Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common concern of employees feeling that there is no clear strategy within their organizations. She discusses the importance of understanding what constitutes a strategy, how to identify existing strategies, and the steps employees can take to engage with leadership about strategic goals. She also reviews the importance of understanding and communicating strategy, especially in smaller businesses, and provides insights on how to explore and clarify strategic goals. The episode emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy that encompasses all aspects of a business, not just revenue generation, and encourages listeners to seek out resources and engage in discussions about strategy with their managers. Christa emphasizes the need for clarity in communication and the role of research in developing effective strategies.

Key Takeaways

·       Leadership often believes there is a solid strategy when there isn't.

·       A complete strategy includes all aspects of the business, not just sales.

·       Strategy is essential for aligning the organization with corporate goals.

·       Small and mid-sized companies may not be held to the same strategy standards as larger firms.

·       Understanding strategy can empower employees to ask informed questions.

·       Exploring existing resources can clarify the company's strategy.

·       Effective communication from leadership is crucial for strategy dissemination and alignment.

·       Employees should take initiative to understand their role in the strategy.

·       A lack of strategy can lead to disjointed efforts within teams.

·       Research and evidence-based practices are vital for developing sound strategies.

 

Additional Resources

Dhimo, C. (2025, May 15). Ask Christa! Strategy Series (1/3): What is STRATEGY?? Ask Christa! https://www.askchrista.com/ask-christa-strategy-series-13-what-is-strategy/

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. (2018, June 5). The Strategic Agility Project | MIT Sloan Management Review. MIT Sloan Management Review. https://sloanreview.mit.edu/big-ideas/strategic-agility/ (multiple articles)

Sull, D., Sull, C., & Yoder, J. (2018, February 12). No one knows your strategy — not even your top leaders. MIT Sloan Management Review. https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/no-one-knows-your-strategy-not-even-your-top-leaders/

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the concept of strategy in organizations, emphasizing its importance in achieving goals and navigating uncertainties. She discusses the common misconceptions of strategy as well as how many small and mid-sized companies lack clear strategies and the implications of this on their operations. Christa provides insights on how to think about strategy in a less complex way, focusing on the necessary alignment between strategy and execution. She also introduces a series on strategy, addressing common challenges faced by organizations regarding clarity and communication of their strategic goals. Additionally, she shares valuable resources for further understanding and developing strategic thinking.

 

Key Takeaways

·       Strategy is a composite of impact, mission, goals that forms “the plan.”

·       Strategy enables achievement of goals even in times of uncertainty.

·       Many organizations, especially smaller organizations, lack a clear strategy.

·       Strategy is more than commercial sales and the promise of revenue.

·       A good strategy includes risks and uncertainties; the best strategies get you through choppy, uncertain times.

·       Understanding the big picture is crucial for strategic planning.

·       Strategy should be basic and measurable.

·       Everyone can be a strategic thinker with practice.

Additional Resources

Harvard Business Review. (2022, February 23). What is strategy? It’s a lot simpler than you think [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7Ik1OB4TaE 

Traffic, B., & Halvorson, K. (n.d.). What Is Strategy (and Why Should You Care)? - Brain Traffic blog. https://www.braintraffic.com/blog/what-is-strategy-and-why-should-you-care

What is business strategy & why is it important? (2022, October 20). Business Insights Blog. https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/what-is-business-strategy 

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this conversation, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges freelancers face when considering raising their rates. She emphasizes the importance of viewing oneself as a business, mindset, preparation, and effective communication strategies to navigate these discussions with clients. Christa provides practical advice on how to overcome fears and anxieties about “money talk,” options for approaching rate adjustments, the significance of knowing one's worth, and navigating client reactions. She also shares resources for further learning and encourages freelancers to view these conversations as business decisions rather than personal ones.

Key Take Aways

·       Raising your rates is a business decision, not a personal one.

·       Start the conversation by framing it as an adjustment.

·       Know your worth and prepare evidence for your value.

·       Practice is essential to build confidence for discussions.

·       Silence is okay; don't rush to fill the space.

·       Don't apologize for raising your rates; you're not hurting anyone-- it’s a business decision.

·       Be strategic about timing, client relationships, and your needs.

·       Consider offering transition rates to ease clients into new pricing.

·       Reframe the conversation to focus on value and sustainability.

·       Utilize resources and practice to enhance negotiation skills.

 

 Additional Resources

evidence based negotiation skills - Google Search. (n.d.). https://www.google.com/search?q=evidence+based+negotiation+skills

Jung, M. (n.d.). {Moxie Blogs}. Moxie. https://www.withmoxie.com/blog/how-to-know-when-to-increase-your-freelance-rates-and-by-how-much

The Futur. (2023, October 19). Don’t justify your prices. do this instead. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Abi8kwkfZbA

WP Minute Podcasts. (2025, May 6). How to discuss price increases with your freelance clients [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMS57dvMCi0

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the complexities of imposter syndrome—which is actually and originally called imposter phenomenon—and humility. She distinguishes between the two concepts, explaining that imposter phenomenon is a feeling of self-doubt regarding one's achievements, often attributing success to external factors such as luck rather than personal capability. In contrast, humility involves graciously accepting recognition, and often includes acknowledging the contributions of others. Christa provides resources for further understanding of these topics, and encourages listeners to continue learning and developing as imposter phenomenon is an experience many have had and will feel.

