Category: Assessments

A TAB® franchise offers successful business leaders a real sense of financial freedom, personal satisfaction, and flexibility. Minimal operational investment, significant training, and ongoing support make owning and maintaining a TAB franchise simple.

TAB’s Most Sought-After Benefits Include:

• • • Multiple revenue streams
    • Flexibility to achieve a work-life balance
    • Flexibility to design small, medium, or large territories to fit your vision for your market.
    • Proven equity-building business

Combining that with a substantial cash flow, rapid ROI, and a subscription-based model that boasts over 5-year client retention, makes now the best time to invest in a TAB franchise opportunity.

For territory checks or to learn more about TAB, please email us at: tabfran@thealternativeboard.com or visit our website: www.tabfranchise.com

#Tabboards #BenefitsOfTAB #FranchiseOpportunities #FinancialFreedom #WorkLifeBalance

We would love to hear your comments. 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.

Unlock the power of your expertise with a TAB franchise and turn years of experience into a lucrative opportunity.

At TAB, we empower experienced individuals like YOU to turn their expertise into a thriving business.

Own a TAB Franchise and:

• • • Monetize your leadership skills by guiding CEOs & entrepreneurs.
    • Shape the future of businesses in your community.
    • Build a flexible, rewarding career you can be proud of.
    • Benefit from a proven business model with ongoing support.

Embrace the next chapter of your career, don’t just have experience, share it! Become a TAB franchise owner today.

#TABboards #TABfranchise #BusinessLeaders #MonetizeExpertise #EntrepreneurialSuccess

 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.

To entice the most skilled employees, you need to stay on the cutting edge of workplace trends. We’ll discuss some ways the workplace is changing and what you can do about it. You can make your workplace more job-seeker-friendly and increase workplace productivity.

What Does an Agile Workplace Look Like?

More and more employees are seeking a flexible work environment. They want to be able to work on the go, from where they’re at. Workplace agility provides the tools necessary to accomplish this.

Give your employees the tools they need to continue to be productive and efficient from wherever they’re at. Workplace agility is supported by technology that can create this flexibility for your employees. We’ll discuss some of these vital tools in depth later on.

Why Is It Important?

Today, there are more jobs than there are qualified people to fill them. This means you need to be attractive to potential employees. According to several studies, current job seekers care more about flexibility and options in the workplace than they do salary.

They need a space that allows them to work on their own time. Some work best on their own. Some thrive in a space that allows them to collaborate with others. And yet, even others excel when they’re able to work in their environment at home. Agility creates space and the tools to integrate all of these needs into the workplace and increases overall productivity.

How to Create an Agile Workplace

This isn’t something you just plunge into without any planning. You’ll need to have a strategy, implement that strategy, and then quickly adapt to what’s working. You’ll need to track employee engagement to see how active they are on different tools such as the cloud and apps.

Create a space that has a common area for employees to come together to collaborate, but still has private offices for those who need time to work on their own. Most suggest starting with a cloud-based office suite to aid in collaboration as your employees work together in person and from the comfort of their own homes.

Technology Tools for an Agile Workplace

Virtual reality and augmented reality are several great tools that allow your employees to attend meetings or test products from wherever they are. SaaS platforms and the cloud are vital tools for remote work. These tools allow your team to collaborate via the Internet.

With the desire to work remotely comes the need for a “work as you need to” model. As long as employers are getting their work done, then employers aren’t concerned with the hours they logged doing the work. This is also a great model that allows employees to come together to brainstorm and then separate to fulfill their duties on their own.

We would love to hear your comments. 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.

Are you entrepreneurial-minded but desire a supportive framework for your venture? Feeling stuck in your career? Stop dreaming and start leading with a TAB franchise. We’re not just another peer advisory franchise opportunity. We’re a proven business model with over 30,000 success stories, backed by a powerful community of like-minded leaders.

As a TAB franchisee, you’ll:

• • • Guide CEOs and business owners to achieve their goals through advisory board meetings, coaching, and mentorship.
    • Build a thriving business with comprehensive training and support.
    • Join a network of passionate leaders who share your values.

