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How would it feel to shorten the time to productivity? Why does someone need to do their job the way they do? How can people become productive faster? Introduction: As a small business owner, you wear many hats. You’re the visionary, the marketer, the accountant, and often, the HR department. However, having the right people in the right roles is key to your success. It’s not just about filling seats; it’s about aligning talent with the demands of each department. This is where Kolbe comes in – a powerful tool that can help you unlock your team’s natural strengths and optimize your business’s performance. The Problem: Mismatched Skills and Frustration We’ve all seen a detail-oriented person struggling in a fast-paced, idea-generating role or a creative mind bogged down by rigid processes. Mismatches like these lead to frustration, decreased productivity, and, ultimately, higher turnover. This is especially damaging in a small business where every team member’s contribution is crucial. You might be tempted to use traditional methods, like resumes or personality tests. While these have their place, they don’t always get to the heart of how someone naturally gets things done – the key information the Kolbe A™ Index provides. Enter the Kolbe A™ Index: Understanding Your Team’s Conative Strengths The Kolbe A™ Index isn’t about measuring intelligence or personality. It measures a person’s conative strengths – their instinctive method of taking problem-solving action and getting things done. It reveals how they prefer to: Fact Finder: Do they need to gather data or rely on intuition? Follow Through: Are they good at meticulously executing plans, or are they more adept at improvising? Quick Start: Do they prefer to start new processes or refine existing ones? Implementor: Are they good at taking something complex and making it simple, or are they adept at handling intricate details? The Kolbe Index places you on a spectrum for each mode of action and gives you a number (ranging from 1-10) for how you naturally prefer to act within each mode. Map Roles to Kolbe Strengths: Now it’s time to analyze the demands of each department and role within your business. For instance: Marketing: You might look for individuals with high “Initiator” and “Fact Finder” scores. Operations/Production: This might be an area for those with a stronger “Follow Through” style. Sales: Those with a strong mix of “Initiator” and “Implementor” could excel here. Accounting/Finance: Look for those with a high “Follow Through” preference and a strong preference for “Fact Finder”. Open the Dialogue: Have open and honest conversations with your team. Share their Kolbe results (with their permission) and discuss how their strengths align (or don’t align) with their current role. Make Strategic Adjustments: Consider making adjustments based on the Kolbe results and those conversations. This might mean moving someone to a different department, shifting responsibilities within a team, or modifying a team member’s workflow to better utilize their strengths. It’s critical to remember that this is not a tool to punish or demean anyone but to place them in their best role, where they can thrive. Embrace Team Diversity: Each Kolbe profile offers unique strengths and values. A team of people working in the exact same way is not as effective as a team that balances diverse strengths. Benefits of Using Kolbe in Your Small Business: Increased Productivity: People who work within their natural strengths are more efficient and engaged. Reduced Frustration: Fewer mismatches mean less frustration, which leads to improved morale. Lower Turnover: Happier employees are less likely to leave. Improved Team Collaboration: When people understand how their teammates approach work, they can collaborate more effectively. Enhanced Problem Solving: A well-balanced team with diverse Kolbe profiles can tackle challenges more creatively. Better Decision-Making: Understanding the different ways each person naturally approaches a problem can lead to better decision-making in the long run. Rethink your Growth and Exit Planning: As a small business owner, you’re constantly looking for ways to optimize your operations and create a thriving work environment. Using Kolbe is not about forcing square pegs into round holes. It is about understanding the natural approach of your team and putting everyone in a place where they can thrive. Investing time and resources to understand your team’s conative strengths will pay dividends in increased productivity, happier employees, and, ultimately, a more successful business. So, take the first step, explore the power of Kolbe, and watch your team’s potential flourish. Call to Action: Are you ready to understand the power of your team’s strengths? It is important to have a Certified Kolbe Consultant guide you on how to use this data to attract, engage, and develop your team so you can grow and exit on your terms.
