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Give Her the Gift of Growth This Mother’s Day
Tag: career
Why Year-End Triggers Career Reflection
You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind. ~Hillary DePiano
The end of the year naturally invokes a period of career reflection, which serves as a psychological milestone that compels professionals to pause and assess their journey. As the calendar approaches its final weeks, individuals are instinctively drawn to introspection, triggered by a combination of cultural traditions, personal goal-setting practices, and an innate human desire for growth and meaning. This time of reflection is fueled by the contrast between the year’s accomplishments and unfulfilled aspirations, creating the opportunity for honest self-evaluation (hint …that common ideal weight loss plan).
Also read: Conquering Transition Doubts
The approaching new year symbolizes renewal and potential, encouraging professionals to reflect on their career trajectory, measure progress against past objectives, and recalibrate their professional vision. Factors like annual performance reviews, financial assessments, industry shifts, and personal life changes converge during this period, making it an ideal time to critically reflect on career satisfaction, skill development, alignment with long-term goals, and potential opportunities for growth or transformation.
Consequently, here are a number of pointers that discusses this period of reflection along with recommendation. Not a self-starter , we can help.
Natural Evaluation Period
- Annual performance reviews
- Reflecting on past year’s achievements
- Setting new personal goals
- Psychological reset moment
Emotional Triggers
- Holiday season brings perspective
- Family gatherings prompt life discussions
- Increased time for self-reflection
- Motivation from new year anticipation
Professional Burnout
- Accumulated workplace stress
- Desire for meaningful change
- Recognizing current job’s limitations
- Seeking personal fulfillment
External Evaluation
- Social conversations about resolutions
- Seeing others make bold moves
- Increased motivational content
- Feeling inspired by potential
Strategic Approach
- Budget reassessment
- Career growth opportunities
- Market trend observations
- Personal development planning
Motivational Approach
- Embrace fear as growth signal
- Start with small, low-risk steps
- Build confidence gradually
- Seek professional guidance
- Create solid transition plan
Recommended Actions
- Self-assessment
- Skill inventory
- Informational interviews
- Part-time exploration
- Professional coaching
- Continuous learning
Are you experiencing any of these signs? If so, it’s time to do something about it. Adapt the motivational approach along with the recommended actions. But if you need the expertise of a coach who can help. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate for a friend experiencing these signs and help him/her kick off the new year with a difference.
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Give the Gift of Career Growth This Holiday Season!
C a r e e r G r o w t h
If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try. ~Seth Godin
Lisa, a technology manager, and Michael, a software team supervisor, met for lunch and commiserated about their professional frustrations. Lisa, despite her generous salary, felt increasingly disconnected from her role leading the IT division. Michael was overwhelmed by constant organizational changes and felt trapped in a cycle of overwork without appropriate compensation. His primary aspiration was career advancement, hoping to break through the ceiling that currently limited his professional growth.
Their conversation highlighted a widespread workplace challenge that often becomes more pronounced during the year-end period, when professionals reflect on their career trajectories. Have you noticed similar sentiments among your colleagues or loved ones? Perhaps a thoughtful gift of career coaching could provide the guidance and perspective needed to navigate professional challenges.
Holiday Gift Certificates
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What They’ll Get
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Ready to give the gift of career success? Purchase GIFT CERTIFICATE Here
♥️Share with someone who deserves this gift!
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14 Strategies For Adults Reporting To Millennial Team Leads
The challenge of leadership is to be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not a bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humor, but without folly. ~Jim Rohn
“I report to Jen who is in her late 30s and is as old as my daughter” Cindy said aloud to the group. She respects me though. The diverse group of women nodded in agreement. There are others who are not as lucky as Cindy, not necessarily because of being older but because they complain of having more experience than the Millennial who supervise them. They often take offense at any task given because they do not believe they should report to someone younger than themselves.
This is an increasingly common situation as workplace demographics change. Here are some strategies older adults can use when reporting to or being supervised by millennials:
- Focus on mutual respect:
- Recognize that your millennial supervisor has earned their position.
- Treat them with the same respect you’d expect, regardless of age.