At TAB, we seek dedicated individuals who are eager to leverage their leadership expertise, and who are ready to venture into entrepreneurship as a dedicated TAB franchisee.

Stop settling for the ordinary. Seize this extraordinary opportunity. Contact TABfran@thealternativeboard.com or visit http://tabfranchise.com to learn more and seize this opportunity today.

#TABboards #franchiseopportunities #entrepreneur #businessservices

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.

Are you entrepreneurial-minded but desire a supportive framework for your venture? Feeling stuck in your career? Stop dreaming and start leading with a TAB franchise! We’re not just another peer advisory franchise opportunity. We’re a proven business model with over 30,000 success stories, backed by a powerful community of like-minded leaders.

As a TAB franchisee, you’ll:

• • • Guide CEOs and business owners to achieve their goals through advisory board meetings, coaching and mentorship.
    • Build a thriving business with comprehensive training and support.
    • Join a network of passionate leaders who share your values.

At TAB, we seek dedicated individuals who are eager to leverage their leadership expertise, and who are ready to venture into entrepreneurship as a dedicated TAB franchisee.

Stop settling for the ordinary. Seize this extraordinary opportunity. Contact TABfran@thealternativeboard.com or visit http://tabfranchise.com to learn more and seize this opportunity today.

#TABboards #franchiseopportunities #entrepreneur #businessservices

We would love to hear your comments. 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.

Why are some people motivated, focused, and successful, while others seem to get distracted, and have little to no motivation to get things done? Is it due to their upbringing? Maybe something about their personality?

Believe it or not, science has made a discovery as to why some are motivated while others aren’t.

Here’s what studies have shown:

Motivation Is All In Your Head

Everyone talks about having the right mindset to get things done in life. To be truly successful, it starts with self-talk and what’s in your head. Well, it turns out that part of that is true. Motivation really is all in your head.

Studies have shown that motivation comes from the nucleus accumbens which is a small section in the brain that sends chemical messages to your body. This is the area of your brain that keeps you focused.

Dopamine Is the Key Ingredient to Motivation

Dopamine is one of the 4 happiness hormones, listed among serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin. When this chemical is released into the body, it passes information from neuron to neuron. As it moves around in your brain, it comes in contact with other receptors.

The way dopamine plays a role in motivation has to do with the mesolimbic pathway it takes in the brain to communicate. This pathway lies in the middle of your brain and leads to the cerebral cortex. When dopamine goes through this pathway, it provides your brain with the ultimate reward.

Dopamine Encourages Us to Act So We Can Reach The Reward

The main job of this chemical is to get you to move on with your thoughts. While it is present when we are happy, it also helps us through pain, loss, or stressful situations. Its job is to get us to do something while avoiding bad things.

Motivated People Have More Of This Chemical

Scientists at Vanderbilt conducted a study between those who were highly motivated and those who were considered lazy. They found that the more motivated group had higher levels of dopamine in their system.

Ways to Increase Dopamine

Since you know that this chemical is responsible for more motivation, there are things you can do to increase this in your body. Here are a few things you should implement in your life:

• • • Focus on one task at a time to keep from depleting your brain’s energy
    • Be an endgame thinker
    • Eat foods high in L-tyrosine which include vegetables, avocados, bananas, green tea, and apples to name a few
    • Tell others what you’ve accomplished
    • Lend a helping hand to others
    • Take note of the things you have accomplished

These are a few things you should add to your daily routine so that you increase the dopamine in your system. The greater this chemical, the more motivated you will be to get things done.

We would love to hear your comments. 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 get caught up in the day-to-day business, feeling like you’re wading through numbers and spreadsheets, it’s easy to lose sight of the “why.” It’s not surprising that those who work with meaning behind it are more productive and more satisfied. We’re going to help you learn how you can focus more on your “why.”

Find Relatable Meaning

When you find a purpose that drives others as well, you’re more likely to attract others to you who bring support and enhance your efforts. It also helps you find purpose when you see that you’re working towards a similar cause. It makes you feel like you’re part of something much bigger.

Find Meaning in Your Services or Products

If you’re having trouble finding purpose, then you can look at what you provide. Some business leaders provide a service that fills a need. Others create products that help others. Whatever it is, think about how it affects others.

