Have you ever had that one task that bogs you down for days, or even worse, weeks? You just can’t seem to cross it off your to-do list – or even go near it.
Well, picture that task as if it were a frog. Mark Twain once said, “If the first thing you do each morning is eat a frog, you can go through the day knowing that that’s probably the worst thing you’ll have to do all day.”
So, eat the frog. And when the frog seems too big to swallow, just take it one bite at a time.
Fewer cubicles foster more face-to-face interaction between coworkers, right? That’s the thinking behind the trend toward open workspaces, anyway.
A new study, however, throws that idea for a loop. Researchers discovered that removing spatial boundaries significantly decreased live communication.
According to the Royal Society-published study, “In short, rather than prompting increasingly vibrant face-to-face collaboration, open architecture appeared to trigger a natural human response to socially withdraw from coworkers and interact over email and IM.”
Researchers found humans’ desire for privacy plays a big role in productivity, and multiple digital age factors drive how we communicate.
– Dan Stefano, The Pittsburgh 100
You can’t start a company-wide wellness initiative without first assessing the needs of your employees. Here are three steps to get started:
1. Work with Human Resources to look at medical claim trends. Ask, “what are the most prevalent conditions? Where are the health challenges?”
2. Customize a solution based on the findings. For example, if you’re seeing low back pain as a trend, offer sit/stand desks or have an expert do ergonomic assessments.
3. Communicate, and often. Develop an internal communications campaign for your initiative and make the content informative and engaging so people will pay attention.
– Emily Manley, Corporate Fitness Works
Newmark Grubb Levy Strange Beffort is changing its property management company name to Robinson Park effective July 1. The change will give the company a better opportunity to control its brand and strategy within its markets. Robinson Park will continue to hold true to its mission of partnering with clients to provide superior service and results.
“The name is meaningful to us in several ways,” Robinson Park CEO Mark Beffort said. “It’s the actual location of our first acquisition and current corporate office, but it also evokes strength, stability and longevity, which are key characteristics for successful commercial real estate.”
It’s easy to make conference calls from almost anywhere. But while they’re convenient, conference calls aren’t the best option for building a relationship.
Such relationships are critical for success in any industry, and are best developed with in-person meetings. Reasons to opt for a face-to-face meeting:
1. Learn more: Deeper, wide-ranging conversations happen in person, not by phone.
2. See non-verbal communications: Assessing participants’ body language relays a wealth of information.
3. Build rapport: Get to know the meeting participants by seeing their office or chatting about non-work topics before or after a meeting.
Your entire career could change with one introduction at a networking event.
Here are five key things to remember when networking:
1) You never know who you might meet at an event. If it’s convenient, pop by.
2) Remember, it’s not all about you. Listen more.
3) Prepare a brief, 30-second version of your life story.
4) Always take and receive a business card, and make it a habit to follow up. You never know when an opportunity to help someone or work together will present itself in the future.
5) Good karma goes a long way. Give advice.
– Nick Johnson, Triangle Media Consulting
Downtown OKC Partnership will honor three leaders for outstanding contributions that make our downtown one of the best in the country. The Dean A. McGee Awards at The Skirvin Hilton will recognize Meg Salyer, president of Accel Financial Staffing, with the Dean A. McGee Award; Brent Bryant, economic development program manager for Oklahoma City, with the Stanley Draper Award; and Ron Bradshaw, partner at Colony Partners, with the Neal Horton Award.
The co-chairs for 2018 are Tom McDaniel, president of American Fidelity Foundation, and Judy Hatfield, principal of Equity Realty. Grab your table at the Dean McGee Awards soon.
– Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR
Studies show that the proposed University North Park development in Norman will generate $25 million in new annual taxes and create at least 2,000 jobs.
University of Oklahoma economist Robert Dauffenbach projects it will produce about $21.2 million per year, while a supplemental report by Jon Chiappe of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce shows that the new jobs will provide another $3.6 million per year.
“This development will generate much-needed taxes for Norman while creating a unique destination and amenities for current and future residents of Norman.” – Guy Patton, president and CEO of the OU Foundation.