- Leverage your experience tactfully:
- Offer your insights and experience as a resource, not a challenge to authority.
- Frame suggestions as “In my experience…” rather than “You should…”
- Embrace learning opportunities:
- Be open to new ideas and approaches your younger supervisor might introduce.
- Show enthusiasm for learning new skills or technologies.
- Adapt to communication styles:
- Be flexible with communication methods (e.g., instant messaging, video calls).
- Understand and respect different communication preferences.
- Manage your own biases:
- Challenge any preconceived notions you might have about younger managers.
- Focus on their skills and leadership qualities rather than age.
- Highlight your strengths:
- Demonstrate how your experience and skills complement the team’s needs.
- Show how your long-term perspective can be valuable for strategic planning.
- Be a team player:
- It’s no playtime. Support your supervisor’s decisions publicly, even if you disagree privately.
- Offer constructive feedback in appropriate settings.
- Stay current:
- Keep up with industry trends and new technologies.
- Show initiative in updating your skills.
- Practice active listening:
- Give full attention to your supervisor’s ideas and directives.
- Ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding.
- Seek feedback proactively:
- Ask for regular performance feedback.
- Show willingness to adapt based on constructive criticism.
- Find common ground:
- Look for shared interests or values beyond work.
- Build a relationship based on mutual understanding and respect.
- Offer mentorship subtly:
- If appropriate, offer to share your knowledge in areas where you have deep expertise.
- Frame it as supporting their success rather than undermining their authority.
- Embrace change:
- Be open to new processes or workflows your millennial supervisor might implement.
- Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability.
- Focus on results:
- Align your work with the goals and metrics your supervisor values.
- Demonstrate your value through your performance and outcomes.
It’s hard and often uncomfortable. But remember, successful intergenerational workplace relationships are built on mutual respect, open communication, and a willingness to learn from each other. By focusing on these elements, older adults can create positive and productive relationships with their millennial supervisors.
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10 Protocol Keys For Aspiring Leaders Attending Professional Events
Etiquette is what you are doing and saying when people are looking and listening. What you are thinking is your business. ~Virginia Cary Hudson
Navigating business events can be challenging, especially for aspiring young adult leaders. Learn the essential Etiquette Tips to help you make a great impression. Pay keen attention to the do’s and don’ts of professional conduct, from networking to dress code, and ensure you stand out for all the right reasons! Brief chat with Executive Coach, Maxine Barnett provides an engaging snippet. Focusing on the ensuing key points will propel your personal growth.
Dressing For Success
- Understand the Dress Code: Research and adhere to the dress code of the organization or event. If unsure, err on the side of being slightly more formal.
- Professional Attire: Opt for business suits, blazers, and dress shirts for a formal setting. Business casual might include smart trousers or skirts paired with a blouse or collared shirt.
- Grooming: Ensure personal grooming is impeccable. Hair should be neat, nails clean, and makeup (if worn) should be subtle and professional.
- Comfortable Footwear: Choose polished, comfortable shoes. Avoid overly casual footwear.
- Minimal Accessories: Keep accessories minimal and tasteful. Avoid flashy jewelry or anything that might be distracting.
Conducting Yourself
- Punctuality: Always arrive on time. Plan to be there at least 10 minutes early to settle in and prepare.
- Body Language: Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. These non-verbal cues convey confidence and attentiveness.
- Active Listening: Show that you are engaged by nodding, smiling, and taking notes. Avoid interrupting the speaker.
- Clear Communication: Speak clearly and concisely. Be mindful of your tone and ensure it is respectful and professional.
- Preparedness: Come to the meeting prepared with any necessary documents, reports, or notes. Familiarize yourself with the agenda and topics of discussion.
- Participation: Contribute to discussions thoughtfully. Offer insights and ask relevant questions, but avoid dominating the conversation.
- Respect: Show respect for all attendees, regardless of their position. Listen to differing viewpoints and avoid any negative or dismissive behavior.
- Technology Etiquette: Silence your phone and other devices. If you must use a laptop or tablet, do so discreetly and only for meeting-related tasks.
- Follow-Up: After the meeting, send follow-up emails if necessary, summarizing key points or next steps. This demonstrates attention to detail and commitment to ongoing communication.
