Career Growth Made Easy

Send us a text

Your Career Growth Limitations - Part 3
A natural part of career progression is growing in your role. Sometimes when that happens, we take on too much and can become overloaded. We need to know when to say when. We need to know our limitations.

Knowing when to raise your hand for help is another sign of maturity and professionalism. So is selectively saying "I don't know" when you're asked about something outside your area of expertise.

One way to improve is to set time aside for yourself on a regular basis. But, when you do, make sure you honor it. Your self-growth is even more important than many of your other responsibilities. Take time for yourself!

Chapters
[01:33]
We need to know when to say when. We need to know our limitations.

[03:24]
It's okay to selectively say "I don't know."

[04:58]
What happens if you find yourself saying "I don't know." too frequently?

[06:41]
The concept and awareness of time management play a critical role to help organize our activities.

[07:39]
Being busy and productive is not the same thing!

[09:20]
When scheduling meetings use a timed agenda.

[09:50]
Don't forget to schedule time for yourself. And once you do, try your best to honor that time slot!

[12:16]
Once you identify your strengths and weaknesses it's important to put a career growth plan in place. Make sure that plan includes metrics to help you monitor progress.

[13:28]
There's additional help with filler words and learning how to pause in conversations.

Mentioned Links
Getting rid of filler words: um, ah
Learn Craig's 3P Rule - Powerfully Placed Pauses

Support the show

Send us a text

Your Career Growth Limitations - Part 2
We started by discussing listening skills. They're a critical part of connecting with the speaker. It’s such a common weak attribute, there's even a famous quote, "People don't listen with the intent to understand, they listen with the intent to respond."

If you're curious how your listening skills stack up, tune into this week's series, part 2 of 3, Your Career Growth Limitations. I also share some key dos and don'ts when it comes to deciphering, processing, and acting on emails. These tips can be implemented immediately to improve your work performance and rid your inbox of unread emails.

Chapters
[01:23]
Having strong listening skills is critical. Remember we have two ears and one mouth. We should listen twice as much as we talk.
[02:38]
Try to improve upon your listening skills in your next conversation.
[05:42]
How strong are your deciphering or decoding skills?
[07:50]
Processing skills come next!
[08:44]
If you don't have strong decision-making skills you could end up in a state of perpetual procrastination.
[09:51]
Once you've made a decision, you need to take action!
[11:54]
If you're going to forward an email, there are several dos and don'ts you should be aware of.
[12:52]
If an action you've taken doesn't work out, it could put you into problem-solving mode.
[14:25]
Don't be a pass-thru person, rather be someone that adds significant value to your job.
[18:55]
Now, it's time to know when to say when. Know your limitations.

Mentioned Links
Free Downloadable Resources 

Support the show

Send us a text

Your Career Growth Limitations - Part 1

It's important to know your limits. Once you identify them, you can begin the process of course correction. Maybe you have a weakness in your communication or presenting style.

No matter where your limitations lie, you need to address them so that you can provide maximum value to your company. Listen to today's podcast to see if you can identify some areas you might like to work on and improve in your life.

Chapters
[00:40]
Regardless if you're an individual contributor or in management, it's important to not only know you have limitations but to know what they are.

[01:16]
Have you ever attended a meeting and left it more confused than when it started?

[01:46]
If you've had trouble following a presenter, it's possible it's not you. It may be due to their limited capabilities.

[02:21]
Pauses in conversation can be extremely useful, but they can feel unnatural and uncomfortable. This is where the um, ah, and filler words come in.

[03:12]
Presentations and meetings have gotten a bad rap. Enter books such as Death by PowerPoint and Death by Meetings.
https://craigancel.com/podcast/58

[04:13]
How well do you think you communicate with others?

[05:55]
To gain insight into your job performance you can do a self-assessment, talk to peers, and request candid, constructive feedback.

[07:44]
Learn to seek out feedback for your successes and your challenges. You might be surprised by how others perceive you!

[09:02]
Use the constructive feedback to create focused plans for training, coaching, or mentoring.

[11:13]
Outward communication can include your body language, posture, vocal strengths, and word choice.

[13:58]
Are you aware of how your confidence is perceived by others? Your eye contact, posture, focus, and awareness of your audience's body language all play key roles.

[15:43]
Try making your presentations interactive - stop and conduct brief check-ins.

Mentioned Links
CGME: How to Effective Run Meetings (Parts 1 & 2)

Support the show

Send us a text

10 Tips for Keeping Your Job
You can't manage all the factors that impact you and your employment. But, you can control your job performance and how you're perceived in your company.

Get prepared now to position yourself for the best results if reduced hours, decreased shifts or headcount reductions come your way. If you're interested in 10 tips that you can immediately apply to help keep your job, tune in to today's episode.

Chapters
[01:20]
There can be factors outside your control that can affect your job longevity.

[01:53]
Are there things within your control that can potentially change your job future?

[02:09]
Tip #1: Watch out for what type of daily work environment you have?

