NWLA Business Monthly - November 2012

Published By Specht Newspapers, Inc

’Tis the SEASON at the office

Now What?

Holiday Etiquette Can Be a Tricky Thing. From Bonuses to Office Parties, Learn How to Plan for a Successful Season...

Also In This Issue...

Torch Award Winners

The Better Business Bureau held its 8th Annual Torch Awards at East Ridge Country Club, Shreveport, Louisiana, honoring 27 nominees in the Shreveport/Bossier market.

The Heartbeat of Northwest Louisiana Growth

November 2012

2 | November 2012 | BUSINESS MONTHLY

ON THE COVER

HOLIDAY BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

Dos and Don’ts

CONTENTS

Many Businesses Have No Plan on How to Handle the Holidays.

This Month’s Feature Gives them a Good Starting Point.

Ho! • Ho! • Ho!

FEATURES

11 Tourism Santa Bob Makes His Debut at Bass Pro Shops’ Outdoor World

13 Business Briefs Find Our Who Was Hired, Who Was Promoted, and Who Was Honored in Local Buisness

Santa Bob is Coming to Town

PERSPECTIVE

4 4

7 12 12

Find More Online at www.nwlabusiness.com

...Starting on Page 5

The First Word A Business Lesson from Christmas Vacation

On the Economic Development Front The State of Economic Development in NWLA Marketing B-S Is Your 2013 Marketin Plan Ready?

Win-Win Powertools Business Etiquette = Business Success

Insurance Matters Preparing for a Natural Disaster

Volume 3, Number 8

©Copyright 2012 by Specht Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved. Business Monthly is published each month by Specht Newspapers, Inc. at 4250 Viking Drive, Bossier City, LA 71111. Telephone (318) 747-7900. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed.

BUSINESS MONTHLY| November 2012 | 3

PERSPECTIVE THE FIRST WORD

A Business Lesson from Christmas Vacation

Have you ever watched the movie, tary bonuses, then that is what your National Lampoon’s Christmas employees expect. Anything less than Vacation? There is a valuable busi- what has been done is the past can ness lesson to be learned of you watch and will have a detrimental effect on morale. it closely.

It’s Christmas time and the Griswolds are preparing for a DAVID SPECHT JR. family seasonal celebration, but things never run smoothly for Clark, his wife Ellen and their two kids. Clark’s continual bad luck is worsened by his obnoxious family guests, but he manages to keep going knowing that his Christmas bonus is due soon.

Clark dreams of installing a swimming pool with what he expects to be a significant bonus. In Gifts are nice, if they are accompafact, he “pre-spends” his bonus on nied by cash. Remember, this isn’t a many things throughout the movie. gift exchange, it is a bonus for their At the climax of the movie, Clark work throughout the past year. discovers his “bonus” is an enrollKeep bonuses in line among ment in a jelly-of-the-month club. employee groups. While it is taboo to Much hilarity ensues as Clark discuss salary, Christmas bonuses goes off and his cousin Eddie, a lame- are often compared (whether right or brain with the big heart, takes the wrong). Best to remember this when situation in hand — kidnapping deciding “how much.”

Clark’s boss.

If it has been a challenging year The movie is a Christmas classic, and bonuses just aren’t possible. Be and it’s business lesson is timeless as frank and let employees know well in well. advance. Some employees count on Clark’s expectation of a large mon- their Christmas bonus to fund giftetary bonus at Christmas comes as giving of their own. It is a doublethe result of two things. whammy when they don’t receive one First, a precedent was set by his — regardless of the reason. Making boss, Frank Shirley, in previous them aware long before they “preyears. As a leader, when you give out spend” the money softens the blow a bonus or incentive, it becomes an — a little. expectation — all things being equal.

As Christmas draws closer, it is Second, a lack of communication the smart leader who intentionally on the part of Shirley brought the addresses the bonus situation now. surprise and anger when Clark’s How you end this year with your bonus was not as expected. team, will definitely affect how next It is learned later on that Shirley year progresses. merely wanted to bank some more Portions of this column excerpted profits. However, in real life, many businesses might not be able to give from imdb.org. the same amount of bonuses as in previous years due to economic factors. This is where communication is DAVID SPECHT JR. is vice president of Specht key. In fact, a little “over-communica- Newspapers, Inc. Read his blog about leadership tion” is in order. at www.DavidASpecht.com He may be reached via Here are some things to consider email at dspecht@bossierpress.com. when looking at Christmas bonuses What have you done in the past? If your company has a history of mone-

Opinion

4 | November 2012 | BUSINESS MONTHLY

PERSPECTIVE

ON THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FRONT

The State of Economic Development in NWLA

2012 is proving to be a busy year in Tiburon Associates’ expansion at economic development for North Camp Minden, and Weyerhaeuser’s Louisiana Economic Partnership expansion in Natchitoches.

