Discover Your Competent Advantage

Be Fearless About Your Goals: TV Interview of Coach Colette

2009-12-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

In case you missed watching it live, you can still see the interview of Coach Colette on Fearless Business TV by show host, Valerie Gurka. The segment is about setting SMART Goals for 2010.

The other guest expert on the show is Jake Matthews from 10e20 - who offers strategies to leverage Social Media to market your business or side hustle.

The last segment is the ULTRA LIGHT LAUNCH with Graham Lawlor from Ultra Light Startups - who provides practical tips on how to pitch to business investors. This segment also features Jennifer Takaki from The Pickle Club - who dellivers a 1-minute pitch for her online community.

Hope you enjoy the show! Let us know what is your favorite part.

Coach Colette is Fearless About Goal Setting - December 17

2009-12-16T11:00:00.004-05:00

Hope you're having a great week. As you look ahead to 2010, what are your TOP 3 Priorities?

In 2009, many people were impacted by the downturn in the economy. Yet, hope springs eternal! There are many glimmers of hope to create new opportunities in 2010. Are you READY?

To be successful in growing your career, business (or side hustle), you must be able to reach the right people to let them know how your skills and talents add value and meet their needs.

Can you identify your next best GROWTH OPPORTUNITY?

TOMORROW, tune in at 11:00 AM EST for my appearance on Fearless Business TV, an interactive web-TV show hosted by Valerie Gurka. I'll be sharing tips to help you set SMART goals for 2010 and narrow down your long-term priorities into small, achievable steps.

Here are the details:

Thursday, December 17, 2009

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST

Watch ONLINE - Click HERE

What Matters Now: Take Time to Reflect

2009-12-14T13:30:00.014-05:00

I was fortunate today that I changed my view on Facebook to "Pages". As I scrolled down the list, I came across a post from Seth Godin's blog describing a new FREE ebook called What Matters Now. It contains brief but compelling ideas from over 70 big thinkers (Elizabeth Gilbert, Jacqueline Novogratz, Guy Kawasaki).

The ebook includes many simple truths, plus several ideas to make you go "hmmmmm ..." as you reflect on 2009 and prepare for the New Year. I'm taking on Seth's challenge to help spread these ideas to 5 million people.

I'm only half-way through the ebook, but thought I'd share my TOP 3 Ideas so far:

EASE: Even as a stress management coach, I can chuckle at Elizabeth Gilbert's suggestion to make time to "meditate but secretly nap" to ease off the gas and build in some "me-time." I can't be mad at her because sleep is SO important, and is also rejuvenating for your soul.
1%: Jackie Huba and Ben McConnell talk about the "One Percenters" -- the small group of folks who spread the word about new ideas, trends and concepts. Even as a vegetarian, I had to love the "Bacon Salt" story that spread like ... porkbellies? My question to YOU is: Who will be YOUR One Percenters in 2010? In my career and business coaching sessions, I've called these people your champions -- those people who will go the extra mile to create a buzz about your talents and accomplishments.
UN-Sustainability: Given that my mission involves helping people achieve sustainable results, I was particularly intrigued by Alan Webber's flipping of the script. He suggests we identify and un-mask the UN-sustainable systems that "represent the dead weight of the past." From this essay, my question to YOU is: What will be UN-sustainable for you in 2010? What dead weight do you plan to lose?

Download the ebook NOW, and as you read the ideas and concepts share your favorites here on the blog; or tweet me @Coach_Colette.

AGENDA for Land Your Dream Job Teleclass - TONIGHT

2009-12-10T15:00:00.001-05:00

Join me tonight at the FREE Land Your Dream Job teleclass TONIGHT at 8PM EST: http://bit.ly/4yWsMZ. Here's the agenda of what you can expect:

Introductions – Coach Colette Ellis and Simone Kelly-Brown of Own Your Power
Coach Colette's Career Transition Story
Intro of Competent Advantage™ Model – Exercises/activities:

o Your Core Values: How They Relate To Your Work

o Your Top 3 Strengths: How They Add Value to Target Market

o Your Top 3 Champions: How They Can Help You Make Connections

o Your WOW! Factor – How to Create a Buzz and Get Noticed

Creative Visualization: Life With Your Dream Job
Q & A and Info about FREE products/tools

Tweet me your search questions and join the discussion on Twitter using the #LYDJ hashtag.

