Years ago I read a great book called “How to Be a Star at Work” by Robert E. Kelley.  This book became and continues to be one of the “100 Best Business Books of All Time” and the “#1 Career Book” ranked by The New York Daily News.

The author makes the argument that “stars are made, not born.”  This is terrific news for anyone who is looking for ways to become a star at work.

Based on Kelley’s book, there are 9 breakthrough strategies you need to succeed. Here are his strategies and some of his ideas as well as my thoughts on how to awaken the star within you:

1.  Take initiative

Look for opportunities to set yourself apart from others.  Many employees don’t take initiative.  It’s too much work, they are too busy doing their job, or they have become complacent.  High performers go the extra mile consistently.  Initiative is what many employers and recruiters look for in new hires, yet it is so rare to find in the workplace.

Take initiative by taking on additional responsibility above and beyond your current job description.  Look for ways to help coworkers or the department with specific goals or projects.  Don’t be afraid to take some risks by taking initiative.

2.  Become a good networker

It is said that we are only 4-5 people away from anything we ever want to be, do, or have.  A good network can help you fill in the gaps.  You don’t know everything.  But, if you have a good network of people to draw on, you can usually find someone in your network to help you, or at least someone who knows a person that can help you.

3.  Excel at self-management

Self-management isn’t about being super organized.  It’s about evaluating which activities are important vs. unimportant, and then balancing those against the urgent vs. not urgent.  It’s about taking control over your own career path by developing a plan and connecting yourself to the work you most enjoy, and that which benefits the company.  Stars figure out how to leverage their talents and add value to their organizations.  Increasing personal effectiveness and efficiency is important.

4.  Build perspective

I have a metaphor I love using with my clients around gaining more perspective.  I have them think about a hockey game in an arena.  As a hockey player you are focused on moving the puck, passing the puck, scoring, etc.  The action is quick and very narrowly focused.  The game moves quickly.

Removing yourself from the player position to the coach position on the sidelines, you are able to gain a broader perspective of what is going on in the game.  The game slows down, the view is broader, and you are able to think more strategically about what should be done.

Now moving to an observer position high in the stands, the game slows down even further.  You are able to gain even more perspective as you can see not only the game and the coaching, but, also the statistics and anything else going on in the periphery.  Much greater perspective and a much bigger viewpoint.

As you awaken your star power, gain perspective on not just what you do, but, what is going on around you and how that impacts your job, department, and the company as a whole.

5.  Build followership

Followership focuses on relationships you have with leaders and people who have power and authority over you.  To be a good follower, you need to know how to lead yourself.  Good followers have focus, commitment, and build competence and credibility as a way of influencing others in the workplace.  They maintain an honest conscience and a great deal of integrity.  Their own ego is managed and controlled in order to work cooperatively with leaders.

6.  Be a leader

Not just with people you formally lead already.  Be a leader amongst your peers and colleagues as well as others.  As a leader amongst your peers, you should look to be respected for your knowledge, expertise, and proven judgment.  You especially want their respect in the area of people-skills.  Demonstrate that you care about people and your colleagues.

7.  Be a team player

As a strong team player you can contribute by making sure the team knows and understands its purpose, gets the team’s job done, and by paying attention and contributing to the group dynamics in a constructive and positive way.

8.  Increase your organizational savvy

According to Kelley, organizational savvy is defined as:

“the ability to manage competing workplace interests to promote an idea, resolve conflicts, and most important to achieve a goal.”

The organization can be a political minefield so it’s important to be savvy.  Find an organizational mentor who can help you maneuver through the organization.  Build and nurture solid relationships and increase your personal credibility.

9.  Become effective at persuasion

Impact and influence skills are key to getting to desired outcomes.  It’s important to understand your audience and tailor your communication to them.  Remember resistance is a sign that you haven’t built enough rapport.

We all have the potential to be stars, awaken your inner star power and become a star at work.

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Further Reading for Your Success:

We may have lost some face to face connection, but, in today’s world of social media, we have moved to faster, more frequent communication than ever before.

Now, more than ever, what you say and how you say it is critical to the person on the other end of your communication message.  Effective communication is the first step in building strong personal and professional relationships.

Fun facts about communication

• Rapport is established in the first 90 seconds or less!
• 93% of what is communicated is communicated and received unconsciously
• Tailoring your communication message to your audience enhances trust and credibility

Effective communication is key to building strong lasting personal and professional relationships.  Adjusting your communication style to that of your audience allows you to direct the conversation towards your desired outcomes.

There are four preferred communication styles:

1. Visual
2. Auditory
3. Kinesthetic
4. Auditory Digital

Visual Communicators

Visual communicators learn by seeing, and memorize by looking at pictures.  They tend to be distracted by long verbal instructions.  Appearance is important to them.  They are interested in how your message LOOKS.  No phrase captures Visual communicators better than “a picture paints a 1000 words.”

If you are communicating with Visuals you might send them pictures, videos, pictorial slides with images rather than written reports.  You should also look at the words you are using and use “visual” words and phrases, for example,

Words:  see, look, view, focus, appear
Phrases:  beyond a shadow of a doubt, bird’s eye view

Auditory Communicators

Auditory communicators learn by listening and by what they hear.  They will likely be literal listeners, so choose your words carefully when speaking to an auditory communicator.  Auditorys can be easily distracted by noise because they are listening so intently.  They like music, audio books and talking on the phone.  They will be most interested that your message SOUNDS right.