While our communities have (NLEP) and its state and local partners. As the regional economic devel- achieved great wins, we must also opment marketing organization for overcome new challenges such as the northern Louisiana, NLEP recruits new companies to the CHRISTINE RAMBO region and helps existing businesses to expand.

So far this year, NLEP and its partners have successfully completed 12 economic development projects, which could potentially create up to 1,554 jobs and generate up to $967.3 million in capital investment.

Our prospect pipeline, a database by which we track our active eco- closure of the General Motor’s plant in nomic development projects, stands at Shreveport. NLEP is working with private, state and local partners to record levels.

North Louisiana recently celebrat- proactively market the now vacant ed a huge win, thanks to collaboration GM Assembly Plant and other GM between Governor Jindal and supplier buildings. Our team is proLouisiana Economic Development, moting the properties on various webCaddo-Bossier Port, Red River sites and real estate databases, travelWaterway Commission, City of ling to Dallas and Atlanta to meet Shreveport, Caddo Parish with site selectors, and submitting the Commission, Bossier Parish Police buildings for new projects. AEP Jury, City of Bossier, Greater Bossier SWEPCO is showcasing the properEconomic Development Foundation, ties in a series of nationwide mail-outs Bossier Parish Community College targeting site selectors. Interest in and NLEP, rallying together to recruit these properties has picked up considerably in the last few months.

Benteler Steel/Tube.

NLEP will discuss these wins and This German-based steel tube manufacturer will build a $900-million, other economic development activities two-phase facility that will include during a “State of Economic both a seamless steel tube mill (phase Development” address on November from 11:30am-1:00pm at one) and a steel mill (phase two) at the 1st Caddo-Bossier Port. This win means CoHabitat, 610 Commerce Street in 675 new direct jobs and approximately downtown Shreveport. Sponsored by 1,540 new indirect jobs, resulting in a Chase Bank, Cook Yancey Law total of more than 2,200 new, perma- Corporation, O’Nealgas, Ward II Industrial District, Willis Knighton nent jobs.

Five other companies have already Health System and CoHabitat, the publically announced their relocation free NLEP public meeting is an opporor expansion plans in northern tunity for business and community Louisiana: Ronpak’s corporate reloca- leaders, economic development parttion at the Caddo-Bossier Port, ners and elected officials to hear an Haynes International’s expansion in economic development update. A light Please Arcadia, Mortgage Contracting lunch will be provided.

Services’ location to Ruston, Graphic Packaging expansion in West Monroe, See, NLEP, Page 13

Opinion

’Tis the Season

FEATURE

HOLIDAY BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

BY SEAN GREEN

When fall arrives, you have to admit it's in the back of your mind: the holidays.

As a modern business owner/entrepreneur/salesperson, these stressful times can only multiply as you try to figure out the best way to reward employees, clients and customers.

That's why there are some guidelines to consider when navigating the minefield of parties, gifts, and cards that will turn you into a Grinch or make you a reallife Santa. “(The approach to the holidays) depends on the business. If they have a really, really casual style they can decorate like crazy and have lots of fun games and activities. But a law firm needs to show that little touch of spirit and still look professional,” said Teri Haynes, owner of business etiquette advisors Business

Interactions, LLC.

Business to employees

Many smaller operations don't have the cash to toss around that deep-pocketed corporations do, but employee satisfaction matters no matter your business's scope.

“It's really important that you make it performance related, especially since not everyone is Christian. (You would not) give a Jew or Muslim a Christmas bonus,” said Haynes.

Employees deserve to be recognized for their hard work throughout the year.

Bonus — The most common reward for employees is through a year-end bonus. However, keep in mind that whatever amount you give will be the benchmark for future bonuses, so don't set yourself up to disappoint in the future.

And if you have a tradition of giving bonuses, that will become the expected norm around the holi-

The Dos and Don’ts for Businesses during the Holidays. days. And while the holiday bonus is the standard gift, remember that it is not law. There are alternatives for fiscally conservative businesses.

Gifts — A significantly less costly alternative to bonuses, gifts only work if you know your workers well enough to give something that they will appreciate, and give uniformly. There's no better way to damage morale than by giving a gift that would be seen as favoritism.

Parties — Also less costly than a bonus, it also allows workers a chance to connect outside work, which helps with team building.

Remember to do something that matches your office culture — perhaps hors d'oeuvres at the nicest restaurant in town isn't the best idea, maybe a half day and a pizza party is. If unsure, ask for employee input. The most important thing is to put in the effort in planning and keep a light atmosphere.

“It's not fair if employees help with arranging a party and it's held after hours,” said Haynes. “A way to show appreciation is by taking their personal time into account, so giving them a break during work hours with a party is a good way to show that.”

