3 Ways to Become a Better Communicator in the Workplace

As skill-sets go, developing the ability to become a better communicator isn’t always easy. Fortunately, there are ways to become a better communicator in the workplace, and for for anyone willing to practice the rudiments of important social skills, the results can be stunning. Here are just a few great ways to up your communication game, and why doing so can lead to life-changing career outcomes.

Focus on Eye Contact

Whether we notice it or not, it’s easy for our eye contact to wain when we’re talking about a subject we’re not particularly interested in. However, failure to maintain eye contact during a conversation can cause make us appear dismissive to the people we’re speaking with. To treat others with respect and consideration, in other words, it’s vitally important that we meet their eye over the course of a conversation. Doing so shows others that we value their time and interests, and it also makes us better leaders.

Use Reflective Listening

When we can adequately summarize a person’s key points in a conversation, we’ll show them that we are truly listening to what they have to say. If we’re focused on other things or simply waiting for our turn to speak when someone else is talking, the conversation is likely to be unsuccessful. Unfortunately, that can make us ineffective leaders; indeed, to be understood as leaders, we must first understand what others have to say and why they are saying it.

Show Genuine Interest in Others

As Dale Carnegie once said in his bestselling book “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” we should strive to find at least one thing that is interesting about a person we’re talking with. If we’re not engaged with what another person is saying, our body language is likely to show our lack of interest. It doesn’t have to be much, but if we can see at least one subject from another person’s point of view, we’ll be able to connect with them in remarkable ways.

For these reasons, becoming a better communicator in the workplace is a skill that can be learned with time. Whether you’re engaging with the interests of others or simply focusing on maintaining eye contact during an important conversation, learning great social skills can truly make you a better leader. And that is business at its best!

This article was originally published at JamesCrickmore.co.uk.

Easy Ways to Go Above and Beyond at Work

Work performance is critical in order to advance in any given career. Just showing up to the office and putting in an 8-hour shift isn’t enough to succeed in today’s highly competitive workforce environment. Through simple strategy and planning a roadmap towards greater career success can be created that will propel any career professional to their fullest potential. Simple work strategies such as being a better listener, putting words into action, and staying fit and healthy are just a few ways that anyone can see a huge performance increase on the job.

Stay in Shape

The most important aspect of performing well at work is staying in shape. Numerous research studies have conclusively proven that workers that are in shape tend to be far more productive at work. Healthy people are more productive, more motivated, churn out better ideas, and are usually much friendlier in a work environment.

Be a Listener

Knowing when to speak and when to listen is a bit of an art form. This is especially true when it comes to career applications. Paying close attention to orders, feedback, or instructions given by a supervisor or co-worker is incredibly important. A person that doesn’t listen well typically will not travel far in any profession.

Put Words Into Action

The best way to impress a supervisor or coworker is to put words into action. Instead of talking about working harder, carrying out a specific workflow change, or discussing a new idea, put words into action and follow through with it. Taking the initiative to achieve something will surely propel anyone to greater career heights.

Lend a Helping Hand

The best way to get noticed in a work environment is to be the person that is always willing to help out. Whether it be filling in for a sick co-worker, volunteering for a company charity, or running an errand for a stressed co-worker, the willingness to help others is a great foundation for professional success.

Be Assertive

Succeeding at work is heavily determined by how assertive a person is. Assertiveness in the workplace should not be confused with aggression. An assertive person will always be at the forefront of completing a company-wide initiative, keeping their skills up to date, and rallying co-workers to greater performance.

This article was originally published at JamesCrickmore.org.uk.

Here’s How to Understand Soft Skills

There are many different kinds of professional skills. Some are easy to measure. Candidates either have a technical qualification, or they don’t. Other skills are harder to quantify. These are known as soft skills. Soft skills are, in many ways, the underpinnings of successful behavior. They can transfer easily from one industry to another. Leadership positions often require extensive soft skills. Because these are hard to measure, it’s important to think of what makes up a soft skill, and how it’s used.

Soft skills include evaluating talent. Hiring is one of the most important functions for any company. Without good people, even a good concept can be difficult to execute. Intelligence, teamwork and motivation can be hard to identify. People who can find good hires quickly are very valuable to an organization, and make great leadership material.

