Inspiration Archives - Home Business Wiz

How Exactly Does Mentoring Software Work?

Entrepreneurship Home Business Wiz Inspiration

November 16, 2019

Are you considering establishing a mentoring system in your business to create a support system for your employees? It’s a good idea considering the many benefits it can have for employee welfare and productivity, but it’s particularly successful when combined with mentoring software that can lend some structure to it. But what is mentoring software and how exactly does it help?

Connecting Mentors and Mentees

Most examples of mentoring software, such as Together Platform, have a registration process for all employees that takes note of their credentials. This is then used to connect mentors with potential mentees, rather than you having to carry out a long-winded and complex manual sift to make matches.

Mentoring software can even schedule appointments for you between members of staff, taking into account their diaries and creating a future schedule of appointments too. This way, they have a clear structure in which they can progress and achieve any goals together, without the need for any tricky organisation.

Development

Mentoring software offers tailored plans of action to tackle the various dilemmas that can be faced by employees. This can be really useful, as although the idea behind a mentorship programme is that the mentor can pass on their knowledge to less experienced colleagues, it’s not always easy for them to know how to go about doing this if they don’t have training or leadership experience.

The software also helps you to keep track of progression so that you can pick up where you left off in your meetings and know how close you are to achieving the goals you have set. This works as a good motivational tool too; when you can see a visual representation of your progress.

Reporting

Finally, mentoring software is capable of creating reports that help you to analyse the success of various pairings, the kinds of problems that most often crop up, and how quickly solutions can be found. This helps you to tailor your training methods to incorporate these gaps in knowledge, for example, and therefore improve the productivity of your future workforce.

Mentoring alone helps to reduce the workload of your human resources department, as it allows colleagues to help one another instead of going there as a first port of call. Mentoring software further achieves this by carrying out many of the tasks associated with a mentoring framework automatically.

Mentoring software registers individual employee information and pairs them up to solve problems effectively, as well as creating a schedule for them to work with that takes into account other appointments. Furthermore, the software provides training frameworks for mentors to follow in order to maximise the learning potential of their mentees, as well as keeping track of the progression they are making so that they can refer back to it when needed and see how well they are doing.

Finally, software offers reports and analytics that allow you to tailor future training to incorporate any gaps in learning. Homebusinesswiz.com is a great source for more advice like this for business owners, just take a look at their article on the benefits of coworking for example.

Motivation: 4 myths that you shouldn’t buy into

Inspiration

December 15, 2018

Once upon a time it was unheard of; motivation wasn’t really talked about by business leaders. Now, it’s one of the first words off the tip of their tongue and for a business to be successful in the modern-day world, they generally need to have a team whose motivation levels are up there with the best.

It is one of the reasons why online MBA degree programs have evolved and changed so much in content over the years. Previously, they may have focused on so-called “traditional” elements of leadership, with autocratic business styles historically preferred. Now, we have almost changed to an employee-first situation, where the views and opinions of workers are held in very high regard.

However, while there has been a change in culture when it comes to motivation in a lot of industries, there are still a lot of inaccuracies that are published about it. Through today’s post, we will hone in on some of these myths and tackle them for good.

“All employees are motivated primarily by money”

For a long time, this was the opinion held by a lot of business leaders. It was felt that the only way to motivate workers was to increase their salary.

However, over time, it was found that this only had short-term effects. Employees would be given a pay rise and might be motivated for a short period of time following this. As time progressed, these motivation levels relapsed, and they were back to square one. It might be regarded as an easy win for management, but it is not going to yield long-term results.

“All employees are motivated in the same way”

Hopefully, you already know that this is completely untrue. What works for one employee certainly isn’t guaranteed to do the same for another, and this is why a degree of personalization is required when dealing with your workers. One person might place a lot of emphasis on flexible working, while another might want a clear path to career riches. Finding out what makes your employees tick is crucial to your business.

“Employees aren’t bothered about recognition”

Next on the list is the recognition-factor. For a long time, it was speculated that employees didn’t really consider this a motivational factor. After all, they were enlisted to do a job, and that was the end of the matter.

