Ian Smith | The Portfolio Partnership

The Curious Mind of Brian Grazer

by Ian Smith | Jul 20, 2015 | Book Reviews, Sales Tips

Apollo 13, Splash, 8 Mile, A Beautiful Mind, Friday Night Lights, Arrested Development, 24 were all produced by Brian Grazer. Brian’s new book A Curious Mind (co-written with Charles Fishman) sets out a brilliant case for being curious throughout your life. Is there...

Final Call – Book Launch Parties

by Ian Smith | Jul 17, 2015 | Acquisitions

Next week you have 2 opportunities to join me to celebrate the launch of The Acquirer’s Playbook. #1 – Tuesday – July 21st at Goulston & Storrs 400 Atlantic Avenue, Boston 6pm to 8pm Sign ups here Details here # 2 – Thursday July 23rd...

The Amazon Mystery

by Ian Smith | Jul 14, 2015 | Building Business Value, Business Models

For the average entrepreneur making a loss means cash is getting lower. The business is hemorrhaging. Blood is leaving the patient. In the start-up world it’s called the runway. How much runway have I got? Perhaps your personal savings are being used to fund those...

Why Terrible Storytelling is Ruining Your Business

by Ian Smith | Jul 8, 2015 | Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Repositioning

Marketing is about telling your story. Sales is about allowing the prospect to tell their story. Storytelling is the key to success. Pick a random selection of 12 web sites and try to understand the story they are telling. What does their brand stand for? What do they...