Does it fill a need or help others? This is the driving force of many small business owners. They see a need and want to fill it.

Find a Way to Make an Impact

If you’re having a hard time finding meaning in what you provide, there are other ways your company can make a social impact. Many leaders give their companies meaning and make them more relatable by donating to charitable organizations

Another great option is donating your time. This is something that will also help your employees feel purpose as they can come together to donate their time to the community.

Use Your “Why” to Get You Through Menial Tasks

When you have found your “why” use it as motivation to get you through the mundane parts of your day. If all these small, menial tasks all work together to help someone out, then knowing that will energize you to get through. You can also help encourage your employees and increase productivity by helping them see what part of the “why” they play.

There Will Still Be Hard Days

Even though you have found your purpose and you feel energized and motivated, there will be days when that won’t be enough. Or, days when your drive just won’t be there. You can find encouragement in the fact that the next day is a new day and the drive will be there.

We would love to hear your comments. 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 business owners, nearly every aspect of running and growing our organizations is dependent upon building strong relationships. We create a team, we work with suppliers, and we develop our customer base. We nurture those connections that are meaningful impactful and hopefully healthy. Ideally, we also foster a culture in which others are inclined to connect and collaborate as well. And while the term may sometimes feel like a catchphrase or buzzword, a connection is an extraordinarily powerful motivator for your business, your team, and everyone you touch.

As we hustle through our daily lives and perpetual journeys as active business owners, it is easy to become shortsighted on the value of connection. It is also common, particularly when stressed over time or workload, that we isolate ourselves under the pretense that we are too busy to interact in a meaningful way with the people around us. Entrepreneur isolation is a very real, very harmful dynamic. In a study by Julie Deane, CEO of Cambridge Satchel Company, she reported that business owners claim isolation is one of the biggest challenges they face, with nearly 30 percent responding it was either “a big problem” or “something of a problem.”

The case for connection is irrefutable. Fostering authentic connections with customers, employees, and other key stakeholders unleashes some pretty wonderful, intangible business assets like trust, loyalty, collaboration, productivity, and innovation.

Connection to Customers

By nurturing meaningful relationships with customers, business owners can increase brand loyalty, which reaps so many rewards including increased revenue, decreased advertising costs, and better word-of-mouth marketing, to name a few.

There are actions you can take to improve your connection with your customers. Work on your active listening skills and be as transparent as possible when communicating with them, whether it be in person, by phone, or in marketing pieces. Ask your customers their opinions and preferences on your goods and services. Be accessible and visible them as many as possible.

Connection to Suppliers

With the continued challenges in the supply chain, it is in your best interest as a business owner to build a strong, diverse network of vendors. But just because you have purchasing options, doesn’t mean you don’t need to nurture those relationships. Be open with your suppliers regarding the unique needs of your business. Treat your suppliers with fairness and respect. And while cost per unit is always important, look beyond pricing when it comes to the value of your vendors. It is hard to put a dollar amount on a supplier who is attentive and engaged, and who you know is looking out for your best interests.

Connection Within the Team:

Fostering a culture of connection and collaboration can be a huge game-changer. Don’t just assume that because everyone on your team seems to get along your job as Chief Connection Officer is done. Consider implementing mentorship and leadership programs. Reward interdepartmental cooperation and employee collaboration. Build an environment in which your team feels validated, ideas are freely exchanged, and goals are collectively pursued.

Owner-to-Owner Connection

 As the leader of your business, perhaps the most important and impactful relationships are those with other business leaders who can offer you support, guidance, and insights derived from their own experiences. Whether you’re facing challenges or seeking opportunities for growth, a group of your peers challenges you and emboldens you to do better and be better. These mastermind groups, also known as peer advisory boards, are invaluable for business owners in numerous ways. Peer board members support and elevate you by:

• • • • Speaking honestly and openly in a confidential environment.
      • Asking tough questions and challenging you to stay accountable.
      • Pushing you to act on things you might normally put off.
      • Encouraging you to outperform your goals.
      • Offering diverse perspectives that you won’t get anywhere else.
      • Connecting you with valuable resources.