Professional Holiday Parties - Tips to Help You to Shine

2009-12-08T10:00:00.001-05:00

As the holiday season is now upon us, it seems timely to share some tips and ideas to help you navigate the professional holiday party scene. As I have shared many of these tips before, I thought I'd encourage you to (re)review my blog post: Tis the Season to be Jolly ... NOT for Career Folly.

You'll notice that the post was written in December 2005 (yes, I've been blogging for over four years now!). I think the tips are still appropriate; what do you think?

In today's economy, I'd probably add a few more suggestions:

Determine which of the events will give you your "biggest bang for the buck." You'll want to budget for holiday events just as you would any other networking events. Survey all of the events in your area that interest you, and prioritize them in order of relevance to your 2010 personal/professional goals. Perhaps one well-selected "high-ticket" event will expand your network more than several lower cost ones.
Be a connector – help others to meet relevant contacts in your network. Networking is also about what you can give -- and, 'tis the season to give! If people see you as someone who is helpful, they’ll be more likely to help you. This relates to my next tip ...
Be conscientious about your follow-up. LISTEN more than you're speaking when you meet new people. Take note of their interests and goals. For those people with whom you'd like to stay in contact, make time to share information that would be helpful or interesting to them.
When someone asks, “What’s new?” be prepared with an answer that might make someone say "WOW!" We all have experienced some challenges this year; and yet, inspiring stories are always good to hear. This might require some additional thought -- think of the good things that have happened this year; think of the positive people in your support circle; think of the small wins you've already achieved. I'm confident you can come up with a couple of ideas.

Please share your thoughts, ideas and other survival tips here on the blog or tweet me @Coach_Colette.

And, BEST WISHES to you and yours for a

HEALTHY, HAPPY, JOYFUL, ABUNDANT HOLIDAY SEASON!

Coach Colette Helps You Land Your Dream Job on December 10

2009-12-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

In 2009, the battle for talent was fierce. The trend will likely continue into 2010. Are you ready? To be successful in a job search, you must be able to let the right people know what skills you have to offer. Can you position yourself strategically so that key decision makers will pick YOU?

Join us for a FREE, practical teleclass to learn how to leverage your top skills and talents, and communicate your WOW! Factor to prospective employers. This teleclass is co-sponsored by the Own Your Power Community.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

8:00 PM - 9:00 PM EST

Register NOW - Click HERE

Post your career and job search questions here on the Competent AdvantageTM blog, or tweet them to @Coach_Colette using the hastag: #LYDJ.

Coach Colette Helps to Form Nonprofit Action Network

2009-11-30T12:00:00.017-05:00

I'm delighted to let you know that my company, InStep Consulting LLC, has created an alliance with a diverse group of highly-skilled consultants called the Nonprofit Action Network. This multi-disciplinary group is dedicated to helping nonprofits address operational and funding challenges to achieve sustainability in 2010 and beyond.

Each of the 16 Nonprofit Action Network members brings a unique skillset and years of experience to our clients, having worked with over 370 different nonprofit organizations. Specific areas of expertise include:

Brand Development
Executive Coaching
Financial Management & Fundraising Strategies
Governance Training & Consulting
Marketing Communications
Organizational Development
Planned Giving & Endowment
Social Networking
Website Design & Development

The Nonprofit Action Network works with clients on three distinct levels:

Providing individualized, direct services to create healthy, thriving nonprofits.
Assembling diverse teams to provide a multi-pronged approach to meet client needs.
Serving as thought leaders in our areas of expertise, advancing issues that are important and relevant to nonprofits through public speaking, articles and other media.

