Connect Mobilize Deliver

You know going through change in an organization can be difficult.Sometimes, change can feel like complete chaos.Even if it seems like a small change, sometimes it can feel overwhelming.Your productivity plummets and so does your teammates'.Here's the good news.You have the power to create order from the chaos of change.This week's guest, Rachel Berbiglia, is an expert on helping businesses manage change.She shares her best tips on how to recover and maintain your productivity during a period of change.Rachel also teaches you how to help your teammates do the same.You're going to experience change many times throughout your career.Listen to Rachel Berbiglia so you and those you lead are prepared when the next change arrives.Today's GuestRachel BerbigliaRachel Berbiglia is consultant, entrepreneur, podcast host, and expert on bringing order to business operations.Her expertise includes successful change management in organizations across a variety of industries. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Rachel is a self-proclaimed Kansas Ambassador.You'll LearnWhy creating order from the chaos of change is a career superpowerThe value of being able to see a high-level vision and all the details required to make that vision a realityHow to avoid a victim mindset when going through changeThe basics of the change curve and its impact on your productivityWhy being "all business" is not always the best approachHow to protect your productivity and your professional reputation when going through a changeWhen you should consider leaving a company because of a change3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today’s Guest1. Prioritize wellWatch out for "fake urgency"! You must be able to separate urgent and important tasks from those that are wasting your time.If you're letting email drag you through the day, you're prioritizing your time incorrectly.2. See things from the perspective of othersIt's important to have your own point of view. And, to be able to see things from the perspective of others.Empathy is a valuable career skill. It applies to business insights as well as human emotions.3. Build relationships and emotional intelligenceEmotional intelligence and self-awareness are critical for building meaningful relationships.And, solid relationships are the foundation of successful careers.Links and Resources from this EpisodeConnect with Rachel Berbiglia on LinkedInLearn how to manage change with Rachel's free Change Management CurriculumListen to Rachel's People Move Organizations podcast at PMOCoaching.comHear my conversation with Rachel on How to Lead MeetingsDiscover the great state of Kansas on Rachel's Uncovering Kansas podcastSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

No one wants to attend a bad meeting. And, you definitely don't want to lead a meeting people complain about.Here's the problem.You may not know how to make them better.Don't worry. You're not alone.Many leaders want to make the meetings they lead and attend better.But, they don't know where to start.If that describes you, relax.In less time than you wasted in your last bad meeting, you'll be done with this episode.And, you'll know how to get started creating exceptional meetings.You just need to focus on 3 easy to remember words.They all start with the letter P.You'll Learn3 keys to creating exceptional meetingsPurpose - Know why you're bringing people together for a meetingPeople - Make sure you have the right people (and only the right people) in your meetingPreparation - Be ready to accomplish the purpose of the meeting with the people you inviteLinks and Resources from this EpisodeConnect or follow me on LinkedIn where I post daily on how to create exceptional meetingsLearn more about creating exceptional meetings in these blog posts and podcast episodes:How To Use Structure To Effectively Lead Meetings (blog post)How To Unlock The Power To Lead In A Role You Probably Don’t Like (blog post)CMD 033: How To Create An Exceptional Meeting With 7 Steps (podcast episode)CMD 035: How To Lead A Meeting In A Way Most People Won’t Try (podcast episode)See the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

You may feel more comfortable using these 3 words away from work than in your career.That awkwardness you feel is natural.But, it doesn't have to stop you from incorporating 3 powerful words into your work vocabulary to set yourself apart as a leader.A leader who is kind and confident.And, highly effective.In this week's episode, we'll talk about how to be a better leader using 3 awkward words.You'll LearnWhy leadership experts recommend being gentle, gracious, and kind to lead teams effectively3 conversation scripts you can use to incorporate these 3 words into your daily workHow to have a positive impact on the people in your organization without feeling awkwardThe power of applying "soft skills" to distinguish yourself as a leaderLinks and Resources from this EpisodeRead one of my favorite books on leadership, Gracious Leadership: Lead Like You’ve Never Led Before by Janet Smith Meeks.Get your copy of my free guide, 5 Simple Ways to Lead when You’re Not the “Leader”.Check out the blog post, "How to Lead with Gentleness, Not Fear" by Michael Hyatt, bestselling author and leadership expert.Connect or follow me on LinkedIn where I post daily on how to create exceptional meetingsSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Krissy Buck knows how to build connections and community.It's what she does best.In her personal life and her career.And, these communities lead to deeper, more meaningful relationships.Relationships with people you can serve and support.They will do the same for you too.If you're building a business, you need these type of relationships for your business to grow.Especially if your customers are online.Krissy has turned the skills she's honed for decades into a process you can follow.In this week's episode Krissy shares how you can build community and your business with 3 simple steps.Today's GuestKrissy BuckKrissy Buck is the Department Chair for Digital Marketing for WSU Tech. Prior to that she served as Digital Communications Director then Chief Community Officer for QuiCC.Krissy is also