Category: Assessments

I don’t believe any owner goes into business thinking that they will be iron-fisted micromanagers – or worse, leaders who thwart the success of their employees and entire organizations with their negative, controlling behaviors. So, it is shocking just how many business owners do just that.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Encouraging leaders, also known as Multipliers, who take it upon themselves to unlearn negative communication and management styles, tend to enjoy great results like improved employee retention, higher productivity, and greater long-term success. Not to mention a much healthier company culture.

Good leaders avoid diminishing behaviors like micromanaging and criticism, and instead focus on active listening, delegation, and celebrating successes to drive organizational growth.

Being a Multiplier is about providing the people who surround and support your business more inspiration and empowerment. And as a business leader, being a Multiplier can dramatically improve your organization.

This is the stuff strong leadership is made of. To learn more, read this insightful article from The Alternative Board (TAB) Worldwide President & CEO Jason Zickerman titled “How to Be a Multiplier and Elevate the People Around You” at Entrepreneur.com.

#tabboards #businesscoaching #multipliersanddiminishers

 We would love to hear your comments or questions. Contact us today!

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

Adding joy to your job is crucial for maintaining high levels of motivation and productivity. Here are seven effective strategies to enhance your job satisfaction, supported by expert advice and practical tips.

1. 1. 1. Foster Positive Relationships: Building strong, supportive relationships with your colleagues can significantly boost your workplace happiness. Engage in team-building activities, offer help when needed, and express gratitude. Positive interactions create a collaborative environment that fosters joy and reduces stress.
      2. Set Meaningful Goals: Setting clear, achievable goals gives you a sense of purpose and direction. Break down larger projects into manageable tasks and celebrate small victories along the way. This approach not only keeps you motivated but also provides a continual sense of accomplishment.
      3. Create a Balanced Work-Life Integration: Maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is vital. Set boundaries to ensure you have time for hobbies, family, and rest. This balance prevents burnout and keeps you energized and engaged at work. Tools such as scheduling and prioritizing tasks can help manage your time effectively.
      4. Engage in Continuous Learning: Pursue opportunities for professional development. Enroll in courses, attend workshops, or seek mentorship within your organization. Continuous learning keeps your skills sharp and opens up new career opportunities, which can be highly rewarding and stimulating.
      5. Optimize Your Work Environment: Personalize your workspace to make it more enjoyable and conducive to productivity. This might include adding plants, and family photos, or organizing your desk in a way that boosts your efficiency. A comfortable and pleasant work environment can improve your mood and increase your job satisfaction.
      6. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or short breaks throughout your workday. These practices help reduce stress, increase focus, and enhance overall well-being. By managing stress effectively, you can maintain a positive outlook and better handle workplace challenges.
      7. Seek Feedback and Act on It: Regularly seek feedback from your peers and supervisors and use it constructively. Understanding how others perceive your work can provide valuable insights and areas for improvement. Acting on feedback demonstrates your commitment to growth and can lead to greater job satisfaction and performance recognition.

Implementing these strategies can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful work experience. For further details and additional tips, you can refer to resources provided by Vistage, which offers in-depth insights on personal development and leadership competencies.

 We would love to hear your comments or questions. Contact us today!

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

Ensuring employee success is crucial for any business aiming for sustainable growth. Here are five key strategies businesses can implement to support their employees daily:

1. 1. 1. Foster Open Communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns. This can be achieved by holding regular team meetings, encouraging feedback through anonymous surveys, and maintaining an open-door policy. Effective communication enhances transparency, builds trust, and ensures everyone is on the same page.
      2. Provide Opportunities for Professional Development: Invest in your employees’ growth by offering training programs, workshops, and access to online courses. Encourage them to set career goals and support them in achieving them through mentorship and continuous learning opportunities. This not only enhances their skills but also boosts morale and job satisfaction.
      3. Promote Work-Life Balance: A balanced work-life environment leads to happier, more productive employees. Encourage breaks during the workday, offer flexible working hours, and support remote working options. Implementing policies that respect personal time, such as no emails after certain hours, can also contribute significantly to their well-being.
      4. Recognize and Reward Achievements: Regularly acknowledge and celebrate employee accomplishments, both big and small. This can be done through formal recognition programs, meeting shout-outs, or simple thank-you notes. Rewards such as bonuses, gift cards, or additional time off can further motivate employees to strive for excellence.
      5. Create a Positive Work Environment: A positive work culture enhances employee engagement and productivity. Ensure the workplace is inclusive, diverse, and free from harassment. Promote teamwork through team-building activities and encourage a supportive atmosphere where employees help each other.

