Executive and Personal Coaching

Leadership - Quality 3 - Vision

2012-01-30T05:52:00.000-08:00

Let's now examine the third quality required by a great leader, as extracted from an article by Business Link.

People with sight see things as they are.

People with insight see things as they could be.

(Joseph P. Martino)

Quality 3 - A great leader defines a clear Vision for the business, and focuses the attention of everyone on it.

Establishing a clear company vision helps to ensure your business goes in the direction you want it to. It gives focus to management, employees, suppliers, collaborators and even customers. In essence, it defines a roadmap for where your business and its people are heading.

So how can you begin to define a vision? Strong awareness helps. It pays to know what's going on inside and outside your organisation, and have access to strong information and intelligence. This means using management, employees and other sources to inform and guide your thinking. But while others can inform and guide, they should not direct or dictate your vision. As a leader it is your job to look into the unknown and set a direction for the future as you see it.

Upon sound intelligence you can build an educated view of the future. According to leadership expert Warren Bennis, a vision needs to provide people with a "bridge to the future". In the first instance this means defining where you want to be one, three, five or ten years from now. From these points, leaders must 'reverse engineer' to provide specific, practical and achievable plans which detail the key steps required to realise the vision. Sometimes referred to as 'futurecasting'., the process of visualising and road-mapping the future is an important leadership role.

Warren Bennis stresses the importance of 'giving meaning' to a vision 'through communication'. There should be four components to a vision: "A compelling story, an image, it must be achievable and it has to be forward-looking". A vision could be described as part story, part plan. The story must be clear, compelling and easy to communicate, while the plan provides the specifics required to make it happen.

You might begin with impassioned speeches that articulate your vision, but be sure to follow up with practical steps which turn vision into reality; steps such as building specific goals into management, employee or supplier responsibilities or conducting regular management meetings and monitoring to ensure your vision is rigorously pursued.

More generally, look for opportunities to constantly 'give meaning' to your vision through strong communication and management. Tell your story of the future, then inspire, compel and enable others to follow your lead.

If you feel this would be easier for you to achieve whilst working with me, then please get in touch with Nicholl Consultancy, we would love to hear from you.

Until next time - be a visionary!

Sharon

Quality 2 required for great Leadership

2011-12-21T07:28:00.000-08:00

Whenever you see a successful business,

somebody has made a courageous decision.

(Peter Drucker)

Today, we shall look at Quality 2 required for Leadership, which has been extracted from an article produced by Business Link which set out the qualities you need to be a great Leader.

Quality 2 - A great Leader makes quick but considered Decisions that balance facts, instinct and the opinions of others.

Decision-making should be quick, flexible and informal, says Martin Sorrell, CE at advertising firm WPP. "This is not to say the process shouldn't be rigorous: run the analyses, suck up all the data, and include some formal process as well". "The only way to avoid making mistakes is to avoid making decisions", adds Sorrell; "Instead, learn from mistakes and listen to feedback."

Randy Komisar, partner at Investment firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers suggests creating a balance sheet, "where everybody around the table is asked to list points on both sides". Rather than giving judgements, contributors first outline the good and bad points relating to a decision. Once done, participants share their opinions and discuss the decision based on objective insights and personal judgements. "By assembling everyone's insights rather than their conclusions, the discussion can focus on the biases and assumptions that lead to the opinions." Komisar adds: "Listen to the little voice ... it's great to see a leader who will echo the little voice in the back of the room that has a different point of view - and thereby change the complexion of the discussion".

Instinct is also important, "but only when four tests are met" says McKinsey of McKinsey & Company. The familiarity test asks whether we have the experience in similar situations, because: "If we have plenty of appropriate memories to scan, our judgement is likely to be sound". The feedback test, questions the availability of reliable feedback in past situations, and whether the right lessons were learnt. The measured-emotions test asks if a decision evokes highly charged emotions which can unbalance judgement. And the independence test asks if we are "likely to be influenced by any inappropriate personal interest or attachments?". "If a situation fails even one of these four tests, we need to strengthen the decision process", argues McKinsey.

If you would like to work with me to help you find the 'Great Leader' within you, then please contact me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Until next time - be successful!

Sharon

Leadership - The 7 Qualities you Need

2011-11-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

Effective Leadership is not about making speeches or being liked;

Leadership is defined by results not attributes

(Peter Draper)

The following information has been extracted from an article produced by Business Link which I felt was well worth sharing.