Whether you’re a runner or not, training is a must. I apply this to our careers – we’re encouraged to “train” outside of the office to continue to grow in our jobs.
Before you go for a run, you stretch your body. This is equivalent to getting to work and warming up your mind.
Here are tips you may find helpful within your marathon-like workflow:
1. Create a realistic goal.
2. Be flexible.
3. Pace yourself.
4. Know you’re never alone.
You may not be sweating, but these tips should help guide you in pacing yourself through the busy workflow.
The authoritative management style is fading. These days, many jobs involve knowledge work, where an employee’s main contribution is subject matter expertise. Consequently, a manager’s role is evolving into more of a “team leader” or “motivational coach.”
To motivate employees to succeed, it is important for leaders to focus on:
– Connection: Employees want to feel connected with others. Leaders should create opportunities for employee engagement and collaboration.
– Culture: Monetary rewards can be short-lived. Employees seek experiences and meaningful purpose. If a company’s mission and values resonate with employees, they will genuinely care about the results of their own performance.
– Christina Norton, Revenue Management Solutions
The ability to adapt to rapidly changing work situations and the flexibility to overcome obstacles is a game-changer.
Why employers want it: Today’s fast-paced business environment requires employees who are open to change, willing to take initiative and don’t get emotionally sidetracked when plans go awry. “Adaptable employees can manage conflict and change more effectively,” says Sarah Gibson of Accent Learning and Consulting, based in Wisconsin.
How to gain it: Become a continuous learner. Embrace change. Seek ongoing development opportunities to help you stay relevant in an ever-changing business world. “It’s a lifelong learning process,” says Gibson.
– Rebecca Konya, The Wisconsin 100
Business leaders can be overwhelmed by the myriad of managing styles. Inc. reports it may be possible to narrow it down to two thinking patterns: management- and leadership-focused.
The former is detail oriented, focused on the day-to-day activities, while the latter is known for its big ideas and blue-sky thinking. Which is better?
The answer is, of course, both. Prioritizing both the streamlined management of employees while also reaching for the stars is paramount to success. Every manager needs a detail-oriented yin to her vision-setting yang, whether in herself or through a trusted partner.
As the largest investment bank in Oklahoma serving middle-market businesses, Infinity Capital Partners has been working hard to bring institutional capital funds to Oklahoma in areas other than energy.
Most recently, Infinity served as the exclusive financial advisor to LifeSpring In-Home Care Network, helping them obtain growth capital from Deaconess Associations Inc., allowing them to further expand in Oklahoma, and into Texas.
Since opening their doors in 2016, Infinity’s managing partners Bryan Vahlberg and Christopher Lee have made it their mission to help existing Oklahoma companies maximize their value and competitive position by finding the right capital partner.
For companies, creating a “newsroom” on your website with information for journalists gives media outlets information they need in one convenient place.
A quality online newsroom makes a journalist’s job easier. To get one started for your site:
– Provide a background on the company’s history.
– Add links to up-to-date media coverage and news releases on the site.
– Create a form for journalists to sign up for email news alerts.
– Make sure all social media accounts are linked.
An important key in getting accurate coverage is ensuring that journalists have the facts about your company and what it does.
Sharing is caring, while working is life’s labor. And together, these two concepts give us co-working spaces. As you choose your ideal spot, here are some considerations:
Function over form. Do you need elbow room, comfortable chairs and somewhere to take calls? Or an artsy, open space that breeds creativity?
Networking options. Can your business benefit from knowing other members in the space? Or do you need a place to simply get in and get out?
Productivity is key. Can the space allow you to be as productive (or more) as you are at home? This matters the most.
The University North Park Entertainment District is a proposed mixed-use entertainment development consisting of retail, offices and housing anchored by a new 10,000-seat multipurpose arena, which the University of Oklahoma plans to lease for men’s and women’s basketball.
Located along I-35 between Robinson and Tecumseh in Norman, the entertainment district would augment the UNP’s existing retail, which has grown to more than 1.3 million square feet since 2007 and generates $13 million annually in Norman tax revenue. The entertainment district will provide young professionals and others with a unique place to live, work and play.
