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April 27, 2021
Once vaccine numbers rise to the point that people will make the back to work transition, we’ll face a dilemma not seen since the pandemic sent millions of workers home. After more than a year of working remotely, seeing only our families and members of our bubbles, and living entirely online, it’s going to be a huge lift to adjust to in-person interactions once again.
Unlike the jarring, bewildering start of the pandemic, however, we will be able to prepare. Now is the time to start making the back to work transition plans (if you haven’t started already). With a lot of preparation, reasonable expectations, and clear communication, you and your team can weather this next phase of work as gracefully as possible.
Set the stage for a back to work transition
Communication needs to begin long before the in-person back-to-work date. Videoconference with your people to prepare them for what is coming, such as phased work weeks and modified schedules, so they can begin to coordinate their own personal lives.
It’s also a good idea to be crystal clear about precautions and contingency plans, both to allay employees’ fears and to avoid surprises. Are there new cleaning and disinfecting procedures? How should an employee report a possible COVID-19 infection? Will employees be required to stay home if they come in contact with someone who has been infected? Brainstorm every possibility you can think of — even if it seems unlikely — and build your plan. Make sure every employee has access to that back to work transition plan for reference and peace of mind.
Celebrate the return to work!
The first day back at work should be a very big deal! We are all far less socialized than we were in January or February 2020 — even the extroverts among us are out of practice. That’s one of the reasons why the in-person start date should be lighthearted and free of to-do lists.
The other is that you and your colleagues have pulled off what seemed to be impossible, and that effort should be respected and rewarded. Decorate the office. Hire a food truck. Have contests. Organize networking events so people can reconnect in smaller groups. Make it a celebratory atmosphere so there is less pressure all around.
Check in
If you’re in a leadership or employee retention position, such as a manager, HR specialist, or CEO, make the back to work transition a priority, and have one-on-one check-ins with your colleagues. Put their mental well-being first by working with their needs, adjusting schedules as necessary, and heading off any other challenges.
Take care of yourself
Leaders will need to take extra care with their own health. Complaining down might be tempting, but avoid it by putting self-care on your daily must-do list. Eat well, exercise daily, sleep well, and meditate. Ask for support from your mentor, or, if you don’t have one, consider hiring a coach who can help you navigate this transition period. To take care of others, you first need to take care of yourself.
Remember: Put people first during this hectic period. Plan for the unexpected and expect hiccups. With a bit of grace and a lot of understanding, you and your colleagues can rediscover the connection that comes from working as a team.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Business, Time management, COVID, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged back to work, back to work transition, return to office, return to office after COVID, employers, HR Manager
April 6, 2021
I love making connections on LinkedIn. I’ve learned and shared so much on the platform that checking in has become a valuable part of my routine. What I do not find valuable is when someone messages me with an unsolicited pitch on LinkedIn.
It seems that recently whenever I check my LinkedIn message inbox, I am almost guaranteed to receive an unsolicited pitch — and sometimes, the person will not go away. Just a few weeks ago, a person I did not know invaded my inbox with a solicitation I did not want. As always, I was firm but polite in explaining that I was not interested.
He didn’t get the hint. He steamrolled over my objections and tried again. When I told him I didn’t appreciate his tactics, he ignored me and tried yet again. It was at that point that I asked him not to contact me.
If this were a one-off situation it wouldn’t be particularly notable. But these kinds of pitches seem to be infecting LinkedIn and bringing down the quality of connections the platform is so famous for.
There is a right way to pitch, and it does take time, just like an in-person relationship. But do it correctly and you will reap the rewards.
Ask yourself: Is this potential connection a candidate for my pitch on LinkedIn?
Spend some time reading their profile, their posts and comments. Ask yourself if this is someone that can benefit from your products and expertise before you go down the sales path.
Start slowly.
Start by asking if you can connect with the person. Message them, introduce yourself, and give a quick explanation of why you’re following. Maybe you have a connection or subject matter in common.
Build rapport.
After you connect, take the time to like the person’s posts and comment thoughtfully on them. In the end, the number of connections you have isn’t as important as what you do with them.
Broach the subject in a considerate way.
Send an InMail message and offer your services or product in a polite, respectful manner that shows you’ve been paying attention to the person you’re pitching and the needs of their business.
Know when to drop the subject.
If the person you’re pitching says no, be understanding. Ending the conversation on good terms leaves the door open — pushing the subject will close it.