In addition to our own consulting practices, members of the Nonprofit Action Network are committed to making the world a better place. In 2009, we have proudly provided hundreds of hours of pro-bono services to the nonprofit community.

So, check us out online and meet the members of this fantastic new team! And, spread the word, if you know of nonprofit leaders who can benefit from our multifaceted expertise. Thanks!

Words of Thanks from Coach Colette

2009-11-26T09:00:00.001-05:00

I can't believe that another year has almost concluded. I'm sure I say this every year; but it really does seem like it hasn't been that long since I created my 2009 vision board. Now, it's Thanksgiving and nearly time to get my vision for 2010 in focus.

As I reflect upon this past year, here are a few of the things I'm most thankful/grateful for:

I'm grateful for the opportunity to have spent much of this past year traveling the country and getting to meet so many wonderful people who are dedicated to improving their communities.
I'm grateful for the chance to collaborate with some fantastic, talented people in the design and delivery of training programs for our mutual clients.
I'm grateful for the clients who have included me into their worlds and allowed me to be a part of their future vision of a better world/work environment.
I'm grateful for all of the people who participated in my parents' 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration - both in person and virtually. These include my friends who helped me, their friends who shared favorite memories and thoughts, our extended family, and the people who worked to make the event a success.
I'm grateful for my parents, and for each celebration (large and small) we're able to share together.
I'm grateful for my friends who continue to stick by me and cheer me on in my efforts (despite my mood or actions).
I'm grateful for my own persistence and perseverance (ok, stubborness!) that enables me to continue even when I'm not sure of the outcome.

I'll close with the last part of the daily affirmation I've read to myself this year:
I give thanks for the immediate, complete, divine fulfillment of my desires. This or something better comes forth with perfect timing according to God's rich good for me.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your special ones!

Making a Change? What is 1-Degree of Transformation?

2009-11-09T10:00:00.006-05:00

What a ride! In the past month, I've been to Minneapolis, MN; Long Beach Island, NJ; Decatur, IL; and St. Louis, MO. The PLA - "Turning the Page" Tour (and one team building retreat) really made me qualify for road warrior status! It's been fun, though. I love traveling the country and meeting my rowdy librarians -- and, yes, they know that's how I refer to them! :-)

The sessions I facilitate help public library directors and trustees demonstrate how they help solve community issues. I help them develop compelling stories about residents who have benefited -- or whose lives have been transformed as a result of a library service (like FREE access to computers).

Over the past year, I've talked a lot about transformation with participants. And, I've cautioned them to not be overwhelmed or disheartened by the word or concept -- because it can seem really big. "How can I find people in my community whose lives have been transformed?!" My advice has been to focus on the impact of even the most basic of services.

What do I mean? The person who submits a successful online job application via a free computer at the library may have experienced a significant economic, personal and/or professional impact from a "basic" service (computer access). The transformational story shares the before & after situation of this person - with facts and anecdotes that will "hook" us into wanting to know more about what the library does.

In St. Louis, we also discussed the challenge of transforming opinions or perceptions. "If the people in my community think our library only has books, how can I let them know we do so much more?" Again, we cannot be discouraged because the task seems daunting or too much to take on. We can focus on making the smallest change first -- the 1-Degree of Transformation (not to be confused with 6-Degrees of Separation, LOL!).

I began using this phrase and participants really seemed to respond. What's the 1-Degree of Transformation that will begin moving things in the right direction? I think it's a relevant strategy to consider for your work with other people, as well as for your own goal setting and personal development. For example, here are some questions to think about:

Clients/Colleagues/Supporters:

What small change in behavior/perception would be most relevant right now?
What would making that small change do for your working relationship?
How can you help facilitate that small change?

Goal Setting/Personal Development:

What small change in your behavior/perception would be most relevant for you right now?
What would taking that small step do for your outlook on your situation?
How can you make that small change?

What do YOU think? Let me know your thoughts and reactions to this 1-Degree of Transformation. And, as you try it out, let me know how it goes -- either comment here on the blog or tweet me at Coach_Colette.