– Chip Carter, Jones PR
It’s that time of year: time to create your marketing plan for 2018. While this can be quite a daunting task – making it tempting to take shortcuts – there are do’s and don’ts worth following.
Do review: Start with a review of your internal and external position.
Do test: Testing is a great way to see what garners results and what doesn’t.
Don’t contract FOMO: Resist the fear of missing out (FOMO) if a tactic does not seem to be worth testing.
Not sure what to do next? Don’t hesitate to contact a professional marketer for guidance. It’s what we do.
According to Gallup, 70% of employees at U.S. companies feel disengaged.
One reason: many feel senior executives are out of touch with their employees. To increase engagement, employees need to believe in their employers’ stated values. It’s not an issue of whether employees know and understand their stated values, it’s that they don’t see those values being demonstrated.
It’s possible to measure the level of disengagement at your organization and dig deeper to identify sources and develop a plan to address those sources. When employees are fully engaged, they are motivated, committed and passionate in everything they do.
Crises can arise at any time and through no fault of your own. Protecting your personal brand is always at the center of good crisis planning.
As long as we rely on technology, we leave ourselves open to threats, including the most recent data breach at Equifax that potentially affects nearly 150 million people. We receive phishing emails regularly, and every time you swipe a credit card, you open the door to disaster.
There are resources available outlining the proper steps to mitigate these potential crises as to not affect you, your family or your business for years to come.
The impact LinkedIn can provide for businesses that want to generate leads, connect to professional peers, and build their brands is powerful, especially in the B2B arena.
1. LinkedIn surpassed Facebook as the top social platform for B2B marketers.
2. It’s an effective channel to position yourself as a professional leader and trusted influencer through thought leadership.
3. Over 467 million users are on LinkedIn.
4. LinkedIn ranked as the top social media site used for product launches among B2B marketers globally.
It allows the opportunity to connect organically with people throughout different industries. You never know where your next client will come from.
– Natalie Ghidotti, The Arkansas 100
Returning to work after having a child can be a challenging transition. Regardless of which state or federal workplace laws apply, employers should consider these best practices for welcoming back new mothers:
– Talk to expecting employees about how much leave they will take and whether they may need flexible work hours when they return.
– Consider increasing a new mother’s workload gradually instead of expecting her to return to work at full capacity.
– When possible, avoid scheduling meetings beyond normal work hours, especially without notice.
– Allow breaks for mothers to pump breast milk in a comfortable, private space – not a bathroom.
One of the best tactics in your business arsenal already exists. Strategic partnerships are quickly becoming a necessity, especially in terms of marketing.
Partnerships can be created in a variety of ways but should include businesses or organizations that align with the mission of your company and have their own circle of influence. Recent high-profile partnerships include the Taco Bell “Taco Mode” Lyft Feature and Under Armour with rapper A$AP Rocky.
Who are your partnership opportunities? Find the players in your community by setting an objective, identifying those who will help you get there and complement your vision.
– Natalie Ghidotti, The Arkansas 100
If you haven’t updated your website in years, you may be losing valuable leads for your business.
Web design trends change annually, and investing in a new site can be costly but worthwhile. There are cost-effective changes that you can make to be more current and influence your potential customers. High-quality original photography can speak volumes about your relevance and build trust. The popularity of video is still on the rise, and studies have shown video increases engagement.
Your budget may not allow a redesign annually, but you can keep your site competitive with strong copy and visuals.
There are dozens of examples of how *not* to react in crises. United Airlines’ recent fiasco is just one such example. The reality is that PR can help you navigate these turbulent waters and keep the ship afloat. Transparency and responses that align with company philosophy and reputation are at the foundation of crisis management.
I use the AARGH theory to maneuver through these situations: Assess, Activate Plan, Respond, Gauge Reaction, Heighten Response. It’s about telling YOUR story, telling the truth and telling it first. You have a better chance of coming away with lessons learned, rather than business lost.
