Our Backpack

Supervisors aren't superheroes, but they play a major role in our professional development. In this Episode, Christian Rafael and Erica discuss three different types of managers: micro-managers, mid-managers and MIA-managers. They also discuss what is means to be a good supervisor, how to develop a management style and what it means to lead with vulnerability. 

Micro-managers usually get a bad rep, but part of being a well-rounded professional is learning how to work under various management styles. In this episode, Erica and Christian Rafael discuss how to work with a micro-manager and how, if you identify as a micro-manager, to practice balancing overseeing the progression of projects and giving employees the opportunity to make decisions. 

Micro-managers have a bad rep, but part of growing as professional means learning how to navigate different management styles. As a follow up to Episode 9, Christian and Erica discuss how to work with a micro-manager, how to practice trusting employees with delegated tasks and finding the balance between control and being aware of project progression. 

Though supervisors don't wear capes they do greatly impact our work experience and help us become stronger professionals. In this Episode, Christian Rafael and Erica discuss three different supervision styles: Micro-Managers, MIA-Managers and Mid- Managers. Understanding our management style helps us hold ourselves accountable to our team and to our own professional development. Being aware of our supervisors management style helps us improve our working relationship and team dynamic. No matter the management style, Christian and Erica also discuss  the value of leading with vulnerability, how to recover after making mistakes mistakes and how to ask for feedback from supervises. 

Have you ever said, "No one has said I'm doing a bad job, so I guess I'm doing a good job..." In this Episode, Erica and Christian discuss the importance of recognizing staff for their positive contributions to the team and department. They also discuss the value in being self-motivated and the potential dangers of being too reliant on outward validation to be feel fulfilled in your role/purpose. 

Sometimes we reflect on whether or not it is time for our next ship (opportunity). Before jumping ship, it is key to identify what is causing you to feel this way. From feeling like you’re sinking at work to navigating in disarray and from staying afloat to getting on your next ship, this is a process. In this Episode, Erica and Christian discuss ways to navigate working in a department that is undergoing a period of transition. They emphasize the importance of focusing on what you can control, figuring out next steps, choosing to chase new opportunities and prioritizing self care to avoid burnout.

Feedback is key for any professional. It is through feedback we improve our skills within the workplace and development as individuals. In this episode, Erica and Christian Rafael discuss the importance of communication, how to identify if your co-worker is “missing”, how to provide peer feedback, and when to reach out to supervisors for support.

“Do you have a Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn, or a …?” Let’s be honest, in a world where we are all connected, your co-workers want to add you on social media. In this episode, Erica and Christian Rafael discuss following co-workers, the difference between work friends and friends at work, and how social media can impact your image in the workplace.

Another meeting? Another email? It seems like we’re in constant communication. In this episode,  Erica and Christian Rafael discuss how and when to leverage meetings vs. emails. We share best practices on maximizing meetings and emails to ensure effectiveness as well as some tips to keep you organized.

“Should I call out of work today?”, is a question all of us have asked, or will ask, at some point in our careers.  In this episode, Erica and Christian Rafael discuss the challenges of taking time away due to workplace culture as well as offer some advice on how to practice self care and create boundaries. They also discuss how to prepare yourself, and your team, for success while away.