Archive for the ‘Business’ Category

Have you ever found yourself in what appears to be a perpetual state of learning? Continuous learning that rarely results in you hitting the bricks running with what you know.  People often say they haven’t had a chance to use their education and that might be so but most of the time it comes down to feeling confident enough to go beyond the books and actually do it!

As one brilliant client of mine pointed out it is about “going from learning mode to action.” That can be scary. I remember the first course I took in counselling, it was all great in theory but then when I was told I had to try out my skills with a person, on camera no less, I was sooo nervous. After it was all over I felt relieved. I had an opportunity to put into action what I had learned and took a giant leap toward my professional goals. You see, left to my own devices I might have talked my way out of actually working with a live body in front of me, fearing that I am simply not ready. Convincing myself that I’m not good enough or that in comparisons to others I will suck! Maybe I could embarrass myself or even worse cause this other person to be uncomfortable. Instead, I was told…It is time to launch…You are worthy now, get out and use what you have so diligently been studying.

Once you are off and running it doesn’t mean you can’t learn more. In fact, ongoing learning is essential. However, using it as a way to make yourself feel worthy among peers or to keep from actually working in your field, due to fear of success or failure, is not respecting that investment. Keep current, keep educating yourself but do it for the right reasons…most important of which is so that other people can benefit from your expertise!

Today’s post is about a wonderful community I have just joined called eWomen Network.

Now, I am not a joiner. When all the other kids were raising hands and jumping up first to be involved in something little Jennifer waited and observed. I could sing, dance, play piano and sports in front of people but never really wanted to stand out in the crowd. As an adult I have spoke in front of large audiences, in classrooms and at board meetings but put me in a room ready to shake hands and introduce myself takes hours of psychological prepping. Thus, joining business groups and other networking type organizations has not been something I gravitated toward and if I was involved it was always at the urging of someone else.

This is what makes my involvement with eWomen Network unique, I showed up not knowing anyone. A few posts ago I blogged about my experience as a guest at the writers conference sponsored by eWomen Network. It was highly enjoyable and informative, the energy was completely different and I was pleasantly surprised by the calibre of women and speakers that surrounded me. What I learned from that day was that “I made the right decision.”

Subsequently, I have spoken with very welcoming women like Loretta Voth, Pamela Chatry and others, who by their natural ability to connect, helped me see the value in this group. There was no pressure, no expectation, nothing of a sort, simply a welcome. As a new member I went this week to a luncheon, I sat at a table and slowly got myself situated. It was at the point when it was evident I wasn’t moving when Janice came up and introduced herself and said “You won’t meet anyone sitting down, take this time to move around.” She proceeded to share more about herself and introduced me to others; I quickly felt more at ease.

There was a great guest speaker name Isabelle Mercier Turcotte who provided a passionate, fun and interesting look at branding – what works and what is less effective. I quickly learned that I have a lot more to learn. This is the consistent theme for me, it feels like this is just the right group of women to connect with, share with, be inspired by and support. Strong business women who still want to learn, grow, connect with and promote others. To give back as well as receive. To provide valuable support. Successful business women from all industries coming together to do more than just swap business cards.

So, this closet introvert who has an often extroverted job is happy to align myself with this network. Whether you live in the United States, Canada or (soon it will be) in Australia I highly recommend checking out their site and local chapters. If you do, let me know either by email or comment on this blog I would be interested to hear your thoughts. For those that have already joined who may come across this post you might want to offer what drew you to eWomen and how it has impacted you since.

If there was a statement I hear most often from people it is “I want to find my purpose, I want to know, What is my purpose?”

There are points in life where we can become sensitive to our life and career positioning. Usually beginning with some conflict on the job or comparison to others in life but none-the-less what is initially a whisper becomes a loud ongoing internal conversation about purpose. Eventually, it gets vocalized to those close to us and then to anyone who may be able to help find what that purpose is.

Over the years I have felt this quest for “purpose” has become even stronger in my clients and lately I have been questioning, “Why?” I”m not sure I know fully what the answer is but I have observed and explored some interesting connections.

Over the centuries “purpose” for many was pre-designed you were essentially assigned your place in life and work. Even if one had a thought of doing something else it would either not be uttered, for fear of going against the establishment, or if you did speak up, you would have quickly realized few cared what you thought. It could be hard to find someone willing to help you change your path. Later generations started to move away from this idea that anyone would dictate who or what they would be and instead sought recognition and acceptance for their own pursuits.

