Jazzed About Work

In 2020, Federal government jobs were among the most secure. And with more than 2 million people on its payroll, the government is the nation’s biggest employer. Every day, USAJOBS lists hundreds of vacancies at agency facilities across the country. And maybe some there would suit you? Author and trainer Kathryn Troutman has a deep understanding of how the system works, and for decades she’s been helping people get Federal jobs. In this episode, she explains the hiring process and shares practical tips, like how to create the right kind of resume. For more free info, see her website: https://resume-place.com

Navigating your career in a world that feels out of control can be daunting. In his thoughtful and clearly written book, What is Water? McKinsey consultant Kayvan Kian offers simple tips for changing your focus and remaining calm in challenging times. In this episode, Kayvan talks about how you can thrive by concentrating on those things that you actually CAN control, even when your environment feels crazy. Kayvan describes small steps you can take today to make your situation feel less overwhelming and move forward in a positive way.

We know that many workers are struggling, and a recent survey takes a deep look at the specifics of how employees how feel about their jobs. In this episode, Laura Hamill, an executive at software company Limeade, shares the results from their recent “2020 Employee Care Report.” We talk about how the pandemic is affecting stress and burnout in the workplace. And we discuss ways managers can support the well-being of their team members, and at the same time grapple with their own challenges.

Here’s a link to Limeade’s study: https://www.limeade.com/en/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2020-Employee-Care-Report.pdf?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=Release&utm_campaign=Care%20Report

The power of learning new things is the topic in this lively conversation with guest host Tom Hodson, coach Bev Jones and frequent WOUB guest Judge Gayle Williams-Byers. Your days at work are more rewarding when tasks challenge your thinking and stretch your mind. Learning activities – whether you take micro steps or deep dives -- can inspire new ideas, help you stay relevant and make your job more fun.

The topic was inspired by Kerry Hannon’s 9/2/20 New York Times article, To Build Emotional Strength, Expand Your Brand: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/02/health/resilience-learning-building-skills.html

“Organizational culture” is a hot phrase these days in leadership discussions. And Greg Besner knows all about it. He is a highly accomplished entrepreneur who has won praise for his performances as a CEO. He was an early investor in a business that talks a lot about culture – Zappos. And CultureIQ, a company that Greg created, blends research and technology to help customers to transform their businesses. In this episode, Greg will share tips from his new book: The Culture Quotient – Ten Dimensions of a High-Performance Culture.

Immediately after his college graduation in 2013, John-Mark Bolton launched a company, ClearDefense Pest Control. In just a few years, he and his co-founders have built a thriving business, with a team of over 200 people working in 8 states. Their goal is to operate nationwide. In this episode, John-Mark describes how he was “raised on commission” and learned business basics as a kid. And he describes his formula for entrepreneurial success, like building grit, routinely helping others and learning how to sell.

In two March episodes, guest host Tom Hodson talked with Bev Jones about how to build a portfolio career, as an alternative to traditional retirement. Since then, Tom has in fact retired from his leadership role at Ohio University and WOUB. While he has many interests, he’s finding the transition to be more challenging than he expected. Hear a bit of coaching in this episode, as long-time friends Bev and Tom discuss his feelings of emptiness. They talk about why a mourning period is normal, and explore smart ways for him to move forward and create a healthy, long life.

Umesh Ramakrishnan is a senior leader at Kingsley Gate Partners, a global executive search firm. And he’s a thought leader, often called upon to share insights about what it takes to rise to the top of an organization. In this episode, Umesh talks about how technology is changing the way professionals get hired. He explains why 2020 is the perfect time for organizations to invest in Diversity and Inclusion. And he offers advice on how leaders can work their way to the top of the career ladder. For more, see: https://galaxy.kingsleygate.com/web/guest/home

Today’s guest has a broad career portfolio. Garrett Hope is a composer, an occasional music professor and a career coach. His podcast – The Portfolio Composer – helps composers and performers see themselves not only as artists but also as being in business. These days Garrett also is passionate about helping people make career pivots. He understands that moving forward often involves getting over fear, tapping into your network and focusing on opportunities. In this episode Garrett shares tips and encouragement for a thriving career even in difficult times. For more, see his 2020 career pivot conference, https://www.thepivotadventure.com , and check out his podcast: http://theportfoliocomposer.com

For more than 30 years, Rosalind Clarke has been a major player in Palm Beach residential real estate. It’s a career this talented Brit fell into, after her London-based employer closed their Florida office and shut down the firm. In today’s episode, Rosalind talks about this unusually high end market, and offers insights about careers in real estate, wherever you might live. She says being a broker is exciting because of the variety, but tiring because it requires 24/7 service. For photos of lush properties and more, see: https://www.rosalindclarke.info