By implementing these strategies, businesses can create a supportive environment that nurtures employee success and fosters long-term organizational growth.

 We would love to hear your comments or questions. Contact us today!

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

As you certainly know by now, artificial intelligence is everywhere. AI is arguably the fastest expanding technological advancement in the history of the world.

What makes AI different from other technologies is the technology’s ability to learn and make decisions based on data and analytics. In many cases, this translates to shockingly enhanced business automation of mundane and time-consuming tasks. AI can augment scheduling and time management, HR protocols, and a plethora of processes that rely on repetition and data management.

Do you want to learn how artificial intelligence and machine learning can help improve your organization? Read “Leverage AI to Grow Your Business” at The Alternative Board (TAB).

https://www.thealternativeboard.com/blog/leverage-ai-to-grow-your-business

“I would say that artificial intelligence is the key to unlocking insights and driving the productivity and competitiveness of businesses in every sector.” ~Ginni Rometty, Former CEO of IBM

#tabboards #businesscoaching #aiforsmallbusiness

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

Industry has been turned on its ear in recent years by the onslaught of artificial intelligence. While AI is quickly becoming ubiquitous in nearly every business sector, many owners, particularly those with SMBs, are surprisingly disinterested in embracing the technology. This resistance can be indicative of something far more insidious than simple technophobia. Rather, it is often more symptomatic of one’s opposition to innovation, creativity, and, well, just doing things differently.

As a business owner, a forward-thinking, innovative mindset is an invaluable ace that positions your business ahead of the competition. Whether it is in AI adoption, R&D, or even working with other business owners to elevate each other’s organizations, embodying the spirit of doing better and being better will set you and your business apart.

The Power of a Proactive Mindset

It can be hard to welcome change. Even harder to seek it out. But a proactive approach to seeking new opportunities, acquiring important insight, and implementing emerging innovations is increasingly critical, as nearly every industry is evolving at a record pace. By remaining stagnant you risk being left behind. On the other hand, possessing a curious mind that is open to innovation allows business leaders to identify and leverage tools that can improve their organizations and simplify their tasks.

While AI can do things like automate routine tasks, analyze customer data, and personalize marketing efforts, the point here is not just in adopting AI, but in fostering a culture of continuous improvement in every aspect of your business. And by extension, encouraging your team to explore new ideas and innovative solutions can truly set your business apart.

Integrating Forward-Thinking Strategies

Again, AI is just one aspect of business innovation. Possessing a proactive mindset is the real game-changer, as it encourages other new approaches like agile methodologies, flexible scheduling strategies, or investing in continuous learning or mentorship opportunities for your team.

All of these implementations share a few things in common. They allow your team to be more collaborative. They poise your organization for better productivity and efficiency. And, perhaps most importantly, they demonstrate that you, as a business leader, look positively toward the future of your company and your people. And that is a culture in which anyone would want to work.

Orchestrating Success with Innovation

Innovative business ownership includes incorporating new technologies, opportunities, and knowledge gained from other business owners. While AI certainly represents one of the most significant opportunities for modern businesses, its true power is so much more than automating a task or improving a single process.

AI has shown us all that possessing a forward-thinking mindset can elevate your business beyond your wildest dreams. And it is that willingness to embrace the possibilities of tomorrow that will elevate your business and leave your stagnant competitors behind.

Remember, your journey to success is not just dependent on adopting the latest tools and technologies. On a larger scale, it is about being open to change and continuously seeking ways to better your company and yourself as a business leader. So embrace the promise of AI. Be a visionary. Augment your expertise with other smart business owners.

And remember, the future belongs to those who dare seize new opportunities.

 We would love to hear your comments or questions. Contact us today!

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

Harness the Power of Social Media for Your Business

Do you want your company to utilize social media to its full potential? Tapping into the Potential of social media will help you do just that.

