(Shutterstock)

Status Check: Stevia First

It’s full speed ahead for this sweet startup

In 2013 we reported on Capital Region startup Stevia First and its CEO Robert Brooke’s goal of making his company the first domestic distributor of stevia. Stevia First made significant progress last year, most notably by entering into a partnership with China-based stevia distributor Qualipride International Ltd.

Feb 5, 2015 Allison Joy
(Shutterstock)

Pro-Tips

Jimmy Crabbé’s 5-step process for turnarounds

After nearly two decades spent managing operations and logistics for global shipping powerhouse UPS,  Belgium-born Jimmy Crabbé purchased Sacramento’s Bonney Plumbing, Heating, Air and Rooter. In less than two years, he’s doubled Bonney’s staff and its revenue. Here’s his strategy:

Feb 3, 2015
Bonney Plumbing CEO Jimmy Crabbé

Smooth Operator

How former UPS logistics exec Jimmy Crabbé doubled a Sacramento plumbing business in less than 24 months

Think of it as The Deodorant Problem. If you’re marketing a brand, it’s easy to sling the sex appeal of wine, cars or a hot new phone. But what if the product is a tad mundane and even a little stinky?  How do you convey the emotional appeal of, say, unclogging a toilet? If you’re Jimmy Crabbé, you crack this problem with an inspired move that no one saw coming.

Feb 3, 2015 Jeff Wilser
(Shutterstock)

You Look Like You Need a Vacation

6 tips for checking out and kicking back

You just got back from a trip? Me too. And I already need the next one. My name is Christine Calvin, and I take vacations. That’s right, I use all my PTO every year, and I don’t feel an ounce of shame. You should do the same — it’s going to cost your company either way.

Feb 2, 2015 Christine Calvin
(Shutterstock)

Spread the Love

True client appreciation requires a year-round strategy

While it may be tempting to wait until next year to tally up the cards and gifts you’ll need to send clients at the end of 2015, there are ways to show your supporters that you appreciate them year round. Here’s how to develop a year-round strategy without additional headaches.

Jan 29, 2015 Kelly Azevedo

Tech Support

Acuity with Kirk Uhler

Longtime Placer County supervisor Kirk Uhler was recently selected as the new CEO of the Sacramento Area Regional Technology Alliance. Uhler is also the owner of Roseville-based Rensa Group, a marketing, communications and government relations firm, and the co-founder of VidGage, a social media platform.

Jan 23, 2015 Christine Calvin
(Shutterstock)

Dress for Success

How can I legally amend my company's dress code?

Since starting my business in 2010, my number of full-time employees has tripled. One thing I wish I’d done in the beginning is establish a dress code. I’m worried that the relaxed atmosphere I’ve allowed does not reflect the professional competency I’m trying to project. How can I implement a dress code, and should I be worried about violating any laws when I do?

Jan 21, 2015 Coral Henning

How to Spot a Liar

9 tips for reading body language when the truth is on the line

Recognizing key signs of dishonesty and deception is a professional skill that can pay off in spades. If you’re keen, you can see people’s body language change when they lie, as they try to manage their anxiety. So unless you’re dealing with a sociopath or a superb actor, you can spot those who try to mislead you by monitoring their nonverbal signals. Here’s how:

Jan 14, 2015 Carol Kinsey Goman