- Professional Relationships: Use the opportunity to build and nurture professional relationships. Network courteously and express appreciation for the time and input of others.
By following these guidelines, you, as an aspiring leaders can present yourself as professional, competent, and respectful participants in any business meeting.
Are there any points you would like to add? Do share, we would love to hear.
Cheers!
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HBR’s 3 Ways To Work With Difficult People
Practice the Pause
We’ve all been there. Work we must, yet doing so with difficult people makes it harder. Here’s an Harvard Business Review (HBR) perspective that can help to make it easier in 3 ways:
Leading When The Going Gets Tough
•Reflect on the cause of tension and how you are responding to it
•Work harder to understand the other person’s perspective
•Become a problem solver rather than a critic or competitor.
Read details here;
Are these tops insightful? Are there any you have used, or wish to add? Do share. We would love to hear.
Cheers!
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Not Perfect But…
Don’t be afraid to try
Not perfect but still doing it. Dr. Charles Stanley said it.
Pastor Steven furtick said it about being in his youth and starting a new church with his wife.
Reggae Music Miss Pat Chin said it too. She said when she started entrepreneurship she didn’t know what she was doing. Young. Niaive but she tried big things not realizing they were too big for a new entrepreneur.
Guess what? It worked! Because she didn’t know. She tried, did it and yep success!
Dr Suess’s idea was different. Novel. Untried by others so his manuscript was rejected by many publishers. Then he met a friend who had just received a promotion to of all things… a publisher! The right place. The right time. The dots connected. Today Dr Seuss is a household name worldwide.
So don’t be afraid to try new crazy things! Things untried by others …because … it just might work.
Cheers!
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Navigating Your Career Transition Over The Holidays…
The holidays aren’t just for celebrations; they’re a golden opportunity to unwrap your career’s potential! -✨
Join us for the ‘Navigating Your Career Transition During the Holidays’ seminar, where you’ll discover how to embark on your career journey with renewed energy and clarity. Don’t wait for the new year—start building your dream career now.
📍 Where: Watch online
What You’ll Gain: –
- Key strategies to seamlessly transition into your dream career.
- Goal-setting techniques to kickstart the new year with purpose.
- Insights from experienced career transition experts.
- Tips to make the most of the holiday season while propelling your career forward.
- Building Your Personal Brand for Success
Let the holiday season be the launchpad for your career transformation. Don’t miss this chance to make a significant leap in your professional life.
Secure your spot now and embrace a brighter, more promising career future!
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Professional Exit Career Plan
The decision to leave an executive or professional role is a significant one, and careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth transition. In my book Ditch It Switch It, I shared stories of individuals who simply got up and resigned without thinking much about their next steps. Indeed, life on the job can be frustrating. At times you just want to walk away and give up. But before you do, stop and think it through.
As a leadership transition coach, here’s a comprehensive exit plan to guide you through this important process.
1. Self-Assessment and Reflection: Take the time to reflect on your career goals, values, and aspirations. Clarify your reasons for leaving and envision the path you want to take moving forward.
2. Goal Setting: Define clear short-term and long-term goals for your post-executive journey. Whether it’s starting your own venture, consulting, or taking on a different role, having specific goals will provide direction.
3. Skill and Knowledge Gap Analysis: Identify any skills or knowledge areas that need enhancement to align with your new goals. Consider professional development opportunities, courses, or certifications that will strengthen your skillset.
4. Networking and Relationship Building: Leverage your professional network to explore potential opportunities. Reach out to mentors, colleagues, and industry contacts to discuss your plans and seek advice.
5. Building a Personal Brand: Craft a compelling personal brand that highlights your expertise and aligns with your new goals. Update your LinkedIn profile, resume, and online presence to reflect your transition.
6. Financial Planning: Assess your financial situation and create a budget that supports your transition period. Consider factors like severance packages, savings, and potential income sources.
7. Knowledge Transfer: Collaborate with your team and colleagues to ensure a smooth knowledge transfer. Document important processes, projects, and responsibilities to facilitate the transition for your successor.
