Posted on

TRUST. TRAINING. TEAMS

They say, “trust who you train and train who you trust, I completely agree. Training the right people with preferable qualities will result in higher productivity and enhance performance. Staff are more confident, compliant and competent by increasing their knowledge and understanding. Training someone or a group of people insinuates a level of trust where your investing knowledge, expertise, time and exercising patience with a level of expectancy. You expect a return on your investment. You expect commitment, loyalty, growth and development. 

If you are going to train your team, allow room for mistakes but enable them the freedom to fail forward. To turn things into teachable moments. Micromanagement of any kind will aggravate and increase anxiety.  If they are properly trained and are well equipped and have adapted to their roles, then if they make wrong moves you can address it because at this point they should know better.

Training individuals you trust is tricky. You can pour into an individual and they either aren’t teachable or have a fixed mindset. That can feel like a tug of war on most days but its best to train anyway and enable them to be liable for the outcome. Sometimes we invest in the wrong people. We fail to recognize potential and good character in others and select sub-par participants. In life, things will happen and people will fail you. However. A good leader you must be able to pivot outcomes. 

Person may have certain skill but require character development. Quick thinking and being a solutional leader are needed here. Everyone should be cross trained to enable gaps and voids to be filled. Sometimes, we humans tend to train people we will perform well in a certain area and neglect others whom we are oblivious to their potential. It’s imperative to be aware and observant. There is potential all around us. Maybe we trained someone in systems management or logistics and although the information is good to know, it’s just not their thing. Could it be they are better off in another department?

A person may fail to produce results. Maybe this person is misplaced and doesn’t need to be thrown away (fired or moved unbeknownst to them) but reassigned. Their strengths have yet to be tapped into. Could it be this person outgrew this role or the role outgrew them?… a major factor to consider.

Anyone who is unfulfilled, underestimated, under stimulated or unchallenged will seem lazy when they are actually frustrated. Your role as a leader is gauge and redirect that. Maybe your company or organization grew and the role is now bigger than their ability. You might need them to partner up, gain new skills or enhance previous ones. They could be overwhelmed and trying not to disappoint the team. 

Most would argue that we can’t always build on strengths, while that is true. Its best to do basic trainings across the board and then have people developed within the area of expertise. We are not neglecting weaknesses. This is were professional development, coaching, “shadowing”, guidance and most of all encouragement is necessary. My mother used to say, “Encouragement sweetens labor”. Some folks will need that push just to keep them motivated and confident. Know that there are various learning styles, levels of understanding and everyone’s abilities are not infinite.

Many Leaders fail at training which is a failure to invest. Don’t allow nepotism or favoritism to take over. I call it the “”shiny new toy syndrome” Trust me, it can be subtle but will always be extremely noticeable. Sometimes, we are eager to train and engage the new that we push the old aside. This will ultimately lead to a decline in productivity, discord, disdain, anger, low morale, decrease in camaraderie and worst of all, division. A leader’s goal should be securing everyone in their place to build a strong team.

New people need to be introduced and integrated without causing a disruption within team dynamic. Leadership is responsible for establishing a culture and managing the environment. If you allow your team members to get lost into the background. When team new team members join, sometimes staff needs to recalibrate. While others may welcome with open arms, others may feel replaced, overshadowed or lose sight of their significance especially if someone new has the same expertise. Stages of a team may need to be revisited here. There are five stages of a teams’ development cycles such as:

  1. Forming – Excitement, questions, expectations and trust building.
  2. Storming – conflict, adaptation, frustration, a shift.
  3. Norming – inclusion, flexibility, resolve, acceptance, cohesion, synergy
  4. Performing – progress, team effectiveness, high competence
  5. Termination – strong conflict or needs change.

Having great knowledge about where your company is and going is critical. Strong conflict management and attention to behaviors are skills a Leader should always possess. The next step is access what type of individuals are needed in each area. Be prepared to develop, train and see where changes need to be implemented. Consider boosting morale in a shifting culture. Its imperative to have on going personal and professional development. Organizations who balance the two have higher productivity, retention and content team members.

Here are some benefits to training your team:

  1. Overall Retention
  2. Strengthens Skills
  3. Increases Understanding / Clarity
  4. Refreshes Current Staff
  5. Provides updates on protocols and methodologies
  6. Increase Engagement
  7. Develop Future Leaders
  8. Builds Relationships

Hope this blog helps you as a leader to develop a healthy work environment and healthy team, all the best!