Time off — If employees want to take time off, due to the added stress that comes with looking for and affording presents to daily life, this is usually the time of year it is requested. And you don't want to look like the bad guy, so if you can afford to let an employee slip away for a few days, go for it. But if you can't pull the trigger with no reservations, no need to be a Grinch.

Plan ahead and talk to each of your workers about what they expect or require in terms of time off during the holiday season. Be open to trading shifts or work loads, or figuring out a flexible schedule.

See, Holidays, Page 14

BUSINESS MONTHLY| November 2012 | 5

PERSPECTIVE

FROM THE BOSSIER CHAMBER

Reward those People and Businesses that Made a Difference in 2012

There are good employees, and then there are great employees.

Some partners put in a hard day, and some partners go above and beyond to ensure the company succeeds. As another year passes, the LISA JOHNSON Bossier Chamber is honoring the difference makers, community influencers and risk takers of 2012.

Everyone business owner or manager knows someone that has put in the time and made all the difference for their bottom line, and this is the time to let that person know their actions didn’t go unnoticed but were recognized and appreciated.

The Bossier Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting nominations for the 2012 Business and Business Person of the Year.

Each year, the Chamber recognizes the business community and those that excelled in areas of leadership, growth and involvement. The honor of Business and Business Person of the Year is reserved for those that are dedicated not only to their company, but to making an impact here in their own backyard.

The 2011 Business Person of the Year was awarded to Chancellor Jim Henderson from Bossier Parish Community College. Chancellor Henderson is a model for any community leader and is involved in a variety of community initiatives including the Robinson Film Center and United Way, and also serves on the Board of Directors for the Bossier Chamber. Holiday Lanes took home the Business of the Year award in 2011 for their community service, school partnerships and outreach programs, which are making an immeasurable impact on the area.

Each year, the nominees only scratch the surface of the outstanding businesses and professionals in the community. As the Chamber prepares for the 2012 Gala, they’re look-

ing to their community for input on those that deserve such an honor.

Awards will also be given for New Member of the Year, Media Partner of the Year, Military Relations

Opinion

6 | November 2012 | BUSINESS MONTHLY

Supporter of the Year, Diplomat of the Year and more! Nominations can be submitted through www.bossierchamber.com and must be received

by December 3rd. To be considered, nominees must be members of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce.

The 2012 Award Recipients will be announced at the Bossier Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Gala on January 22nd at the CenturyLink Center. This year’s event is taking a new turn, trading in the Night of Stars theme for a Mardi Gras Mask and an evening of decadence. The Annual Gala serves as a time to reflect on the year and reveal the vision for the next 12 months. Kara Lowrie, 2012 Chairman of the Board, will pass the reigns to the incoming Chairman, Jason Smith. The outgoing and incoming Board of Directors will be recognized, and guests will receive the 2012 Annual Report with the 2013 Program of Work.

Sponsorships and tickets are available to the signature event. For more information on how to laissez le bon temps rouler with the Bossier Chamber, contact Jana Morgan at 318-746-0252.

LISA JOHNSON is President/CEO of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce.

NEWS

BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Local Leaders Honored

by BBB Torch Awards

The Better Business Bureau held its 8th Annual Torch Awards at East Ridge Country Club, Shreveport, Louisiana, honoring 27 nominees in the Shreveport/Bossier market.

Emceed by Sonja Bailes, Public Relations Liaison, Bossier Parish School Board, the awards were presented to four different categories, Integrity Award (businesses that maintain a solid commitment to ethical business practices); Customer commitment Award (business with outstanding customer service programs); Good Neighbor Award (businesses and employees who play a significant role in their support and involvement in local charities); and Not-For-Profit Award (non-profit organizations that have positively impacted the communities of Shreveport/Bossier and other surrounding parishes).

BBB recognized three finalists in each of the categories through a video presentation, produced by LeGrand and Associates.

Winner of the Integrity Award was Automated Business Concepts. Terry McNaight accepted the award. Other finalists were Clarkes Jewelers represented by Ginger Clarke and Jean Simpson Personnel Services represented by Jean Simpson.

Winner of the Customer Commitment Award was The Remington Suite Hotel and Spa with Newt Dorsett accepting the award.

Other finalists in this category were Accucare Medical represented by Judy Stroud and Jeb Design/Build repre-

“

sented by Jeb Breithaupt.

Winner of the Good Neighbor Award was Barksdale Federal Credit Union with Melissa Couch accepting the award. Other finalists in the Good Neighbor category were Accounting & Tax Management represented by Lisa Barker and Loksafe Door Hardware & Services represented by Katie Queen.

Recipient of the Not-For-Profit Award was Red River Revel with Kip Holloway accepting the award.

