The True Role of a Leader

We all know and have leaders in our life. Whether they are a public figure, a mentor, an associate or a friend, they all have one thing in common: they are effective in all of their efforts. When we think about the definition of leading, we think first-mover, being proactive and consistently being ahead of the curve. What we may not realize is that all individuals who posess leadership abilities also have an innate ability to do one thing better than others which is what truly classifies them as leaders- and that is to inspire.

Many think that the role of a leader is to motivate. This is partly true, however, when we look at leadership from a progressive point of view it is clear to see that through motivation comes inspiration. Motivation comes from within, when inspiration is simply external efforts which help to drive internal motivations. Through effective inspiration comes great motivation- to do, to believe and to achieve. If you are in a management position and your consistent efforts to motivate don't seem to be working- try a different approach, and focus on being your team's inspiration to become more internally motivated. If organizations want their teams to start thinking and performing at much higher levels than they currently are, all leaders must implement strategies that increase overall associate well-being and comfort within their roles.

As a leader, your role is also to be an effective communicator. This role should be based on your skill and ability to listen constructively, question skillfully, and to coordinate the contributions of each individual who is part of your team. Every leader will develop their own style and approach to doing things. As leaders, sometimes expectations can be very high. In order to experience higher job satisfaction, expectations should be decreased. This will help you to get a better grasp on how you are inspiring your team to work collectively and achieve common goals, all while becoming more internally motivated to perform at higher levels.

Think about the leaders in your life. Do they inspire you to reach your full potential?

What's Cooking...

Our team has been cooking up a storm- of opportunity! This year we are placing a focus on the development of our most valuable assets in today's business world- our people. The growth of human capital is essential in order to develop collectively as individuals, companies and communities.

For business professionals, it is important to recognize your key strengths and capabilities. This will help you to distinguish what it is you bring to the organization you are part of. In order to bring added value and passion to your work environment and career, you must first feel the drive and desire internally. The wealth of knowledge that is available in this world is endless- and it is all at your fingertips. Personal growth will come from within- when given the tools and techniques to apply.

Let's focus on you. What is it that motivates you on a daily basis? Is it being able to provide for your family, is it the satisfaction that comes from a taste of success which keeps you going, or is it simply the fact that you are giving back to the world in which you live in? It may be all of the above- which makes it even more important to always go back to the core- which is you and your personal growth as an individual.

When we place ourselves in a learning environment, we are become inspired, engaged and eager to take in all there is to know. Too much is never enough, and too little? No such thing. Every bit of information you take in will be of value to you, and you will find yourself seeking opportunities to further that existing knowledge. Every seed you plant has the ability to grow, as long as it is given the right nurture and attention it needs.

We believe in people- and we believe in you. Have you planted your seeds for success? Or better yet, have you given them the resources they require for growth?

New Year, New Opportunities.

Happy New Year!

We are working on launching many great opportunities in 2013 to share with all of our supporters, fans, clients and communities. Thank you to all who showed their support last year. For the relationships we've built, we are grateful. For the relationships we will build, we are excited!

Be sure to check in with us often on our Website, Facebook page and Blog to stay informed and updated about what is upcoming! We will continue to deliver valuable, useful information and resources that will help you grow- personally and professionally.

To Your Success,
The Trained By Pros Team



3 Steps for Conflict Resolution

When it comes time to resolve any issues that are either new or ongoing, or dealing with difficult people and situations, it is very common for many of us to shy away and not want to face the problem head-on. In this case, there is no such thing as resolution- because nothing ever gets resolved. It is necessary to understand that proper conflict resolution involves three important steps; it is about knowing how to actively listen, how to understand and acknowledge the “real” issue and finding ways to seek a common solution.

The first most essential piece of the puzzle is learning how to actively listen, which involves three steps. First, the use of non-verbal messaging is very important when displaying that you are interested in what the other party has to say. Cues or invitations can also be used. These include phrases such as “Okay”, “Yes” and “Go On”- all of which signal our attention and will invite an individual to continue talking comfortably. Last but not least, clarification of what has been said is very important. We can do this in one of several ways: by asking questions, summarizing what has been said, or paraphrasing the message in your own words.

