Please, Please, Please Help Me!

Please, Please, Please Help Me! Have you ever got a request to help someone? I get, and see, these types of requests regularly.  Heres one I saw on a LinkedIn Group 7 days ago: Recently downsized, I am  experienced  in many areas any leads would be appreciated. This was the ENTIRE message there was nothing before that and nothing after that. So What do you think can you help this person? Are you ready and willing to share some leads? Many of you are open to it, some of you are anxious to help, but first, let me help the person asking this question. The problem with the question is that no one knows what kinds of leads this person would be most interested in. Do you want to sell insurance?  There are plenty of people on Monster that would love to have you start selling insurance. On the Group where he asked the question, there were two responses that looked like MLM.  Im not saying theres anything wrong with that, but are you interested in a business ownership, commission and sales role?  (based on the persons LinkedIn Profile, Id guess he is not too interested in that) Would you like to work in construction, or at Taco Bell?  Want to work as a security guard at night? Theres nothing wrong with any of these, but the question does not help me understand what this person is looking for. Let me use imagination and re-write what this message could have been.  Im going to use MYSELF (from six years ago) in the example below Pass this post along to anyone who has asked you for help many, many people need to have more clarity in their message. I was recently downsized from my company where I was the general manager. We provided custom software and networking services for companies in a few different industries. (these two lines gives you an idea of what I used to do, what my skills and experience have been, and perhaps what my passion has been) I have a lot of experience with various things including leadership and strategy (which is what I did as a general manager), customer acquisition and account management, and software design and development. (This line helps the reader/listener understand even more what my specialties are it is definitely a missing link in the original message) I would appreciate any leads in the Salt Lake City area. (that is where I was living when I got laid off, and where I have a house payment, etc.  NOTE: after a few months of no success, I opened up my search to anywhere in the U.S.  Its important to let us know if you are open to moving or if you want to stay in one area!). I am especially interested in a company that is growing fast and needs strategy and leadership as they grow.  Id love to work at a company that provides software services for other companies. .. I would be open to a large company that has an established IT shop. (This last line needs work, but the idea is to give me an idea of what kinds of companies I want an introduction to.) For example, Id like to work at Zions bank in their IT department, or for ______ company, or for ______ company.  Im open to other similar opportunities, also. (Now, close it with a question / aka, call to action:) Do you know anyone I should talk to?  They can be at those companies, similar companies, or just in the IT field.  If you know someone you can introduce me to, will you send me an email so we can start the introduction?  My email is _______. Contrast the message above to this message (in bold).  Very different. when you ask for help, if you arent specific, you risk no one being able to help you.  Imagine going to an architect and saying please design a house for me.  I dont have any specifications just a house. Theyll need more to go on, right? Your friends and family need more to go on, also. Please, Please, Please Help Me! Have you ever got a request to help someone? I get, and see, these types of requests regularly.  Heres one I saw on a LinkedIn Group 7 days ago: Recently downsized, I am  experienced  in many areas any leads would be appreciated. This was the ENTIRE message there was nothing before that and nothing after that. So What do you think can you help this person? Are you ready and willing to share some leads? Many of you are open to it, some of you are anxious to help, but first, let me help the person asking this question. The problem with the question is that no one knows what kinds of leads this person would be most interested in. Do you want to sell insurance?  There are plenty of people on Monster that would love to have you start selling insurance. On the Group where he asked the question, there were two responses that looked like MLM.  Im not saying theres anything wrong with that, but are you interested in a business ownership, commission and sales role?  (based on the persons LinkedIn Profile, Id guess he is not too interested in that) Would you like to work in construction, or at Taco Bell?  Want to work as a security guard at night? Theres nothing wrong with any of these, but the question does not help me understand what this person is looking for. Let me use imagination and re-write what this message could have been.  Im going to use MYSELF (from six years ago) in the example below Pass this post along to anyone who has asked you for help many, many people need to have more clarity in their message. I was recently downsized from my company where I was the general manager. We provided custom software and networking services for companies in a few different industries. (these two lines gives you an idea of what I used to do, what my skills and experience have been, and perhaps what my passion has been) I have a lot of experience with various things including leadership and strategy (which is what I did as a general manager), customer acquisition and account management, and software design and development. (This line helps the reader/listener understand even more what my specialties are it is definitely a missing link in the original message) I would appreciate any leads in the Salt Lake City area. (that is where I was living when I got laid off, and where I have a house payment, etc.  NOTE: after a few months of no success, I opened up my search to anywhere in the U.S.  Its important to let us know if you are open to moving or if you want to stay in one area!). I am especially interested in a company that is growing fast and needs strategy and leadership as they grow.  Id love to work at a company that provides software services for other companies. .. I would be open to a large company that has an established IT shop. (This last line needs work, but the idea is to give me an idea of what kinds of companies I want an introduction to.) For example, Id like to work at Zions bank in their IT department, or for ______ company, or for ______ company.  Im open to other similar opportunities, also. (Now, close it with a question / aka, call to action:) Do you know anyone I should talk to?  They can be at those companies, similar companies, or just in the IT field.  If you know someone you can introduce me to, will you send me an email so we can start the introduction?  My email is _______. Contrast the message above to this message (in bold).  Very different. when you ask for help, if you arent specific, you risk no one being able to help you.  Imagine going to an architect and saying please design a house for me.  I dont have any specifications just a house. Theyll need more to go on, right? Your friends and family need more to go on, also.