A Great Leader .....

1. Has strong Awareness of what's going on, and uses good Judgement to determine what's important;

2. makes quick but considered Decisions that balance facts, instinct and the opinions of others;

3. defines a clear Vision for the business, and focuses the attention of everyone on it;

4. ensures the vision connects with business Strategy and Operations;

5. pursues, encourages and supports Innovation and positive change;

6. shows People why they are important to realising the company vision, enables people to achieve goals in providing support, training and freedom, and establishes trust;

7. pays attention to Improving oneself as a leader.

This article will give more depth to Quality 1, and during the coming months, we shall look into the other qualities.

Quality 1 - A great leader has strong Awareness of what's going on, and uses good Judgement to determine what's important.

Leaders make better decisions and define clearer visions if they have knowledge or perception of the pertinent situations or facts in a business context.

Situational awareness involves accessing knowledge on what's happening inside and outside of the organisation; from what's happening on the ground, to the opportunities and challenges that exist for management; and moreover, to the external opportunities and threats that are present in the marketplace such as economic conditions.

Leaders may not have time to study all these things and so must capitalise on strong and open lines of communication to inform them.

The task of improving awareness should be seen as an opportunity, not a chore. Being self-aware and accepting that you do not know everything is a vital admission for leaders to accept.

Good judgement is often said to be instinctive. Sometimes this is true but great leaders are likely to admit that over and above instinct, good judgement is a product of strong awareness, information and knowledge.

Importantly, this means that anyone - not just so-called natural leaders - can learn to improve their judgement and become a better leader. When it comes to decision-making or defining your vision, let your awareness inform your judgement.

Strong judgement is also independent rather than based on bias or emotion, so communication is again important; by consulting others you can build objective perspectives and form well-rounded conclusions.

You need to be confident in your own personal judgement, but also be aware of and value the perspectives and knowledge of others.

If you want to improve your Leadership Qualities, and would like to work with me alongside you, then please contact me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Until next time - enjoy great success!

Sharon

Marketing Meeting Checklist

2011-10-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

"The sole purpose of marketing is to sell more to more people,

more often and at higher prices.

There is no other reason to do it."

Do you get nervous as the time draws close to having a marketing meeting with a potential client?

Do you worry that you will forget the most relevant points that could make the difference between success and failure?

Do you wish you had a template to hand, for how to conduct the marketing meeting?

Well, if the answer to any of these questions is 'yes' then read on...

Firstly, start with the end in mind - what exactly do you want to achieve from this meeting?

Once you have pre-planned your desired outcome ensure that everything you do or say within the meeting is leading you towards that outcome.

The best way to start your marketing pitch after the usual pleasantries, is to ask a few questions:

What is their issue?
What are their requirements?
What are the implications for them if things don't change?

Then make a note of their answers, so you can refer back to it during the meeting. Particularly at the end when they are deciding whether to buy what you are offering or offer you the contact - eg; you mentioned earlier that the implications for you would be .......... if you don't make changes, what will those cost you on a daily basis?

One of the basic errors made, when people go into a marketing meeting is to assume they are the answer to your prayers and launch into what they are going to do for you, rather than asking what your issue is first - don't make that mistake.

I have always found the SCOTSMAN model very helpful - maybe because I am also married to one!

S = Solution

Do we have a good solution to their problems? Obviously you do otherwise you wouldn't be having the meeting.

C = Competition

What competition are we up against?
Do they have a preferred supplier?
What do they like about them x 3?
What we do over and above that is ....

O = Originality

Do we have anything unique that they need or that we can persuade them that they need?

T = Timescales

For the decision
For the implementation

S = Size

Is the size of the sale big enough/too big?
Does it demand too much effort for its size?
Do we have the resources?

M = Money

Is there a budget?
Is it realistic?

A = Authority

Are you talking to the decision makers?
Do the decision-makers know there is a decision to be made?

N = Need

Is there a real need for this project?
Are they serious?
Are they actually going to make a decision?

Then after you proved to them why you should be the one they offer the business to, don't forget to actually ask for the business. Say something like "I have really enjoyed our time together today and would really like to work with you in the future - when will you be making your decision?"

