Matthew Kirchner Columnist

Matt Kirchner [pronounced “Kirkner”], an international speaker on topics of interest to business people, is President of Profit360, LLC, a Midwest provider of management advisory services to manufacturing, retail and service companies. Most recently, Kirchner served as the Chief Executive of American Finishing Resources, LLC (AFR). With facilities in Wisconsin, Iowa and Indiana; and a transportation footprint encompassing twelve states, AFR is the largest provider of Industrial Coatings Removal and Paint Fixture and Hanger Design and Fabrication in the North America. In 2014 Kirchner and his private equity investment partner completed the sale of AFR to DuBois Chemicals. Thereafter he served as the President of AFR, an operating unit of DuBois Chemicals. Contact him at mkirchner@profit-360.com

Networking for Your Next Career Move or Coaching Someone Who Is? Why Specificity Matters.

I have totally changed my approach with jobseekers who reach out asking for career advice or networking assistance in finding their next role.

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A Curious Mind Rises to the Top

Read Matt Kirchner’s perspective about why curiosity, on the part of those leading change and innovation, is such a sought-after trait.

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Never Say There Wasn’t Enough Time

When a commitment is missed, begin with honesty. Instead of saying you didn’t have time, explain the circumstance and own it.

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Jim’s a Hardware Man

The importance of recruiting, training and educating finishing’s next generation of problem-solvers and troubleshooters.

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management

The Disconnected American Worker

Virtual meetings and the ability to work remotely have created new flexibility in how we work, but at what cost?

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How Do You AI?

Artificial intelligence tools can help finishing businesses function better. Here are some suggestions on where to start.

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The Dos and Don’ts of Employee Compensation

Over more than 30 years of annual compensation reviews, I have compiled a list of Dos and Don’ts that we follow at compensation review time and throughout the year.

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Championing Free Enterprise

"The spirit of free enterprise fuels the economic engine of our nation and allows for the creation of wealth and prosperity.”

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Congratulations, You’re a Vice-President

New title. Heightened respect from others. What else changes? Almost everything.  

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Career Transitions, Loyalty and Major League Baseball (Never Bite the Hand that Feeds You)

When the time comes, do the right thing and seek out a new employer that doesn’t compete with the one you’re leaving.

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Is Your Time Being “Virtually Eliminated”?

A few antidotes for those longing for the good old days (pre-2020)

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