1/07/2013

Interpersonal Skills and the Entrepreneur


                                 Being able to communicate EFFECTIVELY is vital to the success of ANY organization.

Inspired Ideas shares: Three Keys to mastering Interpersonal Communication : 

1. Be an ACTIVE listener
2. Think on your feet 
3. EMPATHIZE!

For more visit the link below! 

1/06/2013

Great Interview! Or Not?


There are 5 Interview questions that almost every job prospect has trouble answering!

1. Why did you leave your last job?
2. What are your weaknesses?
3. Why should we choose you?
4. Salary Expectation?
5. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

If you are already struggling with these answers, Here are some tools that can help you ACE the Interview! 

1/05/2013

Looking the Part!


When asked, Inspired Ideas found one of the top responses received from recruiters surrounding why certain individuals are overlooked for a second interview in spite of their ability; Their APPEARANCE at the First!

What message is your interview attire conveying?

You only get one chance to make a memorable First Impression!
Make it count!

Check out the link below for more tips on how to "Look the Part!" 

1/04/2013

Psyching YOURSELF out of your Resolutions?






In the corporate world, one learns that one's mindset towards their own success can do one of two things:

Encourage and bring that success to fruition, OR aide in its dissolution! If you have already witnessed your failure MENTALLY, you are telling yourself that your endeavor has NO CHANCE of success! Your ACTIONS towards this endeavor will reflect your mindset and ultimately bring that "failure" from thought to reality! 


The same rings true of individuals who find themselves "resolving" to do the same things, complete the same tasks, or reach goals that they have set for themselves year after year. Your MINDSET will ultimately determine your success!!


Here are some ways to avoid psyching yourself out of your IMPENDING success!


click the link below!


Building Bridges






Successfully being able to network is key to the success of any, and every entrepreneur! 
Here are 14 key phrases to Build that Bridge from Forbes Magazine online.


14 Phrases That Build Bridges Between People


Business is changing. The experts sure seem to think so. Every day, some new article hypes a brave new world of egalitarian openness and collaboration. That might be true if you work for yourself. For the rest of us, it’s still a winner-take-all, command-and-control world. Always has been, always will be. The experts may own the language, but not reality. When leaders feel threatened or the ink runs red, they rarely tap into their talent for solutions. More often, they cut communication and withdraw behind closed doors. Corporate culture can overcome many hurdles, but never human nature.

In reality, business has changed little. Work still involves small victories and slow progress, often ambiguous and rarely permanent. That said, what drives workers has changed little too. Besides money, they want a voice. They dream of receiving a fair shot to make a difference. And they long to feel special. And all that starts with communication. These days, we’re taught that tone and body language are the message. But words – and what they signify – matter too. Over time, your character, competence, and caring may be revealed by your actions. In a micro world, it is the right words used at the right moments that spark conversations and build bridges between people.

Want to tap into the deepest yearnings of your peers and employees?

Consider sprinkling these phrases into your daily conversations:

1) I Trust Your Judgment: Translation: “You have my permission. I believe in you. Now, go make it happen.” Feels pretty uplifting to hear that, doesn’t it? And I’ll bet you’d do almost anything to please someone who makes you feel that way. Your employees and peers are no different.1) Thank You: Common courtesy? Sure. But tell me this: When was the last time you forgot (or rejected) gratitude? Whether given in private or public, a sincere ‘thanks’ creates goodwill. Don’t forget your mother’s advice: “Say please.” People are always happier doing a favor than taking an order.

2) I Don’t Know: We don’t have all the answers. And it scares us to death. That’s a perfect point to start a dialogue…over facts and fears. Facing the unknown – and seeking assurances and answers – bonds people like nothing else. All you have to do is first admit what you don’t know.

4) Tell Me More: “I’m all ears.” It’s the ultimate conversation starter! When you signal that you’re open and intrigued, the other party will respond in kind. And who can resist flattery? Use phrases like “What do you think” or “What would you do” to acknowledge someone’s expertise. In doing so, you’re courting authentic suggestions, even if they challenge convention or skewer a sacred cow. If your interest is genuine, you may just fuel a productive exchange.

4) What I Hear You Saying Is: Ever wonder if someone has been listening to you? Be assured the person speaking to you is. So here’s a way to keep the ideas flowing. Step back and rephrase what someone says. In fact, vaguely distort or stray from it. This offers two benefits. It implies that you’re engaged, increasing the likelihood you’ll get more detail. It also helps you gauge the other person’s preparation, reasoning, and seriousness. It’s a win-win for everyone.

5) I’m On It: You’re giving your full attention. You’re saying, “Relax. Don’t worry about a thing. I’ll see to it personally.” That response can disarm just about anyone. To express a deeper commitment, use “You have my word.” This makes you more accountable to someone, conveying that you’re on board and will make it happen…whatever it takes.

