When you’re asking an existing or prospective customer a question, the object is to get them to think and respond emotionally. more

With employment growing at a gradual yet steady pace, an increasing number of employers are expected to thaw their hiring freeze and take on new workers in 2013. But companies that placed hiring on the back burner for the past few years may have a surprise in store. more

Customer referrals are one of the most powerful and lucrative ways of building business. While word-of-mouth gets you noticed, referrals are even better because the best ones bring purchase-ready customers or clients right to your doorstep (or website) complete with an existing customer’s endorsement. more

The Providence Business News Executive Poll is a weekly survey of 70 business leaders throughout the state, representing small and large companies in a variety of industries. more

A well-known radio personality was speaking with a rainmaker I know. At the end of the conversation the radio person made an interesting comment: “You actually connected with me.” For him that was an unusual experience. more

One of the top box office movies of the winter was called “Identity Thief,” a lightweight comedy about a guy chasing a woman across the country after she had stolen his identity. It was filled with pratfalls, sight gags and fat jokes. more

Francine Newth, an associate professor of management at Providence College’s School of Business, has penned a new book, “Business Models and Strategic Management: A New Integration,” as part of a collection of 13 targeted books that has been acquired by university libraries worldwide and also is available as a corporate learning tool. more

The Providence Business News Executive Poll is a weekly survey of 70 business leaders throughout the state, representing small and large companies in a variety of industries. more

Superior Court Associate Justice Sarah Taft-Carter has issued a ruling that Providence’s pension settlement is “fair, reasonable and adequate,” according to a statement released today by Providence Mayor Angel Taveras. more

QUESTION: Why does lousy service occur? more