May/June 2011 by St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

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IN EVERY ISSUE 8

6 President’s Letter

Editor’s Note

Business Calendar

Network Central

Top Hats

CONTENTS

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PROFIT

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MAY/JUNE 2011

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Business Tools

24 TechStrategies

34 Cover Story

N E T WOR K

Upfront 10 News Reel

What’s happening and who’s moving. Business news

from around Central Minnesota.

Book Review WE: How to Increase Performance and Profits Through Full Engagement by Rudy Karsan and Kevin Kruse

12 Your Voice In Government Leading the Way

While lawmakers in Washington have been busy creating a regulatory tsunami, Minnesota is working to calm the storm.

17 People to Know 18 The Trouble with Business Generations in the Workplace

With a little forethought you can help bring out the best in everyone.

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It’s a New Kind of Economy

This Issue 40 Feature

Meaningful Management

Wise new managers navigate around these nine mistakes.

Unconventional When Brownie Williams suggested integrating traditional family medicine and chiropractic care, he was greeted with skepticism. But it didn’t take long before he was leading the second largest private clinic in Central Minnesota.

Profit

30 Economic Review

The Great Recession of 2008 hurt us, and it will be a long time before we are fully back on our feet.

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Hiring for Retention

28 Management Tool Kit

25 Tech News 26 Doing Good Connectedness

Which Tool When?

44 Special Focus

New Horizons

Technology allows instructors to supplement learning with powerful interactive tools and new applications.

Special Sections 32 Smart Business Profile 45 Education and Training

Business Spotlight Pete and Dee Rengel, Rengel Printing

ONLY ONLINE •• Help for writing a business plan

•• Six questions to ask before changing your website

•• Need an idea? Here are 20 places to find one.

•• Start planning now to avoid an audit in 2012

www.BusinessCentralMagazine.com

face to face.

The Perfect Match Can Be Placed Directly In Front Of You. But first, we listen, we perform the due-diligence (a crucial step others seem to bypass). We consider all the nuances and elements that go into finding the right person for most any higher-level position. It is an art-form. It takes experience, patience and time. Specializing in the “hard to find candidate”, we look at company culture, personalitymatching and of course, the experience-levels and specific abilities.

Tom Wolden, CSP

We consider. We check. We test. We evaluate.Then, we present. Could YOU be the perfect match? We can assist you in ﬁnding the right position within your area of expertise, as well. Whether you’re looking for new opportunities or searching for the right candidate, CRTechnical is here to help. Talk to our employment professionals and get a perfect match facing you now. CRTechnical, we only ﬁnd The People You Need.

763.560.6015

A global networking company supported with ofﬁces in Minneapolis and Kansas City.

CRTechnical.com

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

NETWORK

Main Phone | 320-251-2940 Automated Reservation Line | 320-251-2940, ext. 126 Program Hotline | 320-251-2940, ext. 125

Customer Service Impressions from a Chamber President

ustomer Service. We reflect on it for two reasons – either it’s really good, or it’s not. Here are lessons I learned during recent travels. 1 Smiles are good. I spied one smiling face in the 5 a.m. airport crowd. The smile’s owner was full of great advice. For a nominal fee I upgraded tickets, got us free baggage, food, drinks, and a short security line. CSR (Customer Service Rating) – 5 of 5. 2 Speak the taxi driver’s language. Our driver expressed his feelings to other vehicles in Spanish. I asked – in a loud voice so he could better understand me – “Is that dashboard clock right?” No answer. “Is it octo? OCTO?” My daughter said, “Mom, I think you mean ocho – what’s octo?” I sat back and was silent. CSR – no rating; customer error. 3 You get better service if you follow instructions. A cruise ship port during boarding is like no other experience. Everyone is excited, a lot is happening, and over half the people don’t know what they’re doing. If you go on a cruise, complete documentation in advance, secure luggage tags before you hit the docks, and have your boarding pass out. We found ourselves behind two groups of clueless first-timers. I caught the porter’s eye and waved completed paperwork (with generous tip on top). He quickly approved the tagged luggage, glanced at the boarding passes, and as he took the tip, said “empty line on the left.” It was the frequent cruiser priority line (where we did not officially belong). We were on board in minutes. CSR – 6 of 5. 4 Everyone deserves first class service. Royal Caribbean wows. CSR – 5 of 5.

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

5 Don’t mess with the night baggage guy. After being assured by ticket agents, gate agents, and flight attendants that our bags would make it home, we watched the “last bag” tray come out of the chute. After 19 hours of travel, I came face-to-face with Baggage Claim Darth Vader. “Baggage tags and boarding passes required.” (The guy in front of me had lost his. He was reduced to tears and dismissed.) “Look at this card and tell me which one of these resembles your bag.” (None of them did.) “What’s in your bag?” I looked at Darth like he was crazy, “What do you mean what’s in my bag? You don’t have to open it, it has our tags and two ID tags on it, and you know which picture it resembles.” “We open it to verify it’s yours. You’ve got some rum in there or something.” His arrogance was stunning. I told him about the wet bathing suit on top. I finally asked, “Do you want my credit card?” Darth squinted his eyes and said, “What do you mean?” I said, “I had a contract with you to get my bags here. They aren’t here. You will credit my $75 fee back, right?” Heavy breathing. I wasn’t moving. “Well, Ma’am, you’ll have to go to our website, noway.com, for that . . .” CSR - Negative 5 out of 5. Customer Service. You know when it’s good. You really know when it’s not. I pledge that Chamber staff will strive to give you octo…err…ocho…on a 5 point scale. Buenos Dı’as,

www.StCloudAreaChamber.com email: information@StCloudAreaChamber.com ST. CLOUD AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF President | Teresa Bohnen, ext. 104 Vice President | Gail Ivers, ext. 109 Director of Administration | Judy Zetterlund, ext. 106 Special Events Coordinator | Virginia Kroll, ext. 105 Communications & Workforce Development Coordinator | Jill Copeland, ext. 130 Membership Sales Specialist | Wendy Franzwa, ext. 134 Administrative Assistant | Vicki Lenneman, ext. 122 Administrative Assistant | Cindy Swarthout , ext. 100 Administrative Assistant | Sharon Henry, ext. 124 CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU STAFF Executive Director | Julie Lunning, ext. 111 Sales Manager | Lori Cates, ext. 113 Director of Sales & Marketing | Judy Okerstrom, ext. 112 Director of Sports & Special Events | Kelly Sayre, ext. 128 Director of Visitor Services | Jean Robbins , ext. 129 Receptionist | Nikki Fisher, ext. 100 2010-11 BOARD MEMBERS Jim Beck | Minnesota School of Business Craig Broman | St. Cloud Hospital/ CentraCare Health System Brenda Eisenschenk | InteleCONNECT, Inc. Linda Feuling | Westside Liquor Todd Fritz | InteleCONNECT, Inc. Jayne Greeney Schill | St. Cloud Area School District #742 Steve Hahn | HahnMark, LLC John Herges | Falcon National Bank Joy Hornung | LarsonAllen LLP Dolora Musech | Batteries Plus Kris Nelson | Custom Accents, Inc. Bernadette Perryman | C & L Distributing, Board Chair Rick Poganski | Principal Financial Group Dr. Earl Potter, III | St. Cloud State University Dr. Mark Roerick | Advantage Chiropractic Melinda Sanders | Quinlivan & Hughes, P.A., Past Board Chair

Teresa Bohnen President

Jodi Speicher | The Good Shepherd Community Bill Winter | St. Cloud Federal Credit Union, Board Vice Chair

“My outcome was as important to them as it was to me.” Mike Crow

Mike had heart problems for years, and until he had bypass surgery he accepted various limitations as part of life. Today, Mike is feeling better and is grateful for the care he received at the Central Minnesota Heart Center at St. Cloud Hospital. As a heart bypass patient, Mike is one of thousands whose outcome we carefully measure. Measuring quality—it helps patients like Mike get better, and makes us better too.

Quality care—it’s our passion.

care above all. 1406 Sixth Avenue North | St. Cloud, Minnesota 56303 | www.centracare.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

NETWORK

Publisher Teresa Bohnen Managing Editor Gail Ivers

Common Ground

Associate Editor Dawn Zimmerman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jill Copeland St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

Fred Hill St. Cloud State University Gail Ivers St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Steve Joul Central Minnesota Community Foundation Tracy Knofla High Impact Training Left: Editor Gail Ivers with friend Lisa Bugman in 1983. Above: Gail, Lisa and friend Mary Trogen during a clarinet recital in 1978.

hen Brownie Williams left for chiropractic school, (see the story on page 34) he didn’t worry about the details – like having a place to live. He was young, he’d meet people, it would work out. He joined a group of other young men who were sharing a keg of beer and announced he needed a place to live. Did anyone have a suggestion? “I need a roommate,” one of the guys said. And with that Brownie Williams and Kevin Brewster were friends. “We did everything together during school,” Brownie told me. “We were inseparable. It was just one of those things.” I know what he means. My first day at college I walked into the band room – usually a place of refuge for me – and looked at seats packed full of strangers. What I wanted to do was flee, but I gripped my courage and my clarinet and walked over to a slender girl with red hair and asked if it was ok if I sat next to her. It turned out that she, too, was an intimidated freshman. Her name was Lisa. We followed band with lunch, lunch with classes, and classes with a friendship that endures to this day. On band trips we roomed together with two other women who also played clarinet. Late into the night Lisa and I would talk about whatever crisis or concern we were dealing with and while nothing was ever resolved, we always felt better in the morning. When we graduated one of our

Chelsey Larson St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Doug Loon U.S. Chamber of Commerce Mary MacDonnell Belisle mary macdonnell belisle-writerforhire

band-trip roommates said, “All I want to know is what were you two whispering about all night long on every band trip?” And we thought we were being discreet. Lisa was one of the first people to receive the inaugural issue of Business Central Magazine. I was one of the people who sat and cried with her when her brother died in an accident. She sent me flowers when I was hired at the Chamber. I sent her flowers when she finished graduate school. Kevin Brewster died last summer. He and Brownie had been friends for over 30 years. I can only begin to imagine the hole that created in Brownie’s life. Lisa and I recently met for lunch. I told her about my fall trip to Southeast Asia. She told me about her overly programmed family Christmas. We laughed and cried and laughed some more. As we parted Lisa said, “Can’t you just see us – we’re going to be 80 years old and still drinking wine and solving the world’s problems.” I certainly hope so. Until next issue,

Dawn Zimmerman The Write Advantage ADVERTISING Associate Publisher/Sales Wendy Hendricks, Hendricks Marketing

Ad Traffic & Circulation Yola Hartmann, Hazel Tree Media ART Design & Production Yola Hartmann, Hazel Tree Media

Cover Photo Lisa Crayford, Country Gallery Photography ACCOUNTING Accountant Judy Zetterlund

110 Sixth Avenue South P.O. Box 487, St. Cloud, MN 56302-0487 Phone (320) 251-2940 • Fax (320) 251-0081 www.BusinessCentralMagazine.com For advertising information contact Wendy Hendricks, (320) 656-3808, 110 S. 6th Ave., P.O. Box 487, St. Cloud, MN 56302-0487. Editorial suggestions can be made in writing to: Editor, Business Central, P.O. Box 487, St. Cloud, MN 56302-0487. Submission of materials does not guarantee publication. Unsolicited materials will not be

Gail Ivers

Vice President

Editor

returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. © Copyright 2011 Business Central LLC Business Central is published six times a year by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce, 110 Sixth Avenue South P.O. Box 487, St. Cloud, MN 56302-0487 Phone (320) 251-2940 • Fax (320) 251-0081 Subscription rate: $18 for 1 year.

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

Book Review

Your Voice in Government

13 Point of View

Business Calendar

It’s Made Where?

