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News Release: Art van Bodegraven Joins S4 Consulting as a Practice Leader

Art van Bodegraven, of Columbus, OH has joined S4 Consulting as Practice Leader, bringing over 25 years experience in consulting, especially with supply chain management strategies and execution, logistics planning and operations, cost reduction, time-based competition and process reengineering.  Throughout this experience he has incorporated the importance of managing critical business relationships in improving productivity and performance.

Prior to his work with S4 Consulting, Art headed Van Bodegraven Associates, an independent supply chain consultancy.  A tireless writer and teacher, he co-developed the CSCMP workshop, Fundamentals of Supply Chain Management, now in its fifth year.  He is principal co-author of the management primer, Fundamentals of Supply Chain Management—An Essential Guide For 21st Century Managers.

Since 1986, S4 Consulting has specialized in helping clients grow their business using methods that improve relationships with critical customers, suppliers and outsourcing partners.  S4 helps clients implement strategic account management programs; assess and improve customer satisfaction; enhance the alignment of internal business units; maintain customer loyalty during mergers and acquisitions; and develop innovative customer supplier relationships focused on mutual gains.

With the addition of Art van Bodegraven to the team, S4 Consulting has extended its expertise to include supply chain management and logistics.  S4 Consulting is the only firm in its field that promotes using the totality of business relationships as a competitive weapon.

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Relationship Rhythms

I'm going to miss the rhythms of summer: the long days, breaking of waves and sounds of crickets.  They remind me of growing up in the South and cause me to feel centered, relaxed, and renewed.

Thinking about these rhythms of summer made me realize that relationships have rhythms too. I head them this morning during a business call. It was the easy give and take, the willingness to deal directly on tough issues, and the authenticity of the person on the other end that created the rhythm. There was no posturing or sugar coating; just two people in sync, working together to resolve a complex business issue. Because of the rhythm of that relationship, following that call I felt acknowledged, connected and energized. The first day back from my vacation was off to a great start!

Unfortunately, not all business calls (or days back from vacation) go so smoothly. Some days the relationship rhythms are not so soothing. They pierce rather than soothe. In those relationships there’s more talking than listening, insistence on being right rather than learning, or conflict rather than collaboration. On those days, I leave work drained or exhausted.

So, next time you’re at work on a call or in a meeting, listen for the rhythms of the relationships. What do you hear? If there is something that feels “off” to you, it probably is. Check it out. Find out what gives. Is it just a bad day for someone else? Is there something you or others are doing that is impacting the meeting?  Is there something you can do to alter the rhythm of the relationship to make the process and the outcome more productive? If there is, for heavens sake, do it. Make a move. Take a risk. Ask a question. Listen more closely. Alter your tone. Do whatever it takes to make the relationship rhythm as productive as possible. Your colleagues, customers, families and friends will than you for it!  (And vacation won’t seem nearly so far away.)

-Sallie Sherman, President, S4 Consulting
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How Winners Get Through the Tough Times


1. Take Better Care. First and foremost, people who manage well in turbulent times start by taking better care of themselves. They eat better, drink less, and make certain they get some exercise. That allows them to clear their heads, reduce their stress and be more resilient. It helps them avoid being overwhelmed.

2. Stay Focused. They stay more focused on doing an excellent job on the task at hand. That way they experience regular short-term successes that keep them motivated.

3. Know the Options. They have looked at possible scenarios and know their options, but they don't dwell on the worst-case scenarios. They stay open to all possibilities so they can make the most of whatever situation arises.

4. Listen Better. They talk less and become better listeners. They practice their reflective listening skills. They create an environment in which those around them can vent their frustration, concerns or fears, feel heard and then they move on.

5. Stay Centered & Confident. People who thrive on turbulent times stay centered and confident. They understand that confidence is contagious and they draw on a climate that promotes confidence. They look for possibilities rather than blind alleys.

6. Network. They don't try to go it alone. They increase their connections with others and draw off their skills.

7. Keep Evolving. They are sure that this, too, will pass. They know change is constant.

- Sallie Sherman, President, S4 Consulting

 

Unleashing the power of business relationships.