8. Successor Support: Provide support and mentorship to your successor, if applicable. Offer guidance during the transition period to set them up for success in their new role.
9. Emotional Preparation: Acknowledge the emotional aspect of leaving a role you’ve invested in. Prepare yourself mentally for the change and focus on the positive opportunities that lie ahead.
10. Communication Strategy: Craft a thoughtful communication plan for announcing your departure to your team, colleagues, and stakeholders. Emphasize the positive reasons for your transition and express gratitude for the experience.
11. Negotiating Exit Terms: Work closely with HR and legal departments to negotiate your exit terms, including timelines, compensation, benefits, and non-compete agreements.
12. Finalizing Responsibilities: Ensure that you wrap up any pending projects, delegate tasks effectively, and communicate the status of ongoing initiatives to stakeholders.
13. Leveraging Resources: Utilize Leadership career coaching, industry associations, and networking events to gather insights and support during your transition.
14. Launching the Next Chapter: Execute your plan with confidence. Utilize your goals, skills, and network to propel your career in the direction you’ve envisioned.
Remember, an executive or professional exit is an opportunity for growth and reinvention. With strategic planning, emotional readiness, and a strong support network, you can make a seamless transition to the next phase of your career journey. If you need further guidance or support throughout this process, don’t hesitate to connect. As a Certified Master Coach specializing in Leadership Transition, I am happy to help.
You may also sign up to attend Goal-Setting Retreat to prepare your 2024 strategies.
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Coaching: Come Messy. Leave Happy….
Doubt increases with inaction. Clarity reveals itself in momentum. Growth comes from progress. For all these reasons, BEGIN.
Brendon Burchard
My niece is a celebrity makeup artist. She has done many. When they come to see her, they come just as they are–plain, messy, but ready to rock. Together they work on their goals. What’s the problem? What’s the occasion (wedding, birthday celebration, rebranding)? What’s the purpose (new business, product, new album, video)? They then work together to make their goals beautiful.
Same with the healing power. The sick goes to the doctor to be healed. They’re not well. They try home remedies and nothing works. But pretty soon they come to the realization that they need help.
Coaching is just like that. Come messy. Come stuck. come with your frustrations, your limitations, procrastinations. We work together to identify goals, explore possibilities, get clarity, strategize follow through and make dreams come through.
COACHING: THE CONTEXT
Coaching is one of the most powerful tools because it acts as a catalyst. Coaching gives our clients the right motivation to take actions that make them successful. As coaches we provide inspiration, motivation, and encouragement to help our clients attain their goals. We seek to discover and understand context and help clients define key areas of leadership development that will lead to transformational outcomes.
That’s what we do. Let’s connect. Come messy, leave happy.
Have you ever experienced coaching? What was the outcome? Do share, we would love to hear.
Cheers!
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What is Your Biggest Fear?
I love nature and always choose to live near a lake, pond or stream. What comes with that is nature’s creatures like squirrels, ducks, and my worst fear –lizards! My fear of them makes me search to find them before they sneak upon me. My imagination runs wild as I think of their creepy, crawley features that makes me real scared. Mind you, it has not happened but my fear, like Cusps, makes it real to me…yikes!
Aren’t we all afraid of something? We sure are. But what is fear? Why are we afraid?
FEAR is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.
What is Your Biggest Fear as an Entrepreneur?
Daymond John asked the question of entrepreneurs “What is your biggest fear?” The answers varied but most common were:
- Getting taken advantage of by…
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Do It. It’s That Simple…
“If you canimagine it,you can dream it.Dream itand you canbecome it.” - Walt Disney
For years Walt Disney’s quote…”If you can imagine it you can do it”, hung on my wall at home. I was able to see it every day. It stayed with me during all my dreams which became goals which later became reality. My studies, writings, books, and more, all became real because of my dreams.
Dreams Don’t Come Through by Themselves
But dreams don’t just come through by themselves. We have to plan, then work it. With hard work, dedication, persistence, and the will to achieve, they become real.
From a young age, my niece always wanted to do her best at making others beautiful. After graduating, she began working with a renowned makeup organization. She learnt from the best and with her innate desire for excellence, she…
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