Winter Proofing Your Home on a Budget

Winter Proofing Your Home on a Budget Switch Energy Suppliers If you’re thinking about splashing some cash this winter then some plush new clothes or Christmas gifts for the ones you love might top your list, but the winter is long and if your house is chilly you’re your cash may be better spent on a little winter-proofing. It might not be exciting but it is essential and these simple tips for winter proofing your home on a budget actually could help you save a lot by spending a little: Switch Energy Suppliers It has never been easier to switch energy suppliers and move over to a low-cost tariff. Simply go to ‘Which? Switch’, enter your details and you could find a better deal that instantly saves you hundreds of pounds a year. Bleed the Radiators Heating bills are one of the biggest costs during winter. Keep them down by using your central heating wisely and making sure your system works efficiently. Bleed your radiators to ensure they heat up properly and turn down your thermostat by one degree. This could save you £90 per year but to keep your costs really low, use a timer that turns your heating on just when you need it. Insulate Your Home There are plenty of ways that you can insulate your home cheaply to keep all of the warmth in and all the cold and draughts out. The majority of heat loss in any property is caused by poorly insulated walls and roofs. On average 25% to 35% of the heating that you’re paying for is drifting outside, so trap it in with insulation. British Gas report that 90% of all households in the UK are entitled to free insulation and you don’t need to be a customer to get it. Simply check your eligibility online and if you qualify, they’ll arrange for an installation team to visit your home and insulate it at no cost. Depending on the type of property you live in, this could save you hundreds of pounds a year. There are other low-cost ways to insulate your home too. Check windows, doors and letterboxes for cold spots and block them with draught excluders. You can find these at your local DIY store at a cost of £5 £20. Windows are another source of heat loss. Even if they’re double glazed you can expect 10% of your warmth to evaporate through the glass so limit heat loss by insulating your windows with window film and thermal curtains. Dress it Well A room that looks cold, feels cold. Sometimes it may just take a few accessories to make your home feel warmer. Rugs, throws and cushions all make a difference, however these aren’t suitable for every room. Kitchens and bathrooms are both hotspots for unsightly mould growth due to high levels of moisture caused by condensation which, if left untreated, can be really bad for your health. Improving the ventilation and insulation in these rooms can help tackle mould and mildew problems occurring but they won’t make an existing problem go away. But, with a little elbow grease and some clever, low-cost products you can solve mould issues yourself and make your kitchen or bathroom look and feel warmer. Regular household cleaning products aren’t sufficient but you can get a specialist mould solution for mildew and black mould removal from Chemsol Direct. It kills fungus and bacteria to not only remove mould, but prevent it coming back. Giving a cold room a makeover with a lick of paint is a budget-friendly way to make it feel warm and more inviting. Use rich tones of cream and yellow with accents of red, orange and gold and if you’re painting a room where mould has been an issue, avoid expensive paints that promise to hide or prevent it, an anti mould paint additive that you can add to regular emulsion is a real cash-saver. That’s all it takes to stay warm and snug and make your home, homely, so winter proof your home on a budget, grab a glass of mulled wine and enjoy your cosy-time indoors.

