Carl Hughes
Posts by Carl Hughes
The most successful propane companies are comprised of highly competent people who work together towards a common objective. But what do we mean by competency and how do we discern the traits of a potential employee regarding their level of competence? What competencies are most important? Read more»
We all are basically in the same business, yet it is a curious fact that many of us see value in a very different way. This difference is important to understand as we attempt to grow and presumably increase the value of our companies. Read more»
Work on the most expensive resource -- time -- and set goals for productivity and improvement. Read more»
This is the eighth in a series on business topics inspired by the 20th century business management icon Peter Drucker. Read more»
As an owner and/or manager of a retail propane business, you're required to make many daily decisions involving employees. These decisions include all aspects of your operation and, when combined, reflect the direction and character of your company. Read more»
Most propane managers tend to manage their business for the reality of yesterday. We often assume that past events will reoccur if we just wait for them. Read more»
A current retail propane industry debate is how to improve the efficiencies of retail operations. The prevailing logic is that to be a more successful company, it must be efficient, often through adapting technology. Read more»
This is the fourth in a series on business topics inspired by the 20th century business management icon Peter Drucker. Read more»
Results are obtained by exploiting opportunities, not solvingproblems. Fixing problems only restores a broken situation back tonormalcy; it does not create new value. Read more»
This is the second in a series of columns inspired by the late management guru Peter Drucker. This month, we apply Drucker's thoughts on the hiring and promotion process to the retail propane company. Read more»
