DeWese--Hats Off to Receptionists At Printing Companies

"Dell Ann also has a spontaneous sense of humor that keeps our customers relaxed and friendly before they are transferred to me, an account executive or a customer service representative."

Last But Not Least...
Our final inductee this year is Kathy Shoenfelt of Compass Capital Partners. I know, I know: You're saying this nomination is the Mañana Man being self-serving by including someone from his own company. Actually, my partners—Gabe Nagy, Graham Humes, Peter Schaefer and Steve Marcus—threatened to evict me if I didn't induct Kathy.

Kathy deserves this honor if only because she's had to put up with me for 10 years. She serves as our bookkeeper, office manager and executive secretary. She is so valuable to us that we made her an owner this year. Our clients are all the presidents and owners of printing companies, and you know how obstreperous and irascible they can be. Kathy's quiet and consistent professionalism, however, satisfies even the most demanding CEOs.

Well, there you have it—four outstanding individuals who help their companies' salespeople and managers in numerous ways. Now I want you to go out there in the lobby and thank your receptionist for helping you sell. While you're at it, invite your receptionist out to lunch or give her the afternoon off. Better yet, give her a raise.

After you've finished thanking her, keep right on walking and get out there and sell something!

—Harris DeWese

About the Author
Harris DeWese is the author of "Now Get Out There and Sell Something!" published by Nonpareil Books. DeWese is a principal at Compass Capital Partners Ltd. DeWese specializes in investment banking, mergers and acquisitions, sales, marketing, planning and management services to printing companies. He is one of the authors of the annual Compass Report, the definitive source of information regarding printing industry merger and acquisition activity.