Posted on

Dear Leader Part 1

Dear Leaders,

Mom often used this old adage… “Encouragement sweetens labor”. My Pastor says, “Lovers are not like workers, they don’t burn out!”. With that being said, it is always wise to uplift your team. It will increase morale, and confidence in their roles as well as enhance productivity.

This is not flattery or vain words to boost an ego. Sincere recognition of one’s potential and acknowledgment of one’s efforts will go a long way. Real leaders recognize future leaders and do their best to develop and guide them. When someone is in an environment that is encouraging, their potential is being watered. The grounds of their abilities are limitless. They begin to perceive the vision and mission in new ways. They love what they do and enjoy being a part of the team.

These motivated individuals are most likely to go above and beyond what’s required and often take initiative. Oftentimes, people who feel overlooked and have no sense of belonging quit, fall back, experience a decline in work ethic, have poor attitudes and the list continues. They are not bad people; every plant needs water to survive. Leadership is responsible to create, maintain and enhance the work environment. It needs to be one that is conducive to growth, and overall health with a goal to yield maximum and desired results.

Posted on

Black Business & Professional Integrity

The face of entrepreneurship has dramatically changed. Statistically, today’s entrepreneur is fourteen percent female and almost twenty-nine percent represent a minority group. They make up a great portion of the United States GDP (Gross Domestic Product) which is the sum of businesses that add to the American economy. Talk about grit and determination. These groups were often underestimated in the past, but are making their mark as they impact and influence several markets.

Traditionally, people would attend a university and rack up thousands in fees or work a nine to five in hopes that their efforts are acknowledged and compensated. The ladder of success seemed to have been missing some steps making things incredibly difficult for people to reach the top without having assistance. If you pay attention, the million and billionaires who grace covers of magazines are getting younger and diversity, more prominent. Entrepreneurship is the preferred avenue to achieve ultimate life goals. Today, we are in an era of the “woke” generation. There is awareness about any and everything because the information is at our fingertips. Social Media, viral videos, innovative ideas, and technological creations have allowed many to attain wealth quickly. “Throw away the ladder, airlift me to the destination,” says the mindsets of Millennials and Gen Z’s. Hard work is still applauded but they abide by the concept of “Working smarter, not harder!”. If you’re going to do a job, do what you love. People today don’t want to be subjected to a system, ill-treatment (from superiors), or disappointed by unsatisfactory salaries. If you’re going to “go hard” let it be for something you are passionate about that’s ultimately beneficial.

Many are supporting black-owned businesses and other cultural groups to prove that they are not unconsciously biased and contribute to change. Many African Americans believe that supporting a black-owned organization or enterprise is the fulfillment of an Ancestors’ dream. Many would agree that supporting your own culture will …

  1. Keep finances in the community.
  2. Increase representation.
  3. Increases social pride.
  4. Create community staples.
  5. Decrease the negative stigma of poverty, lack, and ownership.

 Representation is imperative right now and everyone is rooting for their own culture to have visibility and awareness. Today, we are aware that being socially and environmentally responsible is preferred. Everything is for a cause or “for the culture” but what happens when a culture has been misrepresented, misconstrued, misbranded, misclassified, and experiences social self-sabotage?

Let’s address the neon elephant on the block. Being labeled a “black business” can potentially hinder growth. I believe that black-owned businesses are often misconstrued because there are so many ill notions concerning professionalism or the lack thereof. Black businesses are not supported by African Americans because many believe that their culture is riddled with a lack of quality, customer service, proper communication, consistency, integrity, and efficiency.

Unfortunately, many have encountered unfavorable experiences with such businesses. While some argue that they experience a lack of support. People of Color prefer to support other races to obtain quality partnerships and encounters. The complaints often expressed… are a mile long but it’s actually social self-sabotage. When someone black says “you know it’s going to be late, it’s a black-owned business”, it is a form of social self-sabotage. Many have lost all faith within their race to produce favorable outcomes. This diminishing of support destroys not just a particular business but the reputation of an entire race.

We all know integrity is doing the right thing when no one is looking. “Integrity is necessary, not an optional tool. it is an expression of love and passion for your business. This is the only way for your business to advance and succeed” says Anita from “Siomara’s Catering”. It’s not just doing the right thing but putting your best foot forward with good intentions. Many often associate branding with just colors and images that are presented on a public platform. What they fail to realize is, the true identity of your brand is YOUR character. Your core values, beliefs, ethics, and principles become evident in the brand. “What people say about you when you’re not in the room is your true brand identity,” says Brandon Monti of Connecticut. Your perspective will always creep into the culture and environment you create. What you represent as a person will transition and translate to what you present as a CEO.

