The Power of No

Last week, Dr. Oz had a physician, Dr. Sue Varma, on his show who detailed the health challenges that befall certain personality types (What does your personality reveal about your health?). For example, Type C folks often bottle up their feelings, and potentially shave years off their lives because they refuse to say no to others because they want to please them. Saying yes to people or situations that warrant a “no,” can also have an impact beyond health.

I am an unabashed optimist who believes in embracing opportunity, which usually comes from saying yes to something: a last-minute speaking engagement, guest blog post, or a chance to submit an article. The problem is that we sometimes say yes to others, when we would gain more power (personal and professional) from just saying no.

Recently, I had two opportunities, one professional and the other personal, presented to me. Let me address the work-related one, which would have allowed me to practice my professional strengths. There is no doubt that I would have enjoyed my work. I ultimately decided not to pursue the opportunity because my intuition signaled that it would interfere with other professional opportunities that may have presented themselves after committing to the engagement.  Making the decision to decline was initially a hard one, but one that I did not regret because another, better opportunity came along one week later.

I am not suggesting that you turn down opportunities, willy-nilly, that could potentially lead to great experiences.

The point of the Power of No is that when we take time to think decisions through thoroughly, peacefully, and with a sense of clarity, we sometimes realize that saying yes to something that we should really decline could interfere with better opportunities that are more beneficial for us.

That’s the Power of No.

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that highlights information on business, entrepreneurship, careers and the workplace, health, community, and women’s issues. Any content or advice dispensed through Ask The Strategist is solely for informational and entertainment purposes. All content is the property of Ask The Strategist and affiliated companies unless otherwise noted, and may not be reproduced without express written permission from the author(s).

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The New Face of Diversity: President and CEO of the American Conference on Diversity, Elizabeth Williams-Riley, joins us on The Strategy Sessions radio show on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. ET.

November’s election included sweeping legislative changes for many states, including the DREAM Act and same-sex marriage. In America, diversity has long been a discussion topic at work; however, it has taken on new meaning as social issues, including immigration and advocacy for women. Our guest, Elizabeth Williams-Riley, President and CEO of the American Conference on Diversity, joins us on The Strategy Sessions radio show to highlight how the conversation on diversity is re-shaping the workplace and communities.

Elizabeth Williams-Riley

TOPICS COVERED:

• How the definition of diversity has changed as legislative and societal changes have evolved
• The impact November’s election will have on the workplace and the community, including states’ support of Same-Sex Marriage and the DREAM Act
• The relevance of diversity training as women and people of color make strides in the workplace
• How diversity impacts youth – bullying, leadership, and education
• American Conference on Diversity programming to raise awareness, train, and prepare tomorrow’s leaders

Listen LIVE: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thestrategysessions

Have a question or comment for our guest?

Call (347) 539-5143

Email talkback@ksgsc.com

Tweet us @KesiStribling

For more information about Elizabeth Williams-Riley, or to view her bio, visit www.ksgsc.com/thestrategysessions.

ABOUT THE STRATEGY SESSIONS

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A radio show featuring industry leaders who share tips and strategies on business, careers, travel, health, and more, The Strategy Sessions airs live on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 11:00 a.m. ET. The show has featured luminaries representing corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations such as the U.S. Small Business Administration; Internships.com; AAA; American Express; Women Impacting Public Policy; LifeLock; Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship; Aetna; the American Heart Association; and, Lockheed Martin. For more information, or to download the podcast, visit www.blogtalkradio.com/thestrategysessions. Twitter hashtag #TheStrategySessions

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New Year, New You

How many times have you (or someone you know) made a promise to change at the beginning of a new year, only to fall off and neglect the promise you are so eagerly committed to keep? Most of us have made pledges to start a business, change jobs, lose weight, go back to school, or some other goal we want to achieve.

The frustration we feel when an interruption comes and challenges our commitment to the goals – often a lack of resources or will power – causes the them to fall fleetingly by the wayside.