17 People to Know

UPFRONT

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18 The Trouble With Business

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by Rudy Karsan and Kevin Kruse John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, New Jersey, 2011 ISBN 978-0-470-76743-6

Reviewed by Fred Hill

etting the stage for this book review, I quote Verne Harnish, CEO of Gazalles Inc., as he praises our book: “If you think smoking kills, then you should know that having a bad job is just as lethal (literally) to both the employee and the company. What [the authors] understand is that both the employee and their leadership have dual roles in fixing this toxic

Employers and employees are equal partners in the drive to full engagement.

Through Full Engagement

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Engagement + Alignment = Harmonization.

Performance and Profits

News & people that make up the chamber network

BOOK REVIEW

WE: How to Increase

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PROFIT

N E T W OR K

GROW

situation – and they outline in detail the three drivers needed to create an engaged workplace, based on their experience and research from over 10 million people.” WE: How to Increase Performance and Profits Through Full Engagement defines the three drivers as growth, recognition, and trust; as in GReAT Managers Focus on Growth, Recognition, And Trust. The premise of this book is that full engagement is of paramount importance for a person or an organization. Engagement is different from happiness. Engagement is about being motivated to give the extra effort that advances the employer’s goals. When we are fully engaged in our work, we want to do it; we want to go the extra mile. Our authors suggest “that being fully engaged at work has significant implications on all aspects of [our lives.].” Throughout the book, issues are approached from the WE perspective. That means

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

employers and employees are equal partners in the drive to full engagement. In the WE approach, the employer actively creates an environment that fosters engagement, and the employee actively makes career decisions that enable full engagement. The book has four parts. Part One, Career-Life, covers the big picture of how work and jobs have changed over time and how critical they are to overall happiness in life. Part Two, The You in We, is written for the individual and suggests ways that you can actively manage your career. Part Three, How Great Leaders Harmonize Teams, details how employees need to be both engaged and aligned to reach harmonization. Part Four, Manager’s Toolkit, is a practical guide written for leaders and managers. BC Dr. Fred E. Hill is a professor of Learning Resources and Technology Services at St. Cloud State University.

Hospital receives gift

The St. Cloud Hospital received a combined gift of $300,000 from the Otto Bremer Foundation and Bremer Bank in support of the hospital’s Caring for Generations capital campaign. The campaign has a goal of raising $21.7 million to support a 360,000 sf addition to its southeast side. Gifts totaling $10.6 million have been raised.

Charter donates $10K to Catholic Charities

Charter Communications donated $10,000 to Catholic Charities to help fill local food pantry shelves. The funds provided more than 8,000 meals to needy families.

Rice appointed to national council

Christopher J. Rice, president of Rice Building Systems, Rice Inc., was appointed to a two-year term to the National Advisory Council of Butler Manufacturing Company, the nation’s largest manufacturer of pre-engineered building systems.

Minnesota Trade Office opens in St. Cloud

The Minnesota Trade Office opened its first satellite branch in partnership with St. Cloud State and the Central Minnesota Small Business Development Center. The office is located in the SCSU Welcome Center.

PleasureLand RV opens new location PleasureLand RV Center opened a new location in Brainerd and acquired a dealership in Willmar.

UPFRONT

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NETWORK

N E WS R E E L College names Dean of Nursing St. Cloud Technical and Community College named Olson Carolyn Olson, certified nurse practitioner, Dean of Nursing. The college created the new position in response to the growing nursing program and industry need.

New Flyer receives grant The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) awarded a $260,000 grant to train employees at New Flyer of America Inc. Employees in St. Cloud will receive training at the St. Cloud Technical and Community College.

G.L. Berg voted best for 2010 G.L. Berg Entertainment, Performing Arts & Speakers was voted “Best Entertainment Agency for 2010” by the readers of Minnesota Meetings & Events magazine. It is the fourth time G.L. Berg Entertainment has won the award.

Bernick Foundation awards $200,000 The Bernick Family Foundation awarded over $200,000 to community causes through the Central Minnesota Community Foundation.

Bartlett joins board of directors Corey Bartlett, Automotive Parts Bartlett Headquarters, Inc., joined the St. Cloud Bremer Bank board of directors.

Meta 13 Interactive adds staff Robert Johnson is the new account manager at Meta 13 Interactive in St. Cloud. His position involves developing new business as well as supporting current client projects.

YOUR VOICE IN GOVERNMENT

Leading the Way While lawmakers in Washington have been busy creating a regulatory tsunami, Minnesota is working to calm the storm. By Doug Loon

recent bill passed by the legislature and signed into law by Governor Mark Dayton streamlines the state’s permitting process and assists responsible businesses that want to locate or expand in Minnesota. This important action by the state of Minnesota comes as the U.S. Chamber releases a new study that identifies the economic impact and jobs that could be created in 49 states if the regulatory red tape and permitting delays were removed from stalled energy projects. “With this piece of legislation, Minnesota is leading the way on improving the permitting process,” said William Kovacs, U.S. Chamber senior vice president of environment, technology and regulatory affairs. “In Minnesota alone, our study identified five stalled energy projects that are costing the state’s economy $12.8 billion in GDP and 21,100 jobs a year during the construction phase.” The U.S. Chamber’s study, Project Denied: The Potential Economic Impact of Permitting Challenges Facing Proposed Energy Projects, identifies 351 stalled energy projects nationwide that in aggregate are costing the American economy $1.1 trillion in GDP and 1.9 million jobs a

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

“In Minnesota alone, our study identified five stalled energy projects that are costing the state’s economy $12.8 billion in GDP and 21,100 jobs a year during the construction phase.” year during the construction phase. The study is part of the Chamber’s larger Project No Project initiative, which catalogs energy projects that have been delayed or stopped for a variety of reasons, including a chaotic permitting process. The business community has long recognized the need for sensible regulations to ensure workplace safety, guarantee worker rights, and protect public health. While many regulations have a positive impact, many others are outdated, ineffective, overly complicated, and counterproductive. In fact, the

Small Business Administration puts the total price tag of complying with federal regulations at $1.75 trillion in 2008. That amounts to $15,500 for each U.S. household. BC

Now online

To learn more about the Projects No Projects initiative, visit www.BusinessCentral Magazine.com

About the writer Doug Loon is the vice president of regional affairs, for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is responsible for managing the U.S. Chamber’s regional operations from his office in the Twin Cities. To learn more about the U.S. Chamber, visit www.uschamber.com.

POINT OF View

Business Central asked readers: “What would be your best advice to someone going into a job interview?”

Ryan Conda Eich Motor Company

Mike Stringer St. Cloud Truck Sales, Inc.

Brad Turbes Hansen Flooring Gallery, Inc.

Katie Weinmann Culligan Soft Water Service

Peg Imholte Resource Training & Solutions

“Be friendly, up front, and be yourself. Employers don’t want canned answers they want a real person.”

Let’s turn positive signs into positive results. The economy seems to be getting back on track. Let’s take those positive signs and build on them. Seize new opportunities. Cover new ground. Let’s take action. Your business. Our bank.

“The one thing that puts people off is saying something unconstructive about a past employer.” “Appearances are important. I would be looking for someone who is clean-cut and looks put together.” “Confidence is the key. You need to portray yourself as the best candidate for the job.” “With the advantages of technology, you should research as much as you can about the company.”

Downtown St. Cloud 251-3300 West St. Cloud 656-3300 • Sauk Rapids 252-1938 Sartell 255-7121 • Rice 393-2600 Call 1-800-908-BANK or visit Bremer.com. Member FDIC. ©2011 Bremer Financial Corporation. All rights reserved.

M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

UPFRONT

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NETWORK

N E WS R E E L Schoeppner receives Presidents Club Award Tad Schoeppner,

Schoeppner business

BUSINESS CALENDAR

Can’t-miss opportunities to influence, promote, and learn May -June 2011 Visit events.StCloudAreaChamber.com for a detailed calendar.

Sauk Rapids Chamber

development manager at Doherty Staffing Solutions, was awarded the 2010 Presidents Club Award for consistently achieving more than 130 percent of his annual budget and adding more than 20 new accounts in 2010.

Tamm wins Leader Award Derek Tamm recently received the Northwestern Mutual Regional Leader Award for outstanding performance.

Marco acquires new division, receives award Office Enterprises, Inc.’s Eau Claire division in copier and printer sales was acquired by Marco, Inc. The service employees joined the Marco team and will continue to provide mailing products and services in the Eau Claire and Wausau markets. Marco recently received a 2011 Perfect Image Award from imageSource Magazine for the Best Implementation of Managed Services. The national award was presented to Marco at a conference in Washington, D.C. earlier this year.

DeZURIK expands with acquisition Industrial valve manufacturer, DeZURIK, Inc. has acquired Illinois-based APCO Willamette, a producer of valve lines. The APCO products will complement broad DeZURIK capability on industrial applications in the energy, process and commercial markets.

Preferred Credit announces promotion Nicholas Gaetz was promoted to the new position of junior vice director of IT/operations. Gaetz has worked with Preferred Credit Inc. for 10 years.

For businesses interested in doing business in Sauk Rapids. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Business After Hours A complimentary open house for Chamber members and guests. Bring lots of business cards and prepare to grow your network! 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. May 17: Hosted by Holiday Inn & Suites, 75 37th Ave. S, St. Cloud. June 22: Hosted by St. Cloud Surgical Center, 1528 Northway Dr., St. Cloud

Shepherd Community on-site at 1115 4th Ave. N, Sauk Rapids Lunch is provided by the host when you register at least two days in advance. Call (320) 251-2940 for details.

Lunchtime Learning A combination of lunch, networking, and education.

Registration required: $15 for Chamber members, $22 for the general public. Call (320) 251-2940 for details.

Noon – 1 p.m. at the Chamber office, 110 S 6th Ave.

Waite Park Chamber For businesses interested in doing business in Waite Park. Lunch is provided by the host when you register at least two days in advance. 11:30-1 p.m. May 18: Annual Business Showcase at Waite Park City Hall June 15: Hosted by McKay’s, at 2020 Division St., Waite Park Call (320) 251-2940 for details.

June 23: Hosted by The Good

May 4: “Making Media Work for You” •• Learn how the media works and what you can do to earn frequent and better news coverage. Understand the kind of news that keeps you in front of customers in a way that helps your business. Sponsored by Plaza Park Bank. June 1: “Plaza Park Bank: Social Media Success Story” •• Leave with specific examples and work plan templates to integrate your overall marketing/branding strategy with social media. Sponsored by Th!nk Creative Advertising, Inc.

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

2011 Business Awards Luncheon Annual event honoring Brownie Williams, owner of Williams Integracare Clinic, the St. Cloud Area Small Business Person of the Year, John Schlecht, owner of Crafts Direct, the Entrepreneurial Success Award recipient, and Dan Miller, Miller Architects and Builders, the Business Central Mark of Excellence - Family-Owned Business recipient. May 3: Hosted by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce at the Holiday Inn & Suites, 75 37th Ave. S, St. Cloud $19 for Chamber members; $29 for the general public

IT’s Made WHERE?

Avon, Minnesota Netter’s Welding & Fabrication, established in 1991, completes custom ornamental welding projects and stainless steel countertops, hoods, and other welding jobs. Two employees handle all of the work. Their customers reside in Central Minnesota, Duluth, Brainerd, Rochester and the Twin Cities. Welding projects include special interiors for the following: •• Stearns County Sheriff Dive Van:

•• SERT Vehicle: The “Special Emergency

This camper-turned-operations-headquarters-

Response Team” vehicle is a standard,

vechicle houses equipment for emergency dive

non-descript trailer that store weapons

teams. The interior is designed to facilitate a dive, with self-contained items such as ropes and machines to recharge oxygen tanks.

Netter’s Welding & Fabrication Jay Netter, Owner

20154 Morningstar Road, Avon, MN 56310-9635 (320) 251-9187 www.netterswelding.com jay@netterswelding.com

System Integration for the tactical team.

Feel like you’re starting over all the time?