In this TAB white paper, you will learn:

• • • The top 5 benefits of having a social media presence.
    • How other business owners are spending their time on social media.
    • How to choose the right social media and networking channel for your business.

Download it now at The Alternative Board (TAB):  https://www.thealternativeboard.com/harness-the-power-of-social-media-for-your-business

#tabboards #businesscoaching #socialmedianetworking

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

In today’s dynamic business landscape, core value statements are more than just words on a wall; they are the guiding principles that define a company’s identity and direction. Yet, many organizations struggle to create value statements that are authentic, actionable, and resonant with their stakeholders. Reinventing the core value statement is not merely an exercise in rebranding but a strategic initiative to align organizational behavior and goals with its fundamental beliefs.

The Importance of Core Values

Core values serve as the foundation of an organization’s culture, influencing decision-making, shaping company policies, and driving employee behavior. According to the Harvard Business Review, a well-crafted core value statement can unify a team, attract and retain talent, and differentiate a company in a crowded marketplace (HBR, 2024).

Steps to Reinvent Your Core Value Statement

1. 1. 1. Engage Stakeholders: Begin by involving a diverse group of stakeholders in the process, including employees at all levels, customers, and partners. This ensures that the values reflect the collective vision and needs of those who are integral to the organization’s success.
      2. Reflect on the Company’s History and Mission: Consider the company’s founding principles and mission. Reflecting on the history can help identify values that are intrinsic to the organization’s identity. Revisiting past successes and failures provides insights into the core principles that have guided the organization.
      3. Conduct a Values Audit: Perform an audit of existing values to assess their relevance and effectiveness. Determine which values resonate with employees and stakeholders, and which need refinement. This step may involve surveys, focus groups, and interviews.
      4. Define and Prioritize Values: Clearly define each value and prioritize them based on their importance to the organization’s vision and strategy. Ensure that each value is actionable and provides clear guidance on expected behaviors.
      5. Communicate and Integrate: Once the core values are established, communicate them effectively across the organization. Use multiple channels such as town halls, newsletters, and training sessions to ensure everyone understands and embraces the values. Integrate the values into everyday business practices, from hiring and performance reviews to decision-making and customer interactions.

Real-World Examples

Companies like Zappos and Patagonia have successfully leveraged their core value statements to build strong, value-driven cultures. Zappos’ emphasis on customer service is embedded in its core values, leading to a distinctive brand identity and loyal customer base. Patagonia’s commitment to environmental sustainability is not just a marketing slogan but a core value that influences every aspect of its operations.

Conclusion

Reinventing the core value statement is a vital step for organizations aiming to stay relevant and competitive in today’s fast-paced environment. By engaging stakeholders, reflecting on the company’s mission, conducting a values audit, defining clear and actionable values, and effectively communicating and integrating them, organizations can build a strong, unified culture that drives success.

 We would love to hear your comments or questions. Contact us today!

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

You have probably heard about and have played with ChatGPT and other AI-enabled technologies. Learn how to effectively use them in your business, how to educate your teams about the future, and what to be aware and cautious of as you implement these technologies in your business and daily life.

Chris Tamm, an AI and robotic process automation consultant and business owner, will spend an hour helping you understand where you are missing out on available efficiencies, and give some perspectives on how this will affect your next 2-10 years of business growth.

• • • Learn about the latest advancements in ChatGPT and AI technology for all industries.
    • Discover the benefits of implementing AI technologies into your business culture and processes.
    • Explore real-life examples of how businesses leverage these technologies to gain a competitive edge.
    • See how the different pieces of AI fit together (machine learning, machine vision, robotic process automation, large language models, generative question answering, etc.).
    • Understand the concerns and guardrails that you need to have in place if you are going to move forward with AI technologies in your business.

This webinar is perfect for business owners and executives who know the world is changing and want a high-level primer on how to navigate these dynamics.