However, various studies have concluded that being recognized by your employer is significant for a lot of workers. Whether this is simply verbally, or by a tangible reward, it can go a long way in making employees feel valued.

“Time wasting activities should be stamped out”

This final myth is still apparent in a lot of workplaces, with many businesses having a strict policy in relation to so-called timewasting activities such as surfing the internet during working hours.

From a motivational standpoint, it can work wonders though. It was found through studies at some high-profile institutes, including the University of Melbourne, that these sort of activities improve your workers’ concentration levels (and thus motivation).

Should it take up half of their day? Of course not. However, for say 20% of their working day, it can actually help out significantly.

Leadership Development Academy: Why Every Company Needs One

Business Inspiration

November 9, 2018

No business market has ever remained static. As with everything in the world, markets constantly fluctuate because of many external reasons, and they often shift on a month to month basis. As it’s the case with every market, the talent market works in cycles too. It too constantly switches from the market being focused on employers to a market focused on employees, and that switch sometimes happens very quickly.

According to the latest statistics, the unemployment rate of the US has dropped to 3.7% in September of 2018, which is vastly different than to the 9.6% of September of 2009 when the Recession was still in effect.

Even though having a low unemployment rate is generally seen as a good thing, it can cause harmful effects to many employers, namely because there is a much smaller pool of potential candidates to choose from. There is a much smaller number of skilled candidates to pick from, and the number of candidates that lack the required skills is increased.

Considering the case and continuing trend of low unemployment rates, it’s becoming very necessary for companies to foster and develop talent internally. This means that businesses need to invest in their employees so that they have an increased chance of retaining them.

Kyle Porter, who is a CEO of SalesLoft, recently said that whenever a company loses an employee, it’s rarely the individual’s fault. Per his words, a company has to create an environment that the employees would prefer to work in, one that would allow them to grow and improve.

When the unemployment rates are higher and the market shifts its focus to employers, paychecks are the biggest driving force behind employee retention. But in today’s talent market, most businesses have to poach talent from other companies, simply because the talent pool has significantly dried up.

What can companies do?

Most business can do good to learn from the financial market. The best and most efficient investors usually get creative with how they play defense and offense on the market. Their goal becomes to lose less than the average or get the maximum possible return. This can be the best lesson companies can utilize to keep their talent pool steady.

If the market becomes increasingly defensive, as it’s currently doing, possibly the best move would be to play aggressively. Companies like Lippert Components, and their CEO Jason Lippert, have devised a very effective strategy to reduce the number of employee turnover and increase their talent pool. They focused on honing the leadership capabilities of their employees in a very direct and straightforward manner, and to create a company culture that would benefit every individual within its ranks.

With the creation of their leadership academy over a four year period, where they trained employees to become much better leaders, they reached excellent results. The employee turnover rate reduced to 30%, which is well below the industry standard, and they saw an increase in work application. All of this because the company realized that in order to be as efficient as possible they needed to create a culture that would nurture its employees.

Achim Neumann, President of A Neumann & Associates LLC, an M&A Advisory Firm in New Jersey says, “One of the core responsibilities of an employer is to develop and nurture the skills of their employees. It’s something that many employees have come to expect and for a good reason. That always leads to a much more efficient business or company.”

Every business and company can implement the same idea of a leadership academy. A budget like the one of Lippert Components isn’t required, because all it takes is the drive to improve. The business that strives to be as good as possible needs business leaders who will drive the company to gradual success over time. True success doesn’t come overnight, and there are three things that every business should be aware of:

Feedback is crucial – one of the worst offenses a leader can make is think they’re doing a fine job without any feedback. Employee feedback is something no business should skip out on, as it can create tons of potential situations for improvement.
Modernization – many businesses the world-over don’t modernize at the appropriate rate. This means to create valuable content with modern principles, instead of being stuck in a position where the content doesn’t feel relevant and fresh.
Learning and improvement – leadership is a skill that is learned by doing. Simply by focusing on learning as much as possible, a leader can create many opportunities for improvement for every individual in the business.