active in the Wichita, Kansas community where she serves in multiple ways including helping local, aspiring entrepreneurs as a 1 Million Cups Organizer.You'll LearnHow to grow you business from digital marketing expert, Krissy BuckHow to create fans of your brand by earning trust with your communityWhy influencers and affiliates can help your business without making you feel sleazyThe power of community to turn your fans into your best sales teamThe importance of celebrating wins. Both yours and your community members'.Why going where your customers are is required to grow your business online3 Simple Steps to Build Community and Your Business1. AcceptAccept people where they are in the buying journey.2. SeekSeek out the influencer. The person of peace and connection in the community.3. GoGo where the people are. Don't wait for customers to come to you.Links and Resources from this EpisodeConnect with Krissy Buck on LinkedInListen to Krissy's previous episode, How To Have A Rewarding Career With A 2 Year Degree – Krissy BuckEngage with Krissy and others on Digital Marketing on Twitter using #dmkchatExplore career building opportunities in digital marketing at WSU TechListen to Krissy Buck on the Wichita Chamber Business Accelerator podcastSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

This might be the best way to create an exceptional meeting when you’re not the official leader.You can actually lead a meeting as a participant.And, not many people want to do this.That’s why you need to know this strategy.Perhaps the most powerful role in a meeting is the note taker.The scribe.Yet few people volunteer to take notes during a meeting.In fact, most will find some way to avoid this dreaded task.They run away from it like they flee a typical boring, inefficient meeting.I encourage you to be different.Embrace the role.Volunteer to take notes in the next meeting you attend.Especially if it’s a meeting that is less than exceptional.In this week's episode we'll talk about the hidden powers held by the meeting note taker.You'll learn how you can lead any meeting you attend in a way most people won't even try.You'll Learn7 serious powers a meeting note taker holdsThe power to:Stay engagedInterruptBring clarityEnsure alignmentDocument decisionsDrive actionNot be perfectLinks and Resources from this EpisodeSupporting information in the post, How To Unlock The Power To Lead In A role You Probably Don't LikeConnect or follow me on LinkedIn where I post daily on how to create exceptional meetingsSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Have you ever piloted a plane?You have?Okay.But have you ever refueled an Air Force F-16 jet flying at 500 knots?And, not just any F-16 fighter jet, but one of the elite Air Force Thunderbirds squadron you may have seen at air shows?I haven't. But, that would be so cool!Today's guest, Aaron Stark, has done those amazing things in his career. And a whole lot more.Aaron no longer flies planes for a living. Instead, he helps his clients get where they want to go with their money.He made the career switch from Air Force pilot to wealth management advisor.The same skills he learned at the Air Force Academy and used in combat have served him well in every stage of his successful career.Aaron shares those lessons in today's episode so you too can learn how to navigate your career like an Air Force pilot.Even if you never see the inside of a cockpit.Today's GuestAaron StarkAaron Stark is the founder of HSI Wealth Strategies, a financial advisory team comprised of former United States Air Force pilots.Aaron and his team work primarily with professionals in the aviation industry: airline pilots, aviation business owners and executives as well as those who own and operate aircraft. Their aim is to provide a flight path that alleviates anxiety and empowers their clients to live out their dreams through financial and retirement planning, tax-efficient strategies and investment management. They specialize in helping reduce marginal retirement tax brackets through tax efficient strategies for many clients.  Aaron graduated from the Air Force Academy with a BS in Aeronautical Engineering. After graduation, Aaron went on to fly the KC-135 R/T.  He earned his MBA in 2011 from Webster University in St Louis.  During his flying career, Aaron instructed in both the KC-135 and T-6.  He’s flown over 150 combat missions in the KC-135 over Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. Aaron spent 13 years on active duty, and upon separating founded and built one of the fastest growing and most successful financial practices and has been recognized at a national level. You'll LearnHow the checklist discipline of a pilot will help you deliver results in your career and businessHow to eliminate risk and fear by applying flight safety practicesThe value of perseverance in your career and lifeWhy grit may be more valuable than talent and skillThe strength in admitting weakness and being vulnerable and authenticHow an F-16 fighter jet crash brought Aaron and me closer together3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Be tenaciousDevelop the skill of not quitting. Build grit.The majority of results come from the last bit of effort. So don't give up when things get hard.2. Drive to be the best at what you doSuccessful people find satisfaction from getting better.There's no substitute for persevering and consistently improving over time.3. Be strong enough to admit weaknessRecognize you need support. Seek help and advice from those who have done what you're trying to do.Learn from the best if you want to be the best you can be.Links and Resources from this EpisodeContact Aaron on the HSI Wealth Strategies website (hsiwealthstrategies.com)Connect with Aaron Stark on LinkedIn.See the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