Your network is the core of your business. Your communications, business processes, and applications depend on it. Wouldn’t it be nice if all of your IT systems worked together? Marco’s team of IT experts can design and build a network infrastructure that integrates your systems like never before. And it all starts with us listening to your business needs and where you want to go. Why reinvent the wheel? When it comes to system integration, we’re all ears.

A casino cashed in on Marco’s expertise and won BIG! To learn more, visit www.marconet.com/HittingtheJackpot

marconet.com

M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

UPFRONT

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NETWORK

N E WS R E E L Insurance agencies recognized Omann Insurance Agency, Sartell, and SMA Insurance of St. Cloud were named to the Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company President’s Club for 2011 as top agencies for the company. The award is presented for outstanding production and profitability over a five-year period.

Compounding Pharmacy moves to Sartell W & C Apothecary is moving its St. Cloud location to the new medical campus in Sartell at 165 19th Ave. S. The Apothecary has been owned and operated by pharmacist Steve Anderson since 1994. It is the only community pharmacy in Central Minnesota that has a state-of-the-art compounding lab.

Benedict’s Senior Community receives award The Aging Services of Minnesota Living Our Mission Award 2011 recipient is St. Benedict’s Senior Community of St. Cloud and Monticello. This award is given to an older adult services organization that commits to day-to-day operations and reflects unique needs of tenets of faith.

Bill Hatling receives industry honor HatlingFlint, a full-service marketing, public relations and interactive agency won five ADDY awards at the Central Minnesota ADDY banquet. Agency President Bill Hatling received the AAF Silver Medal award for his contribution to advertising and furthering the industry’s standards. Compiled by Chelsey Larson

LEADERSHIP CLASS

St. Cloud Area Leadership Graduates

Congratulations to the following people who graduated from the St. Cloud Area Chamber Leadership program in May. If you are looking for volunteers to serve on boards and committees, these individuals are a good place to start. Ryan Anderson Bremer

Bridget Faber Mahowald Insurance Agency

Ralph Keen

Mike Schlough Park Industries

Vern Bachor St. Cloud State University

Julie Fisk Neils-FranzChirhart, Attorneys at Law

Eric Knopik Schlenner Wenner & Co.

Tad Schoeppner Doherty Staffing Solutions

Mary Barthel Catholic Charities

Jeremy Goltz Stearns Bank

Craig Lietha KDV, Ltd.

Richard Schwegel St. Cloud VA Health Care System

Kirby Becker St. Cloud Area Planning Organization

Summer Hagy

Phil Luitjens St. Cloud Hospital/ CentraCare Health System

Sarah Spier Marco, Inc.

Glenda Burgeson St. John’s University

Jennifer Hoffenkamp PineCone Vision Center

Tim McLean Rasmussen College

Andy Voller American Heritage National Bank

Mary Christen Czech Tri-County Action Program, Inc.

Sue Huot Reach Up, Inc. Head Start

Eric Reisinger US Bank

Janette Yiran

Julie Danda Goodwill-Easter Seals MN

Anna Kampa Goodwill-Easter Seals MN

Becky Reynolds Girl Scouts of Minnesota & Wisconsin Lakes & Pines

BECOME A LEADER St. Cloud Area Leadership is designed to help current and emerging leaders understand the dynamics of the community and the role leadership shares in building healthy communities. This program brings together men and women of diverse backgrounds who share a common commitment to the future of the St. Cloud area. St. Cloud Area Leadership: •• Grooms leaders who will contribute to your company

•• Helps employees develop greater personal vision and confidence

•• Provides professional networking opportunities and enhanced community connections

•• Reinforces skills and imparts new knowledge to employees

•• Improves an employee’s ability to think like an owner

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

•• Enhances and improves existing leadership skills

•• Provides greater understanding and a broader perspective of key issues in Central Minnesota •• Encourages networking among emerging and established leaders

No pressure PEOPLE to KNOW Jesse Bowman Miller, Welle, Heiser & Co., Ltd.

Phone: (320) 253-9505 Email: jbowman@mwhco.com Chair, Chamber Open The Chamber Open is an annual networking event for all Chamber members. This year held Monday, August 8 at the St. Cloud Country Club, volunteers organize the day’s activities, sell sponsorships and help the day of the Open. Jim Gruenke Mark J. Traut Wells

Phone: (320) 251-5090 E-mail: treatwater@trautwells.com Chair, Chamber Connection Chamber Connection is the premier networking event for businesses in Central Minnesota. Hosted by a different Chamber member every Friday morning, Chamber Connection attracts 120 -150 people each week to network and share information about their businesses, all for the price of $1 at the door. Tony Goddard Paramount Arts Resource Trust

Phone: (320) 240-0836 Email: tgoddard@paramountarts.org Chair, St. Cloud Area Chamber’s Convention & Visitors Bureau Advisory Board The Chamber’s Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is dedicated to promoting the St. Cloud area as a premier visitor destination and to encourage community improvements that benefit residents and increase the economic impact of visitors. Members of the Advisory Board approve budgets, marketing campaigns, and recommend policy positions.

NOW ONLINE

We believe health care should be stress-free. With 54 doctors at 4 locations providing care in six specialties, your choices at St. Cloud Medical Group are painless. Your doctor is your partner for your health—which is why you’ll see the same doctor at every visit. They know the best treatment includes your involvement, so they take the time to know you and understand your concerns. With clinics where you work and live, you don’t have to go far to receive the best care in the community. It’s the genuine care and respect we have for our patients that makes the difference.

StCloudMedical.com

APPLY TODAY

Applications for the Leadership program are available online at www.StCloudAreaChamber.com, select “Programs” then “Leadership.” Applications must be submitted by May 27 to the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 487, St. Cloud, MN 56302. Individuals who represent an ethnic/minority community perspective are encouraged to apply. Scholarships may be available. For more information about participating in the 2011-12 St. Cloud Area Leadership program, call Gail Ivers at (320) 251-2940, ext. 109.

South Campus 1301 33rd Street South 251-8181

Clearwater Clinic 615 Nelson Drive 558-2293

Northwest Campus 251 County Road 120 202-8949

Cold Spring Clinic 402 N Red River Avenue 685-8641

Family Practice + OB/GYN + Pediatrics + Express Care Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation + Occupational Medicine + Surgery

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UPFRONT

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NETWORK

The trouble with business

Make Room for All!

Many employers have people from multiple generations working side by side. Trying to manage their diverse needs may seem like herding cats, but with a little forethought you can help bring out the best in everyone.

By Tracy Knofla

oday, we see employees from four distinct generations working side by side. They all have different reasons for being there, guided in part by the generation to which they belong, and they all bring something unique to the workplace. A search of the literature reveals that the generations have been given many different names, all

meaning basically the same thing. Traditionalists, those born between 1900 and1945, are generally described as dependable, loyal, hardworking, and familyoriented. What they bring to your workplace is a strong motivation to do a good job. You can expect them to be on time, not miss much work, take direction well, and respect position and authority.

Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, are goal-oriented, driven to succeed, enjoy working as a team, and have high ideals. You can expect them to be very social in the workplace, create and accomplish farreaching goals, and enjoy a hectic work pace. Generation X members were born between 1965 and 1980. They are characterized

as the anti-establishment generation —typically described as loners and entrepreneurs. This generation believes that working is not the goal, but a means to enjoy the standard of living they want to have. You can expect them to be independent workers, innovators, and employees who enjoy a challenge. Members of the Millennial Generation were born between 1981 and 1999. They are bright, connected to others through their electronic gadgets, idealistic, and interested in the world around them. They want their jobs to have meaning beyond just the position description. You can expect them to be energetic, hard working when given strong direction, forward thinkers, and agents of change in the workplace. Trying to manage all of these generations in your workplace is akin to herding cats. It can be a challenge. The following tips can make it easier for managers to make the most of what each generation brings to the table.

QUICK TIP

Have clearly written policies in your workplace and follow them. All employees will feel more comfortable knowing what your regulations are and what the consequences are if they are not followed. This will help you to fight allegations of favoritism among employees.

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Respect the experiences that each generation brings with them to the workplace. Your traditionalist employee has seen good times and bad and has lived through many world events. The millennial employee, while not having years of experience, has grown up within a culture that encourages continuous change. Each employee brings skills essential to success in your workplace. Pick the right project for the right employee. This is always important advice, but never more so than when you factor

in the generational aspect. If the project needs workers who are very self-directed, then look to Gen X employees to fulfill that need. If you need workers who will stay with a task until it’s finished, no matter the time, then a Baby Boomer might be a good choice. Don’t try to be the social director. Relationships will

form naturally between members of different generations. It just takes time for people to get to know and trust each other. Offer opportunities for that to happen and things will work themselves out. Conduct employee training on “Making the Most Out of Our Workforce.” Be especially intentional in showing the positive characteristics that

each generation brings to your workplace. Finally, don’t always assume it’s generational issues causing problems in your workplace. As interesting a management challenge as it is to have employees of all ages in the workplace, it is not always the first cause of rancor or loss of productivity in your business. Look for other factors that might be at play. BC

About the writer Tracy Knofla is the co-owner and featured consultant of High Impact Training. She has been presenting to audiences across the country for more than 25 years.

reflex Bend without breaking General Orthopedics • Sports Medicine • Joint Replacement • Trauma Knee & Shoulder • Hand Center • Spine Center • Foot & Ankle APR Bus Central_HWANG.indd 1

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NETWORK CENTRAL

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The annual Winter Economic Summit featured a panel of local business people and economists.

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Chuck Rau, RIE Coatings (L), Jill Magelssen, Express Employment Professionals, Dolora Musech, Batteries Plus, Terry Fitzgerald, Federal Reserve Bank-Minneapolis, and Julie Hotchkiss, Federal Reserve Bank-Atlanta

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Jill Magelssen, Express Employment Professionals (L), Dolora Musech, Batteries Plus, Terry Fitzgerald, Federal Reserve Bank-Minneapolis, and Julie Hotchkiss, Federal Reserve Bank-Atlanta

Chris Farrell, Marketplace Money economics editor

Brian Myres, ING Direct (L) and Chuck Rau, RIE Coatings

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Sauk Rapids Chamber hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minn.

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Jackie Johnson, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minn.

Chad Houg, Transport Graphics and Tad Schoeppner, Doherty Staffing Solutions

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John Funk, Funk’s Midway Dairy, was the guest speaker at a recent Sauk Rapids Chamber meeting.

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Kevin Dyer, Dyco, Inc. Remodelers

John Mathews (L) & Tom Mathews, Hughes Mathews; Isaac Flenner and Jeremy Goltz, Stearns Bank

Dolora Musech and Erik Hagen, Batteries Plus

Dave Kahlhamer, Stearns Bank (L), Bob Lien, Robert’s Fine Jewelry, and Lisa Braun, City of St. Cloud

Jim Feneis, First Fuel Banks and Jill Sieben, Cutco

Jeff Burg, Granite Services (L) and Roger Schleper, Premier Real Estate

Gina Bartell, Woodbury Financial Services (L), Julie & Mike Forsberg, Forsberg Investments and Insurance

Christine Tollefson, Tully Tube Network and Don Blonigen, Dijital Majik Computer Clinic

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NETWORK

TOP HATS | New Members

CORY RITTER & AL GARBER, C.P.A.’S with Luke, Greg & Debby Dahlheimer of Dahlheimer Beverage, LLC

TMC Liquidation, St. Cloud, specializing in retailing of office products at 50% or less of retail price. www.tmcliquidation.com Pictured: Roger Schleper, Steven Ehlen, Kelli Ehlen and Owen Peterson.

Breitbach Construction, general contractor and construction management, PO Box 78, Elrosa. Pictured: Dolora Musech, Adam Holmes and Inese Mehr.

Custom Electronic Installation, Inc., custom design and installation of low voltage, 4215 Thru Street, St. Cloud. Pictured: Inese Mehr, Susie Simacek and Bob Lien.

RU Ready, consulting business in the areas of safety, health and OSHA compliance, 1532 Prairie Hill Road, St. Cloud. Pictured: Diane Ohmann, Diane Sand and Inese Mehr.