Key Take Aways

 ·       Imposter phenomenon is not a syndrome; it is an observation backed by research.

·       Humility is the ability to accept recognition with grace.

·       Imposter phenomenon affects how individuals perceive their work.

·       Humility allows for genuine connections during recognition.

·       The concept of imposter phenomenon applies to various demographics, not just women.

·       Continuous questioning and seeking support is essential for personal growth.

 Additional Resources:

 Clance, P. R., Imes, S., Georgia State University, University Plaza, & Atlanta, Georgia 30303. (1978). The imposter phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention. In Psychotherapy Theory, Research and Practice (Vol. 15, Issue 3). https://www.paulineroseclance.com/pdf/ip_high_achieving_women.pdf

 Dr. Pauline Rose Clance - IMPOSTOR PHENOMENON. (n.d.). https://paulineroseclance.com/impostor_phenomenon.html

 Staff, H. B. (2023, May 23). Success 2.0: The Psychology of Self-Doubt | Hidden Brain Media. Hidden Brain Media. https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/the-psychology-of-self-doubt/

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the essential steps to starting a business, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's feelings about and commitment to the business idea, creating a strong foundation, and utilizing available resources. She highlights the various funding options and the significance of addressing unmet needs in the market. Christa also encourages self-awareness and community engagement as vital components of the entrepreneurial journey.

Key Take Aways

·      Starting a business involves understanding your readiness regarding your idea.

·      Creating a strong foundation is crucial for business success.

·      The mechanical steps to start a business are easier than ever.

·      Your business idea should address an unmet need in the market.

·      Self-awareness is key to managing the challenges of entrepreneurship.

·      Engaging with your community can provide valuable support.

·      Research and preparation are essential for a successful startup.

·      Do your homework on market competition and clarity.

·      Utilize available resources for guidance and support.

 Additional Resources

10 steps to start your business. (n.d.). U.S. Small Business Administration. https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/10-steps-start-your-business 

community colleges for start ups - Google Search. (n.d.). https://www.google.com/search?q=community+colleges+for+start+ups 

National Chamber of Commerce Directory. (n.d.). https://www.uschamber.com/co/chambers 

START UP TV SHOW. (n.d.). https://www.startup-usa.com/

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges of managing necessary changes in the workplace. She emphasizes the discomfort that often accompanies change and offers strategies for reframing our approach to it. By focusing on adaptation rather than mere handling of change, individuals can find stability and growth opportunities. Christa also highlights the importance of maintaining perspective beyond one's job and provides resources for effective change management.

Key Take Aways

·       Necessary changes can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but also lead to growth.

·       It's important to normalize feelings of anxiety and discomfort during change.

·       A lot of the stress from change is the loss of predictability and stability.

·       Stress from change can also be from loss of control over your time and where you put your energy.

·       You are never as alone as you feel during stressful transitions.

·       Awareness of upcoming changes can reduce anxiety.

·       Reframing how we think about change can help us adapt more effectively.

·       Growth mindset techniques can alleviate stress during change.

·       There are a lot of effective change management tools and techniques available.

 Additional Resources:

Bridges Transition Model - William Bridges Associates. (2020, March 12). William Bridges Associates. https://wmbridges.com/about/what-is-transition/

Daily Stoic. (2025, April 16). Defining Stoicism | Ryan Holiday [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3UB4e_mXkE

Holiday, R. (2024, February 20). What is stoicism? A definition & 9 stoic exercises to get you started. Daily Stoic. https://dailystoic.com/what-is-stoicism-a-definition-3-stoic-exercises-to-get-you-started/#how-to-be-a-stoic

Shane. (2021, February 5). Carol Dweck: A Summary of Growth and Fixed Mindsets. Farnam Street. https://fs.blog/carol-dweck-mindset/ (I am including this because it’s one of the best summaries I’ve seen about Dr. Dweck’s work re: Growth and Fixed Mindsets; the article is about improving intelligence; I offer it for the purpose of learning about the two mindsets)

Stanford Alumni. (2014, October 9). Developing a Growth Mindset with Carol Dweck [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiiEeMN7vbQ (EXCELLENT video where Dr. Dweck is showcasing her work straight from her!)

The ProsCi ADKAR® Model | ProsCi. (n.d.). https://www.prosci.com/methodology/adkar

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the critical role of advisors for early-stage startups. She emphasizes that all businesses, even those just starting out, can benefit from having advisors who provide honest and supportive assessments. Effective advisors help founders navigate the complexities of transforming ideas into viable business models, focusing on strategy, market needs, and personal growth. Christa also highlights the importance of finding advisors who ask the right questions and facilitate deeper thinking rather than simply managing tasks. She concludes by recommending resources for startup founders and encourages ongoing community engagement.