Listen to this post as a podcast: Click here to talk to Bloomwood about your finances. Are you ready to take control of your finances and maximize your after-tax income? If so, you’re in the right place. I’m Billy Amberg, founder of Bloomwood, and today, we’re going to explore a financial case study that affects everyone—whether you’re just starting out on your wealth-building journey or you’re a seasoned investor with substantial assets. The 1% Financial Advisor Fee: Is It Worth It? The financial advisory and wealth management industry invests massive marketing dollars to convince you that paying a 1% portfolio management fee is worthwhile. But is it really? Let’s break it down. For those with financial advisors who provide significant value through tax planning, estate planning, and comprehensive financial strategies, paying 1% can be justified. If you have a complex trust or unique investment needs, that fee might also make sense. However, if your advisor is merely managing your portfolio, responding to your questions reactively, and failing to offer proactive financial planning, then you are overpaying. Many advisors hold periodic meetings about investments, but that alone doesn’t justify the 1% fee. Why Paying 1% for Just Investment Management Is Too Much To understand why paying 1% for basic investment management isn’t worth it, we must first explore key investment principles. One of the best ways to structure your investments is by using the Three Buckets Approach: Cash Reserve Bucket: This is your safety net, typically covering 6 to 12 months of living expenses in case of an emergency. It also provides liquidity for investment opportunities, such as purchasing real estate. Fixed Income Bucket: If you need stable income to support your lifestyle, especially in retirement, this bucket consists of low-risk investments like bonds, ensuring steady cash flow. Long-Term Growth Bucket: Everything else belongs here. This is where equities and growth-focused investments come into play, aligning with long-term wealth accumulation. Understanding Risk Tolerance and Why It Matters Less Than You Think Many investors are familiar with risk tolerance questionnaires used by financial advisors or platforms like Vanguard. While these assessments provide insight into your comfort level with risk, they are not the ultimate determinant of investment strategy. For example, a young professional with limited financial resources who fears market volatility might lean toward ultra-conservative investments. However, avoiding equity exposure could mean they never accumulate enough wealth to retire. An advisor’s role should be to educate and coach clients through investment realities rather than just accommodating risk aversion. Why Beating the Market Is Nearly Impossible Many financial advisors attempt to justify their fees by claiming they can outperform the market. However, history shows that even professional fund managers struggle to consistently beat benchmark indices like the S&P 500. Consider this: The NASDAQ (Technology Index) has significantly outperformed the S&P 500 in recent years. The S&P 500 itself remains a difficult benchmark to beat even for top-tier investment professionals. The only funds consistently outperforming the market are quantitative hedge funds like D.E. Shaw, Citadel, and Two Sigma—which charge exorbitant fees and require massive investment minimums. If professional fund managers can’t consistently beat the market, how can an individual financial advisor do so? The answer is simple: they can’t. The True Cost of Active Management vs. Index Funds Rather than paying a financial advisor 1% to actively manage investments, many investors can achieve better results with low-cost index funds. Vanguard, for instance, offers index funds with fees as low as 0.05% per year. Additionally, for just 0.30%, you can get a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) through Vanguard, which is more than a third cheaper than the typical advisor fee. How to Determine If Your Advisor Provides Real Value Before you continue paying a 1% management fee, ask yourself: Is my advisor providing value beyond just investment management? Am I receiving proactive tax planning, estate planning, and financial strategy sessions? Can my advisor point to tangible financial benefits I’ve received beyond portfolio returns? If your advisor’s only contribution is managing your portfolio, you are likely paying for underperformance. Paying 1% for an actively managed fund that fails to beat the market is counterproductive when low-cost index funds offer superior long-term results. The Bottom Line: Are You Getting a Fair Deal? If you’re paying 1% for asset management, it should come with significant added value, including tax planning, estate planning, and personalized financial strategy. At Bloomwood, we focus on delivering real, tangible benefits beyond just managing investments. If you want to learn more about investing and getting massive value through financial planning, check out our other content: Kickstart Your New Year with Smart Financial Planning: A Comprehensive Guide Tax Planning: How Buying Tax Credits Can Cut Your Tax Bill and Boost Profits Disclosures Bloomwood does not make any representations as to the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, or completeness of any information prepared by any unaffiliated third party, whether linked to or incorporated herein. All such information is provided solely for convenience purposes and all users thereof should be guided accordingly. We are neither your attorneys nor your accountants and no portion of this material should be interpreted by you as legal, accounting, or tax advice. We recommend that you seek the advice of a qualified attorney and accountant. For additional information about Bloomwood, please request our disclosure brochure as set forth on Form ADV using the contact information set forth herein, or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website (