In some cultures, coming of age ceremonies might have assisted one to realize their purpose; resulting in over-seeing the spiritual or practical well-being of their family or people. We have very little left in western culture that would provide an opening for us to be so ceremoniously in tune with our purpose. In fact, the daily interference of important ventures and so-called mundane tasks of living have been blamed for our inability to hear even a pang of purpose.

Sometimes what is confused as “finding my purpose” is actually in part the pursuit of status. Being regarded as an expert has fast become the désir d’aujourd’hui (desire of today) whereby in a sea of multi-talented people and competition, one seeks to be noticed. It is not so much the career or life purpose that has been full-filled so much as the ego has been rewarded. Soon after the questions arises yet again, “What is my purpose in life?”

It seemed to me that in answering any questions about finding our purpose that there would be some finality in the answer. We would be saved from the torment of not knowing (or seeming not to know) and go on from there happily living what we were intended to do. Then I had to ask “Has life and career ever been what we intended?“

After years of trying to define what I referred to as purpose and knowing that it was part of a larger journey, I finally found some clarity recently in a quote from Joseph Campbell. From the book “The Power of Myth” with Bill Moyers, Mr. Campbell offered this:

Just sheer life cannot be said to have a purpose, because look at all the different purposes it has all over the place. But each incarnation, you might say, has a potentiality, and the mission of life is to live that potentiality. How do you do it? My answer is, “Follow your bliss.”  There’s something inside you that knows when you’re in the center, that knows when you’re on the beam or off the beam.  And if you get off the beam to earn money, you’ve lost your life.  And if you stay in the center and don’t get any money, you still have your bliss.

Campbell goes on to quote Karlfried Graf Durckheim to add to his point, “When you’re on a journey, and the end keeps getting further and further away, then you realize that the real end is the journey.”

While toiling over the questions surrounding “our purpose” we forget that we are a living example of the human potential. That both life and career allows us to take the journey and open up to multiple possiblities. There is no finality in that, in the sense that if I find my purpose I will be this or that; I am already! 

So, the question becomes less about “What is my purpose?” and more about “What is my potential?”

To me, that sounds far more exciting, forward moving and ultimately a better use of time in this body, with this mind.

I attended Women & Words which is a writing and publishing conference presented by eWomen network. They did a spectacular job of assembling some really interesting speakers and panelist that helped support and demystify the writing, publishing and social media world.

The authors generously took the time to talk about the “birthing” and marketing challenges that accompany writing a book; sharing valuable tips for any aspiring writer. The behind the scenes look at the industry and creative process was amazing, it is not as easy as one might perceive it to be.  Each presenter was approachable and genuinely provided even more reasons to be inspired to explore your inner writer. The publishers that attended spoke passionately about the differences and similarities between self publishing and traditional publishing. One thing I heard consistently, you need a few good editors and proof-readers before you send anything out.

As a participant I truly felt welcomed. The volunteers and organizers made sure you were enjoying yourself and that you arrived at each workshop on time.  I found myself  conflicted as to what workshop to attend, they were all so informative and I was afraid I would miss out. However, it was refreshing to find that no matter where I sat I would be receiving quality information and connections with creative women and men. Yes, a handful of men were there too.

One in particular, Giovanni Amenta, stole the show with his workshop. With style, humour and honesty he shared his story and provided an interesting perspective on producing audio-books. His previous incarnation (as I like to call it) before becoming a certified Image Consultant and Stylist, was as a Canadian Tenor. However, his calling took him away from that life and into one that appears to suit him very well. He was a complete joy to spend time with.

Two out of the three Book Broads gave participants a chance to get the inside scoop on how to turn your blog into a book. It was unfortunate the one on the awesome threesome was ill but Angela Crocker and Peggy Richardson demonstrated their knowledge and excellent presentation skills to a receptive and curious group of blogging or soon to be blogging women.

Charmaine Hammond’s contribution to the conference was her book, husband and dog Toby all there to share the secrets of success. Her book On Toby’s Terms is in development for a motion picture and Toby….well, let’s just say when you have a dog like that life is never dull. For dog lovers like myself this book and movie will touch a chord.