Using Custom Promotional Products in a World of Fake News

Business Inspiration Tips

October 9, 2018

These days there so many different versions of the “truth”. Business has been caught in the crossfire while politicians and the media fight for credibility, so much so that most people find it difficult to know what to believe. In the new, disconnected digital business environment consumers find it impossible to work out who to believe. With both sides pointing the finger and accusing each other of spreading “fake news” it’s hard to know the truth about anything anymore.

So how, in this era of uncertainty and fake news how can a small business have their marketing message taken seriously?

It might seem old fashioned but using promotional products is a proven way to avoid much of this confusion. When a business prospect holds something real, like a branded product they automatically reach an opinion of its practical value and a subjective, related emotional judgment of the whole. These personal impressions, both good and bad merge with any other preconceptions to form an overall attitude towards the brand with which the product is associated.

Branded merchandise, unlike other forms of business communication, does not rely on the manipulation of emotions to manage perceptions. The right promotional item creates a direct connection with consumers and allows you to avoid the negative impressions which come with the rising public cynicism in these days of “fake news”.

Managing consumer opinions of your brand and market offerings is the main purpose of promotional marketing. Billions are spent across the world every day on advertising but the final outcome can never be trusted to be exactly as planned. Research confirm using economical promotional products compared against more traditional forms of brand promotion reinforces positive perceptions. Particularly in the case in this day of digital communication few people with whom we do business are met face-to-face so doubts easily creep in. Branding something as simple to printed pens and handing them out to customers and business prospects is a way to escape the negative filters which dominate so much on-line chatter.

If you think about it, how can a good quality product with genuine practical value do anything for your brand but create a positive impression?

A good example of promotional marketing’s effectiveness is in the world of eco-friendly claims, about which consumer cynicism is growing. Many companies have realised it’s necessary to turn to physical products as a way of reinforcing their “green” company claims. So many organisations have unjustly claimed a clean, green reputation that there is great doubt about such claims amongst consumers. By simply offering your business contacts a branded item which reflects brand values and as an example, is made from recycled materials is now known to be more convincing that any number of bold claims made in general media advertising.

Unfortunately many people see a marketing world where bluster and misinformation is the norm so the simple act of placing a branded item in the hands of consumers creates an impression that no amount of online advertising can replicate. The simple reality of a physical product you hold in your hand cannot be denied.

It seems every year we spend less time engaging with each other and more time engaging with a screen, even now as we walk along the street. In this rapidly changing environment the simple act of handing your clients a useful branded product is a more powerful way to build and maintain relationships than ever. The temptation exists for all marketers to spend their budgets online. It’s easy to manage, analyse and assess; and can be scaled up or down in minutes. But keeping a foot in the “real” world, using promotional merchandise to connect with consumers is a proven way to leverage greater sales from your general advertising messaging.

Incorporating More Fish Into Your Diet

Inspiration

January 31, 2018

Consider incorporating fish and seafood and get the best menu options at Long John Silver’s.

The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times a week. Fish rich in omega 3, which helps maintain good brain and heart health. It is also very high in protein and contains essential amino acids to keep your body functioning normal. That doesn’t mean you can’t have it everyday it is better than eating meat. According to Harvard University eating it more than twice can lower the risk of a fatal heart attack.

Consider cod fish. It is packed with lean protein, omega-3 and vitamin B-12. Cod has a mild flavor and is liked by almost everyone.

Now stop at Long John Silvers to enjoy savory and healthy fish option menu. Feed your appetite and go for a satisfying Baked Cod Meal. The cod is drizzled with a Sweet and Zesty Asian Sauce. It comes with seasoned rice, a choice of 2 sides and 2 hushpuppies. Long John Silver uses wild and caught Alaskan cod for this meal.

Why consider seafood? First of all, it is low in fat, cholesterol and is loaded with good protein. It also has antioxidants and selenium to help prevent many diseases; and even fight off depression and anxiety.

Consider Shrimp. It is high in niacin and has no carbohydrates which can help lose weight. It also contains astaxanthin, a mineral known to fight cancer.