No one wants another boring meeting that wastes their time.And, you certainly don't want to lead a meeting like that.You want to plan and run meetings that aren't like all the other meetings you and your coworkers can't stand to attend.You want to create exceptional meetings. And, you can!By following these 7 steps, your meetings will stand out. They will be different. Better. In a good way.And, you'll stand out as a leader too. One who shows respect for every person you invite to your meeting.Because you honor their time.All it takes is a bit of preparation and a proven process to follow.That's what you'll learn in today's episode.You'll Learn7 steps to use structure create an exceptional meetingPlan aheadCreate a document to guide the meetingIdentify the topicsBudget the timeSelect the participantsOptimize the meeting structureShare the meeting documentLinks and Resources from this EpisodeSupporting information in the post, How To Use Structure To Effectively Lead MeetingsMichael Bungay Stanier’s books, The Advice TrapTom Henschel on The Way to Make Sense to Others on the Coaching for Leaders podcast with Dave StachowiakConnect or follow me on LinkedIn where I post daily on how to create exceptional meetingsSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Having your creations evaluated and judged by other people is hard.And, sometimes critiquing another person's work is even more difficult.This process of giving and receiving critique is a regular part of an artist's world.And, there are many lessons non-artists can learn from this practice.Today's guest is visual artist and professor, Shannon Johnston.Shannon shares from an artist's perspective what she's learned in her career about giving and receiving critique.It's a valuable process in any career.So, listen to Shannon's tips and begin applying them in your work so you can boost your career.Today's GuestShannon JohnstonIn addition to being an artist, Shannon Johnston identifies as a daughter, sister, friend, introvert, teacher, student, feminist, collector, maker, consumer, and nail-biter. All of this informs her creative practice.It is engagement within and reflection upon community, both large and small, that ground Johnston’s practice. Repetition, generosity, and regeneration drive her making. Collection that borders compulsion builds her palette and ritual forms her process. Shannon holds a Masters of Fine Arts in Painting from Wichita State University. She currently lives in Wichita, KS with her husband where she is Assistant Professor of Art and Director of Steckline Gallery at Newman University.You'll LearnThe benefit of being curious and willing to learn and be surprised when receiving critiqueThe power of valuing input from others even when they don't know as much as you doHow to leverage daily debriefs to give and receive critiqueHow our worldview and perspective impacts the critique we giveThe value of seeking input from outsiders, peers, mentors, and those with less experience3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Pursue critique often, regularly, and when it's not requiredGet input early in the creative process from your manager and your customers so you can adjust if needed.Make getting critique a normal part of your building process.2. Learn to filter critiqueJust because someone gives feedback doesn't mean it's the right feedback.Know what critique to take and what to leave.3. Be gracious when giving critiqueLead with positive comments when providing feedback.Include compliments with the critique to build relationship.Remind the person you are critiquing their work, not them.We are not what we create. Our work is not our identity.Links and Resources from this EpisodeCheck out Shannon Johnston's website.Follow Shannon on Instagram (@Shannie2345).Connect with Shannon Johnston on LinkedIn.Listen to Shannon on previous Connect Mobilize Deliver episodesConnecting Through A Weird Piece Of Art, with Shannon JohnstonHow To Lead When You Don’t Fit In, with Shannon JohnstonSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

You may love your career.But, do you want to have an even bigger impact on people's lives, but you're not sure where to start?Here's the good news.You can.And, you can do it by connecting with your community. Your local schools to be specific.Today's guest, Brandt Wilson, of Love Schools in Wichita, Kansas shares how he is using the skills he learned in his career to connect people, mobilize them for action, and deliver results.He shares how you can do the same thing by joining with him or learning from his example.So, if you're feeling a stirring within you to have an even bigger impact in the lives of others, listen to what Brandt has to say in this week's episode.He's helping community business leaders change the lives of school kids and have their own lives transformed for good as they serve.Brandt's love for schools and his passion to make a difference will inspire and motivate you.Today's GuestBrandt WilsonBrandt Wilson is the founder of Love Schools, a non-profit organization with a worthy and compelling mission.Love School's goal is to connect the community to the classroom by facilitating partnerships between local organizations and local schools.Brandt's career has prepared him well for this role of service. As a pastor and a community volunteer for 15 years Brandt has lived out his passion to make a positive impact on people with every opportunity he is given.Now, Brandt continues to change lives while also serving in a full-time job with a locally owned small business.This experience equips Brandt to connect people in various roles in the local community and help them get started helping their local schools.You'll LearnThe power to change employee's lives by connecting them with their local communityWho really benefits the most when business executives join reading programs in their local schools.How to begin when you want to make a difference in local schools but don't know where to startThe importance of listening well to connect with people and help meet their needsWhy experimentation is critical to finding solutions that work3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Be willing to make an impactWhen someone gives us an opportunity to join them in service our community, how should we respond?If we want to use our gifts to make an impact on people's lives, a good first step is to say yes to learning more and staying curious about how we might be able to serve.2. Be willing to ask for help in the right wayAsking for help isn't easy. We don't want to be told no.But, people often say yes when they're asked in the right way.Helping specific people understand they are uniquely equipped to meet a specific need causes them to recognize their importance. 