LinkedIn offers amazing opportunities, but the nature of the platform means you have to work smarter — not more forcefully — to develop relationships. Stay polite, be thoughtful, and your pitch on Linkedin may pay off in ways you did not expect.
What has been your experience with pitching on LinkedIn? Please share and let me know!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, StartUp, Business, Business Etiquette and tagged LinkedIn, Pitch on LinkedIn, social media, LinkedIn communication, LinkedIn Messaging, selling on LinkedIn, Building rapport on LinkedIn, LinkedIn Connections
March 8, 2021
No one is an instant leader. But for women, the journey to more responsibility can seem more arduous than most.
Women represent more than half of the world’s population but still lag behind in leadership roles, from local businesses all the way up to national politics and global organizations. For decades, private and public entities have been studying the problem and investing in solutions — all of which seem to fall short.
Women have been told to lean in and speak up (even if we are interrupted more). Our nations have focused millions on programs to help women break into traditionally male-dominated fields. And yet, the percentage of women in leadership or senior management roles or worldwide is still only 30%.
What are we missing?
I’ve been a serial entrepreneur throughout my adult life. I’ve been an owner or a co-owner of a number of companies. I didn’t experience many of the horror stories I’ve heard from women who were blocked by their male counterparts.
But I did have to overcome my own fears and feelings of unworthiness. I’ve used the lessons I’ve learned in my own life to help elevate other women, and I’m often asked what others can do to help women feel more secure in their abilities. On this International Women’s Day, I encourage people who want to support women to be BRAVE.
Believe
It’s natural to look at other people’s strengths in the workplace and see them as a threat to our own — after all, business is competitive. One of the best talents you can develop is the ability to see women as they could be and fully believe in their potential. Many women don’t envision themselves taking on greater responsibilities until someone encourages them.
Recommend
Invite women into decision-making roles and promote them through your words and actions. If you’re brainstorming how to fill a seat on a board, think of the professional women you know. If you have an excellent coworker, suggest that she apply for a promotion. We have a collective responsibility to open our imaginations and welcome women to the table.
Amplify
It can be difficult for women to be heard in groups. Studies have shown that women are perceived differently when they speak up than men are. We can combat this problem by lifting up women’s speech and thoughts at the board table. Instead of thinking or nodding your assent, vocalize it. When women contribute ideas, recognize them. Amplify women’s voices to ensure they are considered.
Validate
Take time to mentor and validate women. Your contribution can be as simple as sending an encouraging note about a creative solution to a problem or recognizing a special skill, or as involved as serving as a mentor. Whatever you can do to help a woman grow and develop her leadership potential will ripple out into a positive difference in the world.
Encourage and Elevate
The growth process doesn’t end when a woman attains a seat at a board. It’s a career-long — or even lifelong — commitment to shunning comfort and embracing challenge. Encourage women to make the jump to the next level of achievement. Let them know that you will support them as they make the leap.
It takes time to build bravery. I often tell clients that it’s like driving a car: At first, everything seems foreign. You might not know where the turn signal is or when to shift gears. In time, though, driving becomes second-nature and you’re driving hundreds of miles without an ounce of apprehension.
Women have an enormous capacity for bravery when they believe in their own abilities. As co-workers, colleagues, mentors, sisters, brothers, and loved ones, we have a responsibility to foster women’s confidence and empower them to reach their full potential. Encouraging women to be brave starts when they are young girls in school. Check out this inspiring Ted Talk by Reshma Saujani.
The world is a better place when women rise up. This year, let’s commit to lifting them.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, Business, Personal development, Gender, Women, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged International Womens Day, women in business, women in leadership, women in senior management, leadership roles for women
January 19, 2021
I was grounded, like so many other frequent flyers, for the duration of 2020. The upshot? More time for my already voracious reading habit. My five top reads helped me refocus and rebuild when the rest of the world seemed to be falling apart. I hope you find inspiration in them, too.
The Leader’s Checklist: 15 Mission-Critical Principles.
Author Michael Useem is a professor at the Wharton School of Business who has mined crucial events throughout history (the American Civil War and the rapid failure of AIG shortly before the Great Recession, for example) to determine how and why great leaders succeed. He distilled these lessons into 15 short lessons that I find fascinating. As a result, I now regularly reference Useem’s checklist to ensure I’m following the right path in my own leadership journey.
Stories That Stick: How Storytelling Can Captivate Customers, Influence Audiences, and Transform Business.