Communication is a key soft skill. Someone who can toggle between dealing with C-level executives and the general public is a great person to have around. Being able to speak and listen to people from all walks of life is important for leaders. Often, vision is seen as the most important trait in a leader. But having a vision without being able to communicate it to others is actually a very lonely place. It’s the opposite of leadership.

A part of communication is being able to say no. A related skill is delegation. Being good at things is key if a worker is going to rise to the top. However, being able to hand off work is very important. A leader can’t get bogged down in administrative business. Those responsibilities should be handed off to other competent workers.

Networking is an incredibly important soft skill, too. Networking often sounds somewhat mercenary when it’s described. In reality, networking just means making connections. It’s closely related to communication. Networking means getting out there and exchanging ideas with people. Building relationships can also be a great aid to recruitment and other tasks.

Soft skills transfer to any field. Traditionally, they’re associated with fields like HR and C-suites. These days, it’s becoming apparent that soft skills are important in every area of a business. Looking for employees with great soft skills in fields like IT can help a business chart a new course. Bringing soft skills to IT can help businesses reach new heights.

This article was originally published on JamesCrickmore.org.uk.

7 Simple Steps For Effective Time Management

With so many things competing for a person’s attention, time management may seem like an impossibility. Here are seven simple steps to get more done in the day:

Deciding What Is Most Important

Effective time management means choosing the tasks that yield the highest returns. In other words, the person must choose which ones are of greatest benefit to him and other interested parties. The greater the number of positive results, the higher on the list those tasks should go.

Creating a Schedule

Planning ahead helps a person evenly spread out their workload. A helpful method is to write down dates and times to perform the tasks. Once the tasks are completed, the person can more smoothly transition to the next ones.

Setting Boundaries

There are moments in the day when you have to move from one task to the next. If the necessary time is longer than expected, that person must stop what he is doing and move forward. Then he may resume on a different date. This prevents the person from becoming overwhelmed, and makes sure they stay on track with their calendar.

Taking a Break

Like exercise, there is a time to work muscles and a time to rest. The same is true for the workplace. The need to work means there is a need to take a break. This can be something like going for a brief walk or out to lunch.

Avoiding the “Weeds”

In other words, the person should refrain from distractions that are counterproductive to effective time management. Examples include sending social media “tweets”, posting online, reading emails, and answering personal phone calls, among other things.

Using Software

Rather than writing tasks on planners and booklets, the person can use digital applications in their place. Here are 15 common time management tools that act as extra hands when the person is pressed for time.

Finishing Tasks On Time

This is the essence of proper time management: the more tasks that get done now, the more spare time there will be later. Putting them off will complicate the person’s schedule.

These seven steps will boost the person’s self-confidence and restore balance. For those who feel overwhelmed by their own to do lists, these simple steps will make their days more manageable.

This article was originally published on JamesCrickmore.co.uk.

How to Stay Healthy During the Winter

The winter season is almost upon us. While this time of year can be fun and exciting because of the many events, time with family, and the preparation for the holidays, it is also easy for the cold weather and busy schedule to keep people from maintaining a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine. People feel less motivated to get up and go to the gym, or even for a walk outside. Holiday meals may cause diets and healthy eating patterns to fall to the wayside. All of these factors can contribute to a weaker immune system, making someone more susceptible to illnesses. The following are a few ways you can stay healthy this winter.

Reduce Your Carb Intake

Spending more time indoors puts people in close proximity to carb-filled snacks. After eating carbs, someone’s serotonin levels rise, which makes their brain feel happier. This feeling will only make the craving for carbs stronger and stronger.

Try to reduce your carb intake and beat carb cravings by eating a protein-filled breakfast that will keep your energy up the rest of the day. If you still find yourself hungry, reach for snacks that are healthy and low in fat instead of sweet, carb-laden snacks.

Eat More Vegetables

Eating more vegetables is a great way of ensuring your body is receiving the nutrients it needs. Leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are all good winter choices. Be purposeful about planning your meals out in advance to include the vegetables you need instead of buying processed foods last-minute.

Get Better Sleep

As the days get shorter, your body naturally will want to sleep longer. Try to go to bed early and at the same time each night. A consistent sleep schedule will help your body to fall into a better rhythm. Stop using your computer or phone a few hours before you go to sleep, otherwise the blue light stimulates your brain and will keep you awake.

Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands on a regular basis, as well as before your touch your face or eat is one of the most important things you can do to avoid getting sick. Washing your hands and teaching others to wash their hands reduces the spread of illnesses. According to the CDC, hand-washing education reduces the spread of respiratory illnesses by 16-21 percent.

This article was originally published on JamesCrickmore.org.uk.

Easy Breakfasts Your Kids Can Make

The rush of the busy morning often means little time is left for a filling, nutritious breakfast. Studies show that eating breakfast helps kids concentrate better in school, get better scores on tests and helps them maintain a healthy weight. Encouraging kids to make their own breakfast will make mornings run smoother and increase the chances of them eating it. Try these recipes that kids can make for a better start to the day.

Yogurt Parfait

This breakfast is a fun take on plain yogurt and will give kids a boost of calcium, vitamin C and healthy probiotics. Simply layer yogurt, cleaned and washed berries and granola in a cup. The yogurt, berries and granola can all be prepped ahead of time and stored in a separate container in the refrigerator. For a protein boost, try using Greek yogurt.

Smoothies

Kids will delight in drinking these mean, green smoothies that give them a daily serving of fruit and vegetables. Wash and dice strawberries, blueberries and bananas and place them with a handful of spinach in a freezer-safe bag. In the morning, kids can simply dump the contents of the bag with a splash of milk in the blender and blend until smooth. Instruct kids ahead of time on how to properly use the blender and any safety tips.

Toast with Fruit

The whole grains and healthy fats give this breakfast staying power until lunchtime. Kids can toast whole-grain bread and spread it with their favorite nut or seed butter. Add sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. Most kids can comfortably use a toaster between the ages of five and six.

Cereal

All kids need to do is be able to pour cereal and milk in a bowl for this breakfast. Look for options that are low in sugar, free from dyes and high in whole grains to keep blood sugar levels from spiking and crashing. Try using almond or coconut milk with the cereal for a different lactose-free twist.

Frozen Waffles

Cut up some fresh fruit and store it in the fridge to top these kid favorites. Kids can pop the frozen waffles in the toaster until warm and brown. Top with fruit, whipped cream or a little bit of natural maple syrup. Eat with a previously prepared hard-boiled egg for some protein.

This article was originally published on JamesCrickmore.org.uk.

How to Practice Golf During the Winter

Many people find the sport of golf challenging and relaxing. Unfortunately, however, this outdoor endeavor requires optimal weather conditions. For those not residing in year-round warm climates, the colder months might equate to a complete off-season.. That said, such circumstances need not always prevail. Golfers might still be able to improve their skillset by adhering to the following wintertime tips:

Locate Indoor Ranges

Indoor ranges enable golfers to practice important skills like driving and putting. Additionally, frequenting such facilities may improve other pertinent aspects of their game such as footwork and strength.

Focus On Strength And Conditioning

Improving one’s strength and flexibility can prove paramount to becoming a better golfer. A number of golfers and conditioning experts recommend partaking in some type of weight training program or aerobic exercise program. Engaging in such activities are believed to help the golfer in question shed any excess weight and strengthen their muscles.

Establish A Firm Grip

Most professional golfers stress the importance of establishing a firm grip. Maintaining a strong hold on the club enables the golfer in question to execute swifter and more accurate drives and puts. Loose grips often precipitate poor execution.

Fine Tune One’s Mental Edge

Golf requires optimal focus and concentration. Ergo, experts recommend golfers utilize the winter months to improve their mental edge. Professionals suggest formulating a pre-shot ritual in which pertinent factors like stance, grip and visualization are established and mastered.

Practice In The Mirror

Important actions such as grip, stance and swing are difficult to review all at once. Therefore, many professionals suggest executing practice using a mirror. Establishing a visual reference enables golfers to witness the mistakes they are making and incorporate necessary adjustments.

Train Using Weighted Clubs

Executing practice swings using weighted clubs is said to elicit several benefits. Arguably, the most significant potential return is the increased strength and muscle tone that weight training can yield. However, professionals opine that working with such items also better prepares participants to execute stronger and more finely timed drives.

Practice Putting Chipping Indoors

Putting and chipping are vital skills that can make the difference between a good or bad round. Experts recommend golfers practice these skills on indoor carpeting because such surfaces provide the same friction level that most greens or courses do.