No matter your goals, there are a few ways to help you maintain your commitment and follow-through the entire year:

Pick one goal to focus on and pursue it

Having a checklist of numerous resolutions can be overwhelming, and unrealistic. During my yearly personal strategic planning session, I identify the areas that may need improvement or adjusting, and prioritize the “to do” list, selecting just a few to focus on and pursue. Using the same approach to a New Year’s resolution can prove an efficient way to identify the top 1 or 2 concerns, allowing an opportunity to make real progress, since you are not overwhelmed with a laundry list of action items.

For example, if your goal is to get a new job, make that your primary focus and work on a plan for doing so, such as tweaking your job search process, working with a career coach, actively participating in a networking event that draws potential employers in your job industry, or revamping your resume.

Get a support system

It is not always easy to pursue goals, and it can be downright daunting when you face challenges on your own, with no one to spur you on or give you a little insight. Put together a support system to help you with your resolutions and encourage you when difficult times arise.

For the newly minted entrepreneur, your team of cheerleaders should include a mentor, at least one person who has expertise in your industry and viewed as an ally, not a competitor, and a good friend who does not judge you and supports your dreams.

[Related: Get Yourself a Support System]

Celebrate the accomplishments

While pursuing a goal, it is always good to celebrate successes. We often focus on the end-result, and neglect the process of gaining an accomplishment.  Take a moment to appreciate each milestone, celebrate, and get back to focusing on the resolution. Take yourself out to lunch at a favorite restaurant, put on some great music and dance, or give a token of appreciation to the mentor who coached and encouraged you until you reached your goal.

Celebrate the setbacks

It is easy to celebrate our accomplishments, but it is often hard to be cheerful when we encounter a setback. Feelings of failure and frustration can erode progress made. While it can be difficult, view your setback as an opportunity for a do-over, and work on getting it right the next time.

Should your resolution to go back to school for your Master’s degree, or whatever educational goal you have set, hit a road-block, do not be discouraged.  Instead of abandoning the idea when a missed admissions deadline, not being accepted, or a lack of financial resources for the academic program impede you, use the setback as an opportunity for improvement. Take a continuing education class to get you ready for the next semester, or meet with a member of the admissions team to find out how you can improve your application submission the next time.

Become the change you seek

Mahatma Gandhi said, “Become the change you seek in the world.” As it relates to maintaining your New Year’s resolutions throughout 2013 and beyond, your attitude will determine your ability to stay the course until your goal is fulfilled.

A popular practice is to create a vision board, a visual of what you want in life that you can look at to encourage you, or reinforce commitment. My method is mental visualization, in which I “see” myself achieving a goal. When I have affirmed my goals and had the right attitude, I have succeeded. When self-doubt clouded my view (even the slightest inkling), the goal has never been met. It’s all about your attitude!

What is your goal for 2013? Share it in the comment section.

Blogger’s Note: We are celebrating change, focus, and commitment in 2013 on every level of living – work and personal lives – on our blog, Ask the Strategist, and throughout the year on our radio show, The Strategy Sessions. We invite you to join us and become a better you, better me, better US! The goal is to continue the momentum throughout the year, and make change a habit that knows no time limit. Share your success stories with us on Twitter (hashtag #NewYearNewYou)

Wishing you a fantastic 2013…and beyond!

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that highlights information on business, entrepreneurship, careers and the workplace, health, community, and women’s issues. Any content or advice dispensed through Ask The Strategist is solely for informational and entertainment purposes. All content is the property of Ask The Strategist and affiliated companies unless otherwise noted, and may not be reproduced without express written permission from the author(s).

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Top 5 Episodes of 2012

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In 2012, The Strategy Sessions radio show featured the nation’s top thinkers and influencers on entrepreneurship, nonprofit organizations, communities, women’s and youth issues, and other topics. From disaster planning to Small Business Saturday, our listeners tuned into our show in a big way – we have surpassed our half million mark.

As more than 500,000 listened live, or downloaded the podcast, our guests have added considerable value to conversations on current events, and issues that impact us perennially. I’m grateful to Blog Talk Radio for making me a Featured Host, raising our visibility.

Following is a list of our top 5 shows in 2012 (the most live/podcast listens). We hope you will continue to tune in, and call in with your questions and comments. If there’s a topic you would like us to consider, email our producers at talkback@ksgsc.com, or Tweet @KesiStribling.