Other finalists were The Community Foundation represented

by Paula Hickman and The Louisiana Association for the Blind represented

by Libby Murphy.

Also recognized at the dinner were BBB Scholarship recipients, Amanda Green, LSU Shreveport; Patricia Doyle, Bossier Parish Community College; Belandra Capers, Southern University – Shreveport; and Lauren Beuriot, Centenary College. The BBB scholarships were established to assist business majors pursuing an MBA. The guest speaker was Craig Spohn, Executive Director, Cyber Innovation Center.

— BUSINESS MONTHLY

Great leaders don't simply lead a team. Great leaders develop a team so that they are more valuable in Year 2 than they were in Year 1.

Tony Albachiara, principal with Sales Benchmark

Index, writing in the firm's Sales Force Effectiveness Blog

PERSPECTIVE MARKETING B-S (BOSSIER-SHREVEPORT)

Have You Started Your 2013 Marketing Plan?

Believe it or not, 2012 is drawing to a take a look at ten specific elements that close. In terms of your marketing plan- you should consider as a part of your ning, what has worked well for you in 2013 marketing plan: 2012? What has not worked so well?

1. Advertising: This is an excellent What things do you want to continue in way to get your message out to your cus2013? What things do you want to tomers! delete? These are all pertinent quesWe have also discussed this in past tions that you must ask yourself when columns but once again, there are multhinking of your marketing plan(s) for tiple outlets through which to advertise next year. There are a few certainties: including newspaper, television, radio, plan early, plan well and plan often. Here are a few tips that RANDY E. BROWN may help you in formulating your 2013 marketing plan and setting your marketing goals.

Your goals must be: 1.) Specific 2.) Measurable 3.) Attainable 4.) Relevant 5.) Time-Bound Put these five points together and they form the acronym SMART. When it comes to formulating your marketing plan for 2013, magazine and even such opportunities You Must Be SMART! As we have cov- as Craig’s List. The important thing is, ered in past columns, don’t fail to plan don’t fail to advertise your products and and plan well. Be ahead of the curve services to both your existing customer with current trends in your industry or base and your future customers. business category. Though it may come 2. Email Blasts: Schedule email as a shock, not all businesses formulate blasts on a regular basis. They are great a marketing plan. WHY NOT? In reali- for getting your marketing information ty, many people have an aversion to the out in front of your customers on a conidea of planning. This idea is scary and sistent basis. Make sure the content of intimidating to many people. You might these email blasts is relevant and once try to talk yourself out of it and actually again, schedule them regularly. convince yourself that you don’t know Find out which day (and it will take how to plan your marketing. Don’t a few times..trial and error) is the best believe it. You can do it! Get into it! Dive day to send these email blasts. in! Ask yourself some hard questions. Depending upon your industry and cusBased upon the five goal setting tips tomer base/target, certain days of the described above, identify your goals and week will elicit a better response rate pinpoint your target market. Examine than other days. your marketing mix. Don’t get over3. Article Marketing: Share your whelmed. expertise with blogs and articles relatWe have talked about all of these ing to your business, industry and prodthings in past columns. However, I will ucts/services on sites that cater to artimention this again, mix it up. Don’t put cle marketing. You are good at what all of your marketing eggs in one bas- you do and you have a story to tell with ket. With all of the endless technology your expertise, your company and your and electronic media devices at our dis- product(s). You must share your story posal in this day and time, use the in any way and every way possible! many marketing tools that you have Next month, we’ll explore seven readily available to you. The key is to more marketing plan elements. mix it up.

Develop a marketing mix. A marketing mix is the most important element RANDY BROWN. is Advertising Manager of the Bossier Press-Tribune and a 11-year veteran of marketing and that any marketing plan can possess. A media in Northwest Louisiana. He may be reached via marketing mix is CRITICAL!! email at rbrown@bossierpress.com.

With all of this being said, lets now

Opinion

BUSINESS MONTHLY| November 2012 | 7

8 | November 2012 | BUSINESS MONTHLY

BUSINESS MONTHLY| November 2012 | 9

10 | November 2012 | BUSINESS MONTHLY

PERSPECTIVE TOURISM

You’d Better Watch Out You’d Better Not Cry...

Santa Bob is Coming to Town

The holiday season is a time for traditions and family and one of Bossier City’s businesses merges the two each year with their annual event. Santa’s Wonderland is back again at Bass Pro Shops at the Louisiana Boardwalk, and this year they’re introducing the newest face to represent the North Pole – Santa Bob. Santa Bob, who also serves as Bass Pro Shops’ “Rod Man” Bob Collins, will don the red suit and spread Christmas cheer with his wife Beth, aka Mrs. Beth Claus, starting Nov. 10, with a preview event. Guests can get a free 4x6 studio quality photo with Santa, enjoy carolers, a tree lighting, free cookies and hot chocolate, a giveaway and more.