The term “Black Excellence” is often a hot topic. African Americans love to use and overuse it to show support, pride, or approval. Vaughn Brandford of Brooklyn states that “I think most people are under the misconception of black excellence. Many utilize it as a shield to be subpar believing that they are exceptional by just mere existence. People believe that somehow it shields black people from discrimination and racism, which is a complete fallacy. We must understand, to be considered excellent, we must be excellent. Most of us won’t get a second chance at a first impression. If we know we’re representing more than just “us” then we should consider it in our presentation. The adjective “excellent” should be used without the “black” label. We should just strive to be amazing and successful owners who just happen to walk in excellence”.

Business Owners Tips to fight against statistics:

  1. Invest in professional development training.
  2. Hold others accountable.
  3. Acquire financial literacy and upgrade financial practices.
  4. Invest in software to remain organized and keep track of invoices and payments.
  5. Apply Ethics in everything.
  6. Vulnerability is a must! It’s not a crime to say “no”, “I’m unable to” or be honest about mistakes.
  7. Keep the bar of excellence high.
  8. Sensitivity training is highly preferred.
  9. Train staff on concepts of customer service and the power of a pleasant demeanor.
  10. Be reliable.
  11. Boost hospitality.
  12. Watch your tone.
  13. No compromise.
  14. Inferior service is not accepted!
  15. Develop a disdain for tardiness.
  16. DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT
  17. Contracts are your friend.
  18. Make realistic promises.
  19. Be open to key partnerships.
  20. Learn and teach conflict resolution.
  21. Particiality is unkind. Many will be pleasant to another race but disrespectful or rude to their own.
  22. It’s not a competition but it is a competition. You need a comparative advantage for a competitive market. However, do not compare yourself to anyone else other than yourself. Monopoly is a game to play at home. Some competition is healthy to push you.
  23. Don’t be afraid to share information and resources. Even if people immatate you, they will never be YOU. Your unique presence in a saturated market is still needed.
  24. Do not take clients’ funds without providing a product or service and then ignore them. Clients should not have to chase you.
  25. Communication is your friend!

These tips are not to criticize but to aid in the development and formation of your next level in business. Be encouraged. Find joy and pleasure in what wakes you up every day. When you are intentional about living, you can live on purpose, expressing purpose. Elizabeth, owner of the famous “Bizzy Bakery” in Brooklyn states that “It does my heart proud knowing I can brighten a day just by being myself. I love that God allows me to do what I love every single day. Being respectful is a MUST, but being a nice person is a CHOICE. I just happen to be one of the few where being nice comes naturally to me”. “Lizz” is a prime example of how personal brand affects professional branding. She is extremely jovial and easy to interact with. She is a woman of her word and truly finds delight in seeing her customers happy. Her sweet demeanor encourages potential clients to try her sweet treats.

Dr. Courtney M. Bradley states that “you may not have one hundred dollars, but you can show support in a hundred ways!” It should not take another social uproar or protest in the country to drive people to support each other. Here are some ways to show support and as well as some tips for engagement.

  1. Let go of entitlement. Do not expect “favors” and complimentary service due to familiarity.
  2. Share promotional material on social media to increase reach and visibility.
  3.  Purchase something without an argument or debate about the price. Their time, energy, and resources were invested in their work.
  4. Encourage someone by acknowledging their good work or practices.
  5. Believe in the vision, it’s not just about the individual.
  6. Encourage others to support.
  7. Speak well of the company, word of mouth is one method of organic growth.
  8. Make a payment on time but communicate in case of an emergency.
  9. Arguing and yelling at owners isn’t the most effective way to make a complaint.
  10. Respect their payment methods and rules.
  11. Ask how you can help or volunteer.

To those who are business owners, working hard to set a standard, I salute you. Thank you for your time, energy, sacrifice, sleepless nights, early mornings, creativity, and passion. Your labor is not in vain, many appreciate all that you do to make a client or organization happy. To every person of color fighting against these common misconceptions, keep going. You being your best self helps combat what is contrary. To every female striving for excellence as a “boss babe” thank you. You are creating a pattern for the next generation to follow. The future of ownership and the reputation of modern leadership is in your hands.

