What They Say

Because trusted relationships are the most important part of our business, the people we work with are the ones best suited to describe us and our work. Following are some sample testimonials and please feel free to contact us for any additional and/or industry-specific references.

Coaching, Training, and Consulting Testimonials

“In working extensively with Mark Strauss over time, he has shown himself to be a very solid consultant by providing effective solutions through affordable prices delivered by prompt, personal service. Feldco strongly recommends Mark.”
Doug Cook - President, Feldco Windows
“Mark Strauss is a masterful communications trainer and coach with a down-to-earth, empowering style. His advice is based on decades of experience and has been invaluable to me in evaluating potential communications projects and formulating a sound business strategy tailored to my particular needs.”
Laurie Wink - Owner/Writer, Words in a Wink
“Mark’s unique approach to sales, customer service and internal relations goes far beyond just common tips; his training builds relationships with customers that continue to come back over and over again, all while maintaining a healthy work environment. As a sales manager, this is incredibly beneficial. We went from using stale business language to using vibrant communication that is real and relatable.

The results are more sales, better reviews, happier customers, and excited employees.”

Andrew Earnshaw - Associate Director of Partner Relations, Bible Leauge International
“I’ve known Mark Strauss for some 15 years. In large part, it is thanks to his guidance, branding, and communication experience that Big Deal Media was able to build its trust and recognition in the education market. All of this was provided with a respect for our budget, our timelines, and an understanding of our work ethic

Mark is still regarded as a rich resource for the Big Deal Media family.”

Marilyn Schutz - Founder & President, Marketing Projects, Inc./Big Deal Media
“The consulting provided by Mark Strauss during the research and selection of a new CRM/Accounting system was invaluable. We can’t put a price tag on the time and money saved and frustration alleviated as a result of his professionalism. We look forward to working with Mark again on future projects.”
Jack Rankin - President, Rankin Group
“Mark and I worked together on a 2+ year ERP implementation project for a large company. His technology background, logistics experience, creativity, and ability to effectively train staff were a perfect blend throughout every stage of the project. He is a true professional.”
Greg Cucchi - Principal, Latitude 27 Enterprises

Vertical Markets

Our unique blend of communication training, branding, and consulting allows us to serve a wide range of organization types and sizes. Vertical markets include:

Restaurant and Hospitality Testimonials

“Working with Allison at Rosewood was eye-opening. She revolutionized processes and key performance areas including server check-outs, service training, and floor management. She is truly a master of team development.”
Jeremy Adler - Manager, Girl & the Goat
“The Rosewood Restaurant is a 25-year-old Michelin-Recommended and Wine Spectator Award-winning, fine-dining steakhouse. Shortly after Allison’s initial assessment, she was able to make substantial changes to our overall training program. This brought our service to a new level which improved the guest experience and had a very positive impact on our check averages. She was also responsible for enhancing our Open Table utilization, Micros Training and upgrades, bidding of all general services, and Facilities.

Allison’s biggest impacts come from her ability to make observations in all areas and provide solutions which help lower costs and improve profitability. She is valuable, highly-trusted, and someone I strongly recommend.”

Jim Mandas - Owner, Rosewood
Allison has been essential to my growth as a FOH Manager. Her caring nature makes it easy to accept those difficult but necessary teaching moments. Her knowledge and leadership skills transfer easily in the teaching of both hourly and salaried staff. She also has an ability to structure training sessions (sometimes on the fly!) which include time and money saving tips and skills I still use to this day. I’ve said it numerous times and I’ll repeat it again… Allison is the type of leader you want to work for and with, anytime she asks!
Mike Berent - Manager, Roots Handmade Pizza
“Throughout my career I have learned to surround myself with the best people. Allison Strauss is one of these people. Her industry financial expertise and hands-on training greatly improve staff knowledge, guest service, and the overall bottom line. Valuable insights, innovations, and the ability to implement them are main contributors to her success. I continue to use the knowledge I have gained from Allison to better myself and those I mentor.”
Mino Conenna - Manager, Cantina Laredo
“I had the pleasure of working closely with Allison Strauss for a number of years and her passion for the hospitality business is undeniable. What she brings to the table is solid, hands-on operational know-how along with a sincere servant’s heart; a winning combination in the restaurant industry.

Her leadership style is confident and strong and she sets clear expectations for high standards of performance to reinforce the link between an excellent guest experience and repeat business.

Her positive and energetic approach — backed by knowledge and experience — contributes to teams adopting her vision to create an environment that makes service excellence a top priority.

Allison clearly understands that top line sales are what drive a business, but she also knows how to create the most flow through to the bottom line without negatively affecting quality, value or the guest experience. She consistently holds herself and others accountable for achieving set performance goals and has a strong sense of ownership and personal commitment to her work.”

Kerri Ressmeyer - Director of Operations, Longhorn Steakhouse
“I learned one of the most relevant and vital aspects of managing from Allison: the ability to connect with and lead employees. She has a rare dynamic of bringing together a diverse team and preparing them for success, all while upholding high standards. On the business side, Allison is highly proficient in P&L analysis. She’s always looking for areas of opportunity to improve without compromising quality; a skill that is a testament to her extensive knowledge and experience.”
Miguel Braun - Manager, Ruth’s Chris Steak House
“I first knew Allison as a fellow GM for over 10 years with the Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group. I can attest that Allison sets a high standard of excellence. She has a natural feel for hospitality and guest relations, is passionate about developing a sharp and caring staff, and is meticulous in her P&L accountability. I always noticed how she constantly stayed in tune to new developments in the industry with a discerning eye of a professional and the enthusiasm of a consumer. Allison will be a great asset for any restaurant looking to grow to the next level.”
Jeff Keenan - GM McCormick’s Fish House & Bar

Vertical Markets

We have experience in the following restaurant and hospitality categories: