World at Work – Détails, épisodes et analyse

"Suspend an expectation that there's going to be a transaction. You don't know where it's going to go."

Networking does not have to feel icky. Unfortunately many people see networking the way Kathi Brewer-Gouthro once did. When she first had to dive into networking,  she felt stuck in a “rigorously unproductive” mindset. Networking always seemed to focus on schmoozing, which felt unnecessary and uncomfortable.

When Kathi was faced with a career transition she knew it meant she had to also update her network. That prompted a needed change her approach. Over time she reframed her assumption that networking is just about who you know. It's about genuine connections and a mutual exchange of value.

It started to click for Kathi when she picked up a copy of "The 20-Minute Networking Meeting" by Nathan Perez and Marcia Belanger. Before reading that book, she had a handful of awkward, zero-value conversations. After embracing their structured approach, things changed dramatically.

Each networking “meeting” had a:

1. Strong first impression

2. Clear overview of my career

3. Genuine discussion points

4. Respectful, timely ending

5. Sincere follow-up within 24 hours

Since implementing this structure Kathi has had dozens of successful, enriching conversations. The conversations have not only broadened her horizons, they also made networking feel authentic and purposeful.

Networking does not need to make you cringe or feel uncomfortable. Instead of avoiding it, equip yourself with the right tools. Approach conversations with genuine curiosity and value-driven intentions. You may be surprised at how organic and rewarding those connections can become.

Looking for help with your own career transition? Reach out to our team at Best Culture Solutions. 

Notable Moments

01:02 Networking is essential, not just passive engagement.

05:39 Networking requires active effort and learning.

09:22 Using a 20-minute networking structure for intentional connection.

11:45 Take the time to prepare, stick to schedule, follow up afterward.

14:20 Networking enhances comfort and success in career transitions.

17:58 Your network can provide opportunities and supports career development.

21:33 People value genuine connection and support.

Connect with Kathi

Kathi on LinkedIn

Email Kathi

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

"You cannot allow the important decision that you're about to make get hijacked by somebody else's agenda."

Notable Moments

01:02 Being strategic when choosing references for job applications.

05:29 Use references to verify professional history objectively.

06:40 Subjective questions risk skewed, unobjective performance evaluations.

11:22 Proper interviewing prevents agenda-driven hiring mistakes.

13:56 Assess each hiring step's purpose and effectiveness.

For years, I relied heavily on job references to gauge a candidate's potential. It isn't an uncommon practice. Leaders schedule reference calls, then ask for insights into a candidate’s performance, strengths, and weaknesses. You name it, it gets asked.

The problem is that this rarely gives insight into the authentic performance of someone. Instead, you end up with subjective opinions, cherry-picked praises, generic answers, hidden agendas, and non-stop bias. Employers end up getting answers that are often anything but the truth.

In fact, it took countless mistakes before I understood that traditional reference checks weren’t telling me what I needed to know. It became clear that I needed to make a shift and stop depending on references to validate what I hoped to hear. I shifted to calling references for truth verification and relied more on a robust interviewing process. And guess what? The quality of my hires improved dramatically. We started finding candidates who truly fit our roles and culture.

If you’re in a challenging season of hiring, consider evaluating and evolving your process. It may be time to part with old ways and embrace new techniques. Revamping the way you use job references can help you build a stronger team, one honest step at a time!

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

"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: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

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 tim@bestculturesolutions.ca 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: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

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: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

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: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

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 tim@bestculturesolutions.ca. 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: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

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 tim@bestculturesolutions.ca.

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: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

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.

"The number one indicator of whether or not somebody is going to be a high achiever in any role is whether or not they are motivated for that role."

Key Moments

02:13 Hockey team GM selection highlights passion over management experience.

04:39 Inexperience doesn't predict success; motivation does.

06:33 High achievers have skills, attitude, and passion.

10:00 Why clear communication is vital; ignore baseless negative feedback.

13:16 Value of transparent communication about hiring process and improvement.

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

Experience Does Not Equal Performance

Recently the St. Louis Blues appointed former player Alexander Steen as their new general manager, despite his lack of management experience. While it may come off as a surprise to some hockey fans, it is a great example of an organization embracing the idea that experience does not equal performance. For many leaders, they know that hiring for experience alone isn't the golden ticket to success. It is more about succession planning, looking at motivation, and understanding the broader implications for hiring practices.

Jody and I take the time to explore a few lessons from this current event. Some of the key takeaways include:

• Experience vs. Skills: We discuss why having a specific skill set is often more critical than lengthy experience on a resume. Skills like negotiation, analytical thinking, and leadership are transferable and can be built outside traditional roles.
• Motivation Matters: Understand why internal motivation is the biggest predictor of high performance. Even the most experienced individuals can falter if they lack the drive and enthusiasm for their roles.
• Passion and Fit: Learn how passion for the organization and role can make an unconventional hire the perfect fit. It's not just about what looks good on paper; it's about who will go the extra mile out of love for the job and the team.

Make sure to listen to Episode 81 "Experience Does Not Equal Performance" to uncover why hiring based on motivation rather than just experience can lead to extraordinary results.

Also, if you enjoy this episode, please leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us continue to bring you top-notch content to help you excel in the world of work.

“Using a brand script before you approach the person then get very clear about how this is going to help them, how it's going to help the business, and how it will help your relationship."

Key Moments

01:37 The need for courage and vulnerability when facing difficult conversations.

05:21 Importance of asking questions for clarity.

08:42 Reflect before addressing perceived conflicts and take responsibility when necessary.

11:12 Effective communication shows willingness to engage proactively.

13:59 Acknowledging a lack of genuine apology; reflect on ways improve workplace relationships.

17:02 Seeking guidance for help navigating a change in workplace environment.

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  

Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca

How to Prepare for Challenging Conversations

There are tough conversations that we all dread but inevitably encounter in both our personal and professional lives. Challenging conversations are unavoidable. Whether it’s with a colleague, a boss, or even a client, sooner or later, you’ll face that uncomfortable moment. But why do we struggle so much with it? It’s because we don’t acknowledge enough the courage and vulnerability needed to have these tough convos.

It’s easy to postpone, but delaying means things will likely spiral out of control. The key is to address it as soon as you reasonably can. Timing is everything. It is also important to never assume ill intent. Sometimes the conflict might be brewing in your head while the other person is clueless. Communication is key, both as an employee and a leader. Ask more questions to get clarity before jumping to conclusions.

If you think there’s never a “perfect” time to have hard conversations, you’re right. Bad news never had good timing. The best approach? Do it ASAP after identifying the need. Rip that Band-Aid off. Don’t go in emotionally charged. Is it about making YOU feel better or genuinely solving a problem? Emotions matter, but they should guide, not dictate the conversation.

There are a few different ways to approach your next difficult conversation. One is by using the StoryBrand model to script your conversation. Focus on how the issue impacts the business, the team, and the individual. Clarity is power. The other is summed up in a quick: LAST. Listen, Apologize (for the situation, not blame), Solve, and Think. Simple yet powerful steps to navigate those muddy waters of workplace conflict.

If the conversation doesn’t go as planned and you're still uneasy, it may be a sign to seek new opportunities. Don’t hesitate to get professional guidance. The team at Best Culture Solutions can help you navigate through it. Remember, uncomfortable conversations are stepping stones toward a more cohesive, understanding workplace. The payoff is worth the discomfort.