Watch FREE and on-demand now at The Alternative Board (TAB) by clicking the link below:

https://www.thealternativeboard.com/webinar/deep-dive-into-ai

#tabboards #businesscoaching #aiforbusiness

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

To receive criticism effectively, try these techniques:

• • • Put your shields up. Immediately picture a protective shield surrounding you before you react. This buys you a few seconds to examine your critic’s intentions. Should you explore the criticism further as a possible way to grow professionally? Or should you dismiss it as only a hurtful message?
    • Act like a coffee filter. If you explore the criticism further, you need to strain out the emotional grounds — the critic’s fear or anger — from the facts.
    • This allows you to respond only to useful information and not the critic’s emotions.
    • Pretend you’re Sherlock Holmes. Don’t rest until you get all the pieces of the criticism mystery. Ask for specifics. Example: “When you said the report was incomplete, exactly what did you mean?”
    • Say “You’re right.” It’s a lot easier to say than “I’m wrong.” And these few words pour water on the potential blaze of a heated discussion.

Source: Mel Ann Coley, Coley Training and Development, Garland, TX

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.

While often seen as a trait that drives excellence, perfectionism can sometimes hinder innovation and progress. Pursuing flawlessness can lead to procrastination, increased stress, and a paralyzing fear of failure. Balancing the desire for perfection with the need for innovation requires a strategic approach that encourages creativity, risk-taking, and iterative improvement.

Understanding the Perfectionism Trap

Perfectionism manifests as an intense focus on avoiding mistakes and striving for impeccability. While this can lead to high-quality outcomes, it often comes at the cost of speed and flexibility. Perfectionists may spend excessive time refining details, delaying project completion, and avoiding new challenges for fear of imperfection. This creates a paradox where the pursuit of perfection inhibits the innovation needed to achieve exceptional results.

Embracing a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset, as popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, is fundamental to overcoming the limitations of perfectionism. This mindset embraces the idea that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance. By shifting focus from innate talent to continuous improvement, individuals can reduce the fear of failure and view challenges as opportunities for growth.

Implementing Agile Methodologies

Agile methodologies, widely used in software development, offer a practical framework for balancing perfectionism and innovation. These approaches emphasize iterative progress, regular feedback, and adaptability. By breaking projects into smaller, manageable tasks and delivering incremental improvements, teams can maintain momentum, incorporate feedback early, and adjust course as needed. This reduces the pressure to deliver a perfect final product on the first attempt and fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Cultivating a Culture of Psychological Safety

Creating an environment where team members feel safe to take risks and make mistakes without fear of judgment is crucial for innovation. Psychological safety encourages open communication, idea sharing, and experimentation. Leaders can foster this culture by modeling vulnerability, celebrating learning from failures, and providing constructive feedback. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to take creative risks and propose novel solutions.

Setting Realistic Expectations and Prioritizing

Perfectionists often struggle with setting realistic expectations, leading to burnout and decreased productivity. It is essential to prioritize tasks based on their impact and feasibility. Using techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix, which categorizes tasks by urgency and importance, can help in focusing efforts on high-value activities. Additionally, establishing clear criteria for what constitutes “good enough” can prevent unnecessary refinement and allow for timely project completion.

Encouraging Collaboration and Diversity of Thought

Innovation thrives in environments where diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts are valued. Bringing together individuals with varied backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints can spark creative solutions and prevent tunnel vision. Encouraging cross-functional teamwork and open dialogue ensures that ideas are tested and refined from multiple angles, leading to more robust and innovative outcomes.

Conclusion

Navigating perfectionism while driving innovation is a delicate balance that requires intentional strategies and a supportive environment. By fostering a growth mindset, implementing agile practices, cultivating psychological safety, setting realistic expectations, and encouraging collaboration, individuals and organizations can harness the strengths of perfectionism without being constrained by its limitations. Embracing these approaches paves the way for continuous improvement, resilience, and breakthrough innovations.

By leveraging these insights and strategies, perfectionists can transform their pursuit of excellence into a catalyst for innovation, driving personal and organizational success.

References:

1. 1. 1. 1. Dweck, Carol S. “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.” Ballantine Books.
         2. Edmondson, Amy C. “The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth.” Wiley, 2018.
         3. Rigby, Darrell K., Jeff Sutherland, and Hirotaka Takeuchi. “Embracing Agile.” Harvard Business Review, May 2016.
         4. Eisenhower, Dwight D. “The Eisenhower Matrix.” Mind Tools.
         5. “Psychological Safety and Learning Behavior in Work Teams.” Administrative Science Quarterly, Vol. 44, No. 2 (1999)

 We would love to hear your comments or questions. Contact us today!

Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com

Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com

574.361.2674

Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.