This means they will be interested in tele-seminars or conference call meetings.  Auditory listeners will memorize by steps, procedures and sequences so structure in your communication will be important.  They respond to tone of voice and words, and like to be told how they are doing.  With Auditory communicators use some of the following words and phrases,

Words:  hear, listen, sounds, resonate
Phrases:  rings a bell, manner of speaking, lend me your ear, hold your tongue

Kinesthetic Communicators

Kinesthetic communicators learn by doing, moving, acting out, and hands on experience.  They will often move and talk more slowly and breathily.  Often it will take a Kinesthetic communicator more words to articulate what they are trying to say.  Their interest is in how a message FEELS,  i.e. – Does it FEEL right?  Or does it give them a good GUT FEELING?

They memorize by doing or by walking through something.  Kinesthetics will respond favorably to the following words and phrases,

Words:  feel, touch, grasp, concrete
Phrases:  get a hold of, catch on, tap into, boils down to, hand in hand

Auditory Digital Communicators

Auditory Digital communicators often exhibit characteristics of the other three communication preferences.  They will be most interested that a message makes SENSE.

They too memorize by steps, procedures and sequences.  The most analytical of the four styles, Auditory Digital communicators will respond to the following words,

Words:  sense, understand, think, learn, process, decide, consider, know, change, or motivate.

How to communicate more effectively

Whenever you communicate in face to face interactions, over the phone, by email, through social media, or using other written content, consider these simple tips:

• Look for clues to tell you whether the person you are communicating with has a preference for Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic or Auditory Digital communication style
• Listen for keywords and keyword phrases others are using in their speech or written messages
• Experiment by matching and mirroring words to determine which words your listener grasps onto
• Prepare in advance by analyzing and understanding your audience in order to tailor your message to their preferred style
• When in doubt use all four communication styles in your verbal and written communication

Remember effective communication is key to building strong lasting personal and professional relationships.

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Further Reading on Communication:

Still the name of the game

In a meeting with a new client or potential business partner, what is the one thing you are most likely to exchange?  Business cards are still the name of the game.  With all the digital communication mediums available today, your business card might not be your most important networking tool.  However, your business card is still out there on the front lines, making impressions on others, and providing them with a means to contact you.

It is known that making a good first impression can be absolutely vital in commerce, and having a nice business card can help put you in a good light.  Your business card is a vital part of your networking toolkit, as it provides an early snapshot of you as an individual.  But what do others think when they see your business card?  Is your card plain or cluttered?  It is boring or stimulating?  Whatever the design, it is sure to spark some sort of thought from whoever is viewing your card, and you want to assure that the thought is positive.

What does a business card contain?

Name, contact information, position, and employer are basics that almost all business cards emphasize.  A company logo and address are also common, along with the user’s/company’s website.  Most people use an average card, but, by creating an above average business card, you can help further your professional image and make a better impression on your contacts.  During meetings, trade shows, or conventions you may distribute dozens of business cards, and those cards will be one of the only things your contact has to remember you by.

By utilizing your business card to its fullest extent you can:

• shape your identity
• make a good impression
• make yourself easy to contact

Even though creating an impressive business card will increase printing costs, it’s an investment that is worth every penny.  Here are 5 tips to keep in mind.

Business Card Basics – 5 Tips for a Better Card

1.  Don’t overdo it

Although you want your business card to impress and make a good impression, don’t get too complicated.  A sleek and simple card design may suffice.

2.  Print in color

Unless your business specifically benefits from using only black and white, a full-color business card is much better at catching attention and wowing a contact.  Using a glossy finish can help make your card stand out even more, especially if it utilizes a high amount of color.  However, certain colors often trigger certain emotions, so be careful when designing your card.  For example, reds can convey the ideas of power and strength, while green usually reinforces relaxation or serenity.

3.  Include your photo

During the course of business we interact with multiple people from multiple places, and remembering everyone’s name can be a hefty task.  By including a professional photo on your business card, you can help solidify your identity with those you meet.  Being able to put a name and a face together is a big aspect in creating memory and recall of you as an individual, and having both aspects on your business card helps others make that association.

4.  Don’t use a flimsy business card

The type of material your card is printed on and the thickness of your card are important details.  When you distribute business cards, you mean business!  By using a business card that is too thin or flimsy, others might get the wrong impression of you.  Simply using a heavy card stock or increasing the thickness of your card can make a positive difference in how others view you — Do you want your business card to tell others you are firm and solid, or do you want your card to tell others that you fold easily?

5.  Utilize the back of your card

The backside of your business card is usually left blank, but the space can be utilized for your benefit.  Adding relevant information such as a list of important phone numbers, dates, or locations can make your business card more valuable.  A map, calendar, business motto, personal statement, or inspirational quote might also be appropriate.  By adding some sort of content (or value) to your business card, you might just save it from the trash can.

On the other hand, leaving the back of your business card blank can be a good idea too. Depending on the nature of your business, you may want to use this space to personally connect to your client.  For example, if the back of your card is blank, you can write your cell number on it for a client after meeting them, making them feel special because they are getting “privileged” contact information that is not readily available on the front of your card.  You could also do the same with a personal email address or other information.

Put it all together

Each of these are small contributions towards creating that “wow” effect that elicits a favorable response from your contact.  By controlling these aspects of your business card, you can effectively control the impressions your card will make.  If you want to up the ante, you can add a QR code to your business card.

