Business Connections by Adams

2 S U MM E R 2 0 2 1 Sweet spot is defined as an optimum point or combination of factors or qualities. On a bat, club, or racket, the sweet spot is the point or area at which it makes most effective contact with the ball. In the business world, it can mean the right mix of elements such as staffing, product mix, pricing, and marketing. We were inspired to use a sweet spot theme in this issue because of the Business Spotlight on The Yum Factory and Chocolate Bar on pages 4 and 5. This Quincy business has achieved the sweet spot both literally and figuratively. Owner Melanie Aitken has created a unique place to enjoy sweet treats and successfully combined creative strategies, such as outdoor igloos, to meet the challenges of the pandemic. Adams is honored to provide phone and fiber Internet services to The Yum Factory and Chocolate Bar (and our employees are happy to stop by often for cinnamon rolls). On page 3, you’ll find Cost-Cutting Strategies for Small Businesses , which can help you find the sweet spot regarding reducing costs and maintaining efficiency. Then on page 6, we ask the question, Distracted by Wearing Too Many Hats? This two-page article examines the downsides of trying to “do it all” at your small business and the advantages to be gained by outsourcing some responsibilities to others. For example, if you don’t have the time or expertise for IT tasks, perhaps Adams Experts can handle them for you. Contact our team whenever you need help—whether you’re searching for the sweet spot when it comes to your Internet speeds or want to explore new services from Adams. Sincerely, Jim Broemmer Chief Executive Officer Adams BUSINESS SALES: 217-214-8708 OFFICE LOCATIONS: 405 Emminga Road Golden, IL 62339 3555 N. 24th Street Quincy, IL 62305 Business Connections is a publication of Adams Telephone Co-Operative. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, electronic, photocopying, recording, mechanical, or otherwise without the prior written permission of Adams Telephone Co-Operative. All rights are reserved. EDITORIAL AND CIRCULATION CONTACT: Bridgette Northern 217-696-8435 TRADEMARKS: All brand names and product names used in this publication are trade names, service marks, trademarks, or registered trademarks of their respective owners. ADDITIONAL ISSUES: Extra issues are available to business customers on a limited basis while supplies last. Contact Bridgette Northern at 217-696-8435. POSTMASTER SEND CHANGES TO: Bridgette Northern Adams Telephone Co-Operative 3555 N. 24th Street Quincy, IL 62305 Copyright © 2021 by Adams Telephone Co-Operative and Cornerstone Publishing Group, Inc. BUSINESS connections