If however, you don't manage to persuade them to do business with you this time, then do ask for feedback as to why you weren't successful, because you will be able to incorporate the comments into your next pitch and each time you will be improving which is a good outcome in itself.

If you would like some coaching to help you prepare for your next marketing pitch or anything else to help you grow your business then do please get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy

I look forward to hearing from you!

Unti next time, I wish you success

Sharon

Your Personal Brand: It's all about Image

2011-09-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

You can't judge a book by its cover

I read this article by Dr Joanna Martin of Shift Speaker Training and felt it was well worth sharing with you - I hope you agree.

When it comes to speaking, we like to think that what we say and how we say it is more important than what we look like and how people see us. . .

But the truth is that people do judge us by our appearance and by our offstage behaviour.

When you are portraying an image that fits in with your brand, you will have the audience in a place where they’re going to be very receptive to what it is that you’re talking about.

Your Brand: What Everything You Do Says About You

The most important thing in terms of making the right first impression is brand. How do you decide what your personal brand is going to be? Well, it takes a bit of research and it takes a bit of digging.

But here are some simple things that you can do first:

Personal Research

Research the brands that you are attracted to is the first step in recognizing your brand. What brands do you like, what brands do you resonate with? What brands will accurately represent the image that you want to have?

When you start to get clearer in that, you can get some clarity around how you’re going to position yourself.

Magazine Research

Grab all different kinds of magazines: lifestyle, beauty, business. Go through and tear out images that speak to your values and your brand. Create a “Brand Board” around what look and feel you want to project into the marketplace based on images. Then create a list of value words around those images.

Words that Define Your Brand

So for us, that is Shift Lifestyle, and the words that define our brand are fun, anything is possible, looking for the bigger pie, contribution, lifestyle, freedom, and a myriad of other words. And around these words that’s the brand we created.

Your Dress and Image

What you wear is going to be influenced by your brand. You rarely see Richard Branson wearing anything other than a sweater, a pullover, a jumper and looking unshaven with unkempt hair. He’s got that relaxed look around him at all times. That’s his style.

On the flip side, you never see the royal family, for instance, wearing anything other than expensive tailored suits. There’s a certain look and feel to what you wear if you’re a royal.

It’s the same for a speaker. When you start your speaking career you need to choose your brand. And then everything you wear onstage and off needs to reflect your brand. So you need to get really clear about that.

Your clothes = Your Brand

Get Stylish!

So, have a think about your personal brand. Who is it you would like to model? Create a ‘brand board’ and look at the words which describe your brand. Also look at what it is you are wearing onstage and make sure that your clothing backs up your brand. And remember, have fun!

After reading this article, you decide that you want to create or update your brand, but would like to work on it with somebody unbiased, then you can contact me at Nicholl Consultancy and I would be delighted to have a chat with you.

Until next time - Be Successful!

Sharon

4 Ways to Handle Rejection in Business

2011-08-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

“I take rejection as someone blowing a bugle in my ear

to wake me up and get me going,

rather than retreat.”

(Sylvester Stallone)

This article was written by Rieva Lesonsky CEO/President of Growbiz Media

As business owners, we face rejection in many ways. Whether we’re trying to get financing, land a new client or negotiate a deal with a potential partner, it’s inevitable that we’ll hear “no” at least some—if not most—of the time.
But successful entrepreneurs don’t let rejection get them down. Instead, they learn from it and use it to grow their businesses.

Do the maths

If you take every rejection personally, you’ll struggle to grow your business. Try taking the personal out of the rejection equation. One technique many salespeople use: Track how many contacts, cold calls or sales calls you have to make before you get to “yes.” It is possible to quantify the average number of attempts it takes to get a sale. If you do this, you can look at every “no” as one step closer to that “yes.” Instead of getting defeated by rejection, you’ll grow to see it as just one step on the path to your ultimate goal.

Ask questions and listen to the answers

When a prospect doesn’t buy or a potential partner doesn’t follow through with the deal, ask them their reason for saying no—and listen carefully to their answer. Your goal is not to try and change their mind (although that may be the ultimate outcome) but simply to learn. Urge them to be completely honest—and don’t get defensive. Simply listen to their reasons, ask more questions if you need to, and then thank them for their honesty. Their reasons for saying no may surprise you.