3. Be willing to give strategically and intentionallyGiving often means giving up something good to do something great.We can have a much bigger impact and be more fulfilled when we are purposeful and thoughtful in giving our time, our attention, and our money.Links and Resources from this EpisodeLearn more about Love Schools on Instagram (@love_schools_wichita)Follow Love Schools on Facebook (@Loveschoolswichita)Connect with Brandt Wilson on LinkedInSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Have you had a rambler wreck a meeting you were leading?If you have, you know exactly who I'm describing as a "rambler".They usually don't mean to destroy the meeting you planned so well. But they do.It's hard to know what to do to regain control.You have to protect your meeting from a rambler.In this episode, we'll cover a set of tips, techniques, and strategies that I've seen used successfully throughout my career.The best part is this.None of them require you to be rude.In fact, they all are built on a foundation of being an kind and confident leader.You'll Learn3 steps to managing a rambler with kindness and confidencePause and EmpathizeStop the RambleHelp Them Be Heard6 possible reasons your teammate might be ramblingInsecurityLonelinessTrustPassionCompensationInexperience4 strategies to help a rambler be heardInclude them in the meeting agendaHelp them prepare before the meetingAsk them to send you an emailOffer to meet with them personally after the meetingLinks and Resources from this EpisodeSupporting information in the post, How To Stop Someone From Rambling So They Can Be HeardMichael Bungay Stanier’s books, The Advice TrapSee the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Disconnected. Isolated. Separated.Who do those words describe?Unfortunately, many workers today would use those harsh adjectives to capture how they feel.That's true now more than ever.With more and more people working remotely or in a hybrid model, it's hard for leaders to stay connected with their teams.And, even harder for team members to stay connected with one another.Thankfully, today's guest has a proven solution.Showing appreciation, using the appropriate language of appreciation for each coworker, will help your team stay connected.Dr. Paul White, best selling author and psychologist, has done the research and he's an expert.Dr. White shares in this episode what he's learned from data gathered from hundreds of thousands of employees working in companies of various sizes in all types of industries.In this conversation you'll get practical strategies and techniques you can apply with your team to help them stay connected.And, they're all based on the power of showing appreciation.Today's GuestDr. Paul WhiteDr. Paul White is a psychologist, speaker, and consultant who makes work relationships work. Dr. White is the coauthor of four books including, The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, written with Dr. Gary Chapman (author of the #1 NY Times bestseller, The 5 Love Languages), which has sold over 400,000 copies. His latest book is Making Things Right at Work: Increase Teamwork, Resolve Conflict, and Build Trust.In this book, you’ll learn:How to discern the causes of workplace conflictHow to avoid unnecessary disputesHow to repair relationships when you’ve messed upHow to let go of past hurts and rebuild trustYou'll LearnWhy showing authentic appreciation delivers better results than traditional recognition programsHow people who are working remotely want to be shown appreciationWhat younger employees really want from organizations and you as a leaderHow to keep remote and hybrid workers connected using a 3-step processThe right way to build trust as a leader by letting people get to know you. And, an easy trick to get started.Why appreciation and connection is important for everyone, even "tough guys" and "tough gals"3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Perseverance"Overnight success" doesn't happen overnight.Be diligent and consistent in pursuing your goals and dreams.And, don't give up.2. Listen to your clientsPay attention to those you are seeking to serve in your business. This will give you insight to determine how to best help your customers. And, grow your career and business in the process.3. Focus on serving your clientsFocus less on making money or being profitable. If you serve your clients well, by providing either a good quality product or service, they're going to pay you for it. Links and Resources from this EpisodeLearn more about Dr. White on his website (AppreciationAtWork.com)Connect with Dr. White on LinkedIn or follow him on Twitter (@drpaulwhite) See the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Giving someone a casual, thoughtless “Do you need any help?” offer for assistance is easy.But, if you want to actually help your teammate, there’s a better way.In fact, there are five better ways.And, we’ll cover each of them in this episode.We’ll also discuss some conversation scripts you can start using immediately so you can actually help others as soon as you’re done listening.And, before we get into the five better ways to offer assistance, we’ll talk about five tips on how to avoid negatively triggering another person just by how you phrase the question.This follow up to last week’s episode is packed with practical strategies and techniques you can quickly apply.If you didn’t catch last week’s show, you might want to listen to it first.Click here to listen to “Why Your Offer To Help Might Actually Hurt Your Team”.Then you’ll be caught up and ready to learn how to actually help your teammates with your offer to assist them.5 Better Ways to Ask “Do You Need Any Help?”1. Offer ideas on how you might helpBefore you casually ask your teammate, “Do you need any help?”, invest some time to observe their situation.Ask yourself these questions.Is the person struggling with something I find easy?Does the person dislike doing something I enjoy?Can I teach them something I know to help them do their work more productively?2. Be specific regarding your availabilityIf you’re