Category: Exit Map

In the competitive landscape of talent acquisition, fostering a positive candidate experience is paramount. Not only does it contribute to attracting top-tier talent, but it also enhances your employer brand. To ensure a seamless and positive hiring journey for candidates, follow these key steps.

Clear and Transparent Communication: Open and honest communication is the foundation of a positive candidate experience. Clearly articulate the job requirements, responsibilities, and expectations from the outset. Provide a detailed job description and be transparent about the stages of the hiring process. This not only sets expectations but also demonstrates your commitment to transparency, building trust right from the start.

Streamlined Application Process: Lengthy and cumbersome application processes can deter qualified candidates. Simplify and streamline your application process by leveraging user-friendly interfaces and reducing the number of steps. Ensure that your online application platform is mobile-friendly, as many candidates prefer applying on the go.

Personalized Interaction: Treat candidates as individuals, not just potential hires. Personalize your interactions by addressing them by name and tailoring your communications to their specific skills and experiences. Incorporate personalized touches in emails, interview processes, and follow-ups. This demonstrates that you value each candidate and appreciate the unique strengths they bring.

Efficient Interview Process: Respect candidates’ time by optimizing the interview process. Schedule interviews efficiently, provide clear instructions, and communicate any necessary preparation. Use technology to conduct virtual interviews when appropriate, reducing the need for candidates to travel. Additionally, ensure timely feedback after interviews to keep candidates informed and engaged.

Feedback and Closure: Constructive feedback, whether positive or constructive, is invaluable for candidates. Provide timely and detailed feedback after interviews, helping candidates understand their strengths and areas for improvement. Even in cases where a candidate is not selected, maintain a positive and respectful tone, leaving the door open for potential future opportunities.

By incorporating these strategies into your hiring process, you can create a positive and memorable candidate experience. Remember, a well-crafted experience not only attracts top talent but also contributes to a positive employer brand, making your organization an employer of choice in the competitive job market.

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.

Why should Business Owners plan their “exits”?

Sooner or later, every owner leaves his or her business. Whether you anticipate selling the company to a third party, transitioning to employee ownership, or a family succession, every strategy results in your eventual exit. The complexities of tax law, combined with the expectations of buyers of any type, lend themselves to the careful structuring of a transfer.

The first step in a journey is to decide how you will get there. For that, you need a map. The map doesn’t tell you how to go. It quantifies your options. How long will it take? What roads should you use? If you take a side trip, how far out of your way must you go? Can you get there in the time you anticipated, or do you need to plan for contingencies? Clear Focus LLC utilizes ExitMap^® Express™ to help owners examine their options.

The ExitMap® helps clients understand their current level of preparedness so that they can begin the succession planning process.

To take the first step by reviewing the ExitMap^® Process and completing the Free Assessment here.

We would love to hear your comments. Please contact us today!

Have you taken a look at our new book? Check it out today! Click here to order on Amazon or to read more.

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 the ever-evolving landscape of business, CEOs face unprecedented challenges and opportunities in 2024. Staying ahead requires a strategic mindset and a willingness to adapt.

Here are five key strategies for CEO success this year:

1. Embrace Technological Innovation: In the digital age, CEOs must leverage technology to drive innovation and efficiency. Embrace emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data analytics to gain a competitive edge. A report by McKinsey highlights the transformative impact of technology on business operations ¹.

2. Prioritize Sustainability: Sustainability is no longer a trend but a business imperative. CEOs need to integrate sustainability into their corporate strategy.

The Harvard Business Review emphasizes the positive correlation between sustainability and financial performance ². Embracing eco-friendly practices not only aligns with societal expectations but also attracts environmentally conscious consumers.

3. Cultivate a Remote-Friendly Culture: The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the way we work. CEOs should foster a culture that supports remote and hybrid work models. A study by PwC reveals that 83% of employees want the option to work remotely at least one day a week ³. Providing flexibility enhances employee satisfaction and productivity.

4. Invest in Employee Well-being: The well-being of employees directly impacts organizational success. Prioritize mental health initiatives, offer wellness programs, and create a positive work environment. According to a Gallup report, companies with engaged employees outperform their peers by 147% in earnings per share ⁴.

5. Adopt Agile Leadership: The ability to adapt quickly is crucial in a rapidly changing business landscape. CEOs should embrace agile leadership principles, allowing for flexibility and responsiveness. The Forbes Business Council emphasizes the importance of agility in navigating uncertainties ⁴.

