August 26, 2011 - When I speak at conferences about customer service strategies, I often hear managers discuss how hard it is to recruit and retain good frontline employees. Too many managers mistakenly assume the only way to keep people is to bite the bullet and pay more in salaries, benefits and perks. Unfortunately, those managers are often “fixing” the wrong problem.

Fraud is a growing problem in bakeries and many other manufacturing businesses. Most organizations only take steps to improve their controls after a fraud has been discovered. The good news is that you can help to prevent fraud by being aware of the red flags to look out for.

April 5, 2011 - If you've ever been in business with a family member, you know there are several advantages, but even the most dedicated, hard working family member can experience or create tension, stress and conflict in the company. Can you really separate your family history, emotions and knowledge you have of a person at a deeper level and also have a great working relationship?

It hasn’t been an easy ride for the baking industry. Spiking commodity prices and an economic roller coaster are the latest challenges, but labour shortages in skilled and semi-skilled positions continue to be an ongoing headache.

Balance seems to be key. Many workers are looking for employers who recognize they have a life outside of the four walls of the workplace.

Ted Topping takes us along the path to long-term success with older workers.

Succession planning for bakers.

Understanding motivation will make your job as a coach easier.

Tips for finding, hiring, and keeping employees.

“One thing is for sure: the times are gone where you can push young people to their maximum.”

Will consumers turn our bakeries into mere producers of dough for outlets like gas stations?

How to successfully integrate corporate responsibility into a business.