World at Work

"It's a big mistake for any employer to think that they could cut corners by hiring someone with experience."

Building the perfect team takes time. You can save some time though by making sure to avoid a common hiring pitfall.  When I first started coaching hiring managers through Best Culture Solutions, the goal was to transform traditional hiring practices and cultivate winning cultures. But there were times it felt like we'd never get there. Read the blog to learn about the shift we helped leaders make.

Notable Moments

00:57 Reconsider traditional hiring practices to attract  the right talent.

04:54 Skill alone doesn't guarantee success; passion and mindset matter.

08:18 Employers mistakenly assume experienced hires need no training.

11:47 Experience aids development, but requires adaptability.

14:15 Transferable skills matter more than industry experience.

18:06 Shared values cultivate successful organizational cultures.

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

Connect with Katie 

Website: https://katiecurrens.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Notable Moments

01:32 Creating clarity in the interview process

03:31 Identify who is going to be in the room

04:13 Know their objectives 

05:27 Understand your objectives

07:52 Desired next steps

11:11 Managing risk in new situations

Effective communication can set you apart in any interview process. Best Culture Solutions was started with a vision of helping leaders create winning cultures and helping job seekers land roles they love. Along the way, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with a number of industry experts including Mike Simmons of Catalyst Sales. Mike's insights on using communication tools during interviews have been game-changing for so many clients.

Mike has a fantastic tool for interview prep that he shared on our recent podcast episode. Read more about it here in our blog. 

Connect with Mike

https://findmycatalyst.com

Twitter - https://twitter.com/simmons_m

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesimmons/

Catalyst Sale - Link Tree - https://linktr.ee/catalystsale

GAME Plan - https://catalystsale.com/game

Catalyst Sale - https://catalystsale.com/ 

Catalyst Sale Courses - https://catalystsale.mykajabi.com/store

Catalyst Sale Podcast - https://catalystsale.libsyn.com/

Initial Clarity Call - https://calendly.com/simmons_catalystsale/25min-initial

Twitter - https://twitter.com/simmons_m

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesimmons/

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

"Go out and do the work on your own to figure your stuff out. Don't expect somebody else to figure your stuff out for you."

If you're feeling stuck in your job search, don't give up. Get clarity. Navigating your career path can sometimes feel like an endless maze with no exit in sight. It's that overwhelming moment when you think, "I need a change, but where do I even start?"

That's where clarity comes in. Read more on our blog here.

Connect with Mike

https://findmycatalyst.com

Twitter - https://twitter.com/simmons_m

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesimmons/

Catalyst Sale - Link Tree - https://linktr.ee/catalystsale

GAME Plan - https://catalystsale.com/game

Catalyst Sale - https://catalystsale.com/ 

Catalyst Sale Courses - https://catalystsale.mykajabi.com/store

Catalyst Sale Podcast - https://catalystsale.libsyn.com/

Initial Clarity Call - https://calendly.com/simmons_catalystsale/25min-initial

Twitter - https://twitter.com/simmons_m

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesimmons/

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

"Hiring people right is probably the most important thing that you do. The next most important thing that you do is training people right."

Key Moments

00:57 Hiring and training are crucial for success.

05:28 Effective organizations have purpose beyond rules.

07:56 Employees need context and understanding for engagement.

11:20 Sell peace of mind beyond the product.

17:36 Online learning needs heart and personal engagement.

18:41 Suggest reaching out to Best Culture Solutions.

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

An onboarding process plays a vital role in creating a winning organizational culture. In this episode Katie and I discuss strategies to ensure a new hire's success right from day one.

Here are three key takeaways from our discussion:

First Impressions Matter: Your onboarding process is the best opportunity to make a lasting impression. It's not just about the rules; it's about conveying your company’s mission, values, and why you do what you do. This sets the tone for how new employees perceive their role and the organization.

Engage Hearts and Minds: Onboarding isn't just about ticking boxes. It should involve storytelling and personal connections to engage new hires emotionally and intellectually. Avoid the temptation to make everything an online click-through process. Human connection matters.

Ongoing Training: Onboarding shouldn't be a one-and-done event. Build in regular refreshers for all employees, old and new. This ensures everyone stays aligned with the company's evolving mission and practices, fostering a cohesive and engaged team.

Make sure to take a listen to the full episode for more insights and actionable advice for onboarding. If you’re looking to enhance your onboarding process, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Best Culture Solutions. We're here to help!

"While I know that the experience will be different, I also know a little bit about what I can expect from the company and what their values are and what they're striving towards, and those are things that I am interested in."