Protect Your Assets: Preventing Identity Theft

Guest: Tami Nealy, Senior Director of Corporate Communications, LifeLock

Original air date: Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Summary: LifeLock shared tips on protecting passwords (in light of Malware Monday), your online identity, and credit cards and other sensitive information. The company also detailed how it’s aiding customers in the fight against online identity theft, including community awareness programs.

LISTEN NOW

One Million Pure

Guest: Tanisha Hopson, Publisher, Optimal Living Magazine

Original air date: Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Summary: Optimal Living Magazine highlighted its sexual purity initiative to encourage women – and men – to save themselves until marriage, and the cover story featuring actress Meagan Good, who abstained before marrying her husband, Hollywood studio executive, DeVon Franklin.

LISTEN NOW

Women Helping Women

Guests: Lindsey Mask, Ladies America; Susanne Greenfield, Ladies NYC; Elle Toussi, Ladies LA; and, Jean Schindler, Ladies DC

Original air date: Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Summary: Under their motto of Women Helping Women, Ladies America and some of their constituent units talked about how they are helping members and the community affected by Hurricane Sandy, issues that are of concern to women across the United States, and unique programs for members on the West Coast.

LISTEN NOW

Youth Entrepreneurship & STEM Careers

Guests: Julie Kantor, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship-DC and Thurman Jones, Patriots Technology Training Center, Inc.

Original air date: Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Summary: NFTE DC discussed their Dare to Dream Gala, honoring youth entrepreneurs, including a Washington, DC high school jewelry designer whose creations have been worn by entertainer, Beyoncé. Patriots shared details about their 15^th Annual Youth Summit to encourage participants to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

LISTEN NOW

Small Business Saturday

Guests: Marie C. Johns, Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration; Gloria Berthold Larkin, Corporate Advisory Board of Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) and President of TargetGov; and Patricia Norins, American Express Small Business Saturday Advisor and Owner of Pinnacle Publishing Group, Inc.

Original air date: Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Summary: Guests talked about how businesses can get involved in Small Business Saturday, the impact on revenue since its inception, how the SBA is helping businesses affected by Hurricane Sandy, and Small Business Saturday success stories around the country.

LISTEN NOW

The Strategy Sessions radio show airs the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesday of the month at 11:00 a.m. ET. Live-streaming on http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thestrategysessions.

For additional information, visit http://www.ksgsc.com/thestrategysessions.

We return in 2013 on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 (no 1/1/13 show!). Be sure to tune in at 11:00 a.m. when we interview Elizabeth Williams-Riley, CEO of American Conference on Diversity. LISTEN LIVE

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that highlights information on business, entrepreneurship, careers and the workplace, health, community, and women’s issues. Any content or advice dispensed through Ask The Strategist is solely for informational and entertainment purposes. All content is the property of Ask The Strategist and affiliated companies unless otherwise noted, and may not be reproduced without express written permission from the author(s).

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We wish you, your staff and volunteers, family, and friends a very Merry Christmas and celebratory holiday season!

As we celebrate the season, we also remember those who may be encountering challenges or circumstances that make the holiday a  little less bright.

We are inspired by the 26 Acts of Kindness movement  (Twitter hashtag #26Acts), sparked by journalist Ann Curry, to honor the memories of those lost in the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. She encourages all of us to purposely engage in twenty-six selfless acts to help others.

Let all of us – our clients, partners, sponsors, radio show guests, and supporters – continue the momentum beyond Christmas, holiday festivities, and the New Year.

Best wishes,

KSG Strategic Consulting/Career Connect USA & The Strategy Sessions Radio Show Team

Franchises 101 on The Strategy Sessions Radio Show on Tuesday, December 4, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. ET

Click on the image to listen live/download the podcast

Entrepreneur Magazine has listed the top 500 franchises in the United States for 2012, including Subway, 7-Eleven, and Servpro.

Listen live/download podcast

The number of franchises continues to grow; however, there is a lot to know before investing money, time, and effort to own a business and ensure profitability.

The Strategy Sessions radio show welcomes founding partners of Arnold Sai Law Firm LLP Justin Arnold, Esq. and Sai Pidatala, Esq. to share insight on the pitfalls to avoid when purchasing a franchise; operational issues that impact businesses; and, what businesses should do to close out 2012. The Strategy Sessions radio show is hosted by Washington, DC entrepreneur Kesi Stribling.

