Guido and I have known each other for a quarter century. He introduced my concept of value-based fees in Germany in building his multi-million euro boutique consultancy.

We talk here about the post-pandemic atmosphere in Germany and in Europe. These issues include:

• labor shortages

• remote vs. in-person work

• post-Brexit realties

• existential vs. pragmatic issues

We discuss what his clients are most concerned about today, and whether those concerns are valid. As is the case elsewhere, we examine the motivation, productivity, and work ethic of people in organizations, and what they’re seeking.

On the morning we chatted it was reported that Germany had “slipped into recession” and Guido pointed out the irony of the government complaining that consumers weren’t spending enough!

The difference between strategic business and tactical concerns, relative to the nature of the types of meetings was an important distinction in communication which we can all learn from. And we examine the current French environment where, with morbidity outpacing fertility and immigration problems, and the public rabidly against raising the retirement age, labor shortages will be a harsh economic reality.

Guido is a superb example of someone building a boutique firm that is successful with the top officers of major enterprises amidst turbulent times.