6) How Else Can I Help You: It takes guts to speak up. People risk rejection, ridicule, or retaliation. Sure, you’ve discussed one issue.Chances are, this was just a test balloon to see how you’d react. This person probably wants to cover more; he’s just hesitant to ask. Make it easy on him. Extend the proverbial “what can I do” invitation to widen the conversation. And don’t be afraid to ask for help occasionally, either. People love to lend a hand. It provides purpose. When you’re humble and vulnerable, it humanizes you. It makes you one of them. And people trust those with whom they can identify.

7) I’ve Got Your Back: We’ve all made big mistakes. When we’ve recognized the gravity, the same question automatically pops up: “Am I getting fired for this?” It’s natural for co-workers and reports to imagine worst case scenarios. In those times, step in with a reassurance: “I’m not judging you. You’re going to get through this. You’re not alone. We’ll figure this out together. It’s going to be OK.”

8) My Pleasure: This subtle reminder reinforces a key point. You’re here to help others. You have all the time they need. And you’re happy to do it.

9) What If: Call it whatever you want: Imagination, wonder, inspiration, or vision. It’s that “why not” spirit that’s driven men and women to dream, create, and push limits. How often do you channel this force to hit it off with others? When was the last time you used a phrase like “How can we make this happen” or “Let’s try this out?” Go ahead. Open the floor to everyone. Put every option on the table. Don’t judge them based on budgetary, time, labor, or cultural considerations. Sure, most ideas won’t be feasible or relevant. But you’re seeking that nugget that makes your organization just a little more competitive and enjoyable. You can find the means another time.

10) Let Me Play Devil’s Advocate: Looking for a subtle way to critique? Turn the conversation into an exercise where you’re a detached party performing a function: Poking holes in the logic and plan of attack. Maybe you need to reel the other person back to the big picture. Maybe you want to direct him towards missing pieces, pros and cons, or alternatives. Either way, you use this strategy to stress test ideas without making the process personal.

11) Let Me Think About That: Yeah, it sounds like a cop out. And it is…sometimes. Fact is, we don’t always have the authority or expertise to make decisions. This phrase buys you time and breathing space. It intimates that you’re open-minded and the request merits consideration. Then, set a date and time for follow up so the other person knows you’re taking him serious.

12) Well Done: It’s a cliché, no doubt. Sometimes, it isn’t enough just to say thanks. People want to know what they did was great and why. They pour so much sweat and soul into their projects. They need more than recognition that a task or goal was completed. They need to know their work was special and had meaning to someone.

13) You’re Right: Want to get someone’s attention? Tell him that he’s right. Once you yield the high ground, it’s much easier for the other party to swallow that the right plan and sentiment can’t always overcome the absurdities and restraints we face every day.

14) I Understand: People have such an innate desire to connect. They long to know they’re not alone, seeking others who’ve been where they are – and have successfully made it through. Helping someone doesn’t always involve making suggestions or calls. It may just involve being there, paying attention to what a person has to say. Most times, that’s enough to show you understand.

What phrases do you use to make people feel more comfortable, motivated, and appreciated?

1/02/2013

Starting the search for a new career in 2019?



It's a New Year, and Inspired Ideas knows firsthand how difficult it can be to find employment, or even where to begin to look! In an economy as tough as this, it seems as though finding viable employment is as much about "Who" you know as it is about "What" you know.  As such we want to keep our customers updated on career opportunities, offerings, and events that become available in their area!  
We cannot guarantee you the job, but we can definitely help you get a leg up!! 

Get your Inspired Ideas Resume Makeover as the "Ribbon" to seal the deal on your Professional Package!


Click the Link Below for Upcoming Career Fairs in YOUR area!!! 

Taking care of YOU in the midst of Transition



Tackling the necessities of everyday life can be trying!
Add to that the stress of losing/looking for a job, raising children, and still trying to make ends meet!  Its tough in this economy!

 As individuals, it is in one's nature to WANT to provide, to be a source of comfort, shelter, and stability for others.. In the midst of all of the struggles that come with LIFE, Inspired Ideas wants to remind you how important it is to find that same COMFORT, SHELTER, and STABILITY for SELF.  

As parents its hard to find that "time" alone! 
How can you possibly make it work?

If you are a couple, work in tandem! Choose ONE DAY per week for each parent that will be their "Personal" time.

This DAY can vary each week per parent, and should be based on YOUR household schedule, and what works for your family.

If you are SINGLE then co-op with a relative or friend that you TRUST, at your home or theirs, to take the kids off of your hands for an hour or two!

Apply the same ONE DAY per week rule as to not wear out your welcome, also alternating to keep it fresh, and something to look forward to for all parties involved!

I am sure your family and friends would appreciate a much more relaxed, and inviting you! 

During this Personal or "PT" Time, you should use your day to RELAX.
 De-stress your mind! Do things you find FUN! Encouraging! Informational! 
Make it about the POSITIVES of the day, and not the NEGATIVES of the week! 

Balancing out your work and home life, as opposed to attempting to juggling it all will prove to enhance your mood, your interpersonal relationships, and your overall prospective outlook!