Posted on

Effective Leadership Pt. 2

Previously, we discussed several styles of leadership as well as some amazing attributes of an Effective Leader. Unfortunately, just like everything in life there are some contrary perspectives and unfavorable behaviors. Some leaders allow personal insecurities and egos to seep into their work, many unbeknownst to them. They tend to rule with a iron fist. They don’t realize that fear is not the same as respect. Others suffer with superiority complexes which includes manipulation, nepotism, and degradation. These leaders tend to recognize efforts or potential. They rarely know their teams’ weaknesses or abilities. Not knowing your team is detrimental and can cost you everything. You may experience a high volume of turnover in departments and find yourself interviewing new staff more and more as displeasure spreads like a virus. Here are some things that can easily occur..

  1. Abilities are hidden and never get nurtured or developed.
  2. It’s imperative to desire wholeness as a person before leading or entering an industry. Your inner darkness becomes a plague that external parties have to live under.
  3. Underestimating potential and assigning the wrong roles that yield no fruit.
  4. Overlooking your staff because nepotism is prevalent. This will breed jealously, resentment and frustration.
  5. Discrediting hard work with will infuriate Staff. That frustration will result into many unwanted behaviors and many resignation letters.
  6. Lack of professional integrity
  7. Chaotic culture and a toxic work environment.
  8. Division
  9. Staff is in fear of the Leader but have no genuine respect.

Revenue is great but its priceless to have motivated, loyal and dedicated staff that see your vision as a torch to carry. Some may argue that point but let’s talk about what effective leadership looks like. Here are some behaviors, attitudes and practices to avoid…

  1. Sarcasm
  2. Backhanded compliments
  3. Manipulation.
  4. Exercising your superiority complex with a hint of narcissism.
  5. Harsh tones and obvious body langue of displeasure
  6. Unforgiveness of mistakes
  7. Promoting others prematurely or lacking skills
  8. Failure to acknowledge effort and hard work.
  9. Assumptions.
  10. Blame game is always your reasoning for failure
  11. Believing that things are personal.
  12. Internalizing everything instead of being vocal
  13. Failure to train is a form of neglect.
  14. Refusal to trust
  15. Micromanagement
  16. Inability to recognize potential.
  17. Avoidance of conflict
  18. Refusal to fire individuals of high ranking because you fear your company would lose a key employee.
  19. Unwillingness to be flexible.
  20. Poor communication skills.
  21. Tardiness is a lifestyle.
  22. Lack of Corporate vulnerability
  23. Allowing your ego to be your leader.

The above are obvious qualities that are unfavorable. You may say “that’s not me!” but you will never truly know until you get honest feedback. In your sight, you can be the best Leader in the world. Perspective is not EVERYTHING. Your personal brand and what poeple say about you when your not present speaks VOLUMES. Take time to take inventory of whats not on the shelves but inside you. You are the orginal brand ambassador for your company. What is your behavior portraying?

Please if you are a leader or plan on becoming one, keep an open mind. You may know best, but you do not know ALL. Also, some leeway for feedback even on your performance. Leaders are humans like everyone else. They do not always function at their peak. You will never have everything right but if your eager to learn and grow, so will your organization. There should always be room for growth. Remember each member is a plant that you are accountable to grow. It may require replanting, wisdom to know when and where to water, placement of seeds, providing light and ensuring the overall health of the whole.

Posted on

5-W’s Approach to Writing

Tips for Better Business Writing

By: “SignatureThoughts8” Christine A. George

1. Be specific – (the what approach) Know exactly what your message is and aim to make it clear to your readers. Get to your point you don’t necessarily have to be long to be strong. Make sure that the content is cohesive. This approach is most important. This is where you ensure that your topic is not offensive but is stated in an objective manner.

2. Know Your Audience – (the who approach) Tone and approach are important factors in writing. Its imperative to know your audience so you can adjust your speech to the appropriate writing standards. The letter you write to your boss will not have the same tone that you would use for a loved one or close friend. Know the

3. Time (the when approach)- In every area of writing time is everything. A journalist may need to produce information immediately to be on the cutting edge but one interviewing someone of great stature leaking information is a breach in mere ethics. Timing is everything to prevent premature exposure

4. Appropriate Medium (the where approach)

5. Be Authentic – (the how approach) there’s nothing worse than a copycat. You may not have an original topic or be the initial source, but your writing should permeate you. Your writing style should be distinctive and true to your own voice, perspective and style.  The how approach also included editing by reading aloud, revision, checking grammar, and spell check. This is the final step before you consider publishing and submission of your work.