serious about helping the person you’re asking, make an offer you can actually deliver on.By planning ahead and considering when you are available, you can communicate healthy boundaries as you ask your teammate if they need help.3. Help as you ask the questionHelp can come in a variety of forms. Encouragement and appreciation can sometimes be just as helpful as completing tasks.Before you ask a teammate if they need help, consider how you might help them even as you ask.You may be able to do this with something that is simple and easy for you but has a major positive impact on the other person.4. Don’t say “help” if you own the workThe word “help” really doesn’t apply if you’re the owner of the task.If someone else is working on tasks you also own, your efforts to complete those tasks aren’t “help”. The work is what every owner should be doing.This is a subtle aspect of word choice, but being careful and intentional with the words we choose is important.5. Help before you askIf you know what needs to be done and you can do it, just do it. Without asking.If you trust one another and you’re familiar with the work they are doing, this technique can be extremely helpful to your teammate. And, it reinforces the strong relationship you already have with them.Links and Resources from this EpisodeGet a copy of the book The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Paul White.Read my blog post on fighting perfectionism, “You Don’t Have To Be Perfect To Be Ideal“Check out the resources related to the outstanding book The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni on the official websiteCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

"Do you need any help?"Wow! Did that question trigger me a while back!I tell that personal story in this episode to explain how this simple question can be interpreted (or misinterpreted) in many different ways.I'm sure you've been asked this question more times than you can remember. And, you've probably asked it hundreds of times too.It seems like a useful question. But in some cases, asking "Do you need any help?" may not really help at all.In fact, instead of helping your teammate, it may hinder their progress.Like it did for me. As a leader striving to lead with kindness and confidence, that's not what you're after. So, to make sure we are actually helping our teammates when we offer assistance, in this episode we explore some different interpretations of this familiar question. 4 Interpretations of "Do You Need Any Help?"1. Questioning my competence Depending on who is asking me, I can sometimes interpret this question as communicating a lack of confidence in my ability to do the job I've been asked to do. This interpretation might come when I'm feeling insecure about the work I'm doing or intimidated by the person asking. For instance, the person might be my manager or a person I look up to but I'm unsure of their opinion of me. As a leader, it's important to consider this possible interpretation of "Do You Need Any Help?" when seeking to support your teammates.2. Revealing a disconnect regarding ownershipAs you'll hear in my story, this interpretation is what set me off. And, wrecked my productivity on an important project.Don't let this happen to you!3. Asking me to do more workI could be way off on this one, but being asked if I need help sometimes feels to me like I'm getting more work.Maybe you and I cause others to have similar feelings based on how and when the question "Do You Need Any Help?" is delivered.There are ways to avoid this if we're aware of this interpretation.4. Really wanting to helpThis is the best interpretation of all.Someone offers to help us and they really mean it. And, we actually interpret their offer for assistance as sincere and genuine.As a leader, it doesn't get any better than this.How we listen to what people say is important. And, how we interpret the words that enter our minds is even more important. When we consider these possible interpretations and then empathize before we ask "Do You Need Any Help?" we'll be even more effective leaders and teammates in our organizations. Links and Resources from this EpisodeTesting multiple interpretations of a set of observations is a critical leadership skill. I've learned much on this topic from The Kansas Leadership Center. The book Your Leadership Edge is an excellent resource on this topic.Managing our self-talk, reframing, and dealing with our inner critic is another important leadership skill. The work of Brene' Brown and many others in this area is highly valuable. Check out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

What does the Wichita Flag have to do with the Connect Mobilize Deliver podcast?The city of Wichita, Kansas and the fans of this great community proudly display the flag today because of the work of Angie Prather and Courtney Sendall to connect and mobilize a team of people to deliver the results of a united and inspired city.Angie and Courtney tell the story of how they did it with basically no budget but filled with passion, enthusiasm, and commitment. And, supported by a team of volunteers who caught the vision they had.The techniques they used to build the Wichita Flag's social media campaign and engage enthusiasts around the world are applicable to any project you're working on.And, they share their memories of their adventure with joy and laughter.This is a fun episode you don't want to miss.Today's GuestAngie PratherAngie Prather is currently the Vice President of Marketing and Chief Community Engagement Officer at the United Way of the Plains.Prior to this role, Angie served as the Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce.In this position, Angie played a pivotal role in launching the Wichita Flag movement along with today's second guest, Courtney Sendall.Courtney SendallCourtney Sendall served at the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce as the Director of Marketing and Communications. There she partnered with Angie to transform the Wichita, Kansas community through the Wichita Flag grassroots community pride-in-place campaign.Now Courtney is the Director of Foundation for WSU Tech.You'll LearnWhy Wichita, Kansas now has a growing community pride that