Competent Advantage Blog Gets a Makeover!

2009-10-14T10:00:00.001-04:00

Fall has definitely arrived here in New York City. Although you may wonder how I even know this given my recent travel schedule - now that the PLA Tour has resumed! Last week, I was hanging with the librarians in Minneapolis -- ironically during the big Vickings-Packers game, and the first Twins-Yankees playoff game.

Here in the Big Apple, the leaves are beginning to change and fall from the trees. There's a distinct chill in the air that I can feel as the wind blows through the bulky sweater I've now started to wear over my clothes. ANYHOO, I thought I'd leverage the theme of change and give the blog a fashion-forward makeover, LOL!

You'll notice in the header that I've included the logo for the Competent Advantage TM Career Workbook. I thought it might be helpful for you to see the model on a regular basis, to give more context to my article posts. I've also re-ordered some of the links on the right toolbar - to give you a better sense of why I've included them. They are primarily links to other resources, like my podcast channel, aStore (book recommendations) and partner websites. Take a look at the changes on the blog, and let me know what you think!

I'll be traveling the country through November, mostly facilitating leadership and communication sessions for the rowdy librarians! :-) So, please don't feel like I'm ignoring you. Feel free to follow and tweet me on Twitter so we can stay in touch more often. OK? Cheers, Coach Colette

85 Broads Goes the Extra Mile to Fight Breast Cancer

2009-09-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the Komen Greater NYC Race for the Cure. It was phenomenal to be in the company of survivors, family members and supporters of this cause. There were so many great people with great energy! Here's a brief update and photos from the day's festivities.

First, I'd like to send a huge THANK YOU to the team at Ducale restaurant on Columbus Avenue. They hosted our 85 Broads - Komen NYC team for a wonderful pre-race breakfast. As we were power walking, many members remarked about how great were the coffee and (fresh-squeezed) orange juice. Here are some team members at the breakfast.

Here's a group photo of the 85 Broads - Komen NYC team in front of Ducale before we made our way to the starting line.

THANK YOU to Krista for bringing the 85 Broads water bottles that kept many of us refreshed as we ran and power walked the Race!

And, I'm so excited to report that the 85 Broads - Komen NYC team has exceeded its fundraising goal of $3,500 USD! On behalf of the team, I'd like to send a big THANK YOU to all of our donors!! The great news is that we can continue to receive donations until October 31, 2009. I'd love to see us go the extra mile and raise $5,000 before then!

Because, TOGETHER, we WILL Run Breast Cancer out of Town!

Coach Colette is Back in the Classroom

2009-09-09T10:00:00.003-04:00

It's Back to School season, and the Coach is back in the classroom - virtually and in person! In addition to my client seminars (and the upcoming PLA "Tour"), I thought I'd share info on two upcoming public events. Would be great if you're able to join me.

1) Tuesday, September 15 - 12:00 PM EDT

Guest on Power Women Magazine - Blog Talk Radio Show

You can listen to me chat LIVE with host Deb Bailey at www.blogtalkradio.com/powerwomenmag. Dial in to ask me questions about how you can achieve sustainable results in your career and personal life: (646) 929-0160; or TWEET ME your questions in advance of the show and I'll respond on-air.

Power Women Magazine is an online publication about women by women for women on issues that are important to women worldwide.

2) Tuesday, September 22 - 6:30 PM EDT

Speaker at Downtown Women's Club - NYC Chapter Fall Kick-Off

What has poor communication cost you in your career, business or personal relationships? Learn how to Achieve Communication Breakthroughs! Join me for an interactive presentation as I develop your skills to:

Resolve interpersonal challenges diplomatically
Communicate goals and expectations clearly
Motivate others to share in your vision

DWC-NYC is a chapter of the Downtown Women's Club business network that makes professional networking affordable, effective and fun!

I look forward to seeing YOU in September! :)

85 Broads-Komen NYC Team is Half-Way There

2009-09-08T11:30:00.002-04:00

You can only imagine how excited I was to log into the 85 Broads NY - Komen Race for the Cure page this morning and find out we've achieved nearly 50% of our fundraising goal!