Summit Direct Carpet, flooring sales and installation, 2837 23rd St. S, St. Cloud. Pictured: Kris Nelson, Allan Gully and Inese Mehr.

Van’s Flags and Flagpoles, 1034 33rd St. S, St. Cloud. Pictured: Jason Bernick, Tim Coil and Owen Peterson.

Liberty Mutual Insurance, 622 Roosevelt Road, Suite 290, St. Cloud. Pictured: Owen Peterson, Brian Bury, Jackie Olson, Jordan Parks, Caren Larson, Amy Miller and Roger Schleper.

Dollar Avenue, your dollar and party store, 230 2nd Ave. S, Waite Park. Pictured: Roger Schleper, Sean Artley and Jason Bernick

“A lot of last minute requests come in from suppliers and sometimes you have to make decisions as fast as possible. Schlenner Wenner is very cooperative in getting the information we need in order to make proper decisions.” – Greg Dahlheimer, Dahlheimer Beverage, LLC

www.swcocpas.com Little Falls 320.632.6311 Albany 320.845.2940

Maple Lake 320.963.5414 Monticello 763.295.5070

St. Cloud 320.251.0286

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We are here when you need us! ~Including Overnight Recovery Unit ~

Celebrating 40 Years of Excellence in Caring for You! Accredited by Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc.

St. Cloud Surgical Center 1526 Northway Drive • St. Cloud • 251-8385 • 800-349-7272 www.stcsurgicalcenter.com

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Not a member yet? Call Wendy Franzwa, Membership Sales Specialist at (320) 656-3834 for more information.

TOP HATS | Milestones

We’ll make sure your meeting hits the jackpot.

20 years in business – PAM’s Auto, 7505 Ridgewood Road, St. Cloud. Pictured: Kris Hellickson, Patrick Huesers, Mike Meyer and Dolora Musech.

20 years in business – Crafts Direct, 620 Sundial Drive, Waite Park. Pictured: Inese Mehr, John Schlecht and Kris Nelson.

TOP HATS | New Locations, New Ownership and Expansions

Carlson Wholesale, wholesale distributor of agriculture-related equipment, 3780 Quail Rd NE, Sauk Rapids. Pictured: Inese Mehr, Tim Carlson, Chad Carlson and Diane Ohmann.

Midwest Machinery Co., a full service dealership, offering agricultural equipment, lawn and garden equipment, and commercial work site products, 1035 35th Ave. NE, Sauk Rapids. Pictured: Dolora Musech, Andrew Swenson, Gene Seipel, Craig Will and Roger Schleper.

Let us make your next meeting, banquet, or special event truly memorable. With two spacious casino hotels, 24-hour gaming action and award-winning dining, we offer the perfect setting for your guests. Grand Casino Mille Lacs Events & Convention Center

Grand Casino Hinckley Events & Convention Center

For more details, call 800-626-5825, ext. 8515

For more details, call 877-447-2631

grandcasinomn.com

TOP HATS | New Businesses

American Burger Bar, 2010 County Road 75. St. Joseph. Pictured: Inese Mehr, Brad Ireland and Bob Lien.

Ashley Furniture HomeStore/Furniture Mart, 60 Waite Ave. S, St. Cloud. Pictured: Owen Peterson, Gordy Wallenstein, Bill Hinks, Michelle Berckes, Scott Grotberg, Jim Heinitz and Chris Panek.

Focal Point Decorating, interior decorating, 9529 Crestview Drive, St. Joseph. Pictured: Diane Ohmann, Brenda Fedor and Kris Nelson.

Complete Nutrition, a life-style supplement store designed to help people reach their health goals, 4101 W Division Street, St. Cloud. Pictured: Roger Schleper, Jeff Reed, Mike Coonen and Luke Cesnik.

NO PHOTO – Fair Hills Resort and Wildflower Golf Course, 24270 County Highway 20, Detroit Lakes.

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TECH STRATEGIES

Which Tool When?

Not all social media tools are created equal. Some will fit your business objectives better than others. By Dawn Zimmerman

he ante has been raised. Research shows that 64 percent of U.S. internet users are expected to use social networks on a regular basis this year and it increases to 90 percent for users under the age of 35 – a common target demographic for businesses. As the adoption of social media moves from cutting edge to commonplace, users are becoming more sophisticated and discerning about the brands and people they interact with. That means a business presence on social media is not enough. Many of the most popular tools can be used effectively to achieve specific business goals, but some still prove to be more fruitful than others. The graph (below right) indicates the best solutions for each of your business objectives. Let’s look at a few ways these play out:

about their business, industry and even competitors. At any given time, businesses can type a key word or phrase into the Twitter search box and see where they are appearing in recent conversations. Businesses can regularly and easily track mentions related to keywords by using the “Saved Searches” feature. Customer Service Businesses have created Facebook pages for the sole purpose of providing a direct line to customers to address issues and improve their customer service. This takes customer service beyond the traditional phone call or email. Users can post questions or issues on the Facebook wall and get an almost immediate answer from a customer service representative. Such responsiveness and transparency helps build customer loyalty, too.

Brand Monitoring A Twitter account is not just for tweeting. Twitter serves many businesses better as a research tool by allowing them to search keywords

Matching Goals with Tools Here’s a glance at which social media tools are the best fit for common business objectives: Which Tool When?

Customer Service

About the writer Dawn Zimmerman is CEO of The Write Advantage Inc., a St. Cloud-based writing and communications firm that specializes in social media strategy and implementation.

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Gaining New Customers From globally recognized brands to mom and pop shops, companies of all sizes can take the brand monitoring concept on Twitter to the next level by responding personally and immediately to prospective and current customers. Advil employees, for example, regularly search for people tweeting about having a headache and then respond with a free sample of the pain reliever. This direct

Community Outreach Crisis Communications Product Development Networking Lead Generation Gaining New Customers Brand Monitoring Employee Recruitment

Facebook

Twitter

YouTube

Blogs

interaction is becoming commonplace among large brands, but can easily be applied on a smaller – Central Minnesota – scale. The ad capabilities of Facebook also provide a unique opportunity for businesses to reach and grow a specific demographic of their choosing. Facebook ads allow businesses to narrow their demographics not only by geography, gender, age, and marital status, but also more personal characteristics like interests, alma maters and employer. Then they pay by the click. More Opportunities These uses only scratch the surface of what’s available to businesses today. The potential business applications of even the most recognized social media platforms continue to grow as emerging social media platforms and industry giants like Facebook roll out new features. BC

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1990 connecticut avenue south sartell, mn 56377

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TECH NEWS

How much is your website worth?

Somewhere between $100 and $5,000, according to respondents to a SmartBrief on Entrepreneurs reader poll

SmartBrief on Entrepreneurs asked: How much did you spend

on your last website? More than $5,000 13.98% I don’t have a website 15.77% Less than $100 16.49%

$100 to $999 26.88%

–Cory Schreifels, Cold Spring Brewing Co.

Cold Spring Brewing Co. premiered the Northern Beer product line this past November. With the success of the new brews, the need to further streamline the workflow became apparent. Central Minnesota Credit Union helped out by financing a new state-of-the-art packaging machine to make the process more efficient.

Talk to one of our business experts about your ideas today!

$1,000 to $5,000 26.88%

888.330.8482 | myCMCU.org Federally Insured by NCUA

Equal Opportunity Employer

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G R OW

DOING GOOD

Connectedness

Research shows that communities with high social capital, or connectedness, also experience a higher quality of life. By Steve Joul

indicators that national research has found to be good measures of social capital.

ix years ago the Central Minnesota Community Foundation set out to measure the level of social capital, or connectedness, of our community. The findings showed that the area had higher levels of connectedness than other parts of the country. Last year, the Foundation partnered with the Times Media and others to complete a second survey to see what has changed. Why we care Social capital has been proven to have a direct impact on quality of life in a community. Research shows that communities with high social capital also experience higher educational achievement, faster economic growth, less crime and violence, and more citizen involvement in government. Overall, as social capital heightens in a community so does the quality of life. The surveys, conducted by UpFront Consulting in St. Joseph, look at a variety of

What we found The 2010 survey found that social capital declined slightly overall compared to 2004. That is not surprising given the economy and national studies that show social capital declining nationally for the past few decades. Still, many of our region’s strengths identified in 2004 - volunteerism, high community engagement, and philanthropy - remain today. Residents between the ages of 35 and 64 generally have the most social capital. Here’s a glance at the results: Happiness: The level of happiness declined in the community with the same overall number indicating they’re happy, but fewer reporting being “very happy.” Only 5 percent reported being unhappy. Trust and Diversity: As the community has become more diverse, trust among people from different cultural backgrounds and along racial lines has declined. This presents an opportunity to focus on consciously building bridges to promote better understanding, especially between immigrant groups, other new residents, and long-time community members.

About the writer Steve Joul is president of the Central Minnesota Community Foundation. Based in St. Cloud with affiliates throughout the region, the Foundation works to engage people, connect resources, and build community.

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Volunteering: More than seven in ten individuals volunteer and the average number of times they volunteer in a year was almost double what it was in 2004. Trust in government: Although the community reports high levels of interest in public affairs, overall trust of government and of others in the community is down somewhat since 2004. What’s next The Foundation has been evaluating the results and gaining community feedback to identify areas to focus on this year. BC See all the survey results at www.communitygiving.org.

Social Capital Activities In previous 12 months

2010* 2004*

Volunteer

Trust local government

Trust national government

Trust in your local neighborhood

Trust in local police

Worked on a community project

Attended public meeting

Attended political rally or meeting

Attending club or organization meeting

Has friends in home

Been in home of a person of different race

Been in home of community leader

Attend religious service at least weekly

Contributed to charity

Contributed $1,000 or more

*Percent of respondents who agreed with the statement

Source: The 2011 SMB Trend Report by ODesk, an online jobs marketplace Source: SmartBrief on Entrepreneurs SmartPulse survey

TEMPTING OFFER

A Good Time for Temps Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly turning to long-term contractors and contractor teams to fill their employment needs. Since 2008: 1 Assignments paying at least $20 per hour have jumped by 162%

3 Contractor assignments lasting longer than six months have risen by 540%

2 The number of employers

4 The number of SMBs

hiring contractors on an ongoing basis has increased

tapping contractor teams of 10 or more has increased by

800%

214%

BCMayJune11Ad_Layout 1 3/25/11 2:17 PM Page 1

More Good News for Temps

A poll by the online newsletter SmartBrief on Entrepreneurs finds that a near-majority of its readers expect their next hire to be an independent contractor, rather than a payroll employee.

Freelancer/ independent contractor 49.21%

Payroll employee (full or part time) 41.27%

SmartBrief on Entrepreneurs asked readers: The next time you hire for your business, will you look for a payroll employee or a freelancer/ independent contractor?

ARCHITECTURAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN DESIGN DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION SERVICES SERVICES

Delivering Creativity, Results, & Rock Solid Dependability

Not sure/not applicable - 9.52%

QUICK FACT

Entrepreneurship Reigns

Today, 250 million people between ages 18 and 64 are actively engaged in starting or running new businesses in 59 economies. Source: Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2010 Report

Since 1874

Single source. Superior service. Remarkable results. 3 2 0 . 2 51. 4 10 9 • w w w. m i l l e r a b . c o m

M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

BUSINESS TOOLS

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G R OW

MANAGEMENT TOOLKIT

Hiring for Retention

Pre-employment screening may reveal things the resume doesn’t.

mployee personality testing is back in vogue, in part because of the influx of applications for every job listing. Employers generally use personality testing because it saves time during the application process and could help reduce risk of performance issues in the future. Dick Molohon, owner of Sales & Management Profiles, Inc., consults with businesses interested in pre-employment testing and interviewing. He says the first step to finding a qualified candidate is helping the business write an accurate job description. “The job description is the weakest link. If the job description isn’t complete no pre-employment screening can work.” A correctly written job description can capture criteria that a job-fit assessment can filter out.