A new element – QR Codes

QR codes have exploded onto the scene the last few years and are becoming increasingly relevant to business professionals.  And although QR codes might still be considered a gadget for the younger crowd, people of all ages are beginning to see and accept their usability and functionality.

Originally designed for the automotive industry, QR codes, also known as quick response codes, are small matrix barcodes that appear as a pattern of black and white squares shaped into a larger square (as seen above).  To use a QR code, just take a photo of the code with a smartphone QR code application, and the code will automatically route you to a website or landing page.  Utilizing a QR code on your business card presents a new opportunity to make yourself visible, and the motion is gaining popularity.  LinkedIn profiles and company websites are two common destinations for professionals using QR codes on their business cards.

However, a communication tool called an ANT, or Audible Name Tag, is utilizing QR codes in a new way.  An ANT is a virtual business card that contains your contact information, social media links, a photo, and it also pronounces your name, in your own voice.  By embedding your ANT into a QR code on your business card, someone can scan your code and immediately have access to your complete contact information. Instead of being limited to the basic contact information on the front of your card, others can quickly connect with you via your social media links such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.  In addition, by allowing others to hear your voice that is recorded on your ANT, you make yourself more available and may even seem more approachable.  If your name is hard to pronounce like mine is, you could save your contact the embarrassment of mispronouncing your name.

Ultimately, if you remain vigilant about the design and printing of your business card, you can help shape your image in the minds of others and continue to make good impressions.  As technology improves and new innovations arise, even business cards are not immune to a facelift in functionality.  In times of uncertainty, we need to embrace change and adapt as needed; your business card is no exception.

Jon Visaisouk is the U.S. Western Regional Manager of ANTVibes Inc., creator of the Audible Name Tag.  After 8 years of working as Safeway.com Manager of the Seattle Eastside and attaining an Associate’s in Business, he is now in the process of completing his BBA.

While enduring a lifetime of name mispronunciation, Jon came across the Audible Name Tag, or ANT, and is now bringing awareness and dignity to names of all kinds.  You can sign up for your free ANT today or learn more about Audible Name Tags on the ANTVibes website, www.antvibes.com.  You can also contact Jon directly at jonv@antvibes.com.

Further Reading on Networking

I believe that everything happens to us in our lives on some level as a result of our own making.  On some level, either knowingly or unknowingly, we attract our destiny to ourselves.

While I believe we can’t always control what happens to us, I believe we can control how we choose to respond or react to whatever happens to us, and that makes all the difference.

“Response Ability”

When we take “response ability” for everything that happens to us, we maintain power and control and come from a place of empowerment.  Accepting “response ability” is not about accepting blame or fault for what happens.  It simply means that we accept what has happened and choose to respond, not by blaming others or ourselves, but rather with the most appropriate action that will positively move us forward.

Don’t Give Up Your Power

On the effect side of the equation, you have your reasons and your excuses for why your life is the way it is:

• “I can’t make more money because my company won’t promote me.”
• “The house is a mess because my teenagers won’t listen to me.”
• “I can’t be happy because my husband is out every weekend without me.”
• “I’m not valued at work because the boss doesn’t like me.”

If you remain “at effect” that’s the same as giving up your power or control.  This can be a very negative and disempowering way to live your life. 

Do you wish to continue to argue for and support your limitations?  Wouldn’t it be more empowering to take control of your life and start creating more synchronicity in order to move towards a more compelling positive future?

Here are 7 tips to help you maintain a positive “response ability” and to move in a synchronistic way towards more positive outcomes…

1.  Accept your current situation 

Accepting your current situation doesn’t mean you have to agree with it or live with it.  It simply means you acknowledge where you are presently.  Think of it as a starting point.  When you accept where you are without blame or excuse, it necessitates taking action.

2.  Look for opportunities 

It has been said “when one door closes another one opens”.  Doors are being opened for us all the time.  We need to be observant and open-minded to notice the potential opportunities that are there for us.

3.  Treat events and disappointments as life lessons 

There is no failure only feedback.  Every experience we have in some way moves us forward.  Either through learning what not to do, or by supporting us in getting closer to our desired outcomes.  Learn from your experiences.  Ask yourself the following question—What do I need to learn from this event?

4.  Be curious about who you cross paths with

I’m always curious about who I meet and cross paths with.  What do I need to learn from them?  What am I here to teach them?  How can they help me?  How can I help them?

5.  Accept personal responsibility for change

Your desire and willingness to change is up to you, just as my desire and willingness to change is up to me.  If you wish to change your current situation, you have to be willing to first change yourself.  There’s no magic solution.  You are in charge of your results.

6.  Set clear intentions

Be clear about your expectations and outcomes.  Then let go of the “how” and prepare yourself to be amazed at what unfolds for you.  So often, we want to map out all the steps and get stuck when we come across an obstacle in our path.  Keep the focus on your goals and intentions.

7.  Create synchronicity

Creating synchronicity is an inside job.  Recognize that you have the power to create synchronicity in your life.  It starts with your thoughts, your feelings, and ultimately, your actions.  Success equals right thinking plus right action!

Synchronicity is the coming together of two or more events at just the right time and place.  Some people might call this coincidence.  When you set your intention for a positive outcome and stay open to opportunities, you are opening yourself up to tremendous possibilities.  You have all the resources you need to succeed and the power to achieve your desired outcomes.

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Further Reading on Synchronicity:

Why is it that some speakers captivate an audience from the very start of their presentation, while other speakers don’t?