In addition, Santa’s Wonderland will feature a variety of free crafts, games and activities, including laser arcade, moving trains, slot car racing, video games, remote control trucks, and more every day through Dec. 24.

Collins will rotate his Santa duties with Santa Tom of Tyler, Texas, who returns to the store’s holiday event for his second year.

While this year’s event marks Collins’ Bass Pro Shops debut as Santa, the longtime Shreveport resident isn’t a stranger to St. Nick. He first played Santa at his wife’s day spa, Beth’s Wellness Center, which operated for 10 years at Horseshoe Casino Hotel.

However, he takes his new role even more seriously.

For starters, per Bass Pro Shops’ rules, Santas must wear a real beard. So starting last Thanksgiving in 2011, Collins grew out his beard. He and his wife also joined The Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas, a national association of the country’s real bearded Santas. They trained and earned their Bachelor of Santa Claus degrees at School 4 Santa’s International University of Santa Claus in Houston, hosted by Tim Connaghan, also known as Hollywood Santa for his longtime career playing the role of Santa in various films, TV shows, talk shows

Courtesy Photo

“Santa Bob” paid a visit to the Bossier Chamber of Commerce Recently. He will be making his debut at Bass Pro Shops’ Outdoor World at the Louisiana Boardwalk this Holiday Season.

and more.

As a member of these organizations, Santa Bob must adhere to the Santa Code of Conduct, which includes everything from being committed to community service calls DONECIA PEA

Opinion

throughout the year, to using a specific brand of shampoo and conditioner to maintain his beard. And they’re regularly asked to pose for photos everywhere they go when dressed in their costumes.

Sounds like a lot of work, but the Collins whose blended family consists of nine children, 27 grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren - said they consider it a worthwhile calling.

“You have to love the kids and want to do it because, otherwise, it wouldn’t make sense to do it... It’s a real joy to bring smiles to everyone’s face,” Santa Bob said. Mrs. Claus added, “It’s a calling of wanting to help people. We both love children so and if all we can do is bring a little joy, a smile, a laugh, it’s worth it.”

Santa will be available for photos 3 to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 10-Dec. 24. Free crafts will be available 5 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday; noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Free game and activities will be on hand during the store’s regular hours, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday. Call Bass Pro Shops at (318) 549-880 to learn more about Santa’s Wonderland.

DONECIA PEA works with media relations at the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

BUSINESS MONTHLY| November 2012 | 11

PERSPECTIVE

WIN WIN POWER TOOLS

Business Etiquette = Business Success

The Publisher of NWLA Business I expect the look and sounds over the Monthly, David Specht, suggests a phone to ask “Who are you, why are topic for each issue and leaves it up to you here and what do you want?” the writer to choose their approach. “You’re not selling something are Since I’m a sales and service coach, I you?” I have to bite my tongue while talk to clients about their business eti- I’m thinking….I could be your biggest quette the year around…at the front door, on the phone and JERRY FRENTRESS within their organization. My goal is to help my client consider every opportunity throughout the business year. Here are three powerful etiquette examples that can lead to success: Story #1: My attorney son-inlaw Chris attended a seminar featuring experts on a specialized area of law that interests him. One of the speakers was the head of the legal department for client or potentially your next biggest the entire state. Chris was unable to client. personally express his appreciation to All of my negative thoughts evapothe speaker for the presentation, so he rated when I first heard and then met took two minutes and hand-wrote and Grace. Grace works at a window manhand –addressed a thank you note. ufacturing company and her words, Three weeks later, THE man called smile and tone made me feel like I Chris to thank him for the personal would like to become her next biggest note. Chris spent 30 minutes on the customer. Yes, one person can do that. phone with this very influential state They can also do the reverse. government official. Chris concluded When I met Grace, she did it again. his call after receiving direct contact She even stood up when I came in the information and permission to call or door. After I complimented her, she come by any time. A valuable relation- told me that her goal was to make ship was established by a brief note of callers and visitors feel happy. The appreciation. Say and write “Thank receptionist had a goal!

You” year round.

Her boss Ray, claims her as one of Story #2: I had the pleasure of his greatest assets. He also asked me speaking to groups in Arkansas and not to share her name or the name of staying in the Hotel Seville Magnuson his company. I wonder why?

Grand in Harrison, Ark. It was grand!

There’s a common thread winding The highlight of my stay was when I through all of these stories. checked out. As I signed the bill the Businesses with a professional apprelady behind the counter asked me if I ciation and common business etihad enjoyed my stay. I said “yes”! She quette for everyone, inside or outside leaned forward, lit up with a broad the organization, regardless of the smile, looked me in the eyes and time of year, earn huge dividends. responded…. “I love it when our customers say they enjoyed their stay.

