In the early 2000’s after and before our numerous economic cycles we “need to have” I attended a business luncheon where the guest speaker was, heaven forbid, an Australian by the name of Roger Campbell Corbett (note the Scottish influence). Being a guest of another organisation I approached the event rather nonchalant, after all they say Australians are a simpler version of the British. 

I relay to you my epiphany – this CEO of a consumer centric ca. USD$ 50 billion company talked about his up to 6 days a week in the retail stores with staff and even consumers together with the suppliers to the business; whilst his executive assistance faxed or emailed him the daily KPI’s that drove the business. I recall reflecting on how I would spend even more time in the field with customers, staff and suppliers.

With the current “Great Recession” that the bankers tell us we “had to have” I am making sure I spend even greater time with customers, staff and suppliers rather than sweating over micro P&L’s that is not to say that they are not critical however I am lucky as I have great people who know the KPI’s and deliver.

Happy shopping with your customers, staff and suppliers!

Want to read about a now global business icon (coincidentally in Forbes magazine) click here http://people.forbes.com/profile/roger-c-corbett/85296