  
 
Great presenters have structure to their presentations and a consistent format they use to ensure fabulous presentations every time they speak to a group.  Great presenters understand that individuals within the audience have different learning styles and they know how to grab the attention of each.
 
 

The 4Mat System

Based on the work of David Kolb and Bernice McCarthy, the 4Mat System is one of the most widely used learning and teaching systems today.  The 4Mat system is an easy and practical way to prepare presentations.  Based on this system, there are four basic learning styles:

• “Why”
• “What”
• “How”
• “What If”

 
 
Why?

“Why” learners need to have their why questions answered before they will be interested in hearing about the “what”, “how” or “what if”.  They need reasons and relevance.  As a presenter, you need to answer the question:  “Why” is this topic important to the audience.  They learn best by listening and sharing.  The more reasons you can offer to answer the question “why” or “why not”, the more likely you will capture the interest of the “why” learner/participant, who will represent the largest portion of your audience at about 35%. 

I once observed a presenter who went right into the “what” of his presentation skipping the “why” only to have “why” questions popping up throughout his presentation, slowing down the flow and confusing the heck out of the audience.

 
What?

“What” learners are more patient than “why” learners so they will patiently wait to have “why” questions addressed.  They will be interested in “what” the topic is all about.  They will want to know the specifics about the topic.  They will want to know as much information as you can provide on the topic to deepen their understanding.  So it is important you fill up their “what” before you move to addressing the “how”. 

These learners learn by thinking through ideas.  About 22% of your audience will be “what” learners.

 
How?

“How” learners will patiently wait for the “why” and “what” information to be provided.  They are interested in “how” it works.  They want to know about “how” to apply the information.  They will be interested in trying it out, experimenting or practicing, and learn best by testing theories in ways that make sense. 

About 18% of your audience will be “how” learners.

 
What If?

“What if” learners, the most patient of learners, will sit through the “why”, “what” and the “how” and they will be most interested in the application of the material.  What would happen if… ?  What if I did this?  They will look for the hidden possibilities.  They will patiently sit through the presentation and then have a list of questions to ask during the question and answer period. 

They learn best through trial and error.  They will represent about 25% of the audience.

 
 
Here are the 4 easy steps to ensure consistently interesting presentations:

1. Start your presentation with a thorough list of reasons why your topic is of importance.  Use wording like:  “Here is why you want to know about this topic.”  Share with your audience all the benefits of knowing about the topic to gain their interest and keep them interested in learning more.
2. Then tell the audience what your topic is all about.  Here is where you get to share everything you know about the topic.  Use wording like:  “Here’s what the topic is all about” or “Here’s what you need to know about this topic”.
3. Then tell the audience how to.  This might include describing steps of a process, providing a demonstration, doing a group activity or exercise so that they get to experience the presentation content.  “Here’s how to do x”.
4. Lastly, you should include a question and answer period at the end of your presentation so that what if questions can be fully answered.

Be the speaker that captivates his/her audience from now on. 

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Further Reading on the 4Mat System:

Whether you are coaching an employee or making a business decision you are probably tapping into your intuition.  Intuition is sometimes referred to as “gut feeling”, “sixth sense” or “knowing”.  Regardless of what you call it, we all use our intuition everyday in multiple ways.  Often we don’t recognize it as intuition as the information may come to us symbolically or in fragmented bits of information.

So why would anyone wish to increase their intuitive ability?  Practicing and harnessing your intuition skills will allow you to make better decisions and choices, enhance your  business and personal relationships, increase your confidence to follow your hunches, better understand other people and allow you to tap into your inner most dreams and desires. 

Here are 10 ways you can begin to practice using your intuition to hone your intuitive ability:

1.  Look at newspaper photos

Read a newspaper by first looking at the photo only without reading the corresponding headline or story.  Make up a story about the photo you are looking at.  Then read the story to see how accurate your impression was.  The more you practice this, the easier it will be to look at a photo and be able to accurately tell the story.

2.  Guess who is calling

Whenever the phone rings try and guess who the caller is before you pick the phone up.  You will be amazed by how often you will get it right.  Track the success of your guesses and notice how quickly you make progress.

3.  Think about someone you know

As you think of someone you know, see them clearly in your mind.  Notice how long it takes for the person you are thinking about to call you.  Document your results.

4.  Ask a question

Using a regular coin assign “yes” or “no” to heads or tails.  Then ask yes/no questions and flip the coin to get answers.  Notice and journal how you feel as you receive answers to your questions.

5.  Pay attention to your surroundings

As you go about your regular day notice numbers, billboard messages, signs and anything else in your environment that may be considered a message for you.  Nothing is random.  Everything is meaningful to you.  Often that very issue that you are wrestling with in your thoughts is displayed as a sign right in front of you; all you need to do is pay attention.

6.  Shuffle a deck of cards

Shuffle a regular deck of cards.  Then predict whether the card you are about to turn over is red or black.  Then turn over the card.  Track the percentage of correct predictions and notice how much better you get over time.  Once you’ve got that down, practice predicting whether the card you are about to flip over is hearts, diamonds, spades or clubs.  Keep track of your progress.

7.  Predict a song

While listening to the radio, try and predict what song will come up within the next hour.  Then listen for the song to be played.  Keep listening for your song to play and hear how often your prediction is correct.

8.  Randomly eavesdrop on conversations

Pay attention to snippets of information from a conversation you might overhear in a public place.  Often these random pieces of information can be strung together to make meaning for you about a personal or business situation you might currently be dealing with.  Listen for answers to questions you have.