“A job-fit assessment is similar to a DiSC Assessment but it’s more specific,” explains Molohon. DiSC is a psychological assessment used to examine behavior. It is an acronym for Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. “DiSC Assessments are used for training and development, but are too broad for hiring purposes.” A commonly used assessment model is Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, which distinguishes perception and the role it plays in decision making. DiSC and MyersBriggs are just two of a wide variety of tests used to identify personality strengths, attitude, and future behaviors. What about the traditional interviewing structure? “A profile will reveal things the resume did not,” says Molohon. For example, a candidate for a sales position

“The job description is the weakest link. If the job description isn’t complete no pre-employment screening can work.”

may appear friendly and outgoing during interviews. However, when the person is hired and begins working the employee may experience shyness, a trait that may only be revealed through a personality assessment. Molohon says the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) is the oldest instrument for assessing behavior. Developed by the University of Minnesota for use during World War II, the test could determine aptitude for certain tasks, such as flying a bomber versus a fighter jet, or driving a tank versus a submarine. MMPI can measure perception, depression, emotionality, control issues, stereotypes, trust, anxiety, cognition, energy, and social introversion. The assessment also tests validity of answers, detecting the inconsistency of responses when subjects are exaggerating or downplaying psychological responses. Using an assessment could mean the difference between hiring a highperforming employee or a dud. “We’re after predictable behavior,” says Molohon. — Jill Copeland

Tech News

Toot Your Own Horn In need of a little free publicity for your new business? Try StartupWorld.com. The site is dedicated to helping promote startups and developing businesses. Registration includes a free standard listing.

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

GOING GREEN

BY THE Numbers

MONEY-SAVING TIP

Dehumidifying costs can add up in hot and humid Minnesota summers. Reduce those costs by using an Energy Star-qualified dehumidifier at your business. Energy Star-qualified dehumidifiers often cost the same as non-Energy Star models and use 10 percent to 20 percent less energy — saving more than $20 a year on electric bills, according to the federal government. Source: Energy Smart

Websites Reign

Social networks continue to garner attention and growth, but traditional websites and email campaigns are the mainstay of promotion for most small and mid-sized businesses.

Constant Contact asked business owners: What is the most important tool for promoting your business?

33% Blogs

Telephone

37% 35% Direct mail

48% Online advertising

63% 62% In person

Facebook

Loaded all the best apps on your Smartphone and now you have no speed? Try QuickLaunch, which speeds up access to your other go-to Smartphone features, including customized shortcuts. And instead of watching all those awesome apps suck the life out of your battery, try JuiceDefender, which disables mobile connectivity and other energy-sucking components until you need them. Source: Entrepreneur.com

Email marketing

Apps for Your Apps

100 93% 92%

Website

TECH NEWS

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M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

BUSINESS TOOLS

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G R OW

ECONOMIC REVIEW

It’s a New Kind of Economy

The Great Recession of 2008 hurt us, Minnesota economists agree, and it will be a long time before we are fully back on our feet. Once we are, it will be a new normal. By Chelsey Larson LEFT: King Banaian, St. Cloud State University (L) and Steve Hine, Minn. Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) participate on a panel discussion regarding the economic outlook for 2011.

iscussions of the future of our economy and what to expect in the workforce consumed the 49th Winter Institute at St. Cloud State University in March. Economists from all over the country spoke to what they think the needs and the outlook are for the American workforce and the future of our economy. Localizing the topic, four speakers shared their thoughts on Minnesota’s economic outlook. Thomas Stinson, Minnesota State Economist, had the most

optimistic view for the future of our workforce. The 2008 recession resulted in such an intense number of jobs lost, Stinson said, that despite recent – and significant – job gains, the new jobs don’t make up for the number lost. It will be a slow process, Stinson acknowledged, but it will get better. Stinson also connected the unemployment rate with the slow economic recovery. Naturally, he said, when people make more money and are not worried about their jobs they tend to spend more. As more and more people return

Dan Laufenberg, Stonebridge Capital Advisors, focused most of his speech on supply and demand. Oil prices were a prime example. “We have to learn to adjust our behaviors to higher oil prices,” Laufenberg said. He explained that rising prices won’t necessarily stop us from using oil, but a long-term effect may be that people learn to use less. Food prices, according to Laufenberg, are rising in part because of bad weather. When there is bad weather, fewer crops can be grown, resulting in a lower supply and higher demand. In the end, Laufenberg said, shifts in pricing will not have much impact on the American economy because we eventually learn to adjust.

Steve Hine, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), focused specifically on the workforce. He shared that during the recession in Minnesota, 158,000 jobs were lost. Since then, our recovery has only seen 19,000 jobs created. When compared nationally, Minnesota has a low unemployment rate, however the ethnicity gap of unemployed blacks to whites is the largest in the nation. “Minnesota has a lot of work to do to get our unemployment rate back down,” Hine said. “It will be a long road, but we are not in as bad of a condition as some states.” King Banaian, St. Cloud State University was able to offer some local insight. In Central Minnesota the retail and manufacturing businesses

by the Numbers

4.7%

Unemployed managers and executives who started their own firms in 2010

8.6%

Unemployed managers and executives who started their own firms in 2009

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

7.6%

Job seekers who relocated each quarter in 2010 for new positions

200

The number of metropolitan areas that reported year-over-year increases in employment in 2010

8.8

million

the number of selfemployed Americans in the fourth quarter of 2010

Source: Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc.

to steady employment, he believes we can expect to see an increase in spending.

MONITORING TIMES

A New Normal have been doing quite well, Banaian said. Retail was hard hit by the recession as were many markets, but he has seen a very high bounce back. On the bright side of employment, according to Banaian, the education and health services sectors never were really affected by the recession and have since enjoyed 7.2 percent job growth in the St. Cloud area. BC Chelsey Larson is the communications intern at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce.

Once the economy gets back on its feet, it won’t be the same economy. Minnesota State Economist Tom Stinson said at the annual St. Cloud State University Winter Economic Summit earlier this year. “Due to the change in demographics, there will be a new type of normal,” he said. The next four years are crucial to see what type of new economy we may have. Stinson suggested we’ll be able to better understand that new normal by monitoring the following: Job skills mismatching People need to be qualified for the positions they take on in the workforce. Some of the jobs that have been lost will be gone forever and those employees will need new skills before they can be re-employed.

The Baby Boomer generation Watch out for a large increase in our retired population. Employers – and Baby Boomers – need to figure out how our definition of retirement will change as this group ages and how best to take advantage of their skills in the workplace.

Employment creation Currently two-thirds of the job opportunities are replacement jobs and not new positions.

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M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

SMART BUSINESS: Birthline

Birthline supporters Bob, Jean and Al Leighton

Birthline: 40 Years of Love, Life and Miracles

Birthline’s legacy of love and respect for life is often passed down from generation to generation. Bob Leighton acquired his passion for life from his parents Al and Jean, who were early Birthline supporters.

oo much is thrown away in this country, including lives. Every life counts. That’s a conviction the volunteers and staff at Birthline, Inc. in St. Cloud have acted upon for 40 years in their quiet, life-affirming way. Theirs has been a continuing legacy of charitable service to anyone who comes to the door or calls for help with an unintended or crisis pregnancy. This problem was pretty clear in 1971 to St. Cloud Hospital nurses Alice Brown and Flo Sullivan when they gathered with friends at a local home to brainstorm ways to educate, mentor, and support women. Initially, they followed the structure of Birthright, a national organization; later, the group became “Birthline,” an independent Christian-based organization. On May 10 the group went “live,” with Flo Sullivan taking the first “hotline” call. Years later, a hotline call was made by Tama Theis, a 17-year-old traumatized by an 32

We’re compassionate to the needs of the mother and father and also advocate for the health and life of the unborn child. – Carrie Tripp, Executive Director unexpected pregnancy. “I’m not certain how I found the number,” says Tama today. “Greg and I lived in Eden Valley/Watkins.” Theis vividly remembers meeting with Bonnie, a volunteer mentor. Most encouraging were Bonnie’s words about starting life from that day onward, with an emphasis on “Where do we go from here?” Together, they made an appointment with Dr. Frank Brown. Then, they looked honestly at options, including abortion and adoption. Bonnie made it

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

clear Birthline’s life-affirming mission couldn’t support abortion. Yet, she was respectful of the couple. Counseling and pregnancy testing are part of Birthline’s services, as are education, material goods and support, referrals to other agencies, and even post-abortion counseling. Tama and Greg chose adoption, and today that child and the Theis’s two other sons are friends, even closer since Rob now lives in St. Cloud. “Birthline was a wonderful place to go,” says Theis, a volunteer speaker and President of the Board. Board Vice-President Steve Torborg remembers his mother going to her volunteer shift at Birthline in the 1970’s. More recently his sister-in-law and business partner’s wife have volunteered. He and his wife were very aware of Birthline’s support when they experienced a late-in-life pregnancy nine years ago. SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

Steve Torborg and Tama Theis enjoy their volunteer work at Birthline.

the Minnesota Department of Health’s “Positive Alternatives” program. Individuals, businesses, faith communities, civic and community groups donate volunteer time, contribute money, collect baby layettes and other items, and refer those who need supportive services. “We feel the work Birthline does is good and impacts the people involved, helping when they need it most,” says Bob Leighton.

“Leighton Broadcasting is happy to be involved… Our announcers donate their time to events, and here at the station, we give publicity.” Bob grew up in a Catholic family of nine kids and found role models for the support of life in his parents, Jean and Al Leighton. He also saw his brother, Jeff, and his wife Beth go through the experience of adopting two infants into their home and hearts. So, he understands the importance of Birthline’s life-affirming mission. “It’s so ironic. Good people are waiting and wanting children, and yet, there are a million abortions a year.” As long as lives are affected by unintended or crisis pregnancies, Birthline has its mission. The organization’s legacy of Love, Life and Miracles will continue until all recognize that every life counts.

•

BIRTHLINE 1411 W. St Germain St., Suite 5, St. Cloud MN 56301 • 320.252.4150 www.birthline.org

Special Advertisement Credits: Written by mary macdonell belisle – writerforhire; Photography by Studio D.

“I’ve grown even more passionate about the work of Birthline since our experience,” says Torborg. “Of course, there was never any question that Christopher was going to be born to us, and that he was going to be loved.” Since the beginning years, Birthline volunteers and staff have held the hands of 13-year-old adolescents to women in their late 40’s, from all circumstances and socioeconomic backgrounds. These women are counseled in an environment of safety and confidentiality. No judgments are made. Also, the father of the child is affirmed and welcomed into the discussion of what lies ahead. Staff members and volunteers facilitate education and deliver information. They’re adept at answering all types of questions and are always ready to respond with compassion infused with supportive practicality. And, the community readily supports Birthline’s efforts. The St. Cloud Hospital has been a supporter since the beginning, and today, the CentraCare Health Foundation is a friend. Funding is also awarded through

M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

Williams is 2011 Small Business Person of theYear Bernard “Brownie” Williams, owner of Williams Integracare Clinic is the 2011 St. Cloud Area Small Business Person of the Year. Williams was selected for the award because of his business success and his leadership in creating a medical model that combines traditional and functional medicine. n Williams started his chiropractic practice in 1981 in Sartell, Minn. He and his wife, Michelle, were the only staff and the first day

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

they saw 30 patients. n In 1996, Williams opened a second clinic in St. Cloud that combined traditional family medicine and physical therapy with chiropractic care. He called the clinic Integracare because it integrated multiple medical disciplines, allowing patients to receive comprehensive care in one location. n In December 2001, Williams combined the St. Cloud and Sartell clinics into a new facility in Sartell. The company now employs 35 people, including four chiropractors and two medical

doctors. On a busy day, the clinic can see as many as 250 patients. n Williams was honored at the annual Business Awards Luncheon in May, along with John Schlecht, the 2011 Entrepreneurial Success Award recipient; and Dan Miller, Miller Architects + Builders, the 2011 Business Central Mark of Excellence – Family Owned Business. The Small Business Awards are presented annually by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce.

conventional When Brownie Williams suggested integrating traditional family medicine and chiropractic care, he was greeted with skepticism. But it didn’t take long before he was leading the second largest private clinic in Central Minn. By Gail Ivers photos by Lisa Crayford, Country Gallery Photography

he day Brownie Williams opened his chiropractic clinic in Sartell his father handed him a check for $15,000. Williams and his wife, Michelle, were just starting out on their own and no one knew what would happen. Williams’ father wanted to make sure they had enough to get started. “Three months later, I gave the check back to my dad,” Williams said. “Uncashed.” Chiropractic care wasn’t Williams’ first choice. “I went to St. John’s University for two years,” he said. “I guess I was floundering a bit; I didn’t have any direction. I decided to take some summer classes at the College of St. Scholastica [in Duluth] to explore physical therapy.”