Dont Let Anything Hold You Back - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

Don’t Let Anything Hold You Back - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career You have come across with an opportunity of a lifetime and you have to make a decision. However, this decision is not easy and involves you to change your life completely or get out of your comfort zone or start everything from scratch. Therefore, part of you wants to go for it badly but your other part is holding you back. In this case, what should you do? Stay Away From Negative People: Don’t let your family, friends, coworkers or others erode your confidence by saying that you are not good enough. If they are not going to give you constructive feedback, then, don’t share your ideas or plans with them. If a voice inside your head is talking to you saying you cannot do it, then, this means you are finding excuses to yourself for not starting up. Stop finding excuses! Don’t forget that starting something is half of finishing it. If you don’t start now, you will always regret it later. Also, even if you fail, you can always look back and say that at least youve tried it. Ignore Jealous People: Usually, it is all about them and not you! People are trying to hold you back because they are afraid that you will achieve something greater than them. You will get out of the usual and ordinary that everyone is accustomed to doing. You will start something different. Therefore, don’t let others drag you down. I am sure if they have been  given the chance, they would do the same and change their lives completely. They are just not that strong as you are and cannot find that courage within themselves. Don’t Fear: Ok, everything is not going to be perfect once you start your new life. There will be ups and downs. However, you cannot hold yourself back fearing that things will not go the way they are planned. Living this way will make you miss amazing opportunities. Show a little more courage and take the first step to start your new life. Waiting for the Perfect Time: There is no such thing as “perfect time”. Now is the perfect time. Otherwise, your excitement will decrease over time and it will be too late. Also, you will never be 100% ready. Just start and you will improve over time. You can always complete the things that are missing along the way.

How to Get Through a Bad Day at Work (as Told by The Simpsons)

How to Get Through a Bad Day at Work (as Told by The Simpsons) So youre having a bad day. The bus was late, your hair just isnt going right and you have an infinite to-do list. Although it may feel like theres a rain cloud following you around your office, its something that we all  have to deal with sometimes (unless youre official job title is Cupcake Taster, then youre never allowed a bad day.) So youre having a bad day There is someone in the gym kickboxing in a full on suit and tie. Bad day at work? Julie ?????? (@SugarScientist) March 11, 2016 youre feeling low Bit of lurgy this week and cheese on toast always delivers when your feeling low. Women have Adele. Men have cheese on toast Christian OConnell (@OC) March 16, 2016 Your boss is being extra annoying, Its super annoying when my boss is in a bad mood Nohely Garcia (@_Noels) March 15, 2016 Your workload feels endless, https://twitter.com/zachsummerfield/status/709093822077280256 and youre in the worst mood, EVER. I literally HAVE to distance myself when Im irritated or in a bad mood because I can become the most heartless person youll ever meet PSYCHOBUTWORTHIT (@yourfavepsycho_) March 15, 2016 But you can turn it around! If youre having a bad day just remember that it can only get better if you let it ?? Leslie (@LeslieZvniga) March 16, 2016 Talk about it. A problem shared is a problem halved, after all thats what work friends are for. You know when youre having a bad day and meet people who fix it, just by hanging out with you ? That.?? Gul Panag (@GulPanag) March 17, 2016 Make a to-do list, and focus on each task individually. https://twitter.com/jessy_froo/status/707523573288673280 If youre in need of a pep talk, phone a close friend or partner who you know will support you Made it through the afternoon. Spoken to a friend who cheered me up and now on the sofa with my cat. ?? Bitofaworrier (@bitofaworrier) March 1, 2016 Leave the office and have a wander, youll feel refreshed and ready to take anything on I bring shoes to change into to walk during my lunch break. Am I officially an old lady? Paige Peltier (@thepaigeturner2) March 15, 2016 Take a breather, and reflect on the reason why youre having a bad day. You may realise theres nothing to be grumpy about! In difficult times, I like to temind myself that things could be worse. I could be in PE. Sheard Sheep (@delightphil) March 17, 2016 But remember to honour your feelings. Youre a human being and youre allowed to have a bad day every so often Im allowed to be in a bad mood sometimes thanks ?????????? ?????? (@Gaylilare) March 7, 2016 And remember all the times youve had  bad days before (but got through them!) https://twitter.com/itsWhitneyShian/status/710311276057124864 and dont forget all your achievements and successes. Ive been so productive today Im proud of myself david (@FENDlFAGG) March 7, 2016 Everyone has bad days at work, its natural! But remember that you can always turn it around. Any other tips you use to get through a bad day at work? Tweet us at @UndercoverRec with your ideas. Image: Shutterstock

