It's Your Calendar

What's out - the commute

What's in - open times on calendars

Wait what? Did someone just book a meeting at 7 am? Yes, yes they did.

We know that you're not on a plane, train, or automobile, so we know you're available… right?  

You don't have to be.

Block your time. Make yourself unavailable and if you're still feeling guilty about it, add a note like:

• “I can be available if it's critical”

• “Genius at work!”

• or a question like, “Can it wait?”

If someone asks for that block of time, offer 30 or 45 minutes v.s. the whole hour.

it's a new world, let's set some new rules.

Want more tips? Check out our next open coaching calls, this Wednesday, April 8th.

10 am CT - Team Members click here

12 pm CT - Managers  click here

Stay inside, stay safe and stay connected,  Ann

Unstable Connections

You know that message you get on the really important Zoom calls- the one that says, “Your connection was interrupted”. When you find yourself yelling back at the computer, “My whole life has been interrupted!”

Yeah, we hear you.

For a more stable internet connection…

Try these tips:

1. Move closer to your WiFi router

2. Limit devices on your network 

   1. turn off your other devices (phone, tablet, Xbox, Smart TV, etc)

   2. disconnect them from WiFi

   3. Unplug anything hanging out in a charger

3. Plug it in, choose an ethernet cable when possible

4. Turn off Alexa so she doesn’t pop up and offer to help

For a more stable human connection…

Have at least one real conversation this week. You might not feel like it when you’re dialing, but chances are there will be some smiles and laughter and you will leave with a better mindset.

Another great way to connect is to join us today on one of our free group coaching calls.

Wednesday, April 1st

10 am CT - Team Members click here

12 pm CT - Managers  click here

People over Productivity

As managers, we’re wired to measure success in numbers.  But right now, those metrics might not look so good. We’re a nation distracted by the news and the new remote workplace.

What’s a Manager to do?

It will do you and your team good to switch your focus from numbers to people for now. 

• Try a phone call that starts with “How are you?” and really listen.

• Resist the urge to multi-task, these are the conversations that really matter.

Tip: Turn away from the computer to listen. In fact, it’s a good chance to stand up and walk around while you chat.

• Don’t worry about having all the answers. Focus instead on listening, acknowledging and helping them set new realistic expectations for their day.

We’re hosting more free, open coaching calls today at 10 am CT and 12 pm CT. Follow the links if you’d like to chat!

From the office desk to the kitchen table.

If your team is now working from home and productivity and motivation have tanked, we’re here to throw you a lifeline. Let us help you navigate your way through the Coronavirus crisis.

Today, we are holding FREE office hours to share strategies to help you keep communicating, stay connected and remain calm.

RSVP on Calendly:

- Academic: https://calendly.com/awardcoach/office-hours-academic

- Professionals: https://calendly.com/awardcoach/office-hours-professionals

- Managers: https://calendly.com/awardcoach/office-hours-managers

Smile. Breathe. Rock on,

Ann

"I can't get no... satisfaction"

If you’re a perfectionist, this isn’t just a fitting karaoke song, but also a nagging little, joy-thief residing in your head.

Trying to be perfect is like trying to perfectly fold a fitted sheet - it’s never gonna happen. So, you (and everyone else) always fall short, and you’re left feeling disappointed and depressed.  

Sound familiar?

Instead of asking if it’s done or if it’s perfect, ask:

• “What have you tried?”

• “What have you learned?”

• “Are we on track?”

Give it a try and let us know how it goes at ann@wardcertified.com.

Boo!

Managers are scary.

If you’re a manager, your employees are probably intimidated by you — no matter how friendly you are — simply because of your position. And when people are intimidated, they’re less likely to offer ideas or point out problems. Keep in mind how your title affects the ways others perceive you.

For example: if you ask a tough question about a project, a senior peer might hear a useful critique, while a junior employee might just hear criticism.

Consider how colleagues view your facial expressions and body language. Is it possible that, say, some employees see your thoughtful frown as an angry scowl? Ask a trusted colleague for feedback about any body language that might be off-putting.

You can also try being up front about your tics: “I know that I frown when I’m thinking, but that doesn’t mean I’m upset.”

Finally, be mindful of how you react to comments and questions. If you respond negatively when you’re challenged, people will be less likely to speak up in the future.

How do you control your scare-factor?

Easy does it…

High expectations can motivate team members. But if your standards are too high, you may be doing more damage than good, possibly hurting the self-confidence of those on your team.

To temper the negative effects of overly ambitious expectations, try the following three things.

1. Be judicious about when and how often you express dissatisfaction. In situations where people need to improve, push them to stretch, but if people sense you’re constantly discontent, they’ll be demoralized.

2. Make sure every person on your team knows what you value about them. If you want them to take your critique to heart, it’s imperative they also know what you find special about them and their contributions.

3. Communicate your expectations ahead of time, not just after someone has failed to meet them.

   Bonus tip: Be self-compassionate, cut yourself a little slack. You will be more forgiving of others if you loosen unrealistic expectations of yourself.