Listen to this post as a podcast: Click here to talk to Bloomwood about your finances. Quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI) are two transformative technologies that have the potential to reshape industries and solve some of the world’s most complex challenges. Together, they form a dynamic duo capable of driving breakthroughs in fields ranging from healthcare to manufacturing. In this post, we’ll explore the synergy between quantum computing and AI, the challenges involved, and the exciting future ahead. What is Quantum Computing? Quantum computing offers the potential to solve problems that classical computers struggle with, such as those in drug discovery and material science. Quantum computers operate using quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously (superposition). This ability to represent both 0 and 1 at once allows quantum computers to solve problems much faster than classical systems. How AI is Transforming Industries Artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning, is already transforming industries such as healthcare, finance, and defense. By analyzing large datasets and making predictions based on that information, AI systems are helping organizations make more informed decisions and predictions. In fields like healthcare, AI is improving diagnostics, personalizing treatment plans, and advancing medical research. In finance, AI-powered algorithms are being used for fraud detection, risk assessment, and market prediction. The Challenges of Building Stable Quantum Computers Despite its potential, building stable quantum computers remains a significant challenge. Quantum states are incredibly fragile, and any disturbance can cause errors in calculations. This makes developing reliable quantum computers a difficult task. Furthermore, quantum encryption is a concern, as quantum computers could eventually break current encryption methods. Researchers are already working on developing quantum-resistant encryption to address these challenges. The Rise of Quantum Sensing Quantum technology is not limited to computing. Quantum sensing is emerging as a powerful tool for detecting small changes in physical properties such as magnetic fields, gravity, and time. This could lead to breakthroughs in medical imaging, environmental monitoring, and navigation, with applications in everything from precision healthcare to transportation. The Economic Impact and Job Creation The growth of the quantum and AI industries is expected to generate over $1 trillion by 2035, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs across various sectors. By 2030, it is predicted that 250,000 jobs will be created in the quantum sector, with that number rising to 840,000 by 2035. These technologies will not only fuel economic growth but also provide opportunities for innovation and creativity across a range of industries. How Companies Can Capitalize on Quantum and AI Advancements Companies looking to thrive in the quantum and AI space must: Adopt early: Be early adopters of quantum and AI technologies to establish themselves as leaders. Create value: Apply these technologies in ways that solve real-world problems in industries like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. Innovate rapidly: Keep pace with technological advancements and remain adaptable in a fast-moving market. Invest in infrastructure: Have the financial strength to fund R&D and build the necessary infrastructure. Leverage marketing: Effectively communicate innovations to the public and industry stakeholders. Key Companies to Watch in the Quantum and AI Space Tech Giants Leading the Way Companies like IBM, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, and Nvidia are heavily investing in quantum computing and AI technologies. These tech giants are positioning themselves for long-term leadership by developing cutting-edge solutions and forging strategic partnerships in the space. Industry Disruptors Smaller companies like Square, Chime, Clario, and Anduril Industries are harnessing AI and quantum technologies in unique and innovative ways. Particularly in finance, healthcare, and defense, these disruptors are pushing the envelope on what’s possible with these technologies. Innovations in Telecommunications and Manufacturing Telecommunications: The Future of Quantum Communication In telecommunications, BT is exploring quantum communication to enhance the security and efficiency of digital networks. IQ Go is leveraging AI to improve network management, optimizing resource allocation and improving network reliability. Manufacturing: Virtual Models for Optimization In manufacturing, companies like Forge are using AI to create virtual models of manufacturing processes. This allows them to simulate, optimize, and improve production lines with digital twin technology, resulting in greater efficiency and cost savings. Democratization of Quantum and AI Technologies One of the most exciting developments in the quantum and AI space is the democratization of these technologies. Cloud-based services now allow small businesses to access powerful quantum and AI tools without needing their own hardware. This mirrors the early days of the internet when once-exclusive technologies became available to the broader public, sparking innovation across industries. Quantum Startups Making Waves Several startups are making significant contributions to quantum computing. For instance: Reggetti Computing combines quantum and classical computing in a hybrid approach to enhance performance. IonQ is pushing the boundaries of quantum computing with trapped ions as qubits, offering high fidelity and long coherence times. Zapata Computing provides platforms for quantum algorithm development, making quantum computing more accessible to those without deep expertise in the field. Key Concepts in Quantum Computing To fully appreciate the potential of quantum computing, it’s essential to understand some key concepts: Superposition: Qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously, allowing for parallel computations. Entanglement: A quantum phenomenon where qubits are