Future Of Organizational Learning Development CareerMetis.com

Future Of Organizational Learning Development It’s a good time to be in the Learning and Development space. There is a lot of innovations that is possible with the integration of emerging technologies with the traditional LD tools.Though there certainly is a lot of pressure on LD leaders to keep up with the pace of business in this increasingly digital world, time has never been more ripe for LD leaders to be creative, adopt new approaches and demonstrate the ROI of learning.Why Is A Change Needed In Organizational LearningevalevalThe CHRO’s CEOS often complain that their employees are not developing skills fast enough. They accept that today there is a need for constant learning in order to attract and retain talent, engage the existing employees and develop long- term leaders for the company.The workforce today is increasingly connected. Mobile devices make it possible for learners to access learning from anywhere and anytime.Learning can happen through various means such as video, podcast, online course, and the like. Th is new world is increasingly becoming customer centric where employees are taking the charge as opposed to learning departments.Learning curve is the new earning curve. Nowadays, the employees are asking for dynamic learning opportunities that can satisfy both their individual needs as well as fit into their self-made learning schedule.When an employer is unable to provide this, an employee will most probably jump ship. As per a latest report by Deloitte, almost 70% of employees surveyed reported that learning is the primary driver of their engagement with the organization.What LD Leaders Needs To Know TodayBusinesses need to move faster than ever before if they want to succeed today. In this digital world which is increasingly being shaped by VUCA The Learning and Development team in an organization must be the driving force behind this. They should go beyond what is often perceived as an ‘order-taking role.The primary responsibility of a LD professional is to equip their workfor ce and themselves with the new skill set that is required for thriving in this new dynamic.As you know today the standard 9- 5 shift is becoming increasingly less common with the emergence of flexible hours, freelancing, remote working and the gig economy, which allows employees to work wherever they are. In this scenario, LD leaders needs to ensure that learning opportunities can be accessed from wherever and whenever the employees are working.Key considerations here include ensuring that learning can be accessed, tracked outside the company network, ensuring that learning is mobile friendly and can be consumed both online and offline.evalAn LD leader should learn how to make learning more impactful and relevant for the learner and business. The need of the hour is personalized experiences based on the data about the respective learners and supported by the right technology. This can increase employee engagement and retention.An LD leader should always keep in mind that the success of any business is determined by employees who are effective and engaged and who are able to do their job well as well as support others in theirs. Enabling employees to reach that level is worth the time and investment!The points mentioned above are some of the common things that every LD leader should be aware of. Now, I will discuss how the role of an LD will broaden in the future.New- World LD RolesThe present times demand a broad range of skills in an LD professionals. Here Below are some roles that LD leaders might need to assume in the future in order to create an effective learning space in their respective organization:LD Leader As A Market Researcher An LD leader needs to find out what their customers really want. They need to identify what will make a difference for their learners. They can do this by asking their learners directly and also by checking out what LD functions at other organizations are doing. LD Leaders As A Business ConsultantAn LD Leader should be able t o gain an understanding of the business challenges and get a wider context for learning and development. They should be able to add value by asking the appropriate questions and provide right solutions for their internal clients.LD Leader As A TranslatorAn LD leader should ensure that the learning content is suitable for all employees in the organization. If there is a need, they should take the help of local colleagues to contextualize and translate the training content.LD Leader As A Curator An LD leader should be able to source the best content, whether from inside or outside the organization. They should ensure that the learning content is easy for the learner to consume.LD Leader As A Digital Producer An LD leader should be able to create PDF, illustrations or in- house videos. This is because having these skills would enable them to respond quickly to smaller learning and development requirements.Key Practices That LD Needs To AdoptevalThere is a need for organizations to adap t their learning strategies to meet the demands of their employees. Traditional models are no longer effective in boosting employee performance and engagement.Here below some of the best practices that LD’s should know:Working closely with business:Learning and Development leaders should collaborate with business leaders for designing the learning program and also to get inputs on selecting the right technology providers. With support from executives, organizational learning can undergo a shift in the approach used and develop new ways to enable learnerPrioritize the learner:Organizations must change the way the see their employees and should focus on the individual and their unique learning requirements.Incorporate Social Tools: Today, organizations across the globe has taken to social media and social collaboration tools to boost their engagement with their employees and also to promote a learning culture. However, companies still remain limited in their understanding of how to use these tools more effectively for learning and development.evalOne reason behind this is because companies are limited in the type of social tools they are using. They are using discussion form, blogs, document sharing, but they are not using more effective tools such as micro or video blogs to enhance their learning functions. Thus, there is a need for organizations to educate themselves on the value of social learning.Measure ROI: Learning and Development leaders should be able to determine if the learning strategy they have adopted is effectively driving business outcomes. They should identify both the learning and business metrics in advance.Today, most organizations consider factors such as employee engagement, employee satisfaction, and team engagement over more concrete business metrics such as revenue per employee, retention and turnover.Consider Adaptive Learning:In this approach towards learning, employees are left to learn at their pace. They should be monitored in rea l time and individually to identify the learning approach that will be suitable for them. This approach is ideal for the new generation employees who prize interaction and flexibility.

