My 33 years in the retail industry have all boiled down to one simple lesson: "Take risks." Retailing is not for the timid. It takes determination, business savvy and an eye toward future trends, but most of all, good retailers rely on their instincts. Throughout this site, I've included articles on effective retailing. The last four selections on the menu bar will guide you to some of these writings on merchandising, branding and leadership, all of which deal in some way with the importance of leading with with courage. If you'd be interested in discussing ways in which I can lend my expertise to your business as a consultant or speaker, feel free to send an e-mail to gail.cottle@comcast.net or click on the Contact page of this site. I look forward to hearing from you.		Gail Cottle was the first president of Nordstrom Product Group, the organization that designs and manufactures the exclusive brands featured in Nordstrom Stores. Since her retirement in 2002, she has worked as a consultant and speaker, lending her expertise in the areas of branding, customer service and leadership.