linked, enabling instantaneous communication and increasing computational power. Fidelity: The accuracy with which qubits can be manipulated. Coherence Time: The duration for which a qubit can maintain its quantum state before it decays. Will Quantum Computers Replace Classical Computers? While quantum computers are powerful, they are not meant to replace classical computers. Instead, they are designed to tackle problems that classical systems cannot handle, such as complex simulations and optimization tasks. The future will likely see a hybrid approach where both types of computers complement each other, each playing to its strengths. Responsible AI Development As AI continues to evolve, it’s crucial that we develop it responsibly. This means addressing issues like bias, transparency, and accountability. For example, if an AI system is trained on biased data, it may perpetuate and even amplify those biases in its decision-making. In fields like healthcare and finance, transparency is essential. We must ensure that AI decisions are understandable and explainable, particularly when they have a direct impact on people’s lives. Similarly, accountability is key: if an AI system causes harm, we need to determine who is responsible. The Future of AI and Quantum Computing As we look ahead, the future of AI and quantum computing is filled with possibilities. These technologies have the power to revolutionize industries, create new economic opportunities, and solve some of humanity’s most pressing challenges. But with great power comes great responsibility. We must ensure that these advancements are used ethically and transparently to benefit society as a whole. The quantum era is here, and it’s full of opportunity. Whether through AI’s ability to enhance communication or quantum computing’s ability to solve complex problems, these technologies are set to transform our world. Check out our other recent article on investing in quantum computing! www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you engage our firm for advisory services. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor’s particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your attorney or tax advisor. The views expressed in this commentary are subject to change based on the market and other conditions. These documents may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur. All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy, reliability, or completeness of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information and it should not be relied on as such. Bloomwood is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Bloomwood and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. 730 Starlight Lane, Atlanta, GA 30342.
Entrepreneurial business owners, is it time to consider a new approach to setting goals in the New Year? We’ve all been there. January 1 rolls around, and we set resolutions with the best intentions. “This will be the year I double my business,” we say. An article in Forbes 1 states by mid-February, 80% of people have made their resolutions a distant memory. Why? Because we have high ambitions hinging on mostly unrealistic and unsustainable methods, setting broad, lofty goals without a roadmap is like trying to sail a ship without a compass—directionless and daunting. There is a simple fix for this problem. Start the road map with some pre-work. The root issue? New Year’s goals should always start with who you are, how you want to serve, and what you want to enjoy. If you start a New Year’s Resolution with what is trending in the world, in business, or in society, you will leave some or all your resolutions behind as you realize there is a misalignment between who you are and what is trending. It’s all one path! As business owners, we are bombarded with tasks that can be exhausting and lack enjoyment. Goals should be derived from envisioning a picture of your personal world: God, business, family, your unique personal desire to share creatively, and the core of who you are, so your business and your world are synced within a set of goals. What should your world look like in the New Year? Don’t compartmentalize! Your business cannot be separated from all the rest; successful business owners know who they are and how they intend to serve. Get reacquainted with who you are, your personal talents to serve (clients, friends, family), and how you can get back to enjoying your life. Now we can talk about Business Resolutions You know what you want to achieve for your business. Now, make it a team effort. Go beyond your own efforts to engage your team in goals that are well aligned with their strengths and do it in a doable fashion that engages the spirit of growth together. The Problem with Most Resolutions Resolutions lack specificity, accountability, and, most importantly, our teams’ collective firepower. Transformative change doesn’t come from wishful thinking but from actionable, measurable steps involving everyone on deck. So, what’s the game plan? Shift from solo resolutions to team-powered actions. Set Specific Goals: Break down that big vision into smaller, achievable milestones. “Increase sales by 10% in Q1” beats “Double my business” for clear targets. Harness Team Strengths: Every member has unique skills. Use them to your advantage by assigning roles that match their strengths and watch motivation soar. Perform Regular Check-Ins: Make accountability a team effort. Frequent updates keep everyone on the same page and moving forward together. Celebrate Wins: Whether you hit a small target or make significant progress, celebrate as a team. This will help you feel more united and keep the momentum going. Making Sustainable Resolutions Remember, a sustainable resolution starts with the core of who you are as an owner, how you want to serve, and what is enjoyable to you. Once you know what you want to achieve for your business your team can help you get there. With some pre-work, a New Year resolution might spark the fire, and then your team’s day-to-day actions will keep it blazing.