Have a question or comment for our guests?

Call (347) 539-5143

Email talkback@ksgsc.com

Tweet us @KesiStribling

For more information about our guests, including their bios, visit www.ksgsc.com/thestrategysessions.

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that highlights information on business, entrepreneurship, careers and the workplace, health, community, and women’s issues. Any content or advice dispensed through Ask The Strategist is solely for informational and entertainment purposes. All content is the property of Ask The Strategist and affiliated companies unless otherwise noted, and may not be reproduced without express written permission from the author(s).

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Be the reason this Thanksgiving

Be the reason this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is, hands down, my favorite holiday. It’s the one day that most people actually pause collectively to appreciate others – family members, friends, employees, and those who have shown acts of kindness – and spend quality time, often over dinner, to connect with loved ones and associates.

My pastor offers a different view for Thanksgiving 2012. He suggests that in addition to being thankful for life’s blessings, we should strive to be the reason why others give thanks. By giving of ourselves to the needs of others (a kind word, encouragement, selfless action, compliment, etc.), we are taking Thanksgiving to a higher level.

Five things you can do:

1. Become a mentor to a high school or college student
2. Babysit for a co-worker who needs a break to do Christmas shopping
3. Volunteer for an hour at a nonprofit organization whose mission you admire
4. Invite a Veteran who is just returning from overseas for holiday dinner at your home
5. Pay one month’s mortgage or rent for someone who recently lost his/her job

On behalf of Ask The Strategist/KSG Strategic Consulting/Career Connect USA, we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and hope you become the reason why others give thanks!

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that highlights information on business, entrepreneurship, careers and the workplace, health, community, and women’s issues. Any content or advice dispensed through Ask The Strategist is solely for informational and entertainment purposes. All content is the property of Ask The Strategist and affiliated companies unless otherwise noted, and may not be reproduced without express written permission from the author(s).

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Small Business Saturday on The Strategy Sessions radio show

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Black Friday has long been considered the official start of the holiday shopping season for Americans. Small Business

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Saturday is gaining momentum as the holiday shopping kick off for small businesses, and the customers they serve. Launched by American Express and Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP)  in 2010, this year’s Small Business Saturday is on November 24.

The Strategy Sessions radio show welcomes Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration Marie C. Johns; WIPP Corporate Advisory Board Member and TargetGov Founder Gloria Larkin; and, Small Business Saturday Advisor and owner of Pinnacle Publishing Group, Inc. Patricia Norins to talk about Small Business Saturday and resources for businesses that want to participate.

Questions for our guests? Are you a business owner who participated in Small Business Saturday?

Call into the show: (347) 539-5143
Email talkback@ksgsc.com
Tweet @KesiStribling

Guests’ bios, Small Business Saturday resources including social media pages, are listed on our website at www.ksgsc.com.

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that highlights information on business, entrepreneurship, careers and the workplace, health, community, and women’s issues. Any content or advice dispensed through Ask The Strategist is solely for informational and entertainment purposes. All content is the property of Ask The Strategist and affiliated companies unless otherwise noted, and may not be reproduced without express written permission from the author(s).

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September is Wealth & Wellness Month

30 ways to improve your wealth and wellness

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that addresses business, career, workplace and etiquette issues. Any advice dispensed by Ask The Strategist is purely for informational and entertainment purposes. Take the advice and opinions at your own risk – and betterment! Follow @KesiStribling or @CareerConnectDC on Twitter. Post your questions/email your conundrum/send your question via video to ask@ksgsc.com. All submissions become the property of Ask The Strategist. Names and other identifying information may be changed to protect the person asking for advice.

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Workplace Primer for College Students (part II)

In part I of the Workplace Primer for College Students, we detailed the importance of tailoring the job search and preparing a flawless cover letter or resume. Part II focuses on the interview, specifically what collegiate job seekers should do before, during, and after the meeting with prospective employers.

Prepare for the interview

You're hired! Interview preparation can score big points for your career.