Please come back.” Can you guess JERRY FRENTRESS — Speaker & Coach, Win-Win where I will stay the next time I am in Power(ful) Tools for Sales, Service and Employee Harrison? Work to build repeat busi- Interviewing. Website: www.WinWinPowerTools.com. ness.

Story #3: I call many potential Business Facebook: clients and cross the doorstep of www.Facebook.com/WinWinPowerTools . 742-0009 / numerous prospects. May expectation Bossier City for the reception has become very low.

Opinion

12 | November 2012 | BUSINESS MONTHLY

PERSPECTIVE INSURANCE MATTERS

Natural Disaster Planning for Your Business

As a business owner, you know operations if disaster strikes. that some challenges are expected To protect other physical assets, while others may appear with little it’s important to maintain a comor no warning. Don’t let a natural prehensive, up-to-date inventory of disaster catch you unprepared. the items and equipment used in Here are some steps you can take to protect your employ- KARY LANDRY ees, secure your assets, and get your business back up and running in the event of a natural disaster.

Protect Your Employees

Opinion

The safety of all onsite employees and visitors should be your first priority.

Take the time to plan evacuation routes and exits from your facility and mark them accordingly.

Installing proper emergency lighting will help show the way in case of power failure. You may also want to designate staff “safety wardens” to guide and assist any emergency efforts, including regular drills.

For some emergencies, taking shelter is the proper response.

Identify appropriate shelter spaces in your facility and make sure that they are kept clear of any items that would limit their capacity or safety should their use become necessary.

For more information about emergency life safety procedures, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Secure Your Assets

Effective disaster preparedness means protecting your critical business assets. These may include your facilities, equipment, software, and data.

Depending on where you are located, there may be measures you can take to harden your facility against natural disasters. Contact a qualified contractor to discuss risk mitigation construction techniques for your building or office.

As an added precaution, you may also want to research places where you could temporarily relocate your

your business. You may also want to videotape these items and then store both the inventory and the video in a safe location, away from your property.

Digital assets are increasingly important for all manner of businesses. Instituting regular backup procedures for critical software and data will help ensure that your business maintains access to the digital infrastructure it needs.

Get Up And Running

Following the disaster, you’ll want to resume business as quickly as possible. Keep a name and telephone number list of contractors or repair firms who could make emergency temporary repairs or board up windows should some of your buildings be damaged. You’ll also want to maintain a list of key suppliers, creditors, customers, and employees you need to contact about the state of your operation.

Finally, construct a financial plan to cover continuing payroll expenses and debt obligations.

KARY LANDRY is a State Farm® agent in Bossier City.

PERSPECTIVE FINANCIAL FOCUS

Still Time to Set Up Owner-Only 401(k)

If you’re a small-business owner, with no full-time employees (except possibly your spouse or business partner), you’re probably used to taking care of just about everything on your own. So, if you’re thinking of establishing a retirement plan — and you should — WIL ADAMS you might also be attracted to “going solo” with an “Owner-only” 401(k).

An Owner-only 401(k), sometimes known as an Individual 401(k), has been around for a few years now, and has proven quite popular — and with good reason.

This plan is easy to establish, easy to administer and, most importantly, gives you many of the same benefits enjoyed by employees of a company that offers a traditional 401(k) plan.

These benefits include the following: Tax deferred earnings — Your earnings aren’t taxed as they accumulate.

Tax deductible contributions — An Owner-only 401(k) consists of two components — salary deferral and profit sharing contributions, both of which are generally 100 percent tax deductible. If you choose to make Roth salary deferrals to your Owner-only 401(k), your contributions aren’t deductible, but you won't pay taxes on your earnings, provided you don’t take withdrawals until you’re 59-1/2 and it's been five years since your first year of Roth deferral.

Variety of investment choices — You can choose to fund your Owner-only 401(k) with a wide range of investments. And you can construct an investment mix that’s appropriate for your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

Furthermore, an Owner-only 401(k) can potentially allow you to make greater contributions, at an identical income level, than other small-business retirement plans, such as a SEP IRA. In 2012, you can defer up to $17,000, or $22,500 if you’re 50 or older (as long as you don’t exceed 100 percent of your

income). Then, in addition, you can make a profit-sharing contribution equal to 25 percent of your income (slightly less if you are unincorporated). So, by combining the salary deferral and profit-sharing compo-

Opinion

nents, you can potentially contribute up to $50,000 to your Owner-only 401(k) in 2012, or $55,000 if you’re 50 or older. And these figures are doubled if your spouse also contributes to the Owner-only 401(k).