was sparked and built by the Wichita FlagThe power a symbol, like the Wichita Flag, has to unite a community and inspire people to be a part of something greater than themselvesHow enthusiasm and a positive, "can do" attitude can fuel a movement and change a communityThe importance of collaborating and helping others shineTips on how to start a low budget grass roots social media campaign that can outperform expensive branding strategies3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Community buildingHighlight, magnify, and amplify other people.Lift them up and give them a platform to shine and display their talent.2. CollaborationGetting others involved and bought into what you are trying to accomplish is critically important.3. CreativityWhen you courageously approach situations differently, you will deliver results when others can't.Follow @wichitaflag and these hashtags on social media: #WichitaFlag #ILoveWichitaConnect with Angie Prather on LinkedIn or follow her on Twitter (@angieprath) or Instagram (@angieprath)Connect with Courtney Sendall on LinkedIn or follow her on Twitter (@courtneysendall) or Instagram (@courtneysendall)For photos and videos of the Wichita FlagCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

If you would like to make more money and continue to be successful in your nine-to-five job, you will like this episode.Stephen A. Hart, joins me to share how you can build your personal brand, generate more income, and build your career.He shares his perspective as a Black man from Jamaica and explains how we each have a unique background that can be a powerful tool to help us stand out from the crowd.We get personal as we talk about the joys and challenges of life, finding purpose, and how therapy might change your career and your life.And, our conversation is about much more than making money. We focus on how to serve people using the gifts we've been given and the skills and experience we've developed throughout our lives.Today's GuestStephen A. HartStephen A. Hart is a marketer, brand strategist, entrepreneur, podcaster, speaker, proud husband, and aspiring #bestdadever.Stephen is the founder and host of the Trailblazers.FM media company and podcast. In each episode he has bold conversations with brilliant Black men and women including best-selling authors, self-driven entrepreneurs, and passionate leaders.He’s also the creator of Brand in Demand which helps busy, heart-centered entrepreneurs and leaders through a proven step by step process to build an amazing personal brand that is authentic, impactful, relatable, and profitable.You'll LearnHow to overcome the number one obstacle preventing you from making more moneyTips on building an online business and creating more income nowKey steps to take to better understand the people you're seeking to serveHow to start now to get where you want to be in 5, 10, 20, and 30 yearsThe power of committing to being bad until you get goodHow to create options and multiple revenue streams in a post-pandemic economyStrategies to develop your personal brand to stand out from the crowd3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Embrace video as a career building skillHit record on your phone and just get started.Make it simple. Make it short.2. Make sure your digital presence is consistentFirst, buy your domain name for your first and last name. Today! Next, secure your domain handle for Twitter and Instagram too.Then, personalize your url on LinkedIn.3. Identify one thing you can do for income beyond your 9 to 5 jobDo one thing to make a little more money.You can even make "sleep coin" passive income when you're not awake.Links and Resources from this EpisodeLearn more about Stephen A. Hart and his work on his website (stephenahart.com)Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn or follow him on Twitter (@stephenahart) or Instagram (@stephenahart)Listen as Stephen interviews successful black entrepreneurs and leaders on the Trailblazers.FM podcast.Check out Stephen's discussion with Dave Stachowiak on Coaching for Leaders episode 495: How to Get Noticed on LinkedIn, with Stephen Hart For More InformationCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Compassion is not only a fundamental life skill. It's a fundamental career skill too. That's true regardless of the industry or field you're in.That's according to today's guest, Dr. Nate Regier of Next Element Consulting, an organization with a mission to bring more compassion to every workplace in the world.A lack of compassion in a company undermines productivity and makes retaining talent ever harder than it already is.This is why being a compassionate leader will bring career success. True compassion is combined with accountability and it brings teams together to deliver results.Being a compassionate leader isn't about being nice. And, it's not for the faint of heart.Listen as Nate Regier shares a framework for thinking about compassion in the workplace and applying it as a leader in your work, at home, and in your service to the community. Today's GuestDr. Nate RegierNate Regier, PhD, is the CEO and founding owner of Next Element Consulting, a global leadership firm dedicated to bringing compassion into the workplace.Dr. Regier is a former practicing psychologist and expert in social-emotional intelligence, interpersonal communication, and leadership. Nate is the author of three books: Beyond Drama: Transcending Energy Vampires; Conflict without Casualties: A Field Guide for Leading with Compassionate Accountability; and his newest book, Seeing People Through: Unleash Your Leadership Potential with The Process Communication Model. You'll LearnThe power in giving ourselves permission to fail and not have all the answersThat there is purpose when we struggleHow to look at conflict as the energy source for creationWhy compassion is the key to finding opportunity in conflictThe proper balance of compassion and accountability and the negative results that occur when they're out of balanceThe mindset that turns obstacles into opportunitiesThe 3 core competencies of compassion: openness, resourcefulness, and persistence3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Be open and disclose your motivesHave