Tag: Soft Skills

How To Be a Successful Remote Worker

The pandemic has changed the way many businesses functioned. Remote work was a completely new concept to many companies. Some had to navigate into it blindly, while others had a little bit of experience. It was still a new environment and way of working for many people, which initially made it a little stressful. This article will discuss some of the efforts you can put in place to be a successful remote worker.

Time Management

Managing your time wisely is one of the most significant factors in success in a work-from-home job. It is so easy to get distracted by the chores and other happenings of your home. No one is there as a supervisor to make sure you are working. It is up to you to manage your time wisely to get all of your work done.

Time management can be different for everyone. If your work allows it, you can set your working times as it is convenient for you.

Set strict hours of when you will be working and make it uninterrupted. If you have set hours from your work, stick to it. Don’t get caught up in chores, entertainment, and other household distractions.

Manage Stress Levels

When you get stressed and overwhelmed, it can be hard to complete your tasks. It becomes hard to focus, accomplish, and follow through with tasks that you have. Implementing healthy habits to help manage your stress levels can help to avoid this from happening.

A job that has you working remotely is bound to make you feel stressed at some point. You are alone at work, working through tasks without face-to-face interactions, and it can get the best of you at times. Take the necessary steps to help you stay stress-free. Talk with a therapist, do yoga, exercise, breathing techniques, or whatever helps you manage your state of mind.

Communication Is Vital

Technology allows you to stay connected with your fellow work employees at all times. You can have face-to-face meetings for work with facetime, zoom, skype, and other video platforms. This can help break up the loneliness a little bit.

Even though it is not the same as being physically in front of the person, regularly communicating with your work is a vital part of working a remote job. This is even a great way to communicate with customers if your job calls for it.

How has your business life changed due to the pandemic? We would love to hear your comments.

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.

How the Pandemic is Shaping Employee Experience

The workplace throughout the pandemic has experienced various changes that have left many employees uncertain of the future. McKinsey research shows that hybrid work-from-home and return to the office situations have established a divide between employees and employers.

Mckinsey surveyed almost 1,000 workers to study their viewpoints on how the pandemic has changed their work environment. Many employees shared similar opinions regarding a desire for trust, community, and a united purpose. Every employee wants to feel valued and set up for success. Many companies have endured higher than normal turnover rates, and organizations can curve this trend by offering an excellent employee experience by listening to the desires of their employees. Most companies operate based on what is best for the company, not what is best for the employee. Reshaping these fundamentals to consider the employee will help establish higher levels of employee satisfaction, productivity, and performance.

How Employee Experience Shape New Possibilities

The pandemic has changed the game regarding traditional workplaces and has made many aware of the growing need for digital dexterity. As the future to a new digital age unfolds, people need to accommodate and adapt quickly to prevent a skills gap of challenges. More jobs are becoming fluid, and the pandemic enhances the need for a more authentic employee experience. Contrary to popular belief, employees do not value money the most at the workplace. Rather, employees want to feel like they matter, that they belong, and that their work is valued. Prioritizing employee experiences will help you develop your team, decrease turnover rate, and improve employee satisfaction.

A Systematic Take On The Employee Experience

Seeing things from your employee’s perspective is a helpful place to start. At one point, many companies were encouraged to see things from their customer’s point of view and this is very similar. To transform your employee’s experience you may consider the following things:

• Commit to understanding current employee issues and ways in which they want to grow and develop their talents. As well as consider the emotional context of life and work.
• Using digital tools that make work easier to allow employees to focus on more creative and engaging assignments.
• Work hand and hand with employees to gain insight into personas and employee journeys. Companies can create “moments that matter” to recognize and highlight employees for all their hard work. These significant moments can shape an employees outlook on their job greatly.
• Implement a system that allows the organization to scale employee experience. Leadership partnering with Human Resources to change the way the company operates

Now is the time to make changes to traditional company models. Focusing on building great employees will help you build a better company that withstands the test of time. Employee experience uses key moments in an employee’s journey and surrounds them with positivity, encouragement, and gratitude. These experiences motivate performance growth and create long-lasting employees who are committed. By seizing this opportunity you pour into happy employees you in turn create satisfied customers and happy shareholders.