 Key Take Aways

·      All businesses need advisors, even startups.

·      Effective advisors focus on the founder's ideas and business needs.

·      Advisors should help articulate entrepreneurial concepts and strategies.

·      Supportive (constructive!) assessments are crucial for founder success.

·      Avoid advisors who manage tasks instead of guiding thought.

·      Founders need a safe space to test ideas and strategies.

·      Resources are available to help navigate startup challenges.

Additional Resources:

Ultimate guide to startup advisors: Are they worth your time & equity? | LinkedIn. (2023, September 1). https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ultimate-guide-startup-advisors-worth-your-time-equity-simon-ulrich-1c/

Wisbey, S. (2023, July 5). The Ultimate Guide to Startup Advisors. GrowthMentor. https://www.growthmentor.com/blog/startup-advisors/

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the fear of making mistakes when stepping out of comfort zones, particularly in new job roles and promotions. She emphasizes the personal nature of fear and encourages listeners to value it as a perspective rather than a hindrance. Christa provides practical tips for reframing fear and mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning, highlighting the importance of influencing others' perceptions positively. She also shares resources for overcoming fear and building confidence in the workplace.

Key Take Aways

·      Fear is a personal emotion rooted in vulnerability.

·      Valuing fear can help in addressing it effectively.

·      Perception is a driver of fear, especially if you make a mistake.

·      Acknowledging mistakes can deflate fear-- quickly.

·      Using fear as a source of power can enhance leadership.

·      Learning from mistakes is crucial for personal growth.

·      Being open and curious can lead to valuable insights.

·      Support systems are essential in navigating workplace challenges.

·      Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

·      Effective leaders demonstrate how mistakes can make you better.

·      Being able to talk about mistakes, especially in highly regulated complex industries, can save lives.

 Additional Resources:

Michael, E. (2024, September 26). The Science of Manifestation: The Power of Positive Thinking - MentalHealth.com. MentalHealth.com. https://www.mentalhealth.com/tools/science-of-manifestation

Schaffner, A. K., PhD. (2024, December 17). How to Overcome fear of Failure: Your Ultimate guide. PositivePsychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/fear-of-failure/

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenge of inspiring a team when one lacks the energy to do so. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between inspiration and motivation, advocating for a shift in focus from being an inspirational leader to a motivating one. Christa discusses the significance of creating a motivating environment and the role of employee engagement in achieving organizational success. She also provides valuable resources for further exploration of workplace motivation and performance.

Key Take Aways

 ·       We can't inspire people when we don't have the energy (inspiration is about energy!!).

·       Aim to be a motivating leader, not just inspirational.

·       Learn what motivates your team members individually.

·       Creating a motivating environment leads to better performance.

·       Soft skills in leadership are really hard (!) and crucial for success.

·       Discretionary effort is a sign of employee engagement.

·       Beware of expecting extra effort without factors that motivate the extras.

·       Resources can enhance understanding of workplace motivation.

Additional Resources:

Vo, T. T. D., Tuliao, K. V., & Chen, C. (2022). Work motivation: the roles of individual needs and social conditions. Behavioral Sciences, 12(2), 49. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12020049 

***Reader notes: I recommend the full read, but for the most focused sections to learn more from this episode: review Section 1: Introduction; Section 2.1: Work Motivation: A Conceptual Background; Section 5: Discussion; Section 7: Conclusions.

Gallup, Inc. (2021, June 28). Organizational Performance | Gallup topic. https://www.gallup.com/topic/organizational-performance.aspx

Gallup, Inc. (2025, April 18). How to improve employee engagement in the workplace - Gallup. Gallup.com. https://www.gallup.com/workplace/285674/improve-employee-engagement-workplace.aspx

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Hi everyone, and welcome to the season one preview of Ask Christa! the place where you can ask questions about how to work through business challenges and workplace issues. I’m Christa Dhimo, and our first season hits on a few big themes, and managing and leading in an organization takes up a lot of space, which I love. I offer answers to questions like: how can I inspire my team when sometimes I don’t have the energy? And how can I manage my fear of failure in front of my team?

I also answer block and tackle business questions, like how do I start up a business, and do I need advisors even if I’m just starting up?

This is just a sampling of season one questions, and they're big questions, so in each episode, I address one aspect of the question in a short-form segment where I offer an answer, practical tips, then additional resources so you can go deep on best practices and what the best are doing as you’d like.

Launch date is April 20th, and you can expect a new segment released at least twice a week after that, so subscribe to my YouTube feed and follow wherever you listen to podcasts; you can submit your questions in the comments or directly on my website AskChrista.com-- that's Christa with a C-H. Let’s bring our community here, and build something great. And if you have a question about a business challenge or workplace issue—ask Christa!

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Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:

Follow the Ask Christa! Podcast: https://www.askchrista.com/

Sign up for my newsletter https://www.askchrista.com/newsletter/ for a copy of “The Survivor’s Guide to Business Challenges & Workplace Issues”

To book Christa Dhimo for Public Speaking and Workshops: https://christadhimo.com/

Join Christa’s professional community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/