[03:22]
Tip #2: Keep your job for the right reasons.

[06:04]
Tip #3: Raise your hand and volunteer for additional work or special activities.

[07:30]
Tip #4: Arrive on time or early for your shift.

[07:51]
Tip #5: Share your skills or knowledge to mentor others.

[08:19]
Tip #6: Make sure you work on value-added activities.

[09:36]
Tip #7: Avoid email volleying and take control of your inbox!

[10:37]
Tip #8: Change can be a very powerful tool.

[11:31]
Tip #9: Build a quality relationship with your manager.

[13:42]
Tip #10: Further your education especially your soft skills.

Mentioned Links
Grab your free career growth downloads now!
Tune in to take control of your email overload
The difference between hard and soft skills

Support the show

Send us a text

Feeling Stuck In Your Job
Do you feel like things aren't going your way at work? Do you feel stuck? Feeling stuck is all a matter of mindset. You have the ability to change your direction - it's all about how you view things and what actions you take.

In today's episode, we'll talk about your feelings, what may be affecting you, and how to address certain slow growth situations. You may not even be aware of outside influences that negatively affect you and your daily work performance. Tune in to get some tips that you can immediately implement to help you get unstuck today!

Chapters
[01:20]
Feeling stuck in your job is all a matter of mindset.

[01:56]
What feelings are you having if you feel stuck in your job?

[02:12]
As you stay in the same job role longer, your knowledge and experience grow. You can become the go-to person in your group.

[03:06]
The difference between step-up and lateral promotions.

[03:56]
What opportunities for advancement are available?

[06:06]
Talking to your peers about advancement.

[06:41]
What type of environment do your work friends provide?

[08:47]
Your emotions can affect how you perform at work.

[09:45]
What is learned helplessness and how could it affect you?

[11:15]
Feeling stuck is all about your mental perception. You don't need anyone's permission to get unstuck!

[12:55]
Different ways to seek feedback to support your growth.

[15:16]
Feeling stuck may come from others around you.

[16:31]
When seeking feedback make sure you follow the 3P rule: Powerfully Placed Pauses

[18:33]
New opportunities could allow you to meet new people in different environments.

Mentioned Links
Visit our redesigned website
Learn Craig's 3P Rule: Powerfully Placed Pauses

Support the show

Send us a text

How To Run Meetings Effectively - Part 2
There's an art and a science when it comes to running meetings effectively. But it doesn't mean it needs to be complicated to do.

In the 2nd and final part of this series, we focus on getting to know the invitees both before and during the meeting. We also take a deep dive into the meeting notes or more commonly called meeting minutes. Successful meetings include a strong agenda, minutes, and end with well-organized and assigned action items.

These meeting tips set you up for success whether you run one on one or larger group meetings. Today we released free meeting minute templates. Use them to get a jump start on your meeting's structure, organization, and effectiveness.

Pssst, there are even two bonus templates included for agendas.

Chapters
[01:14]
Once you start your meeting resist the urge to pause, welcome late participants, and restate meeting progress.

[02:16]
I like to stay positive when coaching, but let me warn you about three don'ts!

[03:23]
Pro-Tip: For meeting invitees, you don't know well or at all briefly reach out to them before the meeting.

[04:09]
Meeting notes or more commonly called meeting minutes are essential for your success. Grab our free template downloads.

[07:04]
Don't apologize for asking someone to spell their name. If we apologize too frequently it can be distracting and a sign of weakness. 

[08:17]
Action items are critical for holding people accountable! Save time in your meeting at the end to review them and get an agreement.

[09:45]
What are parking lot items and what are they used for in meetings?

Mentioned Links
Free Meeting Minute Templates

Support the show

Send us a text

How To Run Meetings Effectively - Part 1.
There's an art and a science when it comes to running meetings effectively. But that doesn't mean it needs to be complicated to do.

In this 2 part series, you'll walk through the basics of setting up, running, and closing a meeting professionally so that you get optimal results.

Today's meeting tips set you up for success whether you run one on one or larger group meetings.

Chapters
[00:44]
With dozens of years of experience under his belt, Craig shares what works and what doesn't when it comes to running meetings effectively.

[01:26]
Scheduled agendas are key to success.

[03:09]
You're the meeting host, course-correct if the meeting has gone off-topic.

[05:35]
Set your meeting up for success before it starts, avoid bad subject lines.

[06:53]
As the meeting host or organizer, you're responsible for the meeting notes or minutes.

[08:34]
Pro-Tip: Start afternoon meetings at 5 minutes after the hour - you'll receive great praise!

[10:23]
Arrive at your meeting up to 5 minutes early then start on time!

[11:22]
Brief introductions or ice breakers can help kick start some meetings.

[13:51]
Check out these 3 episodes that align with today's content.

