Just a Minute with Melissa Eriksen

Company address: 250 North Sunny Slope Road, Suite 200, Brookfield, WI 53005-4824
Company Web site: www.mcglin.com
Industry: Full-service marketing communications agency
Number of employees: 10
Education: Bachelor of arts degree in journalism, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Family: Husband, Jan
What is the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
"Undertaking a strategic planning process. We have a team of really qualified people, and it’s important that everyone is involved in moving the company forward. It takes time and effort to maintain and sustain the process, but it’s a worthwhile investment."
What’s new at your company?
"Hardware and software to keep up with all of the technical advances in our business."
Do you plan to hire any additional staff or make any significant capital investments in your company in the next year?
"We are planning some capital improvements to support our growing technology needs."
What will be your company’s main challenges in the next year?
"To continue to be the kind of company that attracts great people and great clients."
What’s the hottest trend in your industry?
"Everything electronic, from new and interesting ways for our clients to communicate with customers and prospects to the tools we use. Technology offers amazing opportunities … but it still demands bright, creative people to leverage those opportunities."
Do you have a business mantra?
"Treat other people like you’d like to be treated."
From a business standpoint, who do you look up to?
"The two main men in my life: my husband, who’s in a demanding position with GE Healthcare Financial, has been so supportive, providing perspective and helping me learn to take things in stride; and my Dad, who has been an incredible mentor for business and life."
What was the best advice you ever received?
"Always hire the best people you can find."
What was the funniest thing that ever happened to you in your career?
"Meeting talent at an event who really wanted to be Elvis."
What do you like to do in your free time?
"Travel, ski, kayak, golf, tennis. I also really enjoy my book club."
December 10, 2004, Small Business Times, Milwaukee, WI