the courage to be honest with people about what's really going on with you.2. Be curiousCuriosity is about being truly interested in another person.There's a simple way to be curious. Ask someone a question and then ask them another question about what you just heard.You can distinguish yourself as a leader because most people don't do this. They are too busy thinking about what they are going to say and not genuinely curious to learn about the other person.3. Learn cross-personality communication skillsDevelop the ability to adapt how you communicate based on the personality of the person you're talking to.Personality is the strongest influencer of how we communicate. The impact of personality is fundamental and deep.Communicating in a way that connects with the other person's personality allows you to speak to their heart not just their head.Links and Resources from this EpisodeLearn more about Nate's work at the Next Element website (next-element.com)Connect with Dr. Nate Regier on LinkedIn or follow him on Twitter (@NextNate)Listen to the On Compassion with Dr. Nate podcastFor More InformationCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Saying thank you isn’t quite as easy as it seems.Well it can be easy, but if you want to say thank you in a way that’s really meaningful and has a deep and lasting impact, it takes some effort. Some up front planning. You actually have to think about it.That effort is totally worth it if you want to have a positive impact on the person you’re thanking.And, isn’t that the reason you’re saying thank you? To positively impact another person? To let them know they’ve done something that has helped or encouraged you?To help you say thank you better, I’m sharing 3 questions that I find helpful to step my game up and go beyond a casual, poorly planned two word: “Thank You”.I also tell the story of how one thank you I received from a friend and coworker made a huge difference in my outlook on my career and my life. I explain why that thank you was so powerful in my life. And, I show you how you can also say thank you in ways that will impact the people in your life in a powerful, positive way.It starts with asking 3 questions.3 Questions to Ask to Make Your Thank You Better1. Who will you thank?There are situations where the answer to this question is obvious. But, the most powerful thank yous are sometimes given in less obvious circumstances.Saying thank you to someone when they don't expect it can have a big impact.2. What will you thank them for?The answers to this question and question 3, are based on the book The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, Empowering Organizations by Encouraging People by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Paul White.These three tips will help you determine what you will thank a person for:Be SpecificFocus on Character TraitsFocus on PersonalityThese guidelines apply when you say thank you just like they do when you show appreciation to your teammates.3. How will you thank them?How you thank someone is critical.Consider these four settings and determine which will make the person you want to thank feel most appreciated.Personal, one-on-oneSmall group settingPublic scenarioWritten wordsSome people want to be thanked in public. Others don't.Many of your teammates would like to receive a hand-written note, but others may like an email with their manager copied.Intentionally design your thank you based on these three questions and you will distinguish yourself as a kind and confident leader.Links and Resources from this EpisodeExplore the many valuable resources on the Appreciation at Work website Get a copy of the book The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, Empowering Organizations by Encouraging People by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Paul White. Follow Dr. Paul White on LinkedInConnect with my buddy who got me started podcasting, Chet Sears on LinkedInListen to Chet on the Hardheaded podcastFor More InformationCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

What do spreadsheets and data visualization have to do with being a kind and confident leader?Today's guest, Ann K. Emery, explains how those things fit together. And, she gives us 5 specific ways to be kind with data visualization.She also shares her process for giving your manager what they need instead of what they ask for. Without getting fired!You don't want to miss that clever tip or any of the other wisdom from Ann on how to be more effective and efficient when communicating using data. Whether you're a spreadsheet whiz who loves all the technical details or a non-technical manager who just wants to know the story your data is telling, you'll find valuable information in this conversation.Today's GuestAnn K. EmeryAnn K. Emery is an internationally-acclaimed speaker who equips organizations to get their data out of dusty spreadsheets and into real-world conversations.Each year, she delivers over 100 keynotes, workshops, and webinars with the aim of equipping organizations to visualize data more effectively. She has been invited to speak in 30 states and 10 countries; 5,600 people have enrolled in her online training academy; and she has consulted to 200 organizations, including the United Nations, Centers for Disease Control, and Harvard University. You'll LearnWhat data visualization is and why it's an important career skill in any industry or field8 questions to ask when doing upfront planning for data visualizationStrategies and techniques for serving your audience through the charts, graphs, and reports you createHow to adjust your presentations for color blind viewers and why it's important. What 508 compliance is and how it helps you be more inclusive when you communicateWhen to tell a story with data and when to let your audience discover the meaning in the data on their ownThe link between data visualization techniques and improved sustainabilityHow to humanize data and make it easier and faster for your audience to understand3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Get some spreadsheet trainingIn nearly every type of career you can get ahead by knowing how to use spreadsheet software. Getting some training can give you