09 - CareerEnlightenment.com

Career Success!: LinkedIn Tip Tap the Power of LinkedIn Groups By Career Success! If youre in a job search, youll definitely want to check these out. Social Media Groups. There are Groups for Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn where youll find forums for discussion of tips, techniques and very useful advice relevant Career Success! http://careersuccess.typepad.com/my_weblog/Using Social Media tools to Enhance Your Job Search Financial Using Social Media tools to Enhance Your Job Search. By FinAdd • October 13th 2009. Here are some tips on using Social Media tools to enhance your job

How to Find the Best Resume Writing Services

How to Find the Best Resume Writing ServicesWith so many companies and business out there, how do you find the best resume writing services Chicago? Well, it is much easier than you think.When looking for a resume writing service in Chicago, make sure to put some effort into the research part. The first thing you need to do is to ask around for referrals from your friends and colleagues. Once you get the feedback from them, you will have an idea as to what they think.After you know what the best ones are, search for different companies. Once you have found one that fits the criteria of being professional, offer them your referrals. Remember that most service providers are looking for quality work, so do not focus too much on cost.The next step is to give the company a proposal in writing to go over. Here, you will be required to give them an overview of your previous work experiences and what your goals are now. You will also need to list down your strengths and weaknesses.As soon as you have all of this ready, send your proposal to the service provider. Tell them what you want them to do and try to include the following:Put together the details of your resume and see if they can make some modifications. If you can, do some research online about the companies and the services they offer. Find out if there are any complaints lodged against them by previous clients.One of the easiest ways to find the best resume writing services in Chicago is to take advantage of the review sites. You will be able to find reviews about a particular company, which can help you decide. Of course, the more credible reviews are more credible.One final thing to remember when searching for the best resume writing service in Chicago is to be ready with a sample of your resume. You never know what kind of problems you may encounter if you do not have one ready.