Then he received a phone call from his grandmother. “You’ve never taken an order in your life,” she told Williams. “You won’t be able to work someplace where you have to take orders.” She told Williams he had a distant relative who was the president of a chiropractic college in the Twin Cities. “Go talk to him,” his grandmother said. “I don’t know why she had that kind of insight,” Williams said, “but I did as she said.” The relative was president of Northwestern College of Chiropractic in St. Paul (now Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington). Williams was told he would be notified in a week whether or not he would be admitted to the school. “After talking with him, I was pretty well convinced that this is what I should

do,” Williams said. “I was struggling, I knew I wanted to get into health care, and this was a direction.” And what a direction it turned out to be. Since opening his practice in 1981, Williams has gone on to open one of the few, and largest, clinics that integrate chiropractic care, physical therapy, and traditional family medicine.

Getting Started ichelle Williams was a flight attendant, but that didn’t stop her from working side-by-side with Williams as they opened their first chiropractic clinic in 1981 in Sartell. “We had been planning this,” Brownie Williams said. “We bought used equipment.

M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

business profile

Williams Integracare Clinic PO Box 296, 100 2nd St. S Sartell, MN 56377-0296 Phone: (320) 251-2600 Fax: (320) 251-4763 email: info@icareclinics.com web: www.icareclinics.com Owner: Dr. Bernard “Brownie” Williams, DC; Dr. Mark Halstrom, MD, is currently buying into the business and will own 49 percent within about five years. Business description:

A multidisciplinary medical clinic that combines traditional family practice medicine, chiropractic, exercise, massage, physical therapy, and nutrition. Number of employees: 35 Not so fun fact: It takes 8 employees just to deal with insurance and government regulations. Professional services:

4 chiropractors, including Williams 3 physical therapists 2 physical therapy assistants 2 nurse practitioners 1 medical doctor, currently hiring a second physician 1 physician’s assistant 2010 revenue: $5.1 million Community contributions:

CentraCare Health Foundation, Catholic Charities, Cathedral High School athletics program, SartellSt. Stephen Education Foundation, St. John’s University

third, one-third. He said pay me a quarter of a million dollars a year and let me run the place or I walk. So we said, ‘Walk.’” The two former partners ended up suing each other, but eventually worked out their differences. “He was a young guy who overstepped. We worked it out and we’re friends now,” Williams said. “That’s all behind us.”

Dark Days espite all of the planning and the apparent smooth growth pattern, Williams has experienced some bumps along the way. In 1993, he had his left ankle fused, essentially eliminating his ability to treat patients for six months. Five days after returning from the surgery, one of the other chiropractors in the office confronted him. “He said I had to pay him $250,000 a year or he was leaving and taking other key staff with him,” Williams said. “It was such a lousy thing to do. I agreed because I had to. I wasn’t in a position to treat patients. At six months, when I was able to work again, I gave him 30 days notice. He left, took a handful of our staff with him, and the other chiropractor left for unrelated reasons. So it was back down to just me and we had to rebuild. But, Williams added, “we never had a down year financially. We’ve always been able to grow.” A similar situation occurred just a few years ago. Another chiropractor was buying into the practice when he decided he needed more pay and wanted to run the clinic. “There were three of us,” Williams said. “The plan was to split ownership one-third, one-

Integrated Care n 1994, Williams began to explore the idea of integrating traditional medical care with the functional care provided at his clinic. The decision was both defensive and philosophical, according to Williams. “It was a defensive move against insurance – they were pushing chiropractic care off to one side.” But philosophically, integrating care was the way he thought he could best serve his patients. He put an advertisement in a Minneapolis paper looking for a physician who would be willing to work with a chiropractor. Tom Kraemer, MD, responded. “In those days, the State of Minnesota had a law that only medical doctors could own clinics,” Williams said. “So I bought condominium office space in St. Cloud, leased it to Tom, and then Tom had a management agreement with me to run the clinic. It was crazy, but it’s what we had to do.” As the two developed their plan, they attended a workshop on integrated care. “That’s where the name comes from,” Williams said. “Integrative care became Integracare.” The expansion called for more employees. In addition to a new receptionist, they started looking for a physical therapist to join their

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

We went through the phone book and sent a notice to everyone we knew that we were opening a clinic – and we knew a lot of people.

“

We went through the phone book and sent a notice to everyone we knew that we were opening a clinic – and we knew a lot of people. Every day Michelle and I would go to lunch with the goal of talking to people and recruiting one new patient.” Michelle had worked in a chiropractor’s office and understood the practicalities of the business. The two ran the business as the only employees. When Michelle was called for flight duty, her sister stepped in to help. “To this day I’ve never had an employee as good as Michelle,” Williams said. “I’ve fired her a thousand times and she’s quit a hundred, but she’s still the best.” By 1985, it was clear to Williams that he needed to expand. “The business was there,” he said, “we just didn’t have the space to accommodate it.” He had been sharing a small building with a dentist office. He contacted the landlord and offered to buy the building, effectively doubling his space to 2,000 square feet.

Integrated Care

Photos courtesy of St. Cloud Industrial Products

Integracare is not just a name, according to Bernard “Brownie” Williams, DC. It’s a philosophy. “The name Integracare comes from integrating traditional family care and functional medicine,” Williams said. By way of explanation, he provided an example of a child with asthma. Children with asthma are regularly provided with an inhaler. Before receiving a prescription, a medical doctor will perform a vital capacity lung test. A chiropractor can evaluate the child to ensure that the thoracic cage is functioning properly, allowing the child to breathe freely. A physical therapist will help the child to learn how to engage the secondary muscles of respiration to aid breathing. In the traditional medical model, these three steps could mean visiting at least two, if not three clinics. It would mean exchanging phone calls and medical records. It could take several weeks. At Williams Integracare Clinic, these services are provided at the same site. Each morning the staff meets to discuss patient care and share information among the providers. Visits can be coordinated and care timelines reduced. “There’s an enhancement of the blend of services when you work together,” Williams said, speaking of the different medical disciplines. “We’re a medical clinic and we have been for ten years. The hardest thing we’ve had to do is get past the public mindset that we’re just chiropractic care.”

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personal

Dr. Brownie Williams, DC Age: 56 Home town: St. Cloud, part of the Williams Funeral Home family Education: Graduated from Cathedral High School in 1973; two years at St. John’s University, transferring to St. Cloud State to complete prerequisites before attending Northwestern College of Chiropractic, graduated in 1980. Work history: Practiced chiropractic care with Dr. Larry Miller in White Bear Lake, Minn. before opening his own practice in Sartell in April 1981. Family: Wife Michelle; children: David, 29, a second year resident at Hennepin County Medical Center; Danielle, 27, in the doctorate program for a doctorate of nurse practitioner at the University of Minnesota; Megan, 25, program director at Rasmussen College Hobbies: “Michelle says if you cut me, I bleed feathers. I love to hunt water fowl.” Williams has hunted water fowl all over the world, from Argentina to Alaska to South Africa. Best advice: “My dad taught me the business side of life and the recreational side of life and to enjoy what I’ve accomplished.”

Dr. Mark Halstrom, MD Age: 40 Home town: St. Cloud Education: Cathedral High school; St. John’s University; University of Minnesota Medical School; LaCrosse/Mayo Family medicine residency Work history: Foley Medical Center; moonlighting in small town emergency rooms; full time at Integracare since 2001 Family: Wife Gina; children: Bria, Mason, Riley, Carter, Madeline Hobbies: Bike racing, hunting, running, hockey Best advice: Do what you love… then it’s never work (Harvey McKay). Everything in the patient’s best interest (Brownie Williams)

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

Brownie Williams, DC (L) with partner Mark Halstrom, MD.

Fun Fact: Williams saw 30 patients his first day in business. Today the clinic will see 250 patients on a busy day.

team. “We went to the Twin Cities to see a similar clinic,” Williams said. “As we were leaving, the athletic trainer who worked at that clinic followed us into the parking lot and said she was interested in coming to work for us. That was kind of awkward – I said, let me at least drive out of the parking lot before we have this conversation.” It turned out to be a match. “She was great,” Williams said. “Her skills were similar to a physical therapist and she worked for us for a lot years.” The integrated care was a hit, too, opening in 1996. “We built the second largest clinic associated with chiropractic care in the area – the first was our clinic in Sartell,” Williams said. “And it only took six months. People would say to us: ‘Finally someone put these together.’”

Consolidation he year 2000 was one of transition for Williams. Tom Kraemer, now married, moved to the Twin Cities and determined he should cut back on his work at the clinic. Friend and hunting companion, Mark Halstrom, MD, had been working at the

clinic to help out. Williams approached him about a more formal arrangement and Halstrom agreed. Today Halstrom is buying into the clinic and will own a 49 percent share in the next five years. Williams decided to consolidate his clinics. By this time, he owned both the Sartell clinic property and the lot next door. Construction began on the new clinic next door to the existing Sartell clinic. At Christmastime 2001, they made the move. “We saw patients on Friday, moved to the new building on Friday night, demolished the old building on Saturday, paved and striped the lot on Sunday and saw patients on Monday morning in the new facility,” Williams said. It was an immediate success. “Our goal was to increase the number of patients we saw each day by about 75. It ended up being closer to 100 additional patients per day,” according to Williams. Now, ten years later, he’s still proud of the building and the successful integration of staff and services. But he does have one regret. “We split the practices apart. Medical is on one side and chiropractic care is on the other side with the reception area in the middle,” Williams

timeline

1980 BrownieWilliams

graduates from Northwestern College of Chiropractic and begins working with Dr. Larry Miller in White Bear Lake, Minn. 1981 Williams and his wife Michelle open a 1,000 sf chiropractic clinic in Sartell. They are the only employees and have first year revenues of about $200,000.

1985 Williams purchases his

Sartell building, remodeling the adjacent dental office to provide 2,000 sf of clinic space. 1996 Williams purchases space in St. Cloud and opens Williams Integracare Clinic with Tom Kraemer, MD. 1999 Tom Salt, MD, joins Williams Integracare. 2000 Mark Halstrom, MD, starts part-time. 2001 Williams begins an ownership transition, bringing in Halstrom and Mike Balfanz, DC, as partners. December 2001 Williams combines his St. Cloud and Sartell locations into one new, 12,000-sf building in Sartell. 2004 Mike Balfanz leaves the partnership; Halstrom continues to purchase shares. June 2009 Williams opens a walk-in clinic in the Country Manor Health Care Campus, Sartell. Fall 2010 Tom Salt leaves the practice to open his own clinic near his home in New London, Minn. 2010 Company revenues exceed $5 million. Williams Integracare Clinic now has 35 employees, including four chiropractors and two physicians.

“

We saw patients on Friday, moved to the new building on Friday night, demolished the old building on Saturday, paved and striped the lot on Sunday and saw patients on Monday morning in the new facility. said. “That was a mistake. We should have mixed it all together. It would be easier on the practitioners to coordinate care. And for new people, it would make for a shorter learning curve to understand how the different disciplines can work together. Other than that, it’s worked out great.”