9.  Randomly flip to a page in a book

Pick a book from your bookcase and begin flipping through it, stopping on a random page.  Begin reading anywhere on the page and you will be amazed at how relevant what you are reading relates to whatever is going on in your life at the moment.  Practice this regularly to gain valuable insights.

10.  Act on your hunches

The best way to practice intuition is to act on your hunches.  Often we get a gut feeling about a situation and then ignore it, only to later wish we had paid attention to it.  Use your hunch just like you would another piece of valuable information.

Intuition is a skill like any other.  You can develop your intuition by applying it consciously and through regular practice.  The more you practice your intuitive ability the more confident you will become in using your intuition. 

For many of us, tapping into our intuition is an unconscious process that bypasses our logical analytical mind.  As we become more consciously aware of our intuitive ability we can begin to integrate information we receive in our surroundings from all our senses:  sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, as well as from our intuition.  As you become more comfortable using and tapping into your intuition, notice how much more easily it is to make personal and professional decisions, know what you really want, and confidently move forward towards achieving your goals and dreams.

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Books on Developing Your Intuition:

Why is it that two people watching the same accident have two totally different accounts of what just occurred?  They both saw the same accident–yet, they processed two very different versions.

According to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in the book Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, we take in 2 million pieces of information/second, yet we can only process 134 bits/second.  How then do we determine which 134 bits of information to focus on?  We choose those 134 bits of information based on our:

• values
• beliefs
• attitudes
• past experiences
• memories
• and how we process information

To illustrate this point, let’s have some fun. 

• Look around the room you are currently in and notice all the items in the room that are colored white (for some of you this might be easy, for others you may have to really look carefully for “white” items). 

• Now, close your eyes and try to remember all the items in the room that were the color “black”. 
• Notice how challenging this task is, given that I directed you to look for the colour “white”. 
• Now, open your eyes and look around the room and notice just how many “black” colored items you missed when asked to recall them. 
• There are just as many “black” items now that you are noticing them as there was when you were only searching “white” items.  The only thing that changed was the focus you were giving to the two different colours. 

This is just one example of how differently two people might see their respective worlds. 

How do you see the world?

• Are you a glass half full person, or are you a glass half empty person?
• What is the first thing you see, hear, or feel in any situation? 
• Are you looking for and noticing the positive side of things?
• Or do you gravitate towards the negatives, the risks, and what is wrong with the situation? 

Both scenarios are present – the positive and the negative – you, the observer, get to choose how to interpret the situation.

Oh sure, you have your reasons for seeing things a certain way.  We all have baggage we carry around with us that affects how we view the world.  To quote Dr. Phil, “how is that working for you?”  If it’s working, and you are truly happy in every area of your life, great!  However, if there is any area of your life that isn’t working, look at how you might change your perception of the situation so that you are experiencing the most positive 134 bits out of the 2 million bits of information available.

Here are 5 steps to help you more positively focus your attention:

1. Ask yourself… What perspective are you currently holding as you evaluate a particular situation?
2. Ask yourself… What other perspectives are possible that you may not have considered to this point?
3. Ask yourself… Which perspective would offer you the best and highest positive potential for an optimal outcome?
4. Holding the best and highest positive potential perspective… What are some actions you could take?
5. Go ahead and take positive action!

Your world is a mirror that reflects back to you what you are seeing, hearing, feeling and sensing.  Your perception truly is a projection of what is going on in your inner world.  Here’s the good news–you get to choose how you interpret any situation.  So choose wisely.

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Other Books by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi:

Walk into any human resource manager’s office and you’ll see boxes, forms, manuals, company branded merchandise and other tools of the trade.  It’s a never-ending stream of 401K applications, medical benefit guides and benefit booklets.  Let’s face it, when an employee has a request, it’s nice to be able to reach into a box, pile or file cabinet and hand them the form.

But what if it didn’t have to be this way?  What if there was a magical place, where you could direct employees or members of the human resource department so that they could get the form or manual they need on their own?

Welcome to the Cloud.  Your New Virtual Assistant.

You may have heard about cloud computing, where companies are utilizing computers in remote locations instead of on-site.  The idea is that no company uses 100% of their computer resources all of the time, so why not share them in a secure way.  The savings are significant when a company only pays for what they need, when they need it.

Well the same concept is now available to human resource groups.  In the same way that computing power is shared, other types of resources can be shared, such as warehouses and printing.  By sending all of the materials that support the employee lifecycle to a cloud resource, materials can be ordered over the Internet by employees or authorized members of the human resources team, and then sent directly where they are needed. 

Typical Human Resource Cloud-based Applications:

• Benefit guide printing and distribution
• New hire kits
• Training material management and distribution
• Retirement planning guides
• Posters and brochures for HR event promotion
• Kitting and warehousing of “logo” merchandise
• Warehousing of medical and 401K kits and guides
• Online ordering storefront for all HR related materials

Selecting a Cloud Services Provider

The first step in selecting a cloud services provider is to capture all of your requirements.  Identify and list all of the materials you use to support the employee lifecycle and the type of access you would like to those materials.  Importantly, list those things are supplied by others, such as 401K literature and what is printed by your company.

Once you have your “wish list” together, you can then begin to identify cloud services that can best meet your requirements.