The next step is developing an understanding and acknowledging the real issue that you are experiencing- personally or professionally. It is important to clarify what the issue is, when it started and what feelings and emotions came along with it. By identifying the real issue, all parties will be able to understand more fully why there is conflict occurring and how it can be properly dealt with. In order to walk away from a situation having everyone mutually content, a common solution must be achieved. No good can come from a “temporary” fix to a problem. In order to build solid relationships for the future, each and every conflict should result in a common solution that will evenly satisfy all parties. This will prevent future issues from escalating, and will leave everyone with a confident feeling of knowing how to pursue a resolution process which will achieve a favorable end result- every time! 

Managing Times of Turmoil

Operating in an environment or market that is experiencing a down-turned economy is not the most ideal situation. But, that does not mean that there aren’t ways to take advantage of these times and make the best of them. The most important thing to remember is that there are always signs when an economy may experience turmoil and unstable futures. By being able to anticipate these times and preparing for them is crucial. You can’t be “blind-sided” by the onset of turmoil in your business and your market. Awareness and preparation for the hard times ahead is what will allow you to prosper.   

There are two important things to remember for managing these hard times: Prepare for the storm and stop playing hide and seek with your customers!  Anyone who is expecting the worst will be prepared for the worst. The nice thing is, turmoil does not always have to be a bad thing, because if you are prepared for it you will be able to manage it appropriately. Realize that during the chaos of the economy and after the dust has settled, you and your business will be remembered; and being remembered by your existing or potential customers is one of the fundamental keys to success!

It is important when you are trying to manage your way out of times of turmoil to not hide from your customers! Now is the perfect time to rally with your team to spread your marketing messages and reach out to current and potential customers. Your customers will notice your efforts and will commend you for them.

Managing a business is hard, but managing during times of turmoil may bring increased stress and challenges. Make sure you are aware of the most essential skills for effective management of your business. Take these hard times and attempt to view them differently. After all, things usually have to get worse before they get better. If you take the right steps and put in the effort while things are good before they get worse, you will experience a greater satisfaction when everything starts to turn around.

Investing in Human Capital

We work really hard for our money and we want to be sure that we invest it in the best way possible.  This is true for companies and organizations as well.  Should we invest our hard-earned dollars into real estate or new office furniture?  Maybe donate to charity?  Or- do we invest in our strongest asset- the people that make up the team that is the company?

Any associate would appreciate a new desk or computer but these things can easily be passed on to someone else.  However, training is something that cannot be taken from the participant and passed on to their successor.   The mere fact that an employer is willing to invest in their associates on this level will instill a sense of security, of a job being well-done and in turn that associate will dedicate himself to doing his best for the company.

Without a strong, dedicated team it is not possible for an organization to reach its full potential.  There is no better way to solidify a team than to provide them with updated skills and training.   Good training programs will increase confidence, productivity, dedication and loyalty to the team. 

An organization has no greater asset than the people that make up that organization. Is it not worth the financial commitment to ensure that all associates are the best that they can be for the team? 

Do you agree that the best investments are in our people?

On the Air

Exciting News!  Our own Matt Dunlop is going to be interviewed on the radio!  Tune in to AM800 tomorrow, Saturday July 7, 2012, at 12:45 to hear Matt discuss our upcoming free seminar- The Online Pro.  He will talk about the power, influence and impact that the internet has on business today.  He might even share a tip or two as to how your business can be an important part of the internet and start making you money!

Once you have heard Matt talk about the power of the internet you will want to join us for our FREE 2 hour seminar – The Online Pro-on Wednesday July 11, 2012 from 9am-11am.  We will talk about writing powerful website copy, keywords, link building, SEO fundamentals and so much more!  Register today!

These are two great opportunities for you to learn more about us and our programs- don’t miss out!