This might be the most influential book I read all year! I find myself turning again and again to Kindra Hall’s storytelling tips and strategies. Hall makes the point that our ability to communicate effectively and persuasively hinges on our ability to connect with our audiences. Storytelling is the way to make it happen. This book is engaging, smart, and an impactful read for anyone, from sales representatives to marketing execs to people who want to improve their public speaking or writing skills.
Limitless: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life. How appropriate that this was written by a person named Jim Kwik! If you’re looking to do more in our increasingly fast-paced, time-strapped world, you’ll love the “3 Ms” Kwik outlines in his book. I may not have the ability to read a book three times faster than normal, as Kwik promises, but I love the empowering feel of his advice.
Pitch Perfect: How to Say It Right the First Time, Every Time.
Bill McGowan is a consultant and correspondent who teaches people how to deliver their messages quickly and with maximum impact. As someone who regularly speaks in front of large audiences, I’m always on the lookout for advice on how to improve my skills — and McGowan truly delivers. His “principles of persuasion” are a must-read for anyone and can be used in your everyday life.
Building the Best: 8 Proven Leadership Principles to Elevate Others to Success.
The last of my five top reads assists those of us in leadership roles. We have an obligation to do our best — and that involves ensuring the success of others. LearnLoft CEO John Eades makes the case that rapidly changing technology and organizations require a different type of leadership. One that is based on carefully encouraging others while keeping an eye on long-term goals. His book gave me a chance to examine and hone my own leadership style.
How about you? What books got you through 2020 and have inspired you to shoot for success in 2021? Have you read any of my five top reads? I’d love to hear your recommendations — I read a book a week, so your suggestion has a good shot at winding up in my must-read list!
#leadership #books #reading #technology #advice #audience #pitching #presenting
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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, StartUp, Business, Personal development, Time management, Self Care in challenging times, Uncategorized
November 24, 2020
The holidays are the perfect time to show colleagues and clients how grateful you are for their hard work and support. With a few simple tips you can gift like a pro, even during COVID.
The biggest question I get this time of year is always, “How much do I spend?” I advise spending no more than the tax credit allowed in your country for professional gifts. For example, in the U.S., the IRS allows a $25 tax deduction for each professional gift.
Your Boss
Ask around to see if there is anything in the company’s rules or in the employee handbook that discourages giving your boss a gift. If others see “gifting up” as a no-no, suggest a gift from the team. If you do go solo, good options include a donation to their favorite charity, a bottle of wine (make sure they drink alcohol!), or a gift certificate to a local small business. And don’t blow your budget trying to impress them — expensive gifts can be awkward.
Your Team/Support Staff
If you manage others, choose gifts that show that you see them as individuals, not just as employees. I like giving gift cards to their favourite store or restaurant, or for activities they love. Gear for hobbies like golf balls, books, fishing flies, or art supplies are also a nice choice. Or upgrade their workspace with a beautiful leather notebook, fancy water bottle, or essential oil diffuser. A handwritten note of thanks that touches on their unique talents or contributions is a must.
Your Co-Workers
Again, feel out the culture for this one. Do others typically gift? Do they organize an activity like a Secret Santa or gift swap? Read the Your Team section above for gift suggestions. Give gifts discreetly so others do not feel left out. And if a co-worker surprises you with an unexpected gift, offer a heartfelt thank you and leave it at that. Scrambling to reciprocate could be seen as insincere.
Other Colleagues
If you want to spread good cheer to colleagues you like but don’t work with directly, bring in a tray of store-bought treats or special nuts, etc. for everyone to share. Avoid home-made goodies this year do to Covid-19 transmission concerns.
Secret Santa, Dirty Santa, or Yankee Swap
Forget gag gifts. Period. Instead, buy something you would like. Gift cards, coffee, wine, and food are all great ideas. Most likely, office Christmas parties will be on hold for this season anyways.
Clients
Make sure there isn’t a policy at your company or theirs that precludes you from giving a gift. Rules like these seek to prevent bribery and favoritism. Also, check to see if your company buys a quantity of gifts to send clients (for example, fruit baskets). The gift suggestions in the Your Boss section also work well here.
Most importantly, no matter who you are buying for, keep in mind the following:
- Choose gifts that reflect their personality and show that you have spent some time thinking about what they will enjoy or impact them in a positive fashion.
- Keep within your budget.
- Send the gift giver a thank you note or a Christmas card thanking them for their gift.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Business, Personal development, Business Etiquette, Etiquette Tips
October 13, 2020
In my 30 years as a business owner and community leader, I’ve often seen people set a goal or a target and call it a vision. Sometimes, fixing a problem is confused for vision. Although modern leaders need both problem-solving skills and visioning skills, the two are very different.
