InterBusiness Issues - October 2007

Pete Coyle

Growing up in a “Caterpillar family,” Pete Coyle has lived in several states and on two continents. When he graduated from Eastern Illinois University, Pete was only sure of two things: that he would have no part of the insurance business, and that he would not live in Peoria. Despite these early notions, he has done both—rising to the top of the insurance industry and returning to his Peoria roots, where he lives with wife Katherine and daughters Katy and Maggie.

Today, he is President of Coyle Insurance—a local company built on the principles of providing superior customer service and quality insurance solutions for their customers. Having earned the Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation in 1987, he has been involved with that organization for over 20 years.

Features

Designing Multi-Generational Work Areas

by Pete Simpson
Lincoln Office
Although we’ve grown accustomed to different age groups within the marketplace, today’s up-and-comers have created a new dynamic entirely.

Getz Fire Equipment

by Jennifer Burns
When Melvin Getz answered an ad to be a part-time salesman, he probably never imagined it would turn into a successful business, still going strong after half a century.

Social Networking Tips for Businesses

Steven Streight
SpyderHost.net
People join social networks to socialize, share and self-promote. They are not receptive to marketing messages or sales hype, but they do seek answers and advice.
Also in this issue...

Managing Employee Abuse Without Violating the FMLA

Leonard Sachs
Howard & Howard
The FMLA prohibits firing an employee for taking FMLA leave or exercising rights under the Act. If an employee would have been fired regardless of taking FMLA leave, he loses the protection of the Act.

Planning Key to Preventing Global Tax Headaches

Tim Stewart
RSM McGladrey
The global marketplace can hold many tantalizing opportunities for growth, expansion and increased competitiveness. However, failing to properly understand the tax requirements of even the smallest international venture could result in big financial headaches for your midsized company.
Columns
Patrick Kirchhofer - Peoria County Farm Bureau
Dr. Robert Zinser, Zinser Chiropractic Clinics
Mayor Jim Ardis - City of Peoria
W. Michael Bryant, Methodist Medical Center
Dr. John Erwin - Illinois Central College
Dr. John Throop - The Summit Group
Vickie Clark - The Heartland Partnership
JR Runkel - Fortner Insurance Agency, Inc.
Scott Elger - Robert W. Baird & Co.
Michael Stephan, Heart of Illinois United Way
David Smith - Manpower Professional
Brent Lonteen, Peoria Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Bashir Ali - Central Illinois Workforce Network