However, you’re not obligated to contribute anything to your plan. So, if your business is slow one year, you might scale back your contributions, or put in nothing at all. Then, when business picks up again, you can get back toward contributing whatever you can afford, up to the maximum.

Clearly, the Owner-only 401(k) can offer you some key advantages in building resources for retirement.

But it’s not the only small-business retirement plan on the market, so, before you make a decision, you may want to consult with your tax and financial advisors to determine if an Owner-only 401(k) is indeed the right plan for you.

But don’t wait too long. You’ll have to establish your Owner-only 401(k) by Dec. 31 if you want to receive any tax deductions for 2012.

And in any case, the sooner you start putting money away, the faster the progress you will make toward the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned.

WIL ADAMS is a financial advisor with Edward Jones.

He can be reached at (318) 549-9155.

NLEP: Collaboration is Key Continued from Page 4

R.S.V.P. Diana Rasberry at drasberry@nlep.org or call 677-2557.

“The November 1st public meeting is part of NLEP’s Regional Caravan.

NLEP board members and staff are travelling throughout the 14 parishes that we serve to meet with local elected officials, chambers of commerce and community and business leaders,” said Todd Perry, NLEP volunteer Chair. “We would like new and existing businesses to know that we are available to serve them on a confidential, complimentary basis. NLEP also

NEWS

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Attorney Admitted To American College Of Trial Lawyers

Bernard S. Johnson has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in America.

The induction ceremony at which Mr.. Johnson became a Fellow took place recently before an audience of approximately 1,070 persons during the recent 2012 Annual Meeting of the College in New York, New York.

Founded in 1950, the College is composed of the best of the trial bar from the United States and Canada. Fellowship in the College is extended by invitation only and only after careful Johnson investigation, to those experienced trial lawyers who have mastered the art of advocacy and whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility and collegiality.

Lawyers must have a minimum of fifteen years trial experience before they can be considered for Fellowship.

Community Trust Bank President And CEO Named Vice President Of CDIAC

Community Trust Bank’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Drake Mills, has been named Vice President of the Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council (CDIAC) for 2013 by the Federal Reserve Board.

partners with elected officials and business groups in the economic development process.”

Economic development is a collaborative process, and business and community support is vital to its success.

By engaging business, community and elected leaders at the November 1st meeting, NLEP hopes to build on the positive momentum that will reap results for North Louisiana.

CHRISTINE RAMBO is the NLEP Vice President of Communications/Corporate Affairs. To comment, email feedback@nlep.org or call 318-677-2536.

The Board announced the president, vice president and members of the CDIAC council for 2013 on October 18.

“I’m honored to be named to this position by the Federal Reserve Board,” said Drake Mills, President and CEO, Community Trust Bank.

The CDIAC advises the Federal Reserve Board on the economy, lending conditions, and other issues facing community banks and other financial institutions. Members are selected from representatives of commercial banks, thrift institutions, and credit unions serving on local advisory councils at the 12 Federal Reserve Banks. One member of each of the Reserve Bank councils serves on CDIAC, which meets twice a year with the Federal Reserve Board in Washington.

Rep. Jeff Thompson Earns NFIB/Louisiana Freshman Guardian of Small Business Award

The National Federation of Independent Business, Louisiana's leading small-business association, has presented state Rep. Jeff Thompson with its prestigious Guardian of Small Business Award for his strong support for small business.

Thompson, who was elected in 2011, represents the 8th District (Bossier Parish) and serves on the Commerce, Education, Retirement and Homeland Security committees and the Special Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs.

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BUSINESS MONTHLY| November 2012 | 13

NEWS BUSINESS PEOPLE

Home Federal Bank Announces New Hires, Employee Transitions

Home Federal Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana (NASDAQ: HFBL) today announced the recent hiring of many new employees: Delayne Lewis, Emily Price, Karen Allen, Susan Turner, Rod Williams, Heather Ivey and Tabitha Adams.

Additionally, several staff members will transition to new roles including Linda Day, Jeremy Jones and Teri May. “We’re very excited about adding new members to the Home Federal Bank team” said Jim Barlow, President of Home Federal Bank.

“This shows our commitment to local expansion in Shreveport and Bossier City, and all of these employees will play a key role in the continued growth and success of our company.”

Our new employees combined bring more than 75 years of experience in banking to Home Federal.

They include: Delayne Lewis, who joined Home Federal as our Risk Officer. She has worked with local community banks for over 30 years. She lives in Haughton with her husband of 24 years, Reggie, and their daughter Chloe.

Emily Price, who joined Home Federal as our Marketing Officer in July. She has four years’ experience in marketing, the most recent two years with Gremillion & Pou Integrated Marketing as Home Federal’s Account Executive. She lives in Shreveport with her husband Patrick.

