Tuesday, April 17, 2001
Morning Memo
Hot tips and news to start your business day
Today's number - $1,699: The average monthly pay of an American without a high school diploma in 1996, according to the Census Bureau.
Today's money tip: It may not be as exciting as decorating a new home or planning a honeymoon, but experts say a couple's approach to making financial planning part of the wedding planning helps set the stage for a more successful and fruitful marriage.
Studies show money is among the top reason couples fight, and disagreements over money were a leading factor in many of the more than 1.1 million divorces last year. Still, Harris Bank says surveys show more than 70 percent of couples do not discuss finances before marriage.
Issues that should be addressed include understanding each other's saving or spending styles, getting a joint checking account, and splitting expenses if accounts are separate.
Today's career advice: Most sales fail, most relationships fail and most negotiations fail because of a lack of clear communication, says Barbara Somervill in her book The Best Guide to Success: How to Get Ahead in Your Career.
People don't ask for commitments or openly express their needs, she said.
Don't let any deal, regardless of its size or content, fall apartment by getting hung up over a minor point. Surrender the battle win the war.
Today's mover: Judith Cline-Kadetz has joined A.M. Kinney Inc. architectural and engineering firm as vice president, client services. Ms. Cline-Kadetz has more than 20 years of experience in marketing in Greater Cincinnati. She received the Marketer of the Year Award from the Society of Marketing Professional Services, Greater Cincinnati chapter. She holds master's and bachelor's degrees in marketing from the University of Cincinnati.
Today's company: Crawford Insurance
GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY: Founded in 1951 by Lou Crawford at his home in Bellevue, Crawford Insurance has grown from two employees to 29 and has moved four times to accommodate growth. The company now has two full-service offices, one in Bellevue and one in Florence. The Florence office offers drive-through service.
FAMILY TIES: When the firm started, Mr. Crawford hired his wife, Joan, to do the books. Now all five Crawford children work as agents as well as helping with management.
POLICY-MAKERS: Crawford Insurance's clients number more than 5,000. It represents a variety of insurers and writes both personal and commercial policies. Its commercial portfolio contains package policies for groups such as dentists, churches and contractors.
CONVENIENCE: The company's Florence office offers drive-through service.
Send your tips and questions to Bill Ferguson at bferguson@enquirer.com.
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