In the funeral service profession, the walls of the funeral home can sometimes feel more like barriers than open doors. For decades, many funeral homes have operated behind a metaphorical curtain, maintaining an air of mystery and formality…

In funeral service, one of the greatest challenges—and opportunities—is understanding and adapting to the ever-changing needs of our targeted demographics. This is not just about keeping up with trends but…

Funeral service is undergoing a significant transformation, presenting both challenges and opportunities for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. As the Baby Boomer generation of funeral home owners reaches retirement age…

In funeral service, many of us grew up immersed in the business—learning from our parents or grandparents who laid the foundation for the success we continue to build on today. We watched how they handled everything, from…

As funeral directors, we are no strangers to the toll our profession can take on our mental and emotional well being. We serve families during their most challenging times, offering comfort and support while shouldering the weight of their grief…

As funeral professionals, we’re all governed by federal and our individual state laws. These laws and regulations span from the disposition of human remains, preneed, OSHA, licensure just to name a few. Some of our governing laws have been in place a long time and make total sense...

In the fast-paced world of funeral service, it’s easy for professionals to find themselves caught in a whirlwind of daily tasks and responsibilities. If you’re a funeral home owner or manager, you often fall into the trap of working “in” the business rather than “on” the business...

As a funeral director, B2B sales consultant, and business owner, I have always found it peculiar that the funeral service industry has a tendency to look down on salespeople. Some of my most trusted advisors in business are pure sales people. They are often my eyes and ears out in the field. And they should be yours too…

Traditionally, funeral service has been focused on providing service and merchandise to either preneed or at-need families. And yes, there are more mementos, keepsakes, and products associated with death than ever before. But as I’ve discussed before, funeral service today “Is not your daddy’s Oldsmobile.”…

In funeral service, the focus is empathy to the family and honoring and commemorating the deceased. Because of our long days and nights, it’s easy to overlook the physical strain and potential hazards that come with the job. It’s never been more important ensuring safe work conditions…

In an era dominated by technological advancements and digital communication, there is a great opportunity for generations to reconsider the significance of some of our time honored traditions…

In the dynamic world of business, where competition is fierce and markets are constantly evolving, one key factor stands out as a beacon of success: a well-defined brand and identity. The Oracle of Omaha himself, Warren Buffett, has often emphasized the importance of a strong brand and unwavering commitment to core values…

Since hospices focus on end-of-life care, a collaborative relationship with your funeral home can bring you steady clients. Your marketing strategies will help nurture these positive partnerships…

I often ask funeral directors, “What makes you different than the competition?” What would you say? Think about it. What is your response? Funeral directors I ask almost always say, “We give better service.” Then I’ll ask them to define that for me in a tangible way. What do you mean by “I give better service.” I often get a blank look in return…

I grew up in a family of very powerful women. My grand mother, mom, aunts, and great aunts were all small business owners and very entrepreneurial-minded during a very male-dominated time. In my family, women were heard, and it was expected for them to be heard. I’ve had several male role models and influencers in business and my personal life, and I am very grateful for their positive impact. I have also been fortunate to carefully observe the women in my family operate their small businesses…

Funeral service is a profession that unfortunately many people are scared to visit, but do so because they need to. We aren’t the only profession under this category. Lawyers and doctors could also be considered in that same arena. But there’s a great opportunity for doctors, lawyers, oh, and by the way, funeral homes. We can make the process of a visit easier for families…

My family and I recently went on vacation to the gorgeous Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I was content fishing for walleye and perch in the sparkling, cool waters, but my wife wanted to go to Mackinaw and to visit Mackinac Island. I love the history there, and I think there’s a lot to be learned as a funeral director and business owner…..

When asked what distinguishes us from other funeral services, the answer is often “our service.” But that response is very vague. It’s essential that funeral homes find a definable difference that sets them apart from their competitors. The answer could be a unique and entirely exceptional aftercare service….