Please share with your colleagues & staff.

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.

5 Ways To Use Emotional Intelligence To Become a Better Leader

We live in a world where effective leadership is seen as a really important aspect especially in businesses. And leaders need to show dedication and improvement in performances over time so that they can stand out from the rest and lead by example. There is some orthodoxy when it comes to leadership because it is often associated with managing people and making the right decision at the right time, but there is one focal aspect that is often undermined when it comes to leadership. And that is emotional intelligence.

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and understand emotions in yourself and others and then act accordingly to make decisions and manage things. It has been seen that in the workplace emotional intelligence is of more importance than IQ when it comes to the efficiency of employees and leaders.

High EI leads to strong leadership

A leader with high emotional intelligence stands out by leading by example and acting rationally. Leaders with High EI use the authoritative approach which is best suited because the leader acts as a role model rather than just dictating and that is where the difference lies between the authoritative approach and the authoritarian one. The authoritative approach is highly effective when it comes to households and parenting as well.

EI is contagious

When one person of a team exhibits high EI, then the EI of that team member spreads to other members as well. And just like that EI travels like a wave of positivity spreads throughout the team. And when the leader of the team exhibits high EI, then it spreads from top to bottom throughout the team.

High EI makes people active listeners

Active listening is an important aspect of communication, especially when it comes to organizations where employees go to their leaders to share ideas and converse. An authoritarian leader mostly would not listen to the employees and in cases where they listen, they will always override the suggestions of employees and implement their idea. On the contrary, authoritative leader exhibits high EI, so they actively listen to their employees and try to understand their situation, ideas, and grievances. The empathy of the leader not only puts them in a great position to make a great decision but also makes them a strong favorite in the team.

High EI is directly related to team engagement

A high EI leader knows how to handle all types of situations and even in situations of panic and crises, they make cool decisions and adapt to situations. Such that no matter what the situation is, the team will adapt and remain engaged.

The creation of a positive feedback loop

A high EI leader is an active listener, has social awareness, and knows how to manage relationships. These qualities are essential and play a key role because it is pivotal that a leader creates an environment of a positive feedback loop so that not only they can improve their leadership skills, but the organization will work smoothly and efficiently as well. EI is key in transformational leadership.

Please share with your colleagues & staff.

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.

Dial It Back When You’re Burnt Out On Work

Our society does not set us up for understanding when to dial back to prevent burnout. We almost feel encouraged to give it all we have until we have no more to give. The flip side to being a hard worker is to know when to rest and take it easy so you always have enough to get the job done. Most people are aware of the health risks associated with burnout but continue anyhow.

There are many voices telling us to seek success at all cost but what is most important is the voice we will listen to.

Here are some ways to help you dial back when you are feeling burnt out at work:

Setting Healthy Work Boundaries

Setting healthy work boundaries is easier said than done. Most people work longer hours just to get out those last couple of emails before they arrive 20 minutes late to their daughter’s ballet recital.

Every opportunity is a chance to carry out your healthy work boundaries.

Addressing the Root Fear

When you are challenged on your boundaries, ask yourself, “What will happen if I just don’t?” You continue asking this same question until you get to the root of the fear of repercussion if you fail to do all these things. Once you have reached that point, then ask yourself if it is realistic. Acknowledging the fear allows you to determine if the fear is irrational.

Have Someone Keep You Accountable

By sharing your hopes in setting new boundaries with another person, they can help keep you accountable to your goals. This helps you stay dedicated and focus on these goals when you have someone in your corner believing you can do it.

Devote Yourself to Achieving Your Goal

When accomplishing our goals, many of us are too realistic for our own good. We weigh the odds and allow the negative to get in the way. Instead of feeling defeated, devote yourself to achieving your goal.