Carla Rieger’s book The Change Artist sounded fascinating! Inspired by a true story that starts with her own father’s mystery life, the reader is taken on a journey that is just incredible. You never know what can be uncovered about a person in your life and how that journey can often circle right back to self recognition. Great speaker, incredible story!

What I did come to realize is I have a lot to learn but thankfully there are people out there willing to help. I’m going to be pouring through books and information that I obtained from this wonderful conference. As I understand it, this conference was the first one here in BC and yet it exceeded my expectations. These women did a spectacular job offering an affordable conference with lunch included and trade booths to peruse. Being able to sit for lunch and chat with not only the presenters but fellow inspired writers and publishers was such a  nice touch. Great job ladies!!

A little side note to this. I have to admit I wasn’t going to go. The last conference I attended was the BC Career Development Association which is something I belong to but I was not impressed. It was the second time I had attend that conference in four years and found it was not worth the time or money invested. The presenters were not as generous with their expertise, the cost was high and this year no booths were set up to gain trade related materials. As for lunch…well you fend for yourself in a high priced area.

The reason I mention this is that it is hard to put together events and some organizers are better at it than others. It takes a considerable amount of time and forethought as to the needs of participants (and presenters) and the goals of the organization itself. I’m thankful for Loretta Voth who consistently promoted Women & Words via email and that I trusted my intuition and went to this event.

My advice:  Before you invest in any conference do as much as you can to investigate the backgrounds of the presenters.

Try to answer: Do you feel the standard has been set high enough that it warrents your time and parting of hard earned dollars?

Go for it: If it feels right, it is worth a try. When egos are left at the door and people are truly wanting to impart their wisdom it can be a very rewarding day or weekend! Even if you are an introvert like me you can mingle or not and still walk away having learned something new.

You lost your job.

When you went to receive help at your local Employment Centre what did you see and feel?

Was their a feeling of uncomfortableness sitting in the office? Were you frustrated by the time it took to be served by an actual person? Were you surprised how busy your case manager seemed to be and the limited time allocated to your appointment? Did you feel pushed into an orientation session you didn’t want to attend or a course you felt would not properly address your needs? Did you feel like a number?

These are some of the reasons why people come to see me for private coaching but it is also the reasons why I chose to become a business owner and independent contractor. For many years I watched both sides struggle with the parameters in which the system works. No matter what side of the desk you were on it could be difficult.

Let me give you a sneak peak: Read the rest of this entry »

I was inspired by someone who reminded me how powerful expectations can be; both internal and external. Many of us grow up with messages that set the tone for how we view ourselves as it relates to appearance, our roles in family and relationships, our career or educational path, our place in society. Guided by the messages we make decisions that may be (or may not be) appropriate for us. Sometimes, we can become debilitated by the constant barrage of opinions that are truly not our own.

Handed down to us, these messages are most always soaked in expectations for our journey and if we do not fulfill them there is a true sense that we are letting someone down, if not ourselves. It can be a heavy burden to bare as the soul battles to tell the other story. That other story is what “we” know to be true. The message that was sent with us designed to be our road map through life. When we ache to find our way and begin to feel a sense of detachment from our own existence I believe it is because we can’t hear what the heart is trying to say.

Sometimes when I sit in a room with another person I see that struggle. I hear the voice with the message; the voice that wants to give all the answers that person is seeking. It is as if there are two people in front of me, one that tells the current life story and one that holds the original script. Their struggle is based on the missing pieces, which they know on some level, but they just can’t hear that very personal voice. Instead they revert back to what others think, feel and do because the belief is “they must know best.” They often do not.

We can never live up to expectations that were created for the sole purpose of assigning our place. A defined box that contains little of the original message. Expectations defined by family, relationship, culture or gender are often not healthy. The power that is exuded by one person’s expectation of another can change our whole perception of self and life. If it is a positive expectation that is mutually welcomed it propels us forward, if it is negative from the beginning or becomes so over time, it may stop us in our tracks.

A beautiful soul sat before me and I felt great when she stayed with the process that took her closer to hearing her own message. When she gave herself permission to go there, to enjoy the moment of being who she is without judgement it was breath taking. Fleeting moments when the obligations and expectations dropped away long enough for her voice and power to emerge triumphant. She was beautiful and connecting as it should be, as she wanted. I want her to realize this: “You were noticed, you do matter and what you are doing for yourself is courageous and admired.” You matter, as a mother, as a spouse, as a daughter, as sister, as a colleague, as a citizen and above all else as a WOMAN! Brought into the world with everything needed to survive and thrive.