Your cover letter and resume have passed muster and the company you eagerly want to work for has contacted you for an interview. There are several tips to help you prepare for the face-to-face meeting (or telephone screening, as is the trend these days). From selecting an appropriate wardrobe to asking a potential employer the right questions, interview preparation requires a lot of thought – and action.

Look the part: It is essential to select appropriate attire for the interview; and, the accessories that make the outfit, which complete your overall appearance. Ultimately, the interview wardrobe should be professional, and make you blend in, rather than stand out, from the company employees. The reality is that companies want new employees who reflect the current corporate culture, and that includes attire.

Men should wear slacks, a crisp shirt, and matching blazer. Of course, the tie completes the look – not a clip on! Freshly shined shoes and simple accoutrements, such as a watch, sans bling, and conservative cuff links complete the professional look. Interviewees can look stylish, no matter the budget constraints.

Related: professional attire for men

Women do not have to sacrifice style when preparing for the interview.  A modest length and well-fitting (not too tight) skirt or dress is appropriate, with a conservative shirt and blazer. If suiting seems a bit boring, or if the industry has a more relaxed approach to dressing in the workplace, it is okay to pair trousers or a skirt with a cardigan set. Moderate heels or sling backs should be clean and not scuffed. Understated jewelry rounds out the interview outfit.

Related: professional attire for women

Even if the industry usually calls for khakis in the workplace (think technology), you can wear the corporate style once you land the job. For your interview, avoid the casual Friday look.

Women's professional attire on our pinterest page

Research the audience: Knowing one’s audience is imperative. Conduct research about the company in advance, including reviewing the corporate website, Facebook fan page, and Twitter account. Being armed with information about the company helps during the interview. Potential employers will appreciate the initiative, and will view the well-informed candidate as one who possesses a can-do attitude.

Before the interview, practice responses to potential questions that may be asked. Ask a trusted mentor, friend, or family member to conduct a mock interview, and assess your performance. Pay particular attention to the use of fillers when responding to questions  (um, ah, and you know), so that you can avoid them. Record the mock interview, and look at it a few times to improve your delivery. Doing so will help nervous candidates  ace the interview by being ready to talk about tasks undertaken in the current job, or skill sets and special talents that can translate to the job being applied for at the company.

Arrive early for the interview: One of the most important aspects of the interview is arriving on time to the meeting. Even if you’re familiar with the geographic area of the company, identify a preferred and alternate route to get to the interview. If there is an accident, detour, or water main break, taking an alternate route may be the difference between getting to the interview on time, or missing out on the opportunity by being an hour late. Drive to the location, if possible, the same day of the week and time the interview is scheduled, beforehand.

Professional attire for men on our pinterest page

Arrive early (not more than 30 minutes ahead of time), or on time, but never late. Companies often ask candidates to complete applications prior to the interview. Remember, the interview actually begins as soon as you arrive at the location. Be pleasant when speaking to or interacting with anyone in the office. Do not be haughty, put off, overly friendly, or flirt with the staff. By the way, waiting patiently until called in for the interview means no texting, listening to your iPod, or talking on your cell phone with or without your Bluetooth.

Ask the right questions: Be sure to ask at least one question during the interview. It should be one that is of genuine interest and not something that the interviewer has already covered. After the meeting is over, send a thank you note. Conventional thought is that a handwritten note to the interviewer is the way to go, it is also okay to send a brief, error free email thank you note.

Once the company has offered you the job, there are a number of questions to ask, not just those related to salary. Detailed questions include those related to annual and sick leave, retirement contributions by the employer, corporate culture, employee expectations, and other details about the position that may not have come up during the interview (i.e. the position’s funding is contingent upon grant money received).

Next: Part III (final) of the Workplace Primer for College Students

© Copyright 2012 Ask The Strategist™

DISCLAIMER: ASK THE STRATEGIST is a blog that addresses business, career, workplace and etiquette issues. Any advice dispensed by Ask The Strategist is purely for informational and entertainment purposes. Take the advice and opinions at your own risk – and betterment! Follow @KesiStribling or @CareerConnectDC on Twitter. Post your questions/email your conundrum/send your question via video to ask@ksgsc.com. All submissions become the property of Ask The Strategist. Names and other identifying information may be changed to protect the person asking for advice.

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