Karen Allen, who joined Home Federal in September as our new Viking Drive Branch Manager. Karen has extensive banking experience, working in banking for nearly 20 years. She and her husband Mark live in Benton with their two children, Drew and Maddie.

Susan Turner, who joined our mortgage department as a Mortgage 14 | November 2012 | BUSINESS MONTHLY

Loan Administrator. She has 9 years’ experience in mortgage loan processing and origination. She lives in Keithville with her husband Chris and their twins, Emily and Claire.

Rod Williams, who comes to Home Federal as our newest Branch Operations Representative at our Mansfield Road Branch. He has 12 years’ experience in retail banking, ranging from Teller to Branch Manager roles. He lives in Shreveport with his wife Shakita.

Heather Ivey, who comes to the bank as a Customer Service Representative at our Viking Drive Branch. She has over five years of retail banking experience. She lives in Bossier City with her two daughters, McKenna and Addison.

Tabitha Adams, who joins the bank as a part-time teller at our Mansfield Road Branch. She is currently a full-time student at LSU Shreveport pursuing a degree in accounting. She lives in Bossier City.

Several of our current employees are transitioning into new roles within the bank. They include: Jeremy Jones, who has been Branch Manager at our Viking Drive location for the past 2 years, will move to our commercial division in October.

He will be handling mortgage construction financing, and he will also be partnering with branch managers to grow small business development loans. He will continue to work out of the Viking Drive Branch.

Linda Day, who has been CSR and Teller for the past 11 years, will move into a new role as Branch Operations Representative at our Viking Drive Branch.

Teri May, who has been in our mortgage department in loan processing for the past 3 years, will move into a new mortgage underwriting role.

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Holidays: Be Aware of the Precedence you Set

Continued from Page 5

Business to Business

Cards:

By sending corporate holiday cards to your clients and customers, it's a personal way of showing that you appreciate them.

Find the right signature for your company's image and style, as reflected in your chosen card.

It's best to have a company or personal name printed on the holiday cards, below the sentiments in an easily readable font. Including the business title isn't required, you can leave it off if you prefer to be less formal.

If your holiday cards are being used by the company as a whole, use the same logo and lettering on your business cards and stationery to be consistent with branding.

Definitely do not include your business card. It diminishes the relationship towards the client, appearing that you're hunting for business.

“If you're sending a card to a really large company, your client will probably never see the card, so having it signed is a waste if it won't be seen,” said Haynes. “If you're sending to a person, sign by hand and write a personal note. Little things like that make a big difference to people.”

Inter-business holiday parties:

One of the best ways to foster communication among a business and their clients is by socializing with them. And the holidays are THE time of the year to host a get together and thank them for their business. Just remember a few key rules...

Never forget it’s business — Don't get too relaxed, it sends the wrong message. Be careful with the jokes and personal stories. Dress elegantly and conservatively and be sure to shake hands. And definitely be aware of your alcoholic beverage intake. It's a disaster waiting to happen at worst and a bad public image at best.

“Businesses can be held liable if a drunk employee drives and ends up hitting someone and killing someone,” said Haynes. “So many businesses aren't allowing alcoholic drinks at all anymore.”

Listen and engage — Don't be a wallflower, engage in conversation while walking the thin line between

not dominating the conversation.

Non-verbal communication is important as is asking open-ended questions to spur on the conversation.

Socialize with everyone in attendance by making eye contact and listening to what the person has to say so you don't give the impression that you're just walking by.

Pay up — (This applies to office parties, too) Arrange payment in advance by paying ahead or giving the company credit card to the server before the party. Sign it, let that person know the amount you will tip, have the receipt given to you on your way out.

And be mindful of your client.

Haynes notes that after hours parties may result in no attendees.

She said that a trend popping up is an afternoon tea with finger sandwiches.

“It's not done in a prissy way, it's done in a professional, safe manner during work hours so you're not cutting into your clients' personal time,” she said.

Gifts:

The same rules that applied to your employees largely apply to your clients.

Be consistent — Giving out an island cruise ticket one year will make you look cheap if you can only afford a nice dinner the next. Setting an affordable limit across the board will ensure that everyone leaves with a similar, if not the same, package.

Do your homework — Check your company’s policy as well as that of your client. If you, as a salesperson, go all out for your top client, it can create some resentment among your fellow employees not to mention your clients once word gets around.

Don't break the bank — Stay in a moderate range and make sure that your gift is one that represents your company well and suits your client. A six pack of designer brews may not be the best gift for a faith-based organization. Remember, as much as it is the gift of giving, this is about maintaining public image, too. So temper your desire to wow/get creative with realism.

SEAN GREEN is managing editor of the Bossier PressTribune and a contributor to Business Monthly. He may be reached via email at sean@bossierpress.com.

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