That's right our 28 team members have secured 42 gifts to bring us even closer to our $3,500 target. I'm so proud of the efforts of these fantastic women in our FIRST year of building a team (in only 2 months, I might add). I can't wait to walk with everyone on Sunday!

I'm also grateful to the supporters who have brought me 37% of the way towards my $250 Challenge. And, my FREE Assessment offers still stand for donors who contribute to my Challenge before Race Day on September 13th. Read my earlier blog post for more details on how to claim your Thank YOU!

Together, we WILL Run Breast Cancer Out of Town!

Stress in the City: Is Cuddling the Answer?

2009-09-02T15:00:00.001-04:00

Forbes recently released its report on America's Most Stressful Cities. Topping the list for the second year in a row is Chicago -- followed by Los Angeles, New York, Cleveland, and Providence, RI.

Life factors considered in the study of 40 of America's largest metro areas were:

Unemployment figures (Bureau of Labor Statistics - June 2009)
Cost of living figures (Council for Community and Economic Research)
Median home price declines (National Association of Realtors - 2008-2009)
Population density (US Census)
Number of sunny and/or partly sunny days (NES-DIS - 2007)
Air quality figures (US EPA - 2007)

As a native New Yorker, I can appreciate our ranking in the Top 5 of metro areas. However, you know that I'm a big proponent of finding creative, proactive ways to manage your stress. A lot of this has to do with your self-perception and self-talk.

Most of the life factors on the list are not things we can actively control -- EXCEPT that we do have a choice about where we live. In today's tight job market, you may challenge me on that a bit. "I HAVE to live here because of my job." But, remember, once you start to view your situation in terms of what you "HAVE" to do, you've already given yourself an extra burden of stress. The choice still exists; hopefully you're able to choose your best option at the particular moment in time.

From the career/job search perspective, I've written before about the value of focusing on the things you can control - your physical and online career presence, and your marketing collateral.

From the personal wellness perspective, I've written about the importance of flipping the script to create a more positive viewpoint. That may mean changing how you think about your situation, letting go of the "SHOULDs", or allowing space for things to be less than perfect. [I know, the horror!]

Social supports are important, too. One interesting link in the article was to a video about a new trend of hosting Cuddle Parties. Apparently taking heed of the value of physical touch in reducing stress, these parties have been held in the New York and San Francisco areas.

Would you attend (have you attended) a Cuddle Party? Comment here or tweet me your response and to share other ways you deal with stress.

Support our Komen NYC Team, Get FREE Career Tools

2009-08-24T13:00:00.001-04:00

I've decided to create a fantastic offer to help YOU AND the 85 Broads NYC/Tri-State Chapter team for Komen Race for the Cure.

From today through RACE Day (September 13, 2009), I'll give away one FREE Competent Advantage TM Assessment or e-Workbook, or one FREE Stress Management Health Assessment to anyone who supports my $250 Challenge for the Komen Race for the Cure.

If you are able to contribute:

Up to $15.00 you will receive a FREE Competent Advantage TM Career Assessment

From $16.00 to $25.00 you will receive a FREE Stress Management Health Assessment

From $26.00 to $30.00 you will receive a FREE Competent Advantage TM Career e-Workbook

For more information about these tools, please visit our InStep Consulting Online Shop.

All you have to do is visit my Komen page before September 13th, make a pledge to contribute and send a copy of the email that confirms your contribution. Send the confirmation to [info-at-instepconsulting.com]. (Limit one FREE tool per donation.)

Thanks in advance for your encouragement, support and participation. Together we will Run Breast Cancer Out of Town! Regards, Coach_Colette

Coach Colette & 85 Broads Will Run Breast Cancer Out of Town

2009-08-04T13:00:00.001-04:00

DID YOU KNOW? One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Breast cancer knows no boundaries -- not age, socioeconomic status, geographic location or ethnic background.