Peer advisory boards offer a powerful platform for business owners to connect, collaborate, and grow, collectively enhancing the success and fulfillment of each of its members.

Remember, connection is the lifeblood of business success. As the leader of your organization, fostering a connection with your customers, team, suppliers, and fellow business owners doesn’t just feel good, it also propels you to greatness.

TAB Advisory Boards offer business owners a local, close-knit group of experienced peers from a range of non-competing industries. Together, you’ll share knowledge, expertise, and accountability — exactly the insight, feedback, and inspiration you need to take your business to the next level.

#tabboards #businesscoaching #accountability

We would love to hear your comments. 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.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful leadership. Leaders who can convey their ideas clearly and inspire their teams are more likely to achieve their goals. However, certain phrases commonly used by leaders can hinder communication and create barriers between them and their teams. In this article, we will explore why leaders need to stop using these phrases if they want to communicate effectively with their teams and provide alternative solutions for better connections.

“Because I said so”

Using this phrase dismisses the need for explanation or understanding, creating a hierarchical communication style that can lead to resentment and disengagement. Team members appreciate transparency and want to comprehend the reasoning behind decisions.

Solution: Instead of relying on authority alone, leaders should offer context and rationale for their decisions. This fosters an environment of trust and encourages team members to align their efforts with organizational goals.

“It’s not my fault”

Refusing accountability can erode trust and damage the leader-team relationship. Leaders must take responsibility for their actions and decisions, even when faced with challenges or mistakes.

Solution: Embrace accountability by acknowledging mistakes and openly discussing solutions. This demonstrates humility and sets a positive example for the team, fostering a culture of shared responsibility.

“This is how we’ve always done it”

Resisting change and clinging to outdated methods can stifle innovation and hinder progress. Effective leaders recognize the need for adaptation in today’s dynamic work environment.

Solution: Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by fostering an open dialogue about new ideas. Acknowledge that change is inevitable and that exploring innovative approaches can lead to enhanced efficiency and effectiveness.

“I’m too busy”

Leaders who constantly convey busyness may appear unapproachable, discouraging open communication. Team members need to feel comfortable approaching their leaders with concerns or ideas.

Solution: Prioritize communication and make time for team members. Demonstrating accessibility and a willingness to listen fosters a collaborative environment, where team members feel valued and heard.

“This is easy”

Downplaying the challenges of a task can diminish the efforts of the team and create unrealistic expectations. It may also discourage team members from seeking help when needed.

Solution: Acknowledge the complexity of tasks and challenges while expressing confidence in the team’s ability to overcome them. This approach instills a sense of realism and encourages collaboration to address difficulties collectively.

Conclusion – Leaders play a pivotal role in shaping organizational culture and fostering effective communication. By avoiding these common phrases and embracing alternative solutions, leaders can build stronger connections with their teams, enhance trust, and create an environment conducive to collaboration and success.

Sources:

1. 1. Daskal, L. (2017). “Why Leaders Shouldn’t Be Afraid of Accountability.” Inc.
   2. Robertson, K. (2019). “5 Phrases Leaders Should Never Use.” Forbes.
   3. Watkins, M. (2020). “The 5 Most Destructive Things Leaders Say.” Harvard Business Review.

We would love to hear your comments. Please 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.

Did you know that ACCOUNTABILITY is one of the top drivers of BUSINESS SUCCESS? But what does that entail? For many, that means having an Accountability Partner – someone with whom you can share your goals and challenges, and who will provide motivation and support in return.

Accountability partners also help instill a sense of responsibility; after all, “reporting” to someone helps you maintain transparency and deliver results how and when you say you will.

Do you have an accountability partner in your role as a business leader? If not, is there someone in your organization who you trust to hold you accountable?

To learn more about the importance of having an accountability partner (for yourself and your entire team) read “Business Success: Why Having an Accountability Partner Is Key” at The Alternative Board (TAB) using the link below:

https://www.thealternativeboard.com/blog/why-having-an-accountability-partner-is-key

#tabboards #businesscoaching #accountability

We would love to hear your comments. Please 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.