Key Moments

01:17 Changes between organizations are not uncommon.

05:50 Familiarity with industry, connections, and leadership changes can help transition.

09:27 Be cautious about idolizing the past experience.

12:59 Consistent pay, aligning work with passion. Podcast.

15:25 Consider moves to a job that align with personal interests and use desired skills.

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

It is not uncommon for professionals to consider returning to a previous employer. It is also not always the same experience we try to convince ourselves it once was. During this conversation Katie and I share our own experineces with this, including the complexities, benefits, and strategies for making a comeback at a former workplace.

Here are three key takeaways from our discussion:

• Avoid Assumptions: Things might have changed since you left. Avoid assuming that everything is the same and approach the situation as a fresh experience. Some aspects may have improved, while others might be different from how you remember.
• Know Your Why: Reflect deeply on why you are considering a return. Ensure your motivations align with your career goals and personal values, not just past fond memories. Treat this as a new chapter rather than a continuation of the old one.
• Leave the Past Behind: Whether your previous experience was positive or negative, don’t let it cloud your new journey. Embrace this opportunity as a distinct experience and stay focused on doing your best work.

Returning to a former employer can indeed be a powerful career move if navigated thoughtfully. If you need help making that transition, feel free to reach out to our team at Best Culture Solutions. Contact me at [email protected] or visit our website bestculturesolutions.ca. 

Make sure this listen to episode 87,  to learn how to successfully reintegrate into a familiar job environment and reignite your career!

"Highlight transferable skills on your resume instead of just focusing on titles. Sometimes, the right fit comes from skills, not a matching job title."

Key Moments

00:37 Importance of Job Titles

01:27 Creative Job Titles in Modern Businesses

04:18 The Challenge of Matching Job Roles

07:41 Acknowledging Scarcity Mindset

12:14 Advocating for your Professional Identity

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

The responsibilities that come with the title 'Director' at one company may not be the same responsibilities at another. In fact, the same title can mean vastly different roles depending on the company's size, scope, and structure. This can cause people to overlook potentially good roles based on their preconceived understanding of a title.  For job seekers, understanding the true scope of a job post is crucial. There are ways to read between the lines and discern if a role is genuinely a good fit for your experience and aspirations.

Some of the ways to navigate the hierarchy of job titles are:

• Understand Your Scope: Titles like "Director" or "Manager" can mean vastly different things across different organizations. Always dig deeper into the specific responsibilities and scope of work associated with a title, rather than taking it at face value.
• Experience Over Titles: Don’t get too hung up on exact titles when considering candidates or applying for roles. Focus on the skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of the position. Sometimes a lateral move in title can offer just the challenge an individual might need to grow.
• Advocate Rightly: If you find yourself in a role that doesn't reflect your responsibilities or the perception you need to project, don’t hesitate to have an open conversation with your leaders. Make sure the reasons behind your request are genuine and are in the best interest of both your career growth and the company’s branding.

Make sure to listen to the entire discussion about how to decode job titles in episode 86. Reach out to the team at Best Culture Solutions if you would like help creating winning cultures and fulfilling careers together.

"People are more and more aware of the the need to take care of mental health. And yet they're still intensely afraid and fearful of actually taking those actions."

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

Change is inevitable, yet it can often bring about feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. In our latest episode of the World at Work podcast, Katie Currens and I dive into strategies to handle these transitions effectively, ensuring both personal and professional growth.

Believe it or not, periods of change are good times to consider new healthy habits. Take time to reflect on what you are - or are not - doing for your own well being. Maybe it's incorporating exercise into your routine or connecting with a hobby you once loved or have been interested in. Identifying activities that provide mental and physical relief is crucial. For me, high-intensity workouts do wonders for maintaining mental clarity and resilience.

While it may feel easier to retreat into isolation, it is important to connect with others. Reach out to friends, colleagues, or even professional therapists. Sharing your journey with someone can provide new perspectives and alleviate the burden you're carrying. Remember, it's okay to seek professional help for mental well-being. Change can be easier to process when you have the positive guidance of others. 

If change is looming make sure you take action. The longer you wait the heavier the mental burden will become. Break down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps. Making consistent progress, no matter how small, is better than stagnation. Plan your actions, execute them, and focus on the process rather than the immediate results.

Change may be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can navigate through it successfully. If you're facing significant changes and need guidance, feel free to reach out to myself and our team at Best Culture Solutions. We are here to help you find the best path forward.

" It's important to say it. It's also important to tell the story behind it."