Forward ver the entrepreneur, Williams agreed to put in a clinic at County Manor Health Care Campus. Clinic staff had been seeing nursing home patients there, but not with regular hours. “When they first approached us,” Williams said, “I thought it was crazy. Add a clinic six blocks away? But we actually needed some extra space so we started a walk-in clinic.” As they tracked the patient traffic, Williams determined that what the nursing home staff and patients really needed was late day service. Integracare now has clinic hours from noon to 6 p.m., schedule appointments, and are still able to absorb the walk-in traffic. The implementation of electronic medical records in 2010 resulted in an unwelcome landmark. “Last year was the only year since we opened that we didn’t grow,” Williams said. “And it was only down because of the expense of putting in the electronic medical records system – business was great. Except for that, we’ve grown every year. I’ve promised the staff we’ll be back in a bonus situation this year and there’s no question that we will be.” Williams is passionate about his staff. “I know everybody says it, but I have the best staff. I really mean it. This clinic, our success, it’s not about me. It’s about my ability to gather good people and then let them work,”

”

he said. “I feel that it’s a privilege to work with the people here.” Williams is currently in search of a second medical doctor to join the practice. Tom Salt, MD, recently left the clinic after ten years to open a private practice in New London, Minn., where he lives. Williams thought that new physician might be his son, David, but that combination, if it occurs, is still a few years off. “David has expressed interest in joining us,” Williams said. “He’s a second year resident at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC). But he told me he’s accepted a critical care fellowship, so it will be at least another two years. And that’s ok. It has to be his decision.” Whatever David’s final career choice, MDs and DCs working side-by-side is much more accepted now than it was when Williams started out. More physicians understand and accept the combined roles of medical and functional patient care. When David Williams spent two years in medical training at St. Cloud Hospital, the experience turned out to be a good one for him and his father. “David had such a good experience there,” Williams said. “And most of the doctors spoke highly to him about the quality of care and the care model we have here at Integracare. They even told him they were impressed that we were still an independent clinic. Health care has stolen the entrepreneurial spirit from physicians and they miss it. I guess we’re not the red-haired stepchild of healthcare anymore.” BC Gail Ivers is the vice president of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and managing editor of Business Central Magazine.

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FEATURE

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PROFIT

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meaningful

By Mary MacDonnell Belisle

Management Wise new managers navigate around these nine mistakes.

hat excellent employee, promoted over his or her co-workers, must figure out how to manage effectively. Many fledglings – without formal management training – flutter, falter, “crash and burn” on their own initiative. In order to soar, new managers must take control over their destinies and learn from the missteps of those who have preceded them. Here are nine mistakes new managers can avoid with training and forethought.

ONE (1)

Making assumptions Sometimes managers believe that simply stating the facts and instructing the subordinate to “take care of it” are sufficient to get things done satisfactorily. Often though, the employee hasn’t been given enough details or doesn’t fully understand the manager’s expectations, so the result is disappointing. Conversely, a manager can easily make a wrong decision or set a bad policy based on his or her own assumptions.

TWO (2)

Failing to communicate Managers should convey their expectations or they cannot improve employee performance, said St. Cloud businessman Arnie Kahara, of Arnold A. Kahara Ltd., CPA. Managers

can actively listen, focusing on the employee’s conversation, avoiding distractions, and asking clarifying questions. Employees can reciprocate, repeating what they heard and understood from the managers. “Seek first to understand, then to be understood,” said Stephen R. Covey in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. “This principle is the key to effective interpersonal communication.”

THREE (3)

Dodging difficult situations Failure to provide feedback to an employee at the time of the transgression ensures it will be repeated. Managers should have an honest and direct conversation with the employee the moment he or she becomes aware of the behavior,

problem, or error. Ultimately, the conversation managers really want to avoid is the one leading to termination.

FOUR (4)

Being a buddy Managers can be friendly and interested in their team members, but never a “buddy,” said Nancy Rouillard, a manager at TCF Bank, St. Cloud. She shared how a young manager she supervised developed a friendship with a subordinate. At some point, this attentiveness crossed the line into preferential treatment as the young woman actively promoted her protégé for a new position at the bank. The manager’s indiscrete comments about “when you get this job …” eventually created a rift in trust the team couldn’t repair. The outcome? The protégé

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FEATURE

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PROFIT

Managers who act as if they know it all aren’t fooling anyone and are actually limiting themselves and their employees.

of their staff and their own supervisors. Managers who act as if they know it all aren’t fooling anyone and are actually limiting themselves and their employees.

SEVEN [7) did not secure the new position, and the manager was transferred.

FIVE (5)

Disorganization

delegate to a capable subordinate, Kahara said, even if it’s a task he or she loves to do and does well.

SIX (6)

Failing to delegate Sometimes new managers think it reflects poorly on them if they don’t have their finger in every pot, Kahara said. But, a micro-manager can impede a project, forcing the staff to wait for a decision or to chase down the manager for approval. When employees are given autonomy to act in the best interest of the company, the manager’s time is freed up to concentrate on other priorities. A manager should

Having all the answers “What do you think?” “What do you like?” “How can it be done?” “Is there another way?” The rookie manager can ask all of these questions of his or her reports without fear of looking inept. Freeing employees to brainstorm, create, or to contribute builds mutual respect and adds to a sense of purpose among the team members. Managers need to ask advice

New manager disorganization can result in poor productivity as employees reflect their supervisor’s lack of discipline, Kahara said. To avoid disorganization and poor time management, novice managers should first clearly understand what their own supervisors expect. Once he or she knows what the boss wants, the manager can align personal yearly, monthly, weekly, and daily goals accordingly. The manager should take time at the beginning or end of the day to make a list of five priority items and designate a block of time each day for no interruptions so the list can be completed.

Be recognized in this insider’s circle publication. DID YOU KNOW? Women represent more than 1/3 of all people involved in entrepreneurial activity.1

Between 1997 and 2002, women-owned firms grew by 19.8% while all U.S. firms grew by 7%.2

Women-owned firms accounted for 6.5% of total employment in U.S. firms in 2002 and 4.2% of total receipts.3

TO ADVERTISE Contact Wendy Hendricks Associate Publisher, Business Central Magazine

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Direct: 320.656.3808 or by e-mail: whendricks@BusinessCentralMagazine.com DEADLINE: May 20, 2011

1 Source: Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2005 Report on Women and Entrepreneurship; 2 Source: SBA, Office of Advocacy; 3 Source: SBA, Office of Advocacy

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

Author Brian Tracy, an authority on the development of human potential and leader effectiveness, said individuals should always use a time planner, work from a list, and organize the list by priorities. “The more you see yourself as a role model for others, the better you become in organizing your own time and life,” Tracy writes in his book, Time Power.

EIGHT (8)

Failing to value employees Some new managers become the evil “Mr. Hyde” to their own “Dr. Jekyll” when they are given power over others. From team contributor they morph into the bully, the commander-in-chief, the Tasmanian Devil of a Looney Tunes cartoon. Acknowledging accomplishments with handwritten notes or emails (cc’d to the manager’s superior) or personal calls, public

recognition, and pats on the back help employees feel more valued.

NINE (9)

Failing to hire the best people Managers should hire people smarter than themselves, said Roger Schleper, a 2010 multimillion-dollar producer with Premier Real Estate Services and previously, a long-time IT manager with Fingerhut and Woodcraft Industries. He told the story of a middle-aged, former college professor whom none of the youthful managers wanted to promote because they felt she was so smart that she would make them look bad by comparison. Eventually Schleper made her part of his team, a move that paid off in productivity and high-level performance for his team. “She made us all look good,” Schleper said. BC Mary MacDonnell Belisle owns mary macdonnell belisle-writerforhire in St. Cloud.

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E d ucation & T raining

New Horizons

Technology allows instructors to supplement learning with powerful interactive tools and new applications. By Jill Copeland

raining and development have left behind the days of PowerPoint and lecture. Instructors are no longer simply sharing information verbally while the learner takes notes. Instead of seeking new information in order to learn, information is abundant. Today’s facilitators help filter out the grains that are most valuable and apply them in a way that each individual learner can understand. The New Media Consortium, a not-forprofit organization that explores the use of new media and new technologies, identifies six technological trends to watch in its 2011 Horizon Report. These practices are expected to become commonplace within five years. Electronic books and mobiles are the fastest emerging learning tools. Important capabilities include Internet access and notation capabilities. Some reading tools support interaction and experiential learning. Amazon’s Kindle and Barnes & Noble’s Nook are some of the well known devices for electronic reading. The technology allows for viewing of a paper-like screen, which is brighter and more legible than an ordinary computer screen.

While some consider the electronic readers a fad with little potential for widespread acceptance, Amazon.com reported sales of electronic books outnumbered sales of hardcover books for the first time last July and the trend looks to continue. Mobile devices allow users to access Internet resources anywhere. Instant access to online resources is an important part of distance learning. Learners can use polls, questions, clarifications and messaging during study. Mobile devices are affordably priced – under $500 for Apple’s iPad – and easy to use. Educators have long been using images and planning activities around concepts to enable learning. Augmented reality is the ability to use place-based information anywhere. For example, when individuals are learning about geography, technology can bring them there, so to speak. Students can learn about natural disasters using gamebased simulations. It is a trend that will emerge full-force within two to three years. Games are easy to apply to coursework and enable all types of learners to collaborate and problem-solve. Online games allow the learner to experience a

CORRECTION: In the March/April 2011 special advertising section: Commercial Construction, the Good Shepherd Households-Good Shepherd Community general contractor listing was incorrect. The general contractor for this project is Miller Architects & Builders.

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

virtual reality. Virtual labs allow students to examine the scene of a crime for clues, explore cryogenics or compose their own music. Games make learning fun for the learner, and should not be underestimated for effective instruction. Over the long-term, gesture-based computing will allow users to control technology with their body motions. Motion technology is user-friendly because it interfaces with natural body movements. Imagine a future plastic surgeon “practicing” live surgery on a virtual patient. Or a future geneticist piecing together DNA strands on a virtual replica. The possibilities for assembly and procedure stretch far into the imagination. Other tools allow the provider to critique their teaching processes and performance and make adjustments as needed. Learning analytics allow the teacher or facilitator to analyze the learner’s progress using engagement statistics, performance data and progress over time. This highly informative data allows the instructor to revise coursework and assessments throughout the learning process. Technology will never replace instruction, but the augmentation of digital tools has helped with the process of learning and application of difficult concepts. The aforementioned trends will continue to shape the way individuals perceive and incorporate new information. BC Jill Copeland is the communications and workforce development coordinator at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce.

EDUCATIOn & Training

The following pages provide information to help you explore Central Minnesota’s education & training options.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Rasmussen College St. Cloud Campus Pam McIntosh

The College of St. Scholastica

Saint John’s Prep offering International Baccalaureate Diploma Programmé

St. Cloud Campus Business Programs

Professional Education Manager

Phone: (320) 529-6663 Email: stcloudadmissions@css.edu

Phone: (320) 251-5600

Website: www.css.edu

Email: pamm@ rasmussen.edu Website: www.rasmussen.edu

International Baccalaureate

Learn more about becoming a corporate partner with Rasmussen College. As a corporate partner, your company will gain valuable tools for retaining current employees and recruiting future employees. Benefits for your organization include: program offerings from Associates to Doctoral degrees, help in employee recruitment, employee seminars, use of campus for off-site meetings and increased exposure to your business. There are also many benefits for your employees that I would love to talk to you about.

Phone: (320) 363-3321 • www.sjprep.net Email: admitprep@csbsju.edu

Saint John’s Preparatory School is a Catholic/Benedictine, co-educational, day and boarding International Baccalaureate college preparatory school for students in grades 6-12, with boarding options beginning in the 9th grade. Saint John’s Prep is the first school in central Minnesota to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programmé. In fact, Saint John’s Prep is the only Catholic and boarding school in Minnesota to offer the IB Diploma Programmé.