After Kevin Stitt graduated from Oklahoma State University, he entered the mortgage business and decided to pursue an entrepreneurial venture. With only a computer and $1,000 dollars, Stitt began Gateway Mortgage Group in the state of Oklahoma.
Today, Gateway buys, originates and services home loans in 38 states across the nation. What’s Gateway’s driving mission? To strengthen families and to passionately serve the 80,000+ individuals a month through the company’s servicing operation.
Stitt proudly proclaims that he believes Oklahoma is the best place to start a business in the country.
Learn more about Kevin Stitt and Gateway here.
A big question on everyone’s mind right now: what are these “fidget spinners” and why all the hype?
The toy itself is simple, yet has become a viral sensation. These pocket-sized gadgets are designed with the intent to relieve stress by flicking the paddle-shaped blades while squeezing down on the center core, spinning the blades.
Some claim that fidget spinners also help improve focus by allowing you to do what you normally try not to do: fidget. Though others deem the toy itself a major distraction — you can be the judge after you take it for a spin.
– Christian Franklin, Jones PR
Convincing someone to see things your way is more complex than you might think. In fact, neuroscientists and social psychologists have long asserted that people alter facts to align with their preconceived beliefs.
According to George Lakoff, retired UC Berkeley professor of cognitive science and linguistics, if you want to create messages to persuade, you have to understand other worldviews, and facts and rational debate have less value than you’d think. We can use this when seeking to persuade.
Arguing from our worldview can cause others to dig in and defend their position. Seek understanding, then frame your argument accordingly.
– Lisa Cutter, The Colorado 100
In January 2000, Kevin Stitt established Gateway Mortgage Group to pursue his passion for helping families and communities grow stronger through home ownership.
Today, Gateway Mortgage Group has expanded its footprint beyond Oklahoma and has established itself as one of the nation’s largest privately held mortgage companies with over 135 offices in 35 states.
What is Kevin’s key to success? Never forget the reason you started – your original vision. Gateway (and Kevin) remain community-focused by providing financing for homes, creating more jobs and making a difference through local and national leadership.
Learn more about Kevin Stitt and Gateway here.
Oklahomans know that the oil industry has a significant impact on our state, but do you know just how big that impact really is?
Check out what one rig operating fully for one year does for our state:
• Supports 681 jobs
• Drives $195.6 million in economic activity
• Spawns $4.2 million in local and state taxes
Impressed? Multiply those numbers by 123 – the number of active horizontal long lateral rigs operating in Oklahoma as you read this.
Thanks to the Oklahoma Oil & Gas Association for commissioning the study to discover the economic impact of drilling in our great state.
When managing a crisis, the first thing you need is a solid writer. They must be able to impart empathy, honesty and relatability in a few paragraphs.
During a crisis, you’ll be deploying messages across multiple channels – CEO statements, social media posts and internal employee emails. Good writing is the crux of these. Here are three things your writer must know.
1. The real reason for the crisis. If your writer doesn’t have all the facts, the writing could gloss over, or completely ignore, crucial issues.
2. The ability to convey true empathy.
3. Brevity. There’s always lots to explain.
When Burt Holmes worked for his father, he said, “You take care of your business, and it will take care of you.” Holmes shares more advice he used in his own business in an interview with Tulsa World.
Know your shortcomings. “I need to be surrounded by good accounting people. I am not good at that.”
Know people. “I know a lot of people, and I know a lot about a lot of people. That’s a strength.”
People make the deal. “You can have the greatest concept in the world … but if you don’t have the people, you won’t win.”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 25% of all employed Americans do some or all their work from home.
It has its bonuses: low overhead, no commute, flexible schedule and reduced daycare costs. However, at-home employees can get distracted by household tasks, procrastinate and lack creative collaborations.
Tips for at-home efficiency:
• Develop and follow a timed schedule
• Schedule household tasks on breaks
• Pack a lunch so you don’t overindulge
• Schedule conference calls regularly with co-workers/clients/vendors
• Create a real office space
Follow these directives and you’ll optimize your workload from the comfort of home.