Thank you, it was an honor to meet you.

The majority of people I know use Facebook to connect with current or lost friends and former lovers; the latter is usually not discussed openly. However, there are others I know in the business sector who use it for establishing business to business relationships, increasing client base and sharing industry tips. I haven’t yet made that leap to Facebook personally or professionally. (Professionally, I may one day join but at this time I remain uncommitted)

In 2008, I was introduced to Linkedin. A dear friends brother was very familiar with building business, brand and social networking; he offered to educated me on the finer points. Being from across the pond (England) he took the time to craft a lengthy email citing the do’s and don’t of blogging, the advantages of using Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. His reference to LinkedIn came with more passion, “You MUST be on this.”

Taking his advice I became a LinkedIn user,  but lately I’m beginning to wonder if it is not becoming another Facebook? People are trying to connect with me that appear more interested in building up quantity rather than quality associations. I don’t press the accept button without checking out the who? and assessing the why? we should be a part of each others network; this is where I see a long list of names from all over the world. Finding it impossible to see a common thread I simply ignore the invitation.

One person, who I have met personally,  was an individual in which I could still not answer the “Why?” question. I don’t like the feeling of obligation and therefore stood firm that this was not a business relationship I would like to cultivate. (It is funny that I do have a small voice inside my head that says “you are being a snob.” I don’t like that voice but I understand it forms its opinion based on a longstanding need to be polite and say “come on in” even when I’m not up for company) I’m sure I’m not the only one who has had to evaluate their relationship building on this site but at times it just seems a little too frequent.

LinkedIn is all business for me, connecting and learning from those groups and individuals that can bring a unique perspective and have expertise I appreciate. It is a virtual world of business discussion, collaboration and support that holds no borders and no office hours. Business development is key and establishing relationships with people who can inspire me, use my services or want to connect for mutual referrals or information sharing, is a great perk! What I don’t need is the “friend” seekers.

LinkedIn has been expanding rapidly over the last few years and as I understand it plans to tap into more ways in which the 100 million users can find value in this tool. Joining millions of professionals for all the right reasons can be business and life changing. Connecting with old colleagues again who may provide well needed information or a spark to ones business/career plans is exciting. So much to be gained and as long as I can keep the wrong element at bay I will continue to use LinkedIn. If it gets taken over by those Facebook and Twitter junkies that need a new place to feel noticed I may need to adjust my settings.

Have you assessed your connections on LinkedIn before accepting invitations?

One of the most dreaded questions in a job interview is usually the first “Tell me about yourself?” This is where many people have the “deer in headlights” look. There are a few reasons for this brain freeze to occur but for the most part it comes down to the lack of a file.

The object of this question is to receive a brief synopsis of appropriate personal information which normally doesn’t include your marital status or how many children you have. Instead focus on your familiarity community…“I’ve lived in the area for….” or speak to the number of years in the industry. Your attributes, related work experience and strengths are also very important to add. It is not the time to embark on your great Canadian or American biography; keep it concise.

The truth is, if you can’t answer this question it is because you have not given it much thought or had the help to develop a meaningful statement. Questions to ask yourself are :

What are my professional experiences and attributes?

What do I bring in terms of strengths to this position?

How have people described me in the past and how does that relate well to this position?

What do I value? What are my skills? Who am I?

When this question arises your brain attempts to find the answer, it scrolls back in its data bank looking for “Tell me about yourself? It keeps searching, just like a computer would do, until it either finds the file because you have previously inputted the data or realizes this file does not exist. When it scans to no avail you are left staring blankly ahead waiting for something to drop out of your mouth. It usually isn’t a strong answer that comes forth.

We can lack the confidence to speak to our strengths, feel like we’re boasting or are too close to ourselves to see what we truly bring. Everything we do after awhile becomes second nature and women, who have so many roles to play in their daily life, can cease to be able to form a cohesive statement for all their contributions. We lose track of ourselves. Comfortable with supporting others and talking about the accomplishments of those close to us, we can lose sight of our own identity. “I simply don’t know who I am anymore.”