This article was originally published on JamesCrickmore.org.uk.

Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

If you are a young entrepreneur, this is the best time in history to launch a business. Why? Because technology has made the chances of success much more likely than in times past. However, there is still a lot to consider before you take the plunge. Below are several tips that can point you in the right direction.

Establish a Strategic Plan

Strategic planning is a critical part of business success because it’s imperative that you know where you’re headed. Developing a roadmap for your business will help you determine whether or not your goals are realistic. A strategic plan also gives you a guide that can referenced along the way so that you can make any necessary adjustments.

Do What You Enjoy

People who are the most successful enjoy their work. Although it sounds cliché, you truly will have a better chance of success if you feel passionate about the work you’re doing. When you enjoy your work, you’re more likely to stay motivated, which means you’re more likely to do what’s necessary to excel.

Know the Competition

It’s always necessary to conduct a competitive analysis before launching a business. You need to understand the market so that you are not blindsided by any barriers to success that might exist. You should also understand your target demographics so that you can develop a strategy for reaching your intended audience.

Assess Your Financial Readiness

There are many financial resources available for business owners. However, it can be hard to find the money you need when you’re just getting started. There are investors that like to fund start up companies and even some financial institutions that will provide loans at a higher interest rate. It’s important to know what’s available and to make sure you can meet all of your financial obligations.

These tips can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that many entrepreneurs face. It’s also worth noting that a business mentor can provide guidance, so it’s worth finding one. Just make sure it’s someone with experience in the industry and a willingness to be straightforward when things get tough. More importantly, you must be open to constructive criticism.

This article was originally published on JamesCrickmore.co.uk.

Donations will help Peterborough’s most vulnerable

Photo Description: James Crickmore, owner of Yarwell Mill, with Hugh Caithness and Roger Larmond from CareZone at Kingsgate church receiving beds from Yarwell Mill.

Yarwell Mill Country Park has supported furniture recycling charity Care Zone in supporting Peterborough’s most vulnerable.

Donations of much needed furniture and equipment have been made, with beds donated by directors James Crickmore (pictured with Hugh Caithness and Roger Larmond from Care Zone) and Maurice Sines.

Care Zone, run by KingsGate Community Church, provides emergency support to people in financial crisis.

More donations of the following are needed: beds, wardrobes, chests of drawers, dining suites, sofas, bedding, curtains and kitchen items.

Call 01733 575083 or email info@carezone.org.uk.

This article was originally published by the Peterborough Telegraph by Joel Lamy on April 7, 2019.

Best Stretches for Before a Run

Most current medical advice is that the best warm-up for a run is a walk. However, leading running coach Nick Anderson advises his clients to add in a little something else. The first thing runners should do, no matter the distance, is get the body warmed up with some simple motion. People should start off at a walk and build to a jogging pace. After that, Anderson advises his clients to add some dynamic stretches.

Dynamic stretching is especially beneficial before a long run. Leading trainers even advise their clients that dynamic stretching can constitute a complete workout in its own right. In a dynamic stretch, a joint will go through a full range of motion. Dynamic stretching does not mean bouncing. Movements should be smooth and controlled. The goal is to improve flexibility and remove short-term tightness. This can prevent common injuries.

Common dynamic stretches Anderson asks clients to do include hamstring sweeps, side to side leg swings, forward and back leg swings and glute and piriformis activation. Hamstring sweeps help loosen the hamstring group. Running tones the quads, working that front part of the leg extensively. It’s important to balance this action out by working the hamstring group, also. A lack of balance can lead to injury.

Side to side leg swings work the abductor and adductor muscles. These help strengthen the core, in addition to warming up the adductor and abductor muscles. Doing this type of dynamic stretch helps to improve overall range of motion. Leg swings from front to back work the hamstring and hip flexor. Runners, especially distance runners, tend to have lots of tightness in the hips. It’s important to work to improve flexibility in that region. Again, it’s important to keep the hamstrings loose and flexible before challenging them with a long run.

Glute and piriformis activation involves putting an ankle over the opposite knee, while standing. This provides a great release for the hips, glutes and even the lower back. For runners with balance challenges, it’s okay to hold onto something while doing this stretch. Focusing on one focal point in the middle distance can also be helpful when doing this stretch.

This article was originally published on JamesCrickmore.co.uk.