Success in 2024 requires CEOs to be forward-thinking, adaptable, and socially responsible. By embracing these strategies, leaders can position their organizations for sustained success in a dynamic business environment. t

Footnotes

1. 1. 1. McKinsey – “Unlocking Success in the Digital Age” ↩
      2. Harvard Business Review – “The Comprehensive Business Case for Sustainability” ↩
      3. PwC – “Remote Work: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity” ↩
      4. Gallup – “The Relationship Between Engagement at Work and Organizational Outcomes” ↩

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.

When it comes to hiring your next superstar, do you even know what GREAT POTENTIAL looks like? The fact is, you probably can’t glean that from a job candidate’s resume, current skill set, or probably even their past jobs.

While experience and hard skills are certainly important, there are far more powerful indicators of long-term employee success.

Find out what those characteristics are and how to recognize them by reading The Alternative Board President & CEO Jason Zickerman’s Entrepreneur article titled “5 Surprisingly Critical Employee Skill Sets in Demand for 2024″ by clicking the link below:

https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/5-invaluable-soft-skills-to-seek-in-your-next-hire/470695

#tabboards #businesscoaching #entrepreneur

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.

Your employees are the heart of your business. They work hard and keep everything moving forward. The problem is, that employees are also your biggest risk when it comes to data security and cyber safety.

Even with a strong cybersecurity posture in place, many businesses fail to recognize the cyber threat from within. For the most part, employees are not purposefully sabotaging their employer. Instead, lax protocols and insufficient training make workers the ideal target of cybercriminals. Just a click on a phishing email or an infected attachment by an unassuming or careless employee – and voila – your business’s data and entire network might find itself under siege. And that is a frightening scenario.

Experts estimate that approximately 25% of employees are unable to identify the tell-tale characteristics of a phishing email. This, combined with advances in artificial intelligence that allow hackers to appear more legit than ever, poses massive challenges to your business’s safety and security.

Your employees must understand some of the cyber dangers that lie in wait:

Third-Party Apps

Third-party applications are a common entry point for malware. A good example of this is the SolarWinds cyberattack a few years ago that spread like wildfire and affected more than 18,000 of its customers. Other big-name brands like Target and Volkswagen have had their data compromised by third-party hacks, usually due to inadequate security measures. App stores may also lack basic privacy protections, which may result in data being shared or stolen.

Be sure to properly vet all third-party apps before they are loaded to your systems and continue to install all suggested updates.

The Challenges of WFH

While the Work-from-home employment model can provide a business and its employees numerous benefits, it also increases cyber risks.

Some remote employees choose to work from libraries or coffee shops and thus connect to the internet via a public Wi-Fi network. This can pose a danger to your systems due to the network being unsecured and accessible to strangers.

If your employees are working remotely, make sure your security policies match the risk they pose. This might include specifying firewall protection, limiting locations, and other necessary measures.

Strong Password Policy

It might be surprising, but the number one defense against hacks and malware is the implementation of a strong password policy. Require that your employees use unique passwords and that they change them regularly. Forbid any sharing of passwords (except perhaps with your IT department) and consider third-party authentication applications.

Just Say No to Social Media at Work

It might seem like a no-brainer, but you would likely be shocked by how many employees access their social media accounts on company computers. And make no mistake, this should be a big no-no. Besides the fact that hopping on their social accounts likely serves no legitimate business purpose, social media sites like Facebook can be rife with data miners actively seeking to prey upon unsuspecting users. While most of these bad actors are targeting personal data, they may also seek work-related information.

Forbid your employees from accessing social media at work and educate them on potential red flags, like seemingly innocent posts that ask them their grandmother’s first name or the street that they grew up on.

Security Awareness Training Is a Must

Even with all the information and cautionary news stories, many employees are unaware of the cyber risks they pose to your business.

Consider Security Awareness Training (SAT) as a key component of your cybersecurity strategy. SAT generally includes courses on phishing awareness, password protection, best practices, and other key cybersecurity topics. There are several capable and cost-effective SAT providers to choose from.

Remember, small businesses are a hacker’s favorite target. So, regardless of your company size, ensure your employees understand the multitude of cyber risks and how their actions can help or hinder the security of your company and its data.

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.

There is an abundance of leadership traps for managers in the corporate world. Whether it’s self-doubt, overconfidence, risk mitigation, or a failure to maintain a competitive edge – there’s the potential to fall into various traps every day. Here’s how to avoid it.

Effective management involves avoiding various leadership and organizational traps. Businesses run the risk of losing CEOs at a steep cost of replacement over time if they don’t avoid various leadership traps. Management should remain proactive and continually strive to place their corporation in a position of attainable and sustainable growth over time by developing a healthy workplace culture.

Here are 5 leadership traps that you should manage to avoid disruption in your workplace. This is especially true when times are good as complacency can become incredibly dangerous in successful C-suite operations.