As chair of the 85 Broads NYC/Tri-State Chapter Health & Wellness Committee, I'm so excited that we have launched our FIRST annual team for the Komen NYC Race for the Cure!

On Sunday, September 13, 2009 at 9:00 AM, the Greater New York City Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure will hold its 19th Annual 5K Run/Walk in Central Park. On that day, over 25,000 New Yorkers (including over 1,600 breast cancer survivors) will come together to run breast cancer out of town!

How Can YOU Help?

If you live in the New York area, become a part of our team. REGISTER online by August 31, 2009 at http://www.komennyc.org/race. Be sure to click on the "Join a Race Team" tab and select the 85 Broads NY as the team you wish to join. Click HERE for the direct link.

Consider making a contribution to support my $250 Challenge. DONATE online by October 31, 2009 by clicking HERE for the direct link.

Encourage your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues to support the Komen Race for the Cure. Share this post with your social networks.

While there is no minimum fundraising amount, if every participant were to raise $250, Komen Greater NYC would be able to award as much as $500,000 more in grants to local community breast health programs and provide more funding for research.

I'll keep you posted on the progress with my $250 Challenge and the 85 Broads NY team as a whole. And, I'll be thinking about how to prepare myself for the race day. I haven't decided if I will walk or run .... any suggestions? Tweet me your ideas!

Thanks in advance for your encouragement, support and participation. Together we will:

NEW Podcast: What's Your Personal Brand?

2009-07-13T15:00:00.001-04:00

Summer is upon us; but the InStep Consulting team realizes that even if you're on vacation, you're still seeking relevant, helpful information in today's tight marketplace. So, we're continuing our NEW podcast series, InSide the HR Studio, to offer an insider's perspective on career transition and success.

We have a special guest InSide the HR Studio - Kaliym Islam, Vice President of DTCC Learning. His career has spanned across internal Learning & Development to his current role in which he oversees the design and delivery of the company's external training programs and products, including e-learning, instructor-led training and documentation. These efforts help to strengthen DTCC's relationship with its customers by keeping them abreast of the varied financial products and services it offers.

In the podcast, Kaliym and I discuss strategies to Create a Buzz and define your personal brand in the workplace. We also talk about the ways to leverage social media tools (like blogs and podcasts) to communicate that brand to a wider audience. Kaliym shares personal stories about his ascent within DTCC and how he created an "advisory board" that has provided great insight as he has navigated his career.

Tune in to the podcast to find out what Kaliym's personal branding motto ICEM stands for. [HINT: the "I" stands for Identify -- but you'll have to listen to the podcast for the rest of the terms and how the motto can help YOU define YOUR personal brand!]

Then, share your thoughts here or tweet me your brand on Twitter!

VOTE for InStep Consulting in MyBizCounts Contest

2009-07-01T12:00:00.000-04:00

Coach Colette and the team at InStep Consulting are seeking your support! Please VOTE for our mini commercial in the MyBizCounts.com Contest sponsored by Sage Software, Inc.

You can submit ONE vote per day from TODAY until July 31, 2009. The Top 20 commericals at the end of the voting period will enter the final round to compete for $20,000 in cash and over $4,000 in software prizes! If we win, it will expand our capacity to help YOU achieve YOUR GOALS even more! We'll even take your input on the types of products and services you'd like to see us develop should we win this contest.

FYI: when you get to the voting page, our video is in Row 3, second from the left!

Thanks for your support! :)

Take Some "ME-TIME" at 2 PM EST TODAY! Win $25 Makeup Gift Certificates

2009-06-30T11:30:00.000-04:00

Just for fun, ladies! Coach Colette has decided to participate in a LIVE Multimedia Show with Katja Presnal of Skimbaco Lifestyle TODAY at 2:00 PM EST. The show is part of e.l.f. cosmetics BlogHer stories series produced by Snazl.com. Why tune in? Well, you've just got to love her business slogan/motto: "Live Life to the FULLEST!"