Listen to this post as a podcast: www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you engage our firm for advisory services. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor’s particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your attorney or tax advisor. The views expressed in this commentary are subject to change based on the market and other conditions. These documents may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur. All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy, reliability, or completeness of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information and it should not be relied on as such. Bloomwood is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Bloomwood and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. 730 Starlight Lane, Atlanta, GA 30342.
Handed-down recipes are part of the time-honored processes and traditions we cling to. But just like in cooking, sticking too rigidly to “grandma’s secret recipe” could mean missing out on discovering a version of the next culinary masterpiece! Give your team the freedom to experiment, adapt, and sometimes throw out the recipe book altogether. Let’s stir things up and talk about the “kitchen” of innovation—your business. Your team’s collective creativity and unique blend of skills are the secret ingredients that can transform a good dish or idea into an exceptional one. You must trust the innovation process, encourage culinary rebellion, and watch your team cook something truly extraordinary. Stepping Outside the Recipe Box Inspires Innovation In business, as in life, the well-trodden path can feel comfortable and safe. Established practices are like cozy blankets, offering the warmth of familiarity. However, by stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing the unfamiliar, businesses and individuals could unlock a world of creative possibilities that can lead to groundbreaking solutions. Comfort Zone vs Creativity The familiar “that’s how we’ve always done it” approach kills creativity. While some routines can breed efficiency, they rarely foster the deep, lateral thinking required to solve complex problems in unique ways. Creative solutions are born from questioning the status quo and daring to believe there might be a better pathway forward. A Dash of Chaos, a Sprinkle of the Unexpected Chaos isn’t always the enemy of progress; sometimes, a little disorder is needed to stir the pot of creativity. Consider mixing departments for brainstorming sessions that could lead to unexpected, innovative solutions, bringing together different areas of expertise because they don’t typically work closely! The insights gained from experiences outside their regular roles can spark brilliant ideas that may never have surfaced otherwise. Cross-Disciplinary Thinking One of the most exciting aspects of venturing beyond your comfort zone is the potential for cross-disciplinary ideas. Innovators like Steve Jobs were renowned for drawing inspiration from diverse fields, such as calligraphy 1, to inform computer design. So, jot down those “unconventional” ideas in meetings. Roll them around, play with them, and see where they take you. They might become disruptive innovations that differentiate your business in a crowded marketplace. Learning from the Outliers History is peppered with examples of businesses, such as Amazon, American Express, and Netflix, that chose the path less followed and, as a result, redefined their entire industry 2. These outliers didn’t achieve such feats by closely following the recipe laid out by predecessors. Instead, they carved their own paths, sometimes through fields entirely unrelated to their primary goal. Outside the Box Potential Stepping outside the box is an invitation to spark new ideas, tap into unexplored abilities, and produce creative solutions that reframe the possibilities of what can be achieved. When we step outside our normal routine or method, we open the floodgates to fresh ideas and perspectives that propel the business forward. Conclusion Remember, innovation isn’t just about the end result but also the journey. To fuel your people power, you should take a step outside the box — the future is bright with the ingredients of innovation. The
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