Devote yourself to the things at work that create the biggest achievements. Giving the most time and energy to these areas will allow you to dial back on areas that are not productive. You can leave work knowing you gave your best, which will help you make an easier transition daily to home life.

Consider the Future

What will your future self say if you fast forward a year, 10 years, 20 years from now? This allows you to see what you really should devote your time to in the grand scheme of things. Time is the one thing money can’t buy and none of us can get back. This exercise helps you to see beyond Monday meetings, deadlines, and stressful work situations.

Giving your body and mind the rest and recovery it needs helps you manage your stress and not feel overloaded. Mental health is crucial, and it’s high time we begin to prioritize it in the workplace.

We would love to hear your comments on this article or any of our latest articles.

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.

Working Skills Needed For The Future

No matter how much you plan for the future, it is still an unknown. You never know exactly what will happen; you can assume and make plans for what you think might happen. When preparing your business and workers for what is to come, you must base it on a hypothesis.

Are You Prepared For The Future?

The last thing you want to do is be unprepared for the future. When you do not have a plan in place, you cannot expect things to play out very well. Especially, when it comes to workers. Times have changed, and so has the work ethic and abilities of future workers.

Many companies have turned to technology for replacing many employed jobs. For example, self-check-out lanes at stores and movie rental boxes instead of stores. In bigger companies, there are machines and conveyer belts that to the manual work.

What Skills Will Be The Most Beneficial For the Future?

Where do you begin in training your workers for the upcoming years? With the unknown at stake, you may be confused about what skills your workers need to obtain. The best way to prepare your current workers for what is to come is to strengthen their foundational skills.

For Example:

• Have The Abilities That It Takes To Work and Thrive In A Digital Environment
• Be A Valuable Asset To Your Company By Adding Additional Value That Exceeds The Automated Systems
• Be Teachable and Adaptable To Changes That Are Being Made

There are many different categories that these skills can fall under. Cognitive skills, self-leadership skills, and interpersonal skills are all valuable to the jobs of the future. Foundational skills can carry you through the many changes that are ahead.

Change Is Difficult

Not everyone is open and willing to take on changes. It is a complex concept for many people to wrap their heads around. If you are not available to changes being made in your business, then your business may find someone who is. You want to accept changes being made and do your best to learn new techniques.

This way, you will be valuable to the company as the future creates more and more changes in the business world. Everyone has gotten a taste of these changes with the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Many companies who never thought they would go virtual have, and some have remained virtual as things open back up.

We would love to hear your comments on this article or any of our latest articles.

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.

No Negative You

When you think about it, it’s obvious: negative is the opposite of positive, so in order to instill a positive mindset you need to get rid of negative thoughts. Sounds simple enough, right? The process is an easy one, but it takes practice to make it stick.

The first step in clearing negativity from your mind is to really pay attention to your thoughts. Whenever the words can’t, shouldn’t, wouldn’t, won’t, not, or never enter your mind, concentrate on what you’re thinking and turn it around to eliminate the negative wording. For example:

Your spouse and children are gone for a few hours, and you have the place to yourself. You’re indulging in one of your favorite activities. In the midst of your enjoyment, you start to feel guilty. You think: I really shouldn’t be doing this. I could be getting started on the project I promised someone else I’d take care of. Your enjoyment starts to fade, and you stop what you’re doing, resentful that you have to tackle this boring project when you have so little time to yourself…

Does this sound familiar? The moment you hear yourself think shouldn’t, stop right there and change direction. In this scenario, you might instead think I really should be doing this. Taking time for me is important, and when I’m relaxed and satisfied I will be able to do a better job on that project I promised someone else. I’m so glad I got the opportunity to do something I enjoy.

Try to do this every time a negative thought creeps in. The more often you banish negative ideas from your mind, the easier positive thinking will become. You will be more relaxed and receptive to positive solutions.