Katja will be sharing fashion tips - perhaps you'll gain some ideas for creative but professional attire for interviews? Or, maybe, just ideas for ME-TIME fun and summer gatherings. She also will be raffling $25 e.l.f. cosmetics gift cards - perfect to save a little cash while still rewarding yourself.

Don't you deserve some ME-TIME today? Then, relax, refresh and tune in HERE for some fun ideas today at 2PM EST! Tweet me to share the cool tips you receive and definitely let me know if you WIN one of the gift cards. Good luck!

Get Tips to Launch Your New Business: TOMORROW in NYC

2009-06-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

Have you considered starting your own business, or making your 'side hustle' a legitimate venture? Then, join me TOMORROW from 5:30 PM at The Entrepreneurs' Circle: Interactive Discovery Workshop Series.

If you think that entrepreneurship might be your NEW path, sign up for The Entrepreneurs' Circle. You'll hear success stories from business owners who have made it, and gain tips to avoid the isolation many entrepreneurs often feel.

The Entrepeneurs' Circle Workshop will feature four groupings that are tailored to your' stage of business development:

Pre-Idea
Initial Development
Development
Established Business

Each group will be led by a trained and specialized executive, small business or life coach. I will be there to lead participants in the Pre-Idea phase through discussion and 'laser coaching' activities to help explore the transition, identify their unique 'competent advantage' in business, and create a buzz about their upcoming new venture.

Jump out of your comfort zone and SIGN UP TODAY! Space for this event is limited due to the individualized attention being provided by the coaches.

Bring your pad, pen, paper, or laptop -- This is a working session! See YOU TOMORROW!"

NEW Podcast: Need Answers for Tough Interview Questions?

2009-06-15T12:00:00.002-04:00

The team at InStep Consulting continues to offer timely information via our NEW podcast series called InSide the HR Studio. This special series features senior corporate HR leaders who provide an insiders perspective on career transition and success.

Our current guest is Mary Crisafulli, Chief Talent Officer with ClearVision Optical. Her charge is to retain, develop and grow a "leading team" within the company. She and her team manage all training efforts, including management and technical training, and the content for the company's national sales meetings. In addition, Mary leads the more "traditional" HR initiatives including payroll, benefits, and employee events.

Most relevant to this podcast, Mary also spearheads Recruiting for ClearVision; bringing in talented people, "onboarding" them and helping them to develop via formal training and "on-the-job" learning activities.

In this podcast, Mary and I discuss how you can prepare for and best respond to Behavioral Interview Questions. You know ... the questions that often begin with "Tell me about a time when you ..." Tune in for suggestions on how you can actually use these questions to your advantage.

Mary also shares the recruiter's perspective on other "tough" interview questions -- why she asks them, and what she's really hoping to hear. Are you a "job hopper"? Gain some ideas on how to position your previous experience in an honest, but compelling way.

After listening to the podcast, let me know your thoughts and reactions. What interviewing do's or don'ts would you like to share?

Interested in learning more about job opportunities at ClearVision? Visit their Careers page.

Why I'm STILL Not a Cookie-Cutter Coach

2009-06-09T10:00:00.001-04:00

Perhaps since I'm preparing to teach a Coaching Skills for Managers workshop this week, I've been thinking more about my own coaching approach and philosophy.

I'm reminded of an article I wrote almost two years ago called: Why I'm Not a Cookie-Cutter Coach. It was prompted by an encounter I had at a networking event at which I was challenged by an attendee to come up with my Top 5 Tips for Reducing Stress. You could imagine me experiencing a similar situation today; only the request would probably center on my Top 5 Tips to Find a New Job.

Ironically, my epiphany about this situation didn't come from a debate about the tips themselves; but from the frustration exhibited by the person with whom I was speaking. Somehow, his perception of my credibility changed because I didn't just rattle off 5 ideas from the top of my head. Instead, I chose to ask questions and learn more about the fictitious "client in distress" he described. You can re-read the article for more details and my response.