Trap #1: Ignoring Potential Problems (or Missing them Entirely) – Most leaders agree that much of their day involves solving, listening to, or discovering problems. Incredibly effective leaders alleviate tension at all points of the business lifecycle. While staff should be trained and capable of dealing with problems – leaders should remain diligent in addressing potential problems.

C-suite executives should approach problems from a solution and delegation standpoint. All problems can be a training opportunity for staff to learn new skills and capabilities.

Ignoring threats or problems on the horizon can lead to larger problems down the road and cause more costly mistakes over time. Taking an optimistic approach to this leadership trap may also result in innovative solutions that push your corporation forward.

Trap #2: Hyper-focusing To your Detriment – Leaders can often become hyper-focused on their passion projects. Whether it’s an event that you’re excited about a problem you can easily foresee a solution to, or any other myriad of tasks that you prefer – this trap is an easy one to fall into. Unfortunately, as a leader, your days of being able to hyperfocus on projects that you are passionate about may be mostly in the past. Part of managing staff means taking an oversight role and delegating things effectively. This is the only way to free up your time for the roles and responsibilities that are part of you being a manager.

Trap #3: Only Hiring Like-Minded Individuals – It can be easier to be most attracted to hiring people like you. Employees who have the same opinions, perspectives, backgrounds, opportunities, and skills may be easier to relate to than an employee who has nothing in common with you. However, a diverse workforce has a stronger base of employee types. As an effective leader, you want people in your C-suite and beyond who complement your skill set (not mirror it).

To prevent bias in hiring, try to be self-aware of your core strengths and weaknesses. This can help you in your decision-making as you hire employees to fortify your company’s workforce. Consistently challenge yourself and ask “What do I like most about this potential employee and why?”.

Trap #4: Anchoring Worth on Efficiency (and Efficiency Alone) – Efficiency is certainly an incredibly effective way to increase growth at a company. However, many leaders get caught up in the endless pursuit of efficiency (often sacrificing effectiveness in its place). KPIs, goals, and target metrics all have their place – but leaders must remain comprehensive in scope to measure workplace productivity and quality over time.

Trap #5: Accidentally Encouraging Complacency – Don’t fall into this trap (especially when the going is good). It can be all too easy to accidentally tolerate or even encourage complacency in the workplace. This may lead to a loss of focus, passion, or intensity over time. If a leader is withdrawing from the workplace then employees will often take their cues from that manager and model that behavior.

As a leader, it’s important to set the tone over time for your department. You’ll notice less turnover and more high-performers flourishing over time if you’re able to strike the right balance here without becoming complacent. Don’t take this advice as an opportunity to veer too far in the other direction though and catch your employees off-guard with an incredibly intense mindset. Find a balance and work within it!

Have you fallen into any of these traps? As a C-suite executive, manager, or business owner – have you fallen into any of these classic leadership traps? Don’t beat yourself up if you have. Each leadership trap can also be a learning lesson if you’re able to right the ship without too much damage done.

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.

In the realm of effective execution, organizations are recognizing the pivotal role played by the triad of Mission, Vision, and Purpose. This strategic combination not only sets the tone for an organization’s trajectory but also acts as a compass guiding the path to success. In this article, we delve into the significance of Mission, Vision, and Purpose, drawing insights from reputable sources and incorporating pertinent statistics to underscore their impact on effective execution.

Crafting a Clear Mission Statement: A mission statement encapsulates the core purpose of an organization, answering the fundamental question of why it exists. According to a survey conducted by Deloitte, organizations with a clearly defined mission statement are 30% more likely to achieve their financial targets. This statistic underscores the practical significance of a well-crafted mission in steering an organization toward success.

Leadership must meticulously articulate a mission statement that reflects the organization’s values and goals. A clear mission not only provides a sense of direction for employees but also serves as a rallying point for stakeholders, fostering a shared understanding of the organization’s purpose.

Vision as the North Star: A compelling vision goes beyond setting goals; it paints a vivid picture of the desired future state. A study by Harvard Business Review revealed that organizations with a shared vision are 2.5 times more likely to achieve above-average business performance. This statistic highlights the transformative power of a unifying vision in driving success.

Leaders should ensure that their vision is not only inspirational but also practical and achievable. By providing a clear destination, a well-defined vision motivates teams and aligns their efforts toward a common objective, ultimately contributing to effective execution.

Purpose-Driven Culture: Purpose is the heartbeat of an organization, influencing its culture and operations. According to a report by PwC, 79% of business leaders believe that purpose is central to an organization’s success. This statistic underscores the growing recognition of purpose as a driving force behind effective execution.

Leadership must foster a purpose-driven culture that permeates every facet of the organization. By aligning individual and collective efforts with a shared purpose, teams become more engaged, resilient, and innovative – essential qualities for navigating the complexities of modern business.