Please share your comments with 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 CEO’s Need To Take Up A Hobby

When you have a hobby, it is more than something to take up time in your life. Typically, it is something that you enjoy and learn about. As a CEO, you lead a hectic life. That may have you believe that you don’t have time to have a hobby.

What Having A Hobby Can Do For A Person

Your mind needs a way to distract itself from the hustle, bustle, and stress of the day. Whether from home life, work-life, or something else, a hobby can help distract your mind and allow you to let loose now and then.

It has been proven that when a company CEO has a hobby that they participate in, they are overall happier. It doesn’t have to be a major involvement or activity. It could be something as simple as a card game. Either way, it can help you to feel more fulfilled and experience less burnout.

Ways A Hobby Helps CEO’s

If you are a CEO, you may be thinking that this is not something that will work for you. You never know the answer to that until you try. Here are some ways that hobbies have been found to lighten the load you are carrying.

Stress Relief

Stress, anxiety, and depression are all symptoms that people can feel in a high-level position at their job. It is important to find ways to release those emotions and feelings. Not everyone is comfortable talking things out, and in some instances, information is restricted from being shared.

That is where you need to invest yourself in a hobby, something to exert that energy. Something that distracts your mind and brings you peace and joy. Some things such as:

• A Dance Class
• A Martial Arts Class
• A Yoga Class

Gets Creative Juices Flowing

It is so easy to get stuck in a rut. Unable to think outside the box or come up with new ideas? If your job requires that, a hobby that expresses your inner personality and passions can help stir things up again. Such as:

• Playing An Instrument
• Taking A Painting Class
• Taking Up Pottery
• Photography

Improved Communications

Do you need better strategies to communicate with your staff. As a CEO, you are the leader of meetings and many conversations. If you are not comfortable with how they have been playing out, an improvement of communication skills may be needed.

One activity that can help improve your communication skills is through an improv class. Another is to use some profiles & assessments and utilize a professional coach.

Please share your comments with 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 Personality Matters in Leadership

The type of people that we surround ourselves with is important. Some personality types can help you flourish, and some can bring you down. It is essential to know yourself and what, or who, you need in your inner circle to be the best that you can be.

Personal or Business Related

The people that you choose to spend time with each day are critical in your development. Not only in your friendships or marriage, but in your work-life as well. The personality that someone exhibits can either benefit you or hurt you.

In your personal life, you want people who make you happy and people with who you can be yourself. The business world is a little different; while you still want to be happy with your surroundings, you also need people who will keep you motivated and progressing. The personality traits that you surround yourself with are important in many different aspects of your life.

Social Distancing Has Made This Difficult

Covid-19 hit, and everyone was told to social distance and stay home. This made mingling with people and working side-by-side with someone a bit difficult. Everything went virtual and people were working from home. This can make it challenging to stay motivated and on top of things.

The personalities that are within your home life are what you have created and chosen to be around. They fill the need for the personal relationships that you have. But, what about the business needs that you have? Your family will not be in tune with the personality traits that you are used to having at work.

Different Personality Traits

Amongst all the people that you meet, everyone is their own unique personality. The different types of characteristics are endless. Although, you can categorize them into four different types overall. Such as:

• The Cheerleader

The person that will help you feel confident and will encourage you along the way.

• The Collaborator

This is someone who’s going to help you expand your idea and improve your delivery.

• The Cheddar

The person that will deliberately challenge your ideas and ask tough questions.

• The Coach

A coach will help you understand if an idea is right for you.

All of these personality traits may exhibit themselves differently in everyone. But, they are all needed to make the business world, and home life, go round. When personalities match too closely to one another, it can make for some difficult situations.

Virtual Meetings Can Help

In the times of distancing ourselves and not being in a physical work building, the need for video conferencing is intensely important. It is a way to stay connected with other people and their abilities to challenge you. That is highly needed in the workforce from time to time.

We would love to hear your comments on this article or any of our latest articles.

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.