Author: Paul Wagenaar

Re-thinking small city malls

Paul Wagenaar

Many small city malls have failed and deservedly so.

They didn’t fail because the basic concept is wrong. Many of these malls failed to adapt and were not flexible to the changing realities of the merchants they almost took for granted. Is it too late? Perhaps for some.

For merchants and mall operators with vision, there is an opportunity in my opinion. By combining social needs, 21st-century environmental practices with the basic convenience, utility, and economics of “one-stop” shopping … there is a future.

SIMPLE TRUTHS

Paul Wagenaar

I have realized that many times I have contributed to my setbacks and defeats as much as I have benefited from the successes that I have had. In that journey friends, co-workers, and competitors have tried to teach me lessons that many times I stubbornly refused to acknowledge and appreciate …until recently.

Give me five minutes, and perhaps you might be able to apply their lessons for yourself on your journey.

If you let them … instead help them with tools, training, and a process that works.

Paul Wagenaar

Nothing about difficult situations and angry people is ever simple.

Rarely is there one trigger and one solution. Nuance, exceptions, and the lack of anything resembling black and white all are factors in finding solutions to their problems. There is never just one or two sides to a story, there are usually forty-two sides!

This post is about a process, the tools, and the training required to anticipate, avoid, and ultimately how to deal with these situations when they occur.

Customer Service is not a Profit Center

Paul Wagenaar

Customer service is not a profit center. Ironically, quality customer service has more in common with advertising and marketing than most organizations realize.

Today’s post is about giving the people who dedicate their careers to solving problems for our clients and customers, the tools and support they need.

Advice, suggestions, and lessons from your friends

Paul Wagenaar

Moving out on your own is very exciting and can be a big step forward, but there will be things that you do not anticipate. Do not feel bad if you encounter some or all of these. When you try something for the first time, it seldom ever goes perfectly. Share your experiences, learn from them, and laugh at the funny ones.

Please share this with anyone who has just moved out on their own or away from home. I would also love to hear your stories as well.

THINGS I WOULD CHANGE … CANADIAN POLITICS

Paul Wagenaar

I am interested in democracy and accountability.  Integrity and responsibility as well as equitable treatment of all people, including non-citizens should be applied equally in each part of this country.  Regardless of electoral reform, the failure to safeguard and prevent erosion of our democratic institutions will make how we vote even less important.