When selecting a cloud services provider, be sure to look for the following capabilities:

• On-Demand Printing:  For most materials, there is no need to print any quantity in advance, in favor of printing what you need when you need them.  This approach has many advantages, including the ability to update materials throughout the year, the elimination of warehouse expense and the expense associated with disposing of out of date materials.  Most companies throw out 25% of what is printed because they become out of date before they are used!!  By switching to digital on-demand printing, materials are printed immediately after being ordered, with no minimum or maximum order quantities.  For example, with an on-demand printer, you’ll be able to order sets of materials for each new hire, when they are hired.  Better yet, you’ll be able to arrange for shipping directly to the employee.  Prices for these types of services are based on your estimated annual print volume, so each item you print is relatively inexpensive, not to mention the time saved when you have your on-demand printer pack and send materials.

• Warehousing:  Not everything can be printed on demand.  For this reason, it’s important that the on-demand printer you choose has a warehouse at each of their facilities.  This way, your 401K kits and Medical Enrollment Guides can be sent from the provider directly to the cloud warehouse.  The idea is to be able to order items that are printed on-demand along with any pre-printed item sent by your partners.  The warehouse can also be used to store items unique to your company such as binders, shirts, pens, jump drives, back packs and other popular items.  Usually you can source these types of items yourself or have your warehouse operator source them for you.

• Online Storefront Capability:  This is an exciting development where you can set up your own version of an “Amazon” private storefront.  You are then able to stock your store with all of the materials and warehoused items needed to support your programs.  Human resource managers and other employees can be authorized to select items from your “store” as they are needed.  Storefronts can even be integrated into your corporate intranet, making them secure and easy to access.  When an employee needs something they can just go and order it.  These storefronts have built in tracking capabilities, so you know who ordered what and when.  It’s perfect for organizations that need to track who received certain materials, particularly on issues such as confidentiality and sexual harassment.

• Online Document Customization:  Often, it’s nice to be able to personalize materials with the name of the employee or student.  With customization, materials can be personalized in pre-determined areas with text and graphics.  This is a particularly helpful feature for anyone involved in training, where you can have the name of the course, time and teacher printed on each workbook or guide.

• Online Document Management, Ordering, and Tracking Tools:  The first step in using an outsourced provider is to upload your materials into a virtual library.  Make sure the library is unlimited in size.  By not being restricted in how much you can upload, you can derive the most flexibility and greatest overall benefit for your company.  In that instance, the fees that are charged are typically built into the cost of print and warehousing.  Other helpful tools include the ability to combine multiple file types into one document and the ability to preview your work in an online viewer as you change print options.  For example, you should be able to select and preview different binding and paper types and be able to add tabs to any document through the online interface.  This virtually eliminates the need for a physical proof.

Getting Started with a Cloud Services Company

We suggest starting your review with one of the biggest and best known providers, Mimeo (*see Bonus Offer below).  They offer all of the capabilities mentioned and many more.  As the leader in the field, they can serve as a baseline for understanding what to expect.  Be sure to ask for a demonstration of the online tools, administrative capabilities and Mimeo Marketplace, their online storefront.  Ask about any necessary IT involvement (cloud services shouldn’t need any), and costs.  Most companies will provide a free demonstration and a tour of their facilities if needed.

Time Needed to Get Started

The beauty of cloud-based services is that they set up quickly and make an immediate impact on your department’s budget.  All of that clutter that is used to support the employee lifecycle can be organized and managed by your provider, freeing your staff to do more important things, such as taking care of your employees.

*Mimeo Special Bonus Offer - To help get you started, Mimeo has offered a deal to all HumanResources.com readers.  Visit Mimeo now to automatically get 50% off your first order. Plus, on your second order you’ll receive 25% by entering coupon code P25HR365.  You can also call Mimeo at 1-800-466-4636 (1.800.Go.Mimeo) and mention offer code P25HR365.

You lost your job a few months ago, and with it went your health insurance and family dental plan.  And today, that lingering hot and/or cold rush you’ve felt on one of your molars for weeks has turned into serious tooth pain.  

Now, what used to be a cavity filling for around $100, turned into a root canal with a $900 price tag.  Even worse, the dentist needs to top off that procedure with a crown for $1,000.

It might not be much for tooth comfort right now, but stories like this are becoming more common.  According to recent news articles,

“about 10 million Americans have lost their dental insurance in the past few years as the recession weakened the reach of employer plans.”

When the recession (officially) began in 2007 and the economy started to take hold of family finances, many people were forced to re-allocate funds to keep up with house payments, groceries and the bare necessities.  Often left out of the adjusted budget were cleanings and routine checkups at the dentist. 

In 2008, more than one-third of Americans opted to not see a dentist, according to a Kaiser Health Tracking Poll.  It was the second-most popular way people tried to cut their health care costs.  By 2010, the U.S. Department of Labor estimated that nearly 8 million jobs were lost during the recession.  Dentists even started to feel the pinch when their profit margins nationally bottomed out in 2007 and 2008. 

As a result, job seekers and families have been going through severe tooth pains with no dental insurance. 

Will Work for Dental Care

A few of the money-saving dental care tricks some people have been checking out have taken them as far as Costa Rica for a “dental vacation” and cheaper costs, or, joining a waiting list at a local university’s dental school for work done by students at a fraction of the cost.

Another way job seekers have been keeping up with their family’s teeth, while finding discounts without insurance, is through lesser-known discount dental plans to fit their planned or unplanned dental health needs.  These low-cost alternatives to dental insurance have no annual limits, activate within three business days and can save a job seeker 10 to 60 percent on their family’s dental care.