In the upcoming Coaching Skills workshop, I'll be discussing with participants how to strike a balance between probing (to learn of concerns, goals, needs) and telling (to share tips, recommendations, guidance) with their employees. Being mindful of this balance is important for both internal managers and external coaches -- both of whom want to help facilitate positive growth and results.

I stand by my earlier affirmation: I'm Not a Cookie-Cutter Coach. Each client is unique and each situation has different parameters. I'm not aware of any "add-water-stir, one-right-answer" that will work for everyone. I do know that I'm really good at listening, and can help others flip the script to achieve their biggest dreams. I know this is my calling because I enjoy asking provocative questions to learn more, and help my clients surface their true concerns, goals, needs, dreams, and aspirations.

Perhaps this makes me a "start from-scratch" coach? :)

Competent Advantage Blog Now on Kindle

2009-06-08T09:00:00.001-04:00

Like the portability of the Kindle, but don't want to miss out on my blog updates? I've got GREAT news! You can subscribe to the Competent Advantage TM Kindle Edition.

That's right! After you subscribe, blog posts will be auto-delivered wirelessly to your Kindle and regularly updated so you can stay current.

Curious about the product? Check out the Kindle Amazon' s 6" Reader HERE!

NEW Podcast: Functional Resume Helps Tell Your Story

2009-05-26T10:00:00.000-04:00

The team at InStep Consulting continues our NEW podcast series called InSide the HR Studio. This special series features senior corporate HR leaders who provide an insiders perspective on career transition and success.

Our current guest InSide the HR Studio is Patrice Funderburg, Manager of Diversity & Inclusion for Lowe's Companies, Inc. Patrice has direct responsibility for integration of Lowe's Diversity & Inclusion Strategy and Operating Platform, with a specific focus on diversity staffing, retention programs and measurement, as well as supplier diversity initiatives.

In the podcast, Patrice and I discuss how you can increase your marketability with a Functional Resume. We share strategies to help create working documents that encourages an interviewer to draw the right conclusions and ask questions that help you talk about your BEST skills.

So, take a listen and let me know what you think! To help you create your BEST CV, we're also in the process of launching a NEW Resume Review service. EMAIL us if you'd like to get more information on this new service.

Know the 9 Early Warning Signs that Stress is Negatively Impacting Your Life?

2009-05-14T16:00:00.000-04:00

It's Your Time to take simple steps for a longer, healthier, and happier life! This is the theme of 2009 National Women's Health Week, a health observance from May 10-16 coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health (OWH) to empower women to make our health a top priority. Important steps include:

Getting at least 2 ½ hours of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of both each week.
Eating a nutritious diet.
Visiting a health care professional for regular checkups and preventive screenings.
Avoiding risky behaviors, like smoking and not wearing a seatbelt.
Paying attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.

It is also important to be aware of warning signs that stress (about finances, job status, personal life) may be adversely affecting your emotional or mental well being --or that of someone you care about. These signs include:

Persistent Sadness/Crying
Excessive Anxiety
Lack of Sleep/Constant Fatigue
Excessive Irritability/Anger
Increased drinking
Illicit drug use, including misuse of medications
Difficulty paying attention or staying focused
Apathy - not caring about things that are usually important to you
Not being able to function as well at normal tasks

If you or someone you care about is experiencing these symptoms, you are not alone. These are common reactions to stress, and there are coping techniques that you can use to help manage it. These techniques include ways to:

Manage your reaction (e.g., deep breathing, meditation and positive thinking); or to
Re-think your situation (e.g., creative visualization, journaling, self-esteem building).
You can also take positive action to change your situation - on your own, or with the help of a coach or counselor (e.g., problem solving, communication role-plays, goal-setting, action planning).

Women are often the caregivers for our spouses, children, and parents and we forget to focus on our own health. But research shows that when we women take care of ourselves, the health of our family (and our community) improves.

I thought we can use some inspiration to Spring Cleanse ourselves for a healthier mindset. So, I found an article by Swami Saradananda about the yoga principle of Saucha (physical and mental purification). Enjoy - and here's to your health! :)