Dear PPA Member,

The plant in my office is almost dead. I've been traveling across the country meeting PPA members on the PPA Tour 2010 (which has been wonderful!), and I forgot to give it to a co-worker to ensure that it would not become a sad, brown-leaved mess on the edge of my desk.

If you don't take care of things, they wither. This goes for plants and relationships and businesses. It takes planning (in my case, handing over the plant) and then follow-up (watering, pruning, and the occasional conversation to encourage its growth--and yes, I do talk to plants).

Whether your business is new or established, it's a "living" business. It needs constant nurturing. This week's Vital Signs shares tips about how to nurture your business when families are your clients.

Now, the plant I mentioned earlier is on life support. It has a few green shoots, and hopefully, with tender care, it'll become healthy again in a short while. If your business needs some attention, perhaps this week's Vital Signs is what you need.

Cheers,
Christel Aprigliano
Director of Member Value & Experience