How Dental Savings Plans Work

Media outlets like Forbes and the New York Times have reported on an online resource for people to find dental savings plans in their area—DentalPlans.com.

Visitors enter a ZIP code to search for the best dental plan or the nearest dentist in their area.  For instance, a search in Ohio could return the Careington Care 500 Series Plan, which offers 20 to 60 percent off six-month checkups, cleanings, root canals and more for all household members.

DentalPlans.com lists and compares 30+ plans and more than 100,000 participating dentists across America. 

Available website plans in your area will be highlighted, with an option to view sample plan savings and discounts on common procedures.  Each dental savings plan also comes with a fee schedule so you and your family can anticipate how much a certain procedure might cost and discuss with your dentist.  Some plans even include discounts at orthodontists, pediatric dentists and oral surgeons, as well as savings programs for prescriptions and vision care. 

Coupon Code for HumanResources.com Readers:

If your family is looking for an alternative to dental insurance, HumanResources.com readers can visit DentalPlans.com and use coupon code “HumanResources10″ for an additional 10% off a dental savings plan.

*NEW* For a limited time receive 3 extra months free!

- New Edition of the Handbook of Employee Benefits Contains Critical Details About the New U.S. Health Care Reform Law. -

Over the years, the ubiquitous “Handbook of Employee Benefits” by Jerry Rosenbloom has been a staple on the bookshelves of HR managers across the U.S.  For over three decades it has provided reliable insight and answers on how to design and implement a sound employee benefits program. 

As of June 2011, the Handbook has gone through a major update and is now in its 7th edition.  Since the last update in 2005, the world of health and group benefits has gone through substantial change, and in response, the Handbook has kept pace.  Specifically, the Handbook now covers critical new information that every HR person in the U.S. needs to know regarding the recent Health Care Reform Law, through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

The updated book is divided into the following topics:

The Environment of Employee Benefit Plans

Definitions, functional approach to designing, evaluating, and risk concepts.

Medical and Other Health Benefits

Evolution of health plans, cost containment, managing and measuring care management intervention programs, consumer-driven health care plans, behavioral health care benefits, quality of health care, pharmacy benefits, dental plan design, long-term care insurance, and disability income benefits.

Life Insurance Benefits

Group life insurance, and business uses of life insurance.

Work/Life Benefits

Time off benefits, family and medical leave programs, dependent care programs, educational assistance programs, group legal services plans, qualified transportation fringe benefits, voluntary benefits, and financial planning as an employee benefit.

Social Insurance Programs

Social Security and Medicare, disability benefits, survivor benefits, Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits, Workers’ Compensation, and unemployment compensation.

Employee Benefit Plan Administration

Strategic benefit plan management, cafeteria plan design and administration, fiduciary liability issues under ERISA, and employee benefits communications.

Group and Health Benefit Plan Financial Management

Federal tax law requirements for group welfare benefit plans, and funding health benefits – insured, self-funded, and captive arrangements.

Employee Benefit Plan Issues

Welfare benefits for retirees, employee benefit plans for small companies, multiemployer plans, and global employee benefits.

As you can see, the breadth and depth of knowledge of the employee benefit discipline that is covered in this volume is simply second to none.  Since individual chapters are written by some of the leading minds in the field, from academics to consultants to attorneys to human resources professionals, it provides a nice balance between reinforcing trusted theories and imparting wisdom gained through practical experience.

And now that it has been updated to include current information and real-world examples, the Handbook of Employee Benefits can serve HR and benefits professionals as the ultimate indespensible reference tool.

Read an excerpt at Amazon.com.

Other Resources on Employee Benefits

Ever wonder why goals seem so impossible to reach at times?

Last month I travelled to Peru to hike the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu.  It has been a personal goal of mine for some time to visit the ruins, hike the trail and to fully experience the country and its people.  So, last fall I finally booked a family trip to Peru after a few years of planning and organizing.

To hike the Inca Trail you have to be in good physical shape.  Our trek was 42 km over 4 days, which seems easy enough.  However, climbing over 3 mountain passes at high altitudes reaching over 4200 meters above sea level at 60 degree inclines is no small feat, especially for an overweight middle-aged woman.  But, I was determined to do the trail and to overcome any mountains in my way.

 
To ensure I had the physical capability to complete the trek, I began my physical training six months prior to the trip.  My goal to hike the Inca Trail turned out to be more than just a physical challenge.  Completing the hike became as much a mental and an emotional challenge as it was physical.  Needless to say, you learn a lot about yourself and your capabilities when you take on an adventure like this.

Here’s what I learned about reaching goals while hiking the Inca Trail:

Have a clear vision.

My goal was to hike the Inca Trail and reach Machu Picchu while fully enjoying the process of getting there.  Often we are not clear with our goals.  This causes us to meander without a clear sense of purpose.  The more clarity we have on the goal the easier it is to stay focused on what’s most important.

Maintain focus on the goal. 

As I hiked those 4 days I kept telling myself that the view from the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu would be worth it.  I kept telling myself that completing the trail would be a great sense of accomplishment and pride.  These constant reminders really kept me grounded and on task.

Keep moving forward.

Day 2 of the hike was the hardest part of the trek; 12 km on a steep angle up towards appropriately named “Dead Woman’s Pass”, the highest point on the trail.  It was not easy to breathe, which meant hiking was slow.  But taking it slow and easy was a strategy.  One minute of hiking, two minutes of resting, all the way up the slopes until I reached the peak.  Admittedly, I was slower than most hikers, but, the important thing was to keep moving forward in the direction of my goal.  Eventually I would get there on my own time.  What’s important is that you continue to take steps forward no matter how big or small.