Before going to a job interview take the time to fully investigate your skills, accomplishments in paid or unpaid work and practice a statement that encompasses what you bring to the table. Check previous reference letters, job and volunteer descriptions. Ask someone you trust, education instructors, former colleagues; anyone who can help you see the value in what you do.

From an employers perspective: Confidently speak – Tell me about yourself so that I will remember your name. If you are in an interview there is already interest; now all we have to do is have a conversation to see if we fit together.

I know there are a lot of people looking for work right now and I hope this can help to start that conversation going on a good first note.

Today, I had an opportunity to fulfill a dream of getting to beloved chairs re-upholstered. I made a conscious choice to look for someone in my community that showed design knowledge and could help me pick the best fabric for such an investment. The other criteria is they had to be a woman in business. Whenever possible I support the businesses of women, some may not agree with me favouring women, specifically, but I love to “pay it forward.” What I mean by that is, women in business got me where I am today it is time to show my respect.

My dear mentor Pat, was one of the first women I admired. Pat worked along side predominantly men but held their respect and respected them. She demonstrated the importance of collaboration with everyone; she also had a good balance between her femininity and strong presence in the face of difficult situations. There have been other women since then who with their expertise provided excellent service, care and mentorship. I meet women all the time who show me a side of business that only through their generosity take me higher in my own development.

My editor and colleague Jill is an example of that generosity. Jill routinely challenges me to dig deeper and we bounce ideas between each other trying to decide whether this is a colour outside the lines or inside the lines project. I work with women through career coaching/facilitating contracts who inspire me; keep me from getting stagnant in my approach to the topics or service. I see their zest for learning and expanding within their professions and I step it up.

The list is long as to how many women in business have supported me and the partnerships with everyone of them are important. Business development and women’s success in both large and small ventures should be celebrated. It is no small feat to do what women do in one day, one week, one year. Sometimes in the face of opposition or stereotypical assumptions. It is no wonder that women do so well as entrepreneurs while wearing their multiple hats… women are not afraid of hard work. Throughout history women in business succeed because they truly have all that it takes.

So, as I enter into this partnership with another woman in business for the purposes of re-imagining old furnishings I can’t help but feel good about my decision. Worldwide there are women wanting to start up their own businesses; giving those women the tools to do so is a worthwhile cause. A healthy country and community grows with the development of its women. Change a woman’s life – support their business – support their dreams.

Women for Women International

Career Consulting – Why I don’t blog often about career development.

Let me preface the following by saying how much I enjoy serving others and in particular supporting both clients and workshop participants in their professional and personal development. However, it occurred to me the other day that while many of my counterparts use their blog as a venue for dispensing helpful tips and advice for the career, job search and life weary travelers, I have opted not to indulge heavily in those discussions.

I grappled with myself as to whether I am missing the boat on this this. Is it what readers would want? How can I make it more interesting and what can I give that others aren’t already peddling? Then it came to me…it’s not that there is not a need nor an interest or that I couldn’t make it a fruitful adventure into self and career analysis. It was simply that I’m off the clock.

Open. At the beginning of the day I open my doors to hear, feel, interpret, assess, encourage and genuinely assist others. I do this with humbleness, professionalism and honesty intact. At the end of the day, I need to turn the shingle on the door around. Closed. There is simply nothing left I want to say on the topic. I’m completely confident after all these years to address anything on career development, educational planning, self marketing and the associated supports. Just not consistently in a blog format.

There were times when I felt the expectation from colleagues may be that my blog should be the venue for career talk. I looked around at various sites and personalities that use blogging as a means to disseminate their philosophies for coaching and most individuals provide helpful information. At the end of their day, or during it, these people love the flexibilty to share through various social media and sites what they know and are passionate about in their field. I use my website for that purpose but my blog remains relatively career consulting free.

Blogging is my time to reflect. To put some background music on (like right now) and let the thoughts flow. Jennifer gets to emerge in whatever form she wants. The representation and freedom that blogging gives us all, to be who we are in the moment, without apology. The flexibility to change our mind and not be beholding to one thought or process. The scrutiny, interpretation and participation is through the reader. In the end the contents of our head can spill out and be left on the page.

At this time I serve myself and my readers. We understand each other and through this post you may understand why I can’t limit myself. My career counsellor, consulting, coaching, advising and facilitation hats don’t get a lot of use here for a good reason. Life is too full and too wondrous for me!

The office is closed.