Mentioned Links
CGME: Ep 21 Level Up Your Customer Service
CGME: Ep 31 How to Get A Better Performance Review
CGME: Ep 54 Adding Value To Your Job

Support the show

Send us a text

When Things Don't Go As Planned
It isn't always smooth sailing ahead. Sometimes life throws us curve balls and we need to be ready to handle them.  Learn what to do when things don't go as planned. 

In today's episode, I'll talk about 3 real-world interview examples. One of which is a success story, the other two end with lessons learned.

Tune in to find out how my son's recent interview went and if he was awarded the job. Also, gain practical insight on how to better navigate certain interview situations.

Chapters
[00:55]
Learn how to win with video interviews.

[01:32]
If you are in-person interviewing I recommend you arrive at least 15 minutes early.

[02:11]
I'm proud of my son, he didn't feel the need to apologize.

[02:53]
Embracing change: An alternate interviewing manager was selected. He openly stated I have no background on you, so let's wing it!

[03:40]
Always bring copies of your resume!

[04:15]
Strong preparation can lessen stress and anxiety if changes occur.

[06:00]
What happens when things don't go as planned, but you recover poorly?

[07:30]
They were likely looking for a strong, confident answer.

[07:56]
Hindsight 20/20. When you notice a mistake in your response or feel you could have answered better, simply pause then course correct!

[10:20]
Sometimes we need to slow down to make sure we clearly convey our thoughts.

[11:18]
A final example of seeking feedback when things don't go as planned

Mentioned Links
CGME - Ep 056: Learn how to win with video interviews.
CGME - Ep 051: Powerfully Placed Pauses

Support the show

Send us a text

Winning with Video Interviews
I'm seeing a popular trend when it comes to changes with interviewing techniques. Self-recorded video interviews are making their debut. If you think this takes away the stress, fear, or anxiety - think again.

You click record, read off each question, and respond. But how much time will you have? How long should it take to answer each question? What tech setup will you use? What are the do's and don'ts when it comes to winning with video interviews?

Check out this week's episode to find out how to ace your video interview!

Chapters
[02:16]
Computer self-recorded video interviews are becoming popular.

[03:41]
The more time and effort you put forth the better prepared you'll be!

[04:37]
Tip #1: Setup your computer equipment in the same place for practice runs and the interview.

[05:05]
Tip #2: Avoid all distractions - that means audio and visual. Don't assume you can blur or blackout your background!

[06:11]
Tip #3: Practice responding while maintaining your focus on your camera, not your screen.

[07:16]
Thoroughly read through your interview questions, pause, compose yourself, and concisely respond!

[08:46]
If you find yourself rambling or making negative statements just STOP!

[10:39]
You're in control of your interview. If you need to course-correct, you can! Here are a few examples to help you do it.

[12:47]
Make sure you check your tech!

[15:43]
Interview logistics: practice, practice, practice.

[17:09]
Use your response time limits wisely.

Mentioned Links
Free Guide: Winning with Video Interviews
CGME Ep. 51 - Powerfully Placed Pauses
CGME Ep. 48 - Ultimate Career Growth Performance: Interviews

Support the show

Send us a text

Getting Rid of Um, Ah...Filler Words
In today's fast-paced world, it might seem like we struggle to get a word in edgewise during conversations. However, that doesn't mean we should jump at the moment there's a break. If we do, our thoughts may not be fully formed and we end up rambling.

Listen to today's episode to find out how to recognize if you use filler words and how to prevent them. Also, you'll get some stage presence and presentation tips. This episode contains a free printable download to remind you of filler and crutch words.

Chapters
[01:03]
"Most of us don't listen with the intent to understand, we listen with the intent to reply." Stephen R. Covey.

[01:48]
Cell phones, email alerts, and other distractions can disrupt our thought process and derail our conversations.

[02:07]
Don't get known as a filler-word person.

[02:52]
Filler words can be distracting and break story connections in conversations. They can devalue you and your content!

[04:02]
Be careful when your emotions are heightened, it's prime territory for filler words and self-defeating negative discussions.

[05:20]
Learn how to stop using filler and crutch words. Use my 3P rule - Powerfully Placed Pauses.

[06:37]
To reduce the use of filler words you can record yourself and play it back while carefully listening.

[08:38]
Your pauses aren't as long as you think!

[09:50]
For help getting rid of filler and crutch words download and print out our cheat sheet!

[13:00]
Video record yourself to enhance your success getting rid of filler words and boost your speaking presence!

[14:40]
Learn how to become aware of your emotional intelligence.

[15:00]
Bonus tip: Listen to episode 37, Don't Just Exist, Be Present!

[15:12]
Ultimate Career Growth Performance Series (Episodes 46 - 50).

Mentioned Links
Free Download - Avoiding Filler & Crutch Words
CMGE - Ep 40: Becoming Aware of Your Emotional Intelligence
CGME - Ep 51: Powerfully Placed Pauses
CGME - Ep 37: Don't Just Exist, Be Present!
CGME - Ep 46-50: Ultimate Career Growth Performance Series

Support the show