Conclusion: In the journey from vision to victory, the triad of Mission, Vision, and Purpose emerges as a strategic compass. Backed by statistics emphasizing the tangible benefits of a well-defined mission, an inspiring vision, and a purpose-driven culture, organizations can elevate their execution capabilities. As leaders refine their focus on these critical elements, they pave the way for not just success but sustained excellence in today’s dynamic business landscape

#tabboards #businesscoaching #leadershipdevelopment

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.

The business of doing business has changed dramatically over the last couple of years, and we all mostly know the reasons why. The pandemic, the economy, boom in technology, there are just so many factors that have shaped current business dynamics and altered forever the way we run and grow our companies. At least that is the case for most of us.

But what about those business owners who are mired down by the aging business norms of the twenty-tens or even the 90’s? Their reluctance or inability to embrace and leverage modern tools and technology can put them at a harsh disadvantage moving forward.

If you are a business owner, it is time to do a little soul-searching. Ask yourself, is your success today being stymied by your conformity and commitment to aging business practices? If your answer is yes, then it is time to read “Unlearning Conformity: How to Overhaul Old Business Paradigms” at The Alternative Board (TAB).

https://www.thealternativeboard.com/blog/unlearning-conformity-how-to-overhaul-old-business-paradigms

#tabboards #businesscoaching #leadershipdevelopment

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.

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, achieving consistent success is a complex challenge. However, what if organizations possessed a roadmap to guide them through the intricacies of strategic leadership, enabling them to navigate toward high-level success? This article delves into the critical components of strategic leadership, exploring behaviors that drive success within companies. Drawing from various perspectives and backed by relevant statistics, we uncover the essence of strategic leadership and its impact on organizational prosperity.

The Foundation of Strategic Leadership

Strategic leadership is not merely about creating a vision or setting long-term goals; it involves a comprehensive approach that aligns the organization’s internal dynamics with its external environment.

According to the insights shared on the TTISI Blog, bottom-up thinking is a crucial aspect of strategic leadership. It emphasizes the importance of involving employees at all levels in the strategy-making process, fostering alignment and commitment.

Leadership as a Key Driver

Effective leadership is the linchpin of strategic success. A good leader emphasizes the pivotal role of leadership in strategic initiatives. Leaders who embrace strategic thinking contribute to the development of robust business strategies and guide their teams toward successful execution. By fostering a culture that values strategic planning and embraces change, leaders lay the groundwork for sustained success.

Understanding Team Dynamics

Strategic leadership is not a solo endeavor; it thrives on collaborative efforts. The TTISI Blog sheds light on the importance of effective communication skills. Leaders who understand and leverage diverse communication styles within their teams can enhance collaboration and problem-solving, essential components of strategic success.

Assessments and Talent Management

Strategic leadership involves assessing both individual and collective strengths and weaknesses. Utilizing assessments is a valuable practice in talent management, aiding in the identification of key skills and areas for improvement. According to Verus Partners, a strategic approach to talent management ensures that the right people are in the right roles, enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.

Cultivating a Positive Workplace Culture

Workplace culture plays a pivotal role in the success of any organization. A positive and inclusive culture fosters employee engagement, innovation, and resilience in the face of challenges. Strategic leaders recognize the significance of cultivating a healthy workplace culture that aligns with the organization’s values and goals.

Conclusion

In the dynamic realm of business, strategic leadership emerges as a guiding force, steering organizations toward sustained success. By incorporating bottom-up thinking, embracing strategic leadership principles, understanding team dynamics, utilizing assessments, and fostering a positive workplace culture, leaders can create a roadmap to navigate the complexities of today’s business environment.

Sources:

1. TTISI Blog – Bottom-Up Thinking Through Messy Strategy: Creating Alignment Within Organizations

2. Leaders.com – Strategic Leadership

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.

TAB Member Case Study – Frank Beljo, ITM Global Services

Frank Beljo was a student of business long before he was ever even a student in college. The fact is, Frank is a life-long learner who had dreams of entrepreneurship from an exceptionally early age. Fresh out of college, after earning his degree in computer science, he made those dreams come true.

“In all my reading, one of the biggest things I learned was to find a mentor. I tried a few referral business groups and Chamber of Commerce type stuff. But those never really worked out well.”

Then he joined a TAB Board.

“TAB was never really about giving or getting referrals, but it just happened naturally because I am surrounded by a lot of great people.”

Learn more about Frank, his business, and his TAB Board experience in this Member Case Study from The Alternative Board (TAB).

https://285855.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/285855/Frank%20Beljo%20-%20Case%20Study.pdf

#tabboards #businesscoaching #peeradvisoryboards

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.