Assess the problem

Once you know why the other person rejected your offer, you can evaluate whether the problem lies with your business, or whether this particular relationship simply isn’t a good fit. For example, do you regularly hear from prospects that your prices are too high or is it just this particular person who feels that way? If the reason for rejection lies with the other party, and not with your offer, it may be best to just move on to your next prospect.

Make changes when warranted

If you’ve heard the same “complaint” from several prospects or if your efforts to form strategic partnerships with other businesses are regularly rejected due to concerns about your business’s ability to deliver, it’s time to make some changes. Smart entrepreneurs don’t keep doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Adjust your approach as needed. If you keep fine-tuning your approach, you’ll likely find that you get fewer “no’s” and more “yeses.”

Rejection will never disappear from your business life. And, given the lessons it can teach, you shouldn’t want it to. Facing rejection doesn’t make you a failure—but failing to learn from it just might.

If you would like to work with me to explore how to increase your business success the contact me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Until next time - enjoy the summer!

Sharon

Another 5 Ways to be Happy without being Perfect!

2011-06-15T10:52:00.001-07:00

"Happiness is not a matter of good

fortune or worldly possessions.

It's a mental attitude.

It comes from appreciating what we have,

instead of being miserable about what we don't have.

It's so simple - yet so hard for the human mind to comprehend."

Bits and Pieces

This is an extract from an article written by the psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos and printed in Woman & Home June 2011. It is so relevant to my current blog thread that I couldn't have put it better myself, so I haven't tried.

I hope you enjoy it.

6. Don't let yourself be pigeonholed - Challenge the ideas that you're "less perfect" as you get older and never allow age to define you.

7. Be Open to Change - Naturally happy people tend to be better at accepting change. Being adaptable is a great asset and if you can be open to what life throws at you, you're likely to feel happier. Change, especially when unexpected, can be scary, but try and roll with the punches instead of fighting it.

8. Find your own "Good Enough" - Look at where your goals have come from and learn to define success on your own terms. For instance, you may have taken a mega-stressful job, deciding your value lies in a big salary, buy maybe this stems from parental expectations. So ask yourself "When am I happiest?"

9. Live in the moment - Every day, look in the mirror and ask yourself "If this was my last day, would I be happy doing what I'm doing today?" If the answer is no for too many days in a row, perhaps it is time to change what you are doing. Of course, we all have obligations, but this exercise can be a real wake-up call.

10. Laugh at yourself - When you are able to laugh at yourself, it shows you accept the real you, imperfections and all. Once you get in the habit, it is amazing how easy it becomes. It's a trait that many happy people share -they could have exactly the same day as someone else, but would find snatches of humour in little moments, which others might miss. Retrain your brain to think like an optimist and find something to laugh at every day.

If these simple steps, feel too difficult to work through on your own, then just get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy and we can work through them together.

Until next time - Be happy!

Sharon

5 Ways to be Happy without being Perfect!

2011-05-23T05:41:00.000-07:00

Most folks are about as happy

as they make up their minds to be.

~Abraham Lincoln

I hope you enjoy it.

1. Forget the word "Must"

Next time you hear yourself thinking "I must" "I should" or "I have to", stop and challenge that thought. As soon as those words enter our heads life feels like a chore. Our sense of control goes out of the window, along with our sense of fun! Reframe the way you see your "musts" in life, so you feel like you're doing things on your own terms.

2. See mistakes as a journey

Sure, things go wrong sometimes, but no one is supposed to be perfect in life - everything we do, right and wrong, is a journey towards either understanding ourselves or a situation. We all have an internal bully, but negative self talk is counterproductive. Instead, focus on what you can learn from your mistakes.

3. Be the Unedited you

This is all about learning to let go of self-consciousness. No one has the right to judge you, and accepting that, is the first step towards being the 'unedited" you. Learn to break the habit of shaping your personality to fit those around you. People-pleasing won't bring happiness ultimately, and remember you could have lots of friends telling you you're great, but if you can't fight your internal critic, you'll struggle to be happy.