Key Moments

01:32 Leverage Achievements When Job Searching

03:50 Emphasize Recognition and Volunteering on your Resume

05:48 The Power of Storytelling in Job Applications

10:20 The Impact of Early Achievements

11:35 Sharing Achievements Without Bragging

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

How to Communicate Recognitions

There is value in celebrating and communicating recognitions in both professional and personal settings. Too many people overlook their achievements or feel uncomfortable sharing them. However, recognizing your own value is crucial for growth and opportunity. Especially if you are looking for your next career opportunity. During this episode, Katie and I discuss how to communicate recognitions in a way that feels genuine and empowering.

Some highlights from our conversation include:

• Own Your Success but Stay Humble: When sharing your recognitions, be sure to maintain humility. It’s not about bragging; it’s about demonstrating how your accomplishments add value. Use phrases like "I was recognized for..." instead of "I won..."
• Incorporate Recognition into Your Resume: Don’t hesitate to include a section for recognitions on your resume. Clearly outline what you were recognized for and how it reflects your skills and contributions. This not only highlights your achievements but also tells a compelling story about your professional journey.
• Storytelling is Powerful: When discussing your recognitions in interviews or networking conversations, frame them within a story that demonstrates the value you provided to others. This context makes your achievements more relatable and impactful.

Make sure to the full episode to gain more insights and tips on how to effectively communicate your recognitions so you are best positioned for the career you desire. If you're struggling to effectively communicate your recognitions or need help enhancing your resume, reach out at bestculturesolutions.ca or email me at [email protected]. We can craft messages that portray your strengths and achievements in the best possible light.

"Block out things in your calendar now to get to the life you want, instead of just waiting for it to come to you or waiting to see what it's going to be."

Key Moments

00:00 Forced pause allows reflection on work-life balance

03:25 Establishing processes in new business takes time

09:01 Overcommitting leds to losing focus and control

10:31 Challenges transitioning from entrepreneurship to employee

15:29 Prioritize and block out time in calendar

18:10 Saying no is important for time management

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

How to Not Lose Yourself in Your Work

It is easy to let work consume us, especially when the line between personal an professional life blurs. Katie and I are no strangers to losing ourselves in our work over the years. During our conversation we look at our own personal experiences to share professional advice on navigating the challenges of staying present and avoiding burnout.

 A few of the quick takeaways we discuss include:

• Stay Focused on Your Core Duties:  Keep a clear vision of your primary responsibilities and be wary of tasks that don't align with your mission.
• Guard Your Time: Use techniques like "Yes, if..." to manage additional requests without sacrificing your well-being.
• Prioritize Personal Time: Block out time in your calendar for activities that rejuvenate you, and stick to it!

This episode is packed with valuable tips to help you better manage your workload, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and avoid the dreaded scope creep. Take a listen and then let us know how you manage to stay balanced and focused in your work. You can email me at [email protected].

If you're feeling lost in work or need guidance on your career path, feel free to connect with me. I am ready to help get you back on track. Remember, balance is not something you find; it’s something you create. 

"Successful people aren't afraid to share their credit."

Key Moments

01:40 LinkedIn Perspectives on High Performing Employees

:38 Employee and Leadership Perspectives on Side Hustles

08:44 Focusing on Outcomes over KPI's

11:23 Email Misuse and the Impact on Communication

14:02 Balancing Humility with Sharing Accomplishments

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: [email protected]

Signs of a High Performing Employee

If you're aiming to identify top talent or elevate your own career then you will be really interested in an LinkedIn post Jody recently came across. It outlines 14 signs of a high performing employees. While lists like this seem to have a lot of common signs, this one had a few that were a bit unconventional.  From embracing side hustles to focusing on outcomes over KPIs, we break down what truly sets top performers apart.

.A few examples of the signs of a high performing employee:

• Side Hustles Indicate Commitment - Employees with side hustles often showcase high levels of accountability and self-motivation. They're balancing workloads and pursuing passions, which translates to high performance in their primary roles.
• Rebellion Against Micromanagement = Self-Motivation - Top performers resist micromanagement because they value autonomy. They’re self-driven and just want to get the job done without unnecessary oversight. Trust them, and you'll see great results!
• Humility Enhances Trust and Success - While confidence is crucial, humility helps build trust within a team. High performers are often humble, sharing credit and recognizing others’ contributions, which strengthens team dynamics and drives success.

Whether you're a leader looking to supercharge your team or an employee aiming to stand out, you don't want to miss this episode. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners like you. And while you're at it, make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss future episodes.