The Experts

By AMY NARISHKIN, PH.D. For the Illinois Business Journal “People keep turning our meetings into political debates. We’re not maximizing meeting engagement—and no one is actually listening,” a healthcare director told me. She wasn’t actually frustrated about “politics.” She was frustrated about lost execution. In healthcare, that doesn’t just waste time—it delays decisions, increases risk,…

Business leaders often assume their reputation carries weight. It does, but when a new prospect checks you out online, does it hold up? Prospects make judgements quickly. They may be using AI to see if your firm looks established, if you understand their industry, or if they can trust you with a big project. They…

Article summary: Ensuring Safety in Trenching Operations – Resources for Illinois Contractors: As construction season begins in Illinois, contractors must prioritize safety in trenching operations due to increased risks of cave-ins. OSHA emphasizes the importance of soil analysis and protective measures in trenches deeper than five feet. Employers are encouraged to utilize the free resources…

By BRIAN HUTCHIN In today’s economy, it’s more important than ever for employers to focus on attracting and retaining employees. The current competitive market environment and higher expectations from candidates mean employers need to differentiate themselves, and one way to do this is with workplace benefits. Workforce retention resources While some employment metrics are promising…

By SCOTT CRUZ In a workplace landscape defined by rapid regulatory shifts, evolving employee expectations, and increasingly complex work arrangements, the value of an employee handbook has never been greater. While some employers still view a handbook as a “nice‑to‑have” or simply an administrative requirement, true HR leaders (and employment attorneys like me) know it…

By ERIC KELLEY Executive VP, Chief Investment Officer UMB Private Wealth Management 2026 has already been a year replete with spicy news items, and February was no exception. Our update is longer than usual, as the events of the last month require a bit more exploration. The primary February headlines came from a newsletter regarding…

No doubt about it … starting a business is exciting. But it can also be confusing, particularly as you sort through all the costs required to get your business off the ground. Depending on the type of business you’re launching, you may need little more than a laptop and a website. For others, you may…

Most companies control multiple communication channels where their messages live, but many of them are underutilized and neglected.  Companies who treat the channels in their control as strategic assets rather than background details can get an edge over their competition. Company-controlled media are the profiles, pages, and listings where you have the power to decide what…

By LUKE RHYNER, Managing Director of Franchise Finance, UMB Bank After two years of subdued activity, the franchise M&A market is entering an opportune window for prepared operators. Valuations have recalibrated, operators have rebuilt liquidity, and buyer demand in the 10- to100-unit segment is showing renewed momentum. Recent, well-publicized transactions demonstrate that deal flow is returning, including…

Article summary: Clean air, productive workforce — The case for improved indoor air quality: During the bitter cold of winter, many Illinois manufacturers and warehouses limit fresh-air intake to save on heating costs, which can lead to harmful contaminant buildup and negatively affect employee health and productivity. Ensuring proper ventilation can reduce absenteeism, enhance workforce well-being,…