Stop by John Long Silver’s and try New Sweet and Tangy Panko Butterfly Shrimp. It is composed of panko breaded shrimp lightly coated in sweet and tangy sauce. There are six delicious shrimps, natural cut fries and two hushpuppies.

Consider including clams in your diet. Clams are nutritious, packed with good lean protein, full of iron and low in calories. Plus, they increase energy levels, boost your immune system and help skin look younger. Best of all, they have a great salty ocean flavor.

Visit Long John Silver’s to enjoy lightly fried clams combo of 2 with 1 side and 2 hushpuppies.

Consider crab. It helps with inflammation, and even improves gastrointestinal problems. Out of all shellfish crab is the most rich in selenium and also has chromium which helps maintain a good cholesterol level. Crab is full of flavor and needs very little added when used in other recipes.

Get the best crab cakes under 600 calories and opt for a 2 crab cake basket. It is composed of gently fried crab cakes with a side of fresh green beans and 2 golden hushpuppies.

If fish is really an absolute “no” Long John Silver’s also has chicken in its menu.

Try a 3 chicken meal with 2 sides and 2 golden hushpuppies.

Long John Silver cares about customers satisfaction and the ocean. With its partnership with many fishing organizations it follows sustainable fishing practices. This helps give consumers great tasting fish they can proudly enjoy.

Give fish and seafood a chance and save on your meals with a Long John Silver’s coupon.

Workspace Wonders: How to Design Your Dream Home Office

Business Home Business Wiz Inspiration

August 16, 2017

When you work from home, it can be tricky to separate your living space from your working space. Creating a home office is a great first step in making sure you can tune into a working mindset when you have things to do, and back into a relaxed state when it’s time to spend time with family or de-stress. Designing your home office can be as big a project as you want, and the energy you put into it can help you be more productive and professional. Depending on the nature of your work, organizing your desk area, incorporating shelving and storage, and making the space inspirational are all important in varying degrees. It’s good to experiment to see what works best for you and suits your personal needs, but there are a few constants that hold true for almost all home offices and working spaces.

1. Create a focused space.

Make sure your office or work room is clearly designated as a space different from all others in your home. Ensure you have a door or curtain that can shut and as much as possible avoid storing cleaning supplies, old clothes, or other clutter in your work space. Not only will it distract you and remind you of other responsibilities, but it can make it harder to find important documents and tools if they’re sharing space with shoes, bottles or boxes. If you have too much junk that you need to get rid off, get in touch with a waste removal company such as Kwik Sweep.

2. Separate work from life.

Treat a home office like you would a cubicle in a busy office building. Keep it tidy, have a family photo or two, and decorate it in a simple, professional way. Your office might be at home, but the more you treat it as separate, the easier it will be to tune in when there’s work to do, and to decompress when you’re finished. Stock your office with everything you might need to avoid having to leave and grab something, which can take you out of your productive state and introduce all sorts of distractions.

3. Use soothing colors and decorations.

Working buildings and professional spaces often put a lot of effort into furnishings that promote productivity. Clean lines and neutral colours reduce distractions and can have distinct psychological effects. The colour blue acts as a relaxant, as well as an appetite suppressant, so consider painting the room a shade of blue or using blue furnishings. Keeping the space cool can promote brain function and focus, so make sure you can control the room’s temperature. Comfortable ergonomic chairs and desks reduce fatigue and long term damage like back problems and carpal tunnel syndrome. Incorporate as many of these as you can to help you be more productive, and promote well being.

4. Incorporate tools for focus.

A home office doesn’t need to feel like a jail cell, so using design elements like fountains, zen gardens, or executive toys can help break up the monotony without throwing your focus. A simple indoor fountain can help freshen the space up, and the sounds of running water not only relaxes, but it can act as white noise to drown out the sounds you might expect if you have kids, neighbours, or heavy traffic near your house.