See obstacles as opportunities. 

There could have been many obstacles real and imagined along the trail if that was what I had chosen to focus on.  There were many steep slopes, difficult rocks to climb, breathing issues, blisters on my feet, steep mountain drops, mosquitoes, etc.  I chose, however, to focus on the opportunities.  My very slow but steady pace meant that I met lots of wonderful and interesting people from around the globe also hiking who stopped to chat with me and encouraged me to keep going.

Enjoy the views along the journey. 

My 19 year old son raced forward and took a nap along the trail at one point.  I, on the other hand, got to see many varieties of birds, interesting plants and flowers and magnificent vistas as I slowly progressed forward.  You hike through 15 ecosystems while on the trail so there were lots to see and enjoy.

Celebrate milestones often. 

When I finally reached “Dead Woman’s Pass”, the rest of my hiking group was already there to greet me and cheer.  Each member of our hiking group remained at the top cheering as the rest of the members also reached the peak.  It was only the halfway mark of Day 2, but a great milestone to celebrate.  Once all of us had reached the top, we took photos to enjoy the moment and capture it forever.  The rest of Day 2 was downhill and a welcome relief for me.

Stop to revel in achieving your goal. 

When I finally got to Sun Gate and saw Machu Picchu in its full glory I instantly felt emotion bubbling up inside me.  The trek gave me a peek into the history and culture of the people and the country, experiencing the same trek as the great Incas.  It also gave me a great sense of accomplishment for being there in that moment to enjoy what I was seeing and experiencing and a feeling of “I did it”.  Many of us get to our goal and don’t stop to revel in accomplishing it, but rather go onto the next goal or the next challenge.  It’s important to take a moment, be in the joy of achieving the goal and celebrate it fully.

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Further Reading on Goal Setting:

Over the past 5 years, since I began my professional coaching practice, I have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people experiencing overwhelm.  This heightened feeling of being stretched to the limit can contribute to increased sleepless nights, increased levels of stress, a sense of loss of control or panic, increased feelings of guilt and an overall decreased level of self-confidence.

According to a study conducted by Catalyst in 2009, “55% of employees are stressed to the point of feeling extremely fatigued and out of control.”  Studies conducted by Statistics Canada highlight that “Men and Women age 35-54 report the highest degree of stress” with “working women more likely than working men to report high levels of perceived life stress.”

Sound overwhelming?  If you can relate to any of the above, consider some ways to overcome overwhelm, reduce stress and regain control:

1.  Make a list of everything currently on your plate. 

Many people who claim they are overwhelmed have difficulty coming up with more than 15-20 items on their “to do” list.  The very act of writing down the things you need to do (or are overwhelmed about) helps you de-clutter your mind.

2.  Review and prioritize the list. 

How many of the items on the list are truly “must do” items?  Review the list carefully and determine if anything can be delegated to others.  Consider those items that are “nice to do” and remove them from the list.  Prioritize the remaining list.  Looking at the list objectively helps to minimize the feeling of being overwhelmed.

3.  Control what you can, and let go of what you can’t. 

Many people put a lot of attention on things they have no control over.  Ask yourself if this thing you feel overwhelmed about is something you have control over or not.  Focus your energy and attention on what you can control.

4.  Be okay with an 80% solution. 

How much is your time and energy worth to you?  Perfection is rarely expected nor appreciated and yet so many of us spend countless hours trying to get things perfect.

5.  Release stress. 

According to Statistics Canada, “Canadians who are physically active report lower levels of stress.”  Regular exercise can help lower stress and build resilience.  Other ways to release stress include:  deep breathing exercises, meditation, getting sufficient sleep and laughter.

6.  Turn negative thinking into positive thoughts and actions. 

Are you focusing on “how bad things are” or “how much work you have to do?”  Learn to change your thinking to more positive thoughts.  Focus instead on all the good things that are happening to you or around you, or focus on how much you have accomplished today.  Maintaining your focus on your progress rather than on how much there is left to do will help you maintain a sense of balance and optimism.

7.  Change your perspective. 

Sometimes we are so immersed in the details of things that we lose sight of the big picture.  There is usually much less emotion and much greater objectivity from a bigger broader picture view of the situation.  When you find yourself too close to an emotionally charged situation, ask yourself how the situation would look from the “10,000 foot  above” perspective?

While regaining focus and control may feel like an uphill battle, overcoming overwhelm is possible when you put yourself first, step back and truly consider your options and possible actions.

Linda Cattelan, Career & Life Coach and the President of Results Catalyst Inc. – a professional coaching and training company focused on individuals and teams to maximize human potential and to achieve personal and professional success.  Linda shares over 25 years of corporate experience, much of it at the senior executive level.  A superior track record coaching and mentoring senior managers, executives and entrepreneurs to consistently achieve outstanding results Linda is brilliant at using various self discovery techniques to facilitate getting at core issues instrumental for personal and professional breakthrough.

Holding a Masters Degree in Business Administration, Linda is a Certified Trainer and Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach.  Linda is a regular guest of radio and television and a Contributing Author of the inspirational and informative networking book, The Power of Women United.

If you are interested in closing the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in any area of your life or you are interested in learning more about Linda Cattelan or Results Catalyst Inc. then simply click here: http://www.resultscatalyst.ca

Further Reading on Reducing Stress and Overwhelm: