality of the circumstance.

In another instance, “William” was promised the opportunity to become a partner in a business within two years. However the promise was not kept. When the business was sold several years later, William was out of a job.

From time to time the question comes up whether you should share price quotations you receive with other vendors.  My perspective is no.

When I have negotiated price with vendors, I’ve asked them to give their best price first as well as a comprehensive explanation of the services and product they’re offering.  I took this position based on three reasons.

I have written a number of times about the importance of keeping promises and commitments to customers and others.  Scripture gives a very pointed perspective on keeping your word when it says “They make many promises, take false oaths and make agreements; therefore lawsuits spring up like poisonous weeds in a plowed field.” (Hosea 10:4, NIV)

The election is over and we have a President elect. One issue that clearly came to the forefront during the campaign was the difference between the public and private moments of Mrs. Clinton and Mr. Trump. I have heard the statement repeatedly in the past that the private person should be separated from what is done public.  I disagree.