Earlier this year, I had an opportunity to meet Steve Forbes near our public relations firm’s Orlando branch. He discussed many topics and here are some highlights.

Forbes on business

• Cash flow
• Watch expenses and processes- nitty gritty stuff
• New methods and systems- create the great leap forward
• Tools have changed, environment has changed, profession hasn’t changed.
• Every met someone successful who says, “I’m not in sales?”
• Add value

I don’t like Starbucks. It’s the only place I feel confused and I’m paying. - Steve Forbes

Xerox

- invented the mouse

- invented the internet

Drucker:

• What am I in business for?
• Why do we do this?

Forbes on America’s economy

• American’s going to become a manufacturer giant again because of intellectual property and innovation, not because of low wages.
• Government doesn’t create money. Americans do.
• People are fearful yet very open for solutions for growing sales

• Always add value
• Be a value added consultant
• Communicate to people: “I’ll do well and so will you”

Forbes on healthcare

• Freedom means you make decisions for yourself.
• Why can’t our medical advances predict side effects for the five percent and let the 95% benefit?
• Why is healthcare considered a crisis instead of an opportunity? - patient not in charge, controlled by third party, little free market
• No other industry has a crisis
• Can buy a car in another state, can’t buy insurance in another state

Forbes on investments and investing

• Gold.
• Only buy stock that pay dividends.
• Don’t worry about timing the market
• Stay steady and consistent.
• Stay away from emotions

Forbes on health and family

• Eat well. Sleep well.
• “You know you’re a successful parent when you embarrass your kids.” - Steve Forbes

- January 7, 2013

Image credit: Brian Gilbert