skills that will save you time and make you a more valuable employee.2. Discover what software is available and pick one to learnThere are many software choices for data analysis and visualization. You may like Excel, Tableau, PowerBI, Google Sheets, R, Python, or another tool.3. Teach Others.You have valuable information others can benefit from. Share what you know. By helping others you will also be building your own career. Links and Resources from this EpisodeConnect with Ann K. Emery on LinkedIn or follow her on Twitter (@AnnKEmery)Ann's blog post "Why 'Know Your Audience' is Terrible Dataviz Advice - and What to Do Instead"Test your data visualizations for color blindness accessibility at color-blindness.comLearn more about data visualization on Ann's website, Depict Data Studio (depictdatastudio.com)For More InformationCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Sometimes our professional lives (and our personal lives for that matter) can cause us to have a crappy attitude. But, what if I told you that thinking about poop could actually be a good mindset to have?It may seem odd, but I explain in this episode how you can be a better leader using a manure mindset.That's right setting your mind on livestock waste can actually help you lead your teams and yourself more effectively.And, I use a proverb from the Bible to make my case.If that sounds like a load of, well... manure to you, check out this week's episode. Then, let me know if you think I'm on to something or if I'm just full of... (you can fill in the blank).You'll LearnA livestock leadership lessonHow a farming lesson from Biblical times still applies to leaders todayA 3-step process to develop a "manure mindset" that will make you a more effective leaderWhy identifying the resources that generate revenue and the challenges they bring is critical to be a successful leaderOne common resume' mistake many job seekers make and how to avoid it3 Fundamental Career Skills Related to Today's Episode1. Identifying critical resourcesLeaders must be keenly aware of the resources they and their teams need to deliver results. Whether it's people, software, equipment, or something else, we must identify and protect the things we rely on to be successful.2. Acknowledging the challenges associated with critical resourcesThe critical resources we depend upon bring challenges and costs along with their benefits. Effective leaders acknowledge this reality and are ready to address difficult circumstances. Good leaders aren't surprised by messy people and malfunctioning tools and equipment.3. Choosing what is valuableLeaders and teams must continually make choices. The skill of being able to choose what you value begins with knowing what is valuable to you and your organization.Some decisions produce short-term benefits and avoid pain and discomfort. But, the long-term impact negatively impacts the organization.Other choices bring challenges and messy situations to manage but generate results that have a lasting positive effect on people and the business.Links and Resources from this EpisodePrevious blog post with similar, written content, How A Manure Mindset Can Make You A Better LeaderWhere there are no oxen, the manger is clean; But much revenue comes by the strength of the ox.Proverbs 14:4 in the Bible (New American Standard translation)For More InformationCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.

Krissy Buck built a rewarding, and highly successful career in digital marketing travelling the world while having just a two-year degree.If you've been discouraged when others have told you a four-year degree is required to be successful, Krissy's story will encourage and motivate you.She's been an entrepreneur, helped build a startup technology company, and taught others how to achieve success through careers in digital marketing. And, she's done even more.Each of us has a unique career journey. Some of us will have advanced degrees. Others will have no college education. Krissy has demonstrated how to be successful with no formal training as well as with a two-year associates degree. Now she is pivoting and continuing her education so she can help even more people be successful through digital marketing.Her work history that took her around the world and then back home is fascinating and inspiring to me.Check out this week's episode and see if you agree.Today's GuestKrissy BuckKrissy Buck is the Department Chair for Digital Marketing for WSU Tech. Prior to that she served as Digital Communications Director then Chief Community Officer for QuiCC.Krissy is also active in the Wichita, Kansas community where she serves in multiple ways including helping local, aspiring entrepreneurs as a 1 Million Cups Organizer.You'll LearnHow to build a powerful, global career network (and lasting friendships) through digital marketingThe power of community to produce amazing growth for startup companiesWhat Millennials and Gen X workers value when building their careersHow digital marketing can enable a digital nomad lifestyle with multiple income streams and freedom that doesn't come with a 9 to 5 jobWhy having a bachelor's degree is still important to get an interviewThe importance of a strong network of authentic relationships to get a jobThe value of taking risks to learn failure is beneficial and beautiful3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest1. Build your networkSeek and nurture strong, authentic relationships. The people you know, and those who know you, are critical to building your career. 2. Always be learningHumble yourself and learn from other people. Also learn from any resource you can find. Always be looking for and learning about the next thing.3. Be disruptiveYou don't have to be loud. You just have to be different.Links and Resources from this EpisodeConnect with Krissy Buck on LinkedInEngage with Krissy and others on Digital Marketing on Twitter using #dmkchatExplore career building opportunities in digital marketing at WSU TechListen to Krissy Buck on the Wichita Chamber Business Accelerator podcastListen to the story of Quicc from the foundersLearn more about Quicc video captioning and search toolFor More InformationCheck out the show notes at GregHarrod.com.