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in business is a valuable asset in today’s economy, but it can seem like there are a million hoops to jump through to earn one. Not at St. Scholastica. We clear away the hoops and let you focus on your career. We offer: evening and online classes, experienced faculty, credit for prior learning, accelerated curriculum and an emphasis on ethics. We’ll help your dream become a reality. Contact us to learn more.

START YOUR

STORY

Rasmussen College offers more than 55 programs in 5 different schools of study. • School of Business • School of Technology & Design • School of Health Sciences • School of Justice Studies • School of Education

Rasmussen has a corporate partner program that provides benefits and reduced tuition for your employees. Contact Pam McIntosh, Professional Education Manager.

CALL TODAY! 320-251-5600 St Cloud Campus: 226 Park Avenue South St. Cloud, MN 56301 www.Rasmusen.edu M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 1 • • w w w. B u s i n e s s C e n t r a l M a g a z i n e . c o m

EDUCATION & TRAINING

St. Cloud Technical & Community College Foundation Kristina George Director of Development Phone: (320) 308-5980 Email: kgeorge@ sctcc.edu

Whether climbing the corporate ladder, or trying to escape...

PROFESSIONAL

TRAINING. Where You Want It. When You Want It. How You Want It.

www.resourcetraining.com (320) 255-3236

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

Website: www.sctcc.edu

Kristina George serves as the new Director of Development for the St. Cloud Technical & Community College Foundation. Kristina, a St. Cloud native and graduate of the College of St. Benedict, brings energy and extensive skills in community relations. Kristina works closely with the board of directors to grow the foundation’s scholarship programs and community impact. The Foundation partners with donors to invest in SCTCC students and programs to foster educational success and economic strength in Central Minnesota and beyond.

St. Cloud Technical & Community College Carolyn Olson Dean of Nursing Phone: (320) 308-5156 Email: colson@ sctcc.edu Website: www.sctcc.edu

Carolyn Olson leads SCTCC’s growing nursing programs, including its new LPN to Associate Degree (RN) mobility program. Carolyn has been instrumental in the delivery of web-based nursing education and offering Practical Nursing Programs. She is known for her ability to work closely with the community to respond to educational needs. A certified nurse practitioner, Olson joined the college after gaining experience at a variety of health care facilities, including St. Cloud Hospital and MeritCare in Fargo.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

St. Cloud State University Gail Ruhland Director of Training Phone: (320) 308-5759 Email: gail@ scsutraining.com Website: www.scsutraining.com

CORPORATE EDUCATION & OUTREACH… the training you need for the job you do! CEO offers a wide variety of training and educational options to individuals and to business, industry, and non-profit organizations! • Specialized training • Workshops • Seminars • Conference Planning See our menu of training opportunities on our website or we can develop a training package designed for your needs.

Corporate eduCation & outreaCh the training you need for the job you do.

Workshops | Seminars | Conference Planning Soft, Hard or Technical Skills Topics designed for your business needs Gail Ruhland

gail@scsutraining.com 320.308.5759

Tammy Anhalt-Warner

tammy@scsutraining.com 320.308.4252

www.scsutraining.com CEO Corporate Education & Outreach

Minnesota School of Business St. Cloud Campus Jim Beck Campus Director Phone: (320) 257-2001 Email: jbeck@ msbcollege.edu Website: www.msbcollege.edu

At the Minnesota School of Business we focus on changing lives one student at a time: “I had a great experience at MSB. The instructors are knowledgeable. The staff were friendly and a great help: instructors, admissions, education, librarians, receptionists, financial aid, and career services! Everyone at MSB has a smile on their face and a genuine desire to see you succeed.” —Marshall Williams,

Become a Business Alliance Partner Minnesota School of Business invites St. Cloud employers to enjoy the benefits of our Business Alliance program: •

Free custom seminars at your site

•

Employee scholarships

•

Career fairs

•

Job candidate screening

For more information, contact: Jim Beck, Campus Director jbeck@msbcollege.edu 320-257-2000

2008 MSB Graduate

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SPeCiaL adVertiSeMent

“I’m confident this program will make a significant contribution to the educational horizon in central Minnesota.” - Fr. Timothy Backous, OSB Headmaster, Saint John’s Preparatory School

Internationally Recognized Curriculum Now Offered at Saint John’s Prep

n 1857, five monks and brothers opened Saint John’s Prep School— the first school in central Minnesota. 154 years later, Saint John’s Prep is first school in central Minnesota again– this time, it’s the first school accepted by the International Baccalaureate (IB) World Organization to offer the IB Diploma Programmé. In fact, Saint John’s Prep is the only Catholic and boarding school in Minnesota to offer the IB Diploma Programmé. “The IB Diploma Programmé enriches our existing college-preparatory curriculum,” says Fr. Timothy Backous, OSB, headmaster at Saint John’s Preparatory School. “Combined with our deep commitment to Benedictine and Catholic values, we’re able to help students better prepare for college and life in the 21st century.” Continuing the LegaCy The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programmé is an optional twoyear study for motivated students during their junior and senior years. “It takes the best practices of our educational processes and melds them with each student’s interests and gifts,” Fr. Tim says. “I’m confident this program will make a significant contribution to the educational horizon in central Minnesota.” Admission Director and Financial Aid Coordinator Jennine Klosterman 48

agrees. “We’ve always been known for our innovative programming and curriculum. The IB Diploma Programme is just one more way we can help our students enhance their education to become global leaders.” PreParing the Student Over the course of two years, students become critical thinkers, critical readers, and effective verbal and oral communicators. The curriculum covers six areas of study: language, second language, mathematics, science, individuals and society, and visual arts. The program also has three core requirements that broaden student’s educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and understanding: Extended Essay Students independently research a topic relating to a subject they study. Creativity, Action, Service Students learn from experiences by engaging with the community outside the classroom. Theory of Knowledge Students examine and reflect on the nature of knowledge. At the end of their junior and senior years, students take final, essay-based examinations to receive the IB diploma. In addition, overall performance assessments are taken into consideration. “That’s how this program differs from

B u s i n e ss C e n t ra l M a g a z i n e • • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1

Advance Placement (AP) courses,” Matt Reichert, IB Diploma Programmé Director at Saint John’s Prep says. “The final exams are essay-based, not multiple choice. The program focuses on students comprehending what they’ve learned, not just if they remember facts and information.” SuPPorting the MiSSion The IB Diploma Programmé gives students a significant advantage. Graduates routinely gain admission to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Many colleges have established recognition policies for the IB diploma–like active recruiting, waving certain pre-requisites, or awarding credit or scholarships. Kathy Kockler, principal of Saint John’s Preparatory School, sees the advantages for participating students. “Its worldclass academic standards are accepted by prestigious universities,” Kockler says. “It truly is a passport to higher education.” Call Saint John’s Prep today to learn more about the IB Diploma Programmé.

320-363-3321 • 800-525-7737 SJPrep.net

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ADVERTISER INDEX

ADVERTISER American Heritage National Bank.................................8 Bernick’s - Beverages & Vending............................... 49 Birthline, Inc................................................................... 32 Bremer............................................................................ 13 Central Minnesota Federal Credit Union.................... 25 Charter Communications................................................2 Coldwell Banker Commercial - Orion........................ 31 College of Saint Scholastica......................................... 11 Country Gallery Photography Studio, Inc.................... 31 CRTechnical......................................................................5 Falcon National Bank.......................................................3 Grand Casino Mille Lacs............................................... 23 JDB Associates............................................................. 43 Jennings Insurance....................................................... 43 LarsonAllen LLP............................................................ 43 Marco, Inc....................................................................... 15 Miller Architects & Builders, Inc................................. 27 Minnesota School of Business..................................... 47 Rasmussen College...................................................... 45 M

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Regional Diagnostic Radiology & The Vein Center.... 25 Resource Training & Solutions.................................... 46 Rice Building Systems, Inc........................................... 29 Schlenner Wenner & Co., CPA’s................................. 22 St. Cloud Hospital/CentraCare Health System.............7 St. Cloud Medical Group............................................... 17 St. Cloud Orthopedic Associates, Ltd.......................... 19 St. Cloud State University............................................. 47 St. Cloud Surgical Center............................................. 22 St. Cloud Technical & Community College................ 46 St. John’s Prep. School................................................. 48 Stearns Bank.................................................................. 31 Strack Construction Co. Inc......................................... 27 Tri-County Abstract & Title Guaranty, Inc.................. 23 US Bank.......................................................................... 51 Wells Fargo.................................................................... 52 Westside Liquor............................................................. 49

EDUCATION & TRAINING College of St Scholastica.............................................. 45 Minnesota School of Business..................................... 47 Rasmussen College...................................................... 45 Resource Training & Solutions.................................... 46 St. Cloud State University............................................. 47 St. Cloud Technical & Community College................ 46 St. Cloud Technical & Community College................ 46 St. John’s Prep. School................................................. 45 SMART BUSINESS PROFILE Birthline, Inc................................................................... 32

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MARKETPLACE

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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PROFIT

Lessons Learned

It hasn’t always been easy running Rengel Printing, but Pete and Dee Rengel agree that the business is stronger now than ever before. By Gail Ivers

Timeline February 2, 1921 Goedert & Rengel opens on the 2nd floor of the Journal-Press building on 5th Ave. S in St. Cloud 1929 The company moves across the street to the Farmers Bank; their primary business is printing canning labels for St. Cloud Canning Co. 1930 The company moves to the Mission Building on 8th Ave. S 1951 Bankers Systems becomes Rengel’s major client, accounting for about 90 percent of their business until the 1980s

Business Central: How did you get involved in the business? Dee Rengel: I didn’t want to come here, but John said he needed help. Pete Rengel: As a kid on Sundays we’d go to church, go to brunch, then go to the shop and sweep the floors. When I graduated, I left town for six years and worked somewhere else. In April 2004 Dad called and said, “Do you want to buy this business? Because if you don’t I’m going to sell it to someone else.” BC: What’s been the biggest challenge? Dee: We used to do a lot of work for Creative Memories. They pulled one job from us

and suddenly I had to make up $500,000 in a year. We had purchased new equipment that we were making payments on. I had some real sleepless nights over that. •• Now we’re so diverse. Last year we had 800 customers. Now we’re in a position where we can absorb the loss of a customer. Pete: Family business can be hard. When I bought the business my sister, Joy, was managing the sales force. She broke us out of what we were doing. She set us up for much of our growth. But in the end, it just didn’t work to have both of us here. She’s at Wolters Kluwer now and doing well. •• My wife LeRae is in the business. I couldn’t do it without her. But

At a Glance Rengel Printing Company 1922 7th St. N • PO Box 124 St. Cloud, MN 56302 (320) 251-5951 www.rengelprinting.com

Owner: Pete Rengel Number of employees: 20 Started: February 2, 1921 Chamber member since 1972

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Fun fact

The first press came from the Pan Motor Co. It can still be seen by the front door to Rengel Printing. we’ve learned that if something bothers us we talk about it right away. Same with Dee. BC: Did the recession have an impact on you? Pete: By then we’d been in a recession for three years. We were already practicing. Dee: Actually the last three years we’ve seen good growth. BC:What do you like best about the business? Dee: I’m pleased we’re in a position where we’re able to help with some community projects. Pete: I look forward to the challenge. I never get burned out on the work. There’s nothing better than servicing customers. BC

1953 Rengel purchases the business from Goedert 1956 The company moves to 1206 St. Germain; they have six employees 1960 John Rengel joins his father in the shop. 1975 John Rengel purchases Rengel Printing from his father 1978 Dee Rengel, John’s wife, begins working in the office 1979 The business needs space to accommodate growth; production moves to 1922 7th Ave. N. The office and sales remain on St. Germain. 1980 The rest of the business moves to the 7th Ave. N location; the company has 12-15 employees 1987 The Rengel’s add a warehouse to their existing building; the company has 24 employees 1993 Dee Rengel purchases 49 percent of the business 2004 Pete Rengel, Dee’s son, purchases John Rengel’s shares 2009 Pete purchases Dee’s shares

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