Visioning is from the future to today. Problem solving is from today to tomorrow.
A vision is a vivid mental image of the place you want your organization to be. It creates a new future by working backwards from a fixed point six months, a year, or even five or 10 or 20 years from now.
Sometimes, the vision you have for the future may seem to have almost nothing to do with how your organization functions today: 20 years ago, who would have thought that an online bookstore called Amazon would be the greatest deliverer of goods and information in the world? The answer is Jeff Bezos, of course. He started with his ultimate goal and worked backward to the easiest point of entry to that future.
Problem solving, on the other hand, examines ways to course-correct current constraints to allow greater flow in the future. Figuring out how to deliver books directly to consumers wasn’t Amazon’s vision, for example, but solving that problem did open up new supply chain possibilities for the company’s ultimate goal.
So how can you problem solve while working toward an overall vision?
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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, StartUp, Business, Uncategorized and tagged business, vision, problem solving, visionist
September 22, 2020
Back in the early days of the pandemic, when Zoom calls seemed like a novelty with an expiration date, I advised against using cute Zoom backgrounds during meetings. The Eiffel Tower or a beach at sunset would be too distracting, I said. It just seemed a bit too unprofessional.
But now that Zoom calls are our new normal, I’ve changed my mind.
Why the shift in opinion? Backgrounds have improved exponentially in just a few months. And as backgrounds have improved, so have their popularity — recently, about ¾ of people on Zoom calls I’ve participated in have used lovely, thoughtful backgrounds. If you use a site like Unsplash, which offers thousands of beautiful stock photos for free, you can tailor your backdrop to your personality.
I’ve begun to see Zoom backgrounds the same way I see dressing for a speech or choosing jewelry for a meeting. Using one is a chance to express yourself and create a human connection with your colleagues and associates. But, just as I would advise against wearing too-bold statement pieces in the board room, I suggest you use a little restraint.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Business, Webinar, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged webinar, Zoom meeting, Zoom backgrounds, Zoom background, Online meeting
April 14, 2020
Many of us have jumped into the Zoom world out of necessity, with many aspects of daily life now handled via video chat — club and business meetings, family dinners, play dates, pub nights, and even holidays!
Thanks to my work with Toastmasters, which has clubs throughout the world, I’ve had the opportunity to work with online meeting platforms for 10 years. What I’ve noticed is that many of us are comfortable with in-person meetings, but not quite so comfortable handling the challenges of remote communication. After all, the cues that we usually pick up on in person — such as the way a person enters a room or body language — aren’t available on a platform like Zoom.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, StartUp, Business, Webinar, Personal development, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged Zoom, Zoom Webinar, Video conference, Internet, Virtual Meeting
February 18, 2020
Think about career mistakes and big moments come to mind — not taking that plum job, bungling a big presentation, getting passed over for a promotion.
But it’s the day-to-day decisions that can really make or break your career. Your sum total of your everyday choices is your reputation, and it’s the often-overlooked key to unlocking success.
We’re all guilty of slipping up from time to time. But if you’re consistently doing the following, you could be sabotaging your reputation — and your future.
Bad Mouthing Others
It can be difficult to restrain yourself in the heat of the moment, but unkind words about your colleagues make you look untrustworthy. If you’re talking about a co-worker behind her back, how is the listener supposed to believe that you won’t do the same about him?
Using Foul Language
There are a few industries where blue language is tolerated and maybe even expected. But that’s not the case for 99 percent of us. Although some people might find off-color language provocative, or even funny, you run the risk of offending people and looking unprofessional.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Interviews, Business, Personal development, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged career, workplace, Reputation, career mistakes, promotions
January 31, 2020
Office romances happen. Quite often, they lead to long-term relationships and sometimes marriage. But starting a romance with a co-worker can have unforeseen consequences. In the worst-case scenario, your office romance can lead to uncomfortable situations and unplanned or forced resignations. Before you make the leap into an office romance, consider these tips:
Check the Rulebook
Find out what your employer’s policies are on the topic of office relationships before you start the romance. Some companies are more traditional and have zero tolerance when it comes to office romances, whereas other companies are more accepting. If you’ve already been dating, disclose your office romance to your HR person as soon as possible. Some firms require you to follow certain guidelines or inform other staff members.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Valentines Day, Business, Business Etiquette, Everyday Etiquette, Wedding Etiquette and tagged love, Office love, office romance, workplace romance, romance, office etiquette, relationships, couples