The Best Home Workout Programs to Get Shredded

Home/DIY Inspiration Tips

February 19, 2016

Tired of looking or just feeling bit flabby? There is no reason you can’t be in the best shape of your life regardless of age or excuses. No gym? No problem! Here are some of the best home workout programs to get shredded. Each one makes different promises but they all have one thing in common, sweat. So just because you are at home doesn’t mean you will be on the couch. Be prepared to work hard.

Shortcut to Shred
Hosted by legend Jim Stoppani this six week program is designed for any skill level and will give you a fat free hard body. No one promises it will be easy though, nothing good ever is right? Jim is gonna kick your butt for six weeks but it will pay off when that butt is hard as ice. So if you aren’t afraid to sweat, give this program a try and get shredded.

Kris Gethin 12-Week Trainer
Kris Gethin (or should we say Get-thin) doesn’t have time for your excuses, in fact that is his matter of fact philosophy: “No Excuses!” While this plan is probably for the intermediate to advance level given its intensity, expect to be in some of the best shape of your life following this 12 week training. Your friends will be asking who your personal trainer is and what gym you have been spending all your time at, having no idea you just stayed at home and were able to get shredded.

P90x
There is a reason p90X has become a household name. Short for “Power 90 Extreme this at home workout was created by Tony Horton and has gained incredible traction in the last decade. This program is suitable for beginners and combines cross-fit style training with periodization along with a diet plan to ensure you will get maximum shape. The 90 in P90X also shows how many days it will take. While some programs offer a shorter span for results remember patience is a virtue. Follow the P90X program and in less than 3 months you will be in better shape than you ever though.
These are three solid programs if you want to get shredded. There are probably dozens more that work as well but there is one key factor in all of them, hard work. If you want to get rock hard abs, a toned core, biceps the size of pythons, you are going to have to work for it. That means waking up and doing the home workouts everyday. That means ditching the cheeseburgers and maybe doing the workouts twice in a day. So if you think you can handle it, try one of these work outs and be prepared to be the envy of your friends when they see how ripped you gotten.

Most Successful Entrepreneurs Under 30

Business Entrepreneurship Inspiration

February 19, 2016

Just because you are young doesn’t mean you can’t be successful. Don’t let your youth hold you back rather embrace it and make it an advantage. Here are some of the most successful entrepreneurs under 30 who have changed the rules and already left their mark.

Tyler Haney
At just 27 seven years old Tyler Haney is the founder of Outdoor Voices an active apparel company that has over 8 million dollars in venture capitol. Talk about a big amount of cash for a young person. Tyler is handling is the responsibility and her education in sports and fashion are proving crucial in her new role, running a company.

Shawn Mendes
Shawn is only 17 years old but he already has a envious amount of success. Shawn is a singer and through self promoting videos on Vine he was able to obtain a manager, a contract, and now even a number one single. It just shows you what a lot of talent combined with a self starter attitude can get you.

Jordan Maron
The 23 year old Jordan Maron has made countless YouTube videos reviewing video games. Skeptics would not see this as a career but they were wrong. Jordan has over 8 million YouTube followers and with that many followers you have advertisers eating out of the palm of your hand. His giant online following will ensure his influence and success for years to come, of which he has many!

John Boyega

This young actor recently starred in Star Wars the Force Awakens, a record breaking film by all measurements. John Boyega is only 23 years old and is likely on track to be one of the worlds most recognizable faces given the insane amount of marketing and promotional products tied to the new star wars movie. This young actor sure knows how to pick his roles and given the success of this film, he will likely have first dibs on acting roles for the remainder of his career.

Matthew Ramirez
A 26 year old Berkeley English Major, Matthew Ramirez has combined the high-tech with the old-school. He has created an algorithm that analyzes writing and automatically provides feedback and suggestions. His software has already been purchased by dozens of schools and looks like it is gaining some serious traction.
These successful entrepreneurs under thirty all have one thing in common, they shot for the moon. Regardless and because of their age they were able to use modern tools to showcase their talents. What to be like them, well first you need to decide what your talents and skills are. The second step is to market yourself or your company using modern social media platforms. Whether you are thirteen or seventy-three it just goes to show you that anything is possible.

Category: Inspiration