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Mark J. Ellsworth, Partner
Cain, Ellsworth & Co LLP
Iowa, United States of America
Full service accounting firm with 4 partners and 21 professionals |
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 How have you adjusted your approach with clients during these difficult economic times? What have been the outcomes?
The worst U.S. recession in my 35-year career has certainly been a barrier in developing our GPS practice. We have adjusted our approach to emphasize the key points from Chris Mason's "Perfect Storm" presentation. We are helping our clients improve cash flow, retain their best customers and talent, eliminate waste in the business, and maintain energy. Gaining business is certainly more difficult in this environment, however, I think that the experience will make us better at identifying and selling solutions. We also have the chance to 'save' some businesses and create loyalties and a reputation that will help us gain traction quickly as the economy recovers.
What key elements of Mindshop have you utilized most during these difficult times to help reshape your approach?
Both Chris Mason's presentation ("The Perfect Storm") and advice that I received from my Mindshop coach - Richard Kendall - to place emphasis on the next 3, 6 and 12 months were critical in helping us modify our approach. Talking about mission and vision to companies that are struggling to cash flow this week's payroll won't help in this environment. Right now our job is to help them be survivors. We'll help them move from 'good-to-great' after the economic recovery.
What do you see as the key attributes of clients' businesses that are presently 'weathering the storm' well?
Companies that manage their way to the recovery will be leaner and much more profitable. We're helping clients address bad habits that developed during the expansion – e.g, poor credit & collection practices, lax inventory management, and 'loose' spending.
Why did you join Mindshop, and how has Mindshop helped you achieve success?
I am a partner with Cain Ellsworth & Co LLP, a local public accounting firm located in Sheldon, Iowa. Our firm's mission is to go "beyond the numbers" for our clients. It was in pursuing that mission that I joined Mindshop late in 2007. We secured our first Mindshop engagement in the first quarter of 2008. Since inception, our Mindshop services - provided through a division of our firm that we call Growth & Profit Solutions (GPS) – have resulted in direct billings of over $82,000 and internal referrals of over $84,000.
What is the number 1 reason why people should look to join Mindshop during these difficult times?
Firstly, your clients need help; and you should be the ones giving it to them. Mindshop puts us in position to continually add value to our client relationships. When our interventions help clients to drive change in their business in ways they were unable to do before we arrived, fees are much less an issue. The greatest satisfaction for me is knowing the work we do for clients makes a difference.
For further information on Mindshop, please contact Tanya Chapman at:TChapman@mindshop.com
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