4. Don't over-analyse

Whether it's your boss or a so-called friend who fires a killer insult at you, instead of dwelling on it, only give yourself a set amount of time (say 15 minutes) to think it over. Ask, "Is there anything I can learn from this comment? Do I want to confront them about it?" If nothing positive can come from it, then don't let is take up headspace, which could be given to healthier, happier thoughts. There's a great saying: there are only two things to worry about:

1. Things you can fix - in which case, fix them.

2. Things you can't fix - in which case, stop worrying about them!

5. Pick your Fights

No matter how great your relationship, everyone has the odd bicker. It may be you've got in the habit of picking up on the little things, instead of addressing the fundamentals. So he didn't do the dishes. Ask yourself, "What's the real issue?" Possibly you feel it shows a lack of respect. Look out for any patterns or recurring themes, then talk to him about what is really bugging you. Next check if what you heard is what was actually said. Did he really say "I can't be bothered to chat" or is he just tired? Reflecting on what you've heard helps clear up any miscommunication, making for a happier relationship.

If you would like to talk through with me the barriers to your happiness, please contact me at Nicholl Consultancy and I'll be delighted to work alongside you.

My next article will explore a further 5 barriers to your happiness, so until then

Bye for now and keep smiling!

Sharon

Is Perfectionism paralysing you?

2011-05-11T08:15:00.000-07:00

Striving for excellence motivates you;

striving for Perfectionism is demoralising.

Harriet Braiker

Firstly, let's be clear about what a 'Perfectionist' is. According to the Oxford Dictionary it means "a person who seeks perfection" ok then, what is perfection? Again according to the dictionary it is 'without faults or defects'. Now, I don't know about you but I don't know anybody or anything without faults or defects, can you imagine how boring the world would be if everything was perfect - what would the creator of the world do for an encore?

To quote Rosalynn Carter "Once you accept the fact that you're not perfect, then you develop some confidence. If you are wondering whether or not you're a perfectionist, there's a good chance that you are one!

Don't get me wrong, doing things to the best of your ability is absolutely great, 80% is often good enough nothing really has to be 120%! However if you constantly put yourself down, no matter how well you do or you expect too much from those around you or put off starting something because you haven't yet got a plan to make it perfect, then how happy and productive are you going to be - my guess is not very.

Even though we live in an imperfect world, there are those who are obsessed with making their lives absolutely perfect. However, if we leave no room for error, then no matter what challenge or project or piece of work we take on, the end result will always be a disappointment.

I shall let you into a little secret - but I need to whisper it - I am a perfectionist - there I've said it and boy is it hard work. For example, I have been meaning to write this blog since Monday and it is now 5pm on Wednesday, what kept me? Well, the house needed to be hoovered, the tumble dryer needed the fluff taken out of the filter and the lawn needed to be cut and of course my office needed to be tidied before I could possibly sit down and start to collect my thoughts about perfectionism!

So, today I decided that no matter what, I was doing to do this blog and I am actually in a rather untidy office and that is not the way I like to work, but I am making myself do it and you know what, once I started to write, I actually forgot the slight mess around me and got absorbed by what I was doing and the world didn't stop!

One of my friends phoned me at lunch time and told me that she was having an admin day because tomorrow she would have to start preparing a set of workshops that she will be delivering in a couple of weeks time, but she said, she didn't know how long they would take her, because she had to do loads of research and plan the templates she wanted to use, and, and, and .... then I said to her, what research? what templates? These are not completely new workshops, you won the contract because you have delivered these subjects before, so you just need to put them together in a more bespoke way geared towards this particular client, so stop making excuses! She agreed that, that was exactly what she was doing and then - eureka, she said she felt so motivated and realised that the first pass didn't have to be perfect, then she flashed up her computer whilst we were still talking and made a start.

So, when are you going to have your 'Eureka' moment?

When are you going to stop setting your goals out of reach? - Stretched is great and very necessary but don't set yourself unrealistic standards.

Baby steps will take you out of the perfectionism trap, slowly but surely - mine today was working in a slightly messy office and getting this blog written - leave me a comment to let me know what is your baby step?

Before writing this, I did some research - which won't surprise you now you know I am/was a perfectionist! So I have lots more hints and tips about what perfectionists need to watch out for, if you would like more articles on this subject, then leave me a comment.

Also, if you want help to accept that 80% is good enough, then get in touch with me at

Nicholl Consultancy to fix up your free 45 minute session. This can be over the phone, so distance is not a barrier.

Now I can get on with tidying my office!

Until next time - Just Do It!

Thoughts about Networking

2011-04-19T02:25:00.000-07:00

It isn't just what you know, and it isn't just who you know.

It's actually who you know, who knows you,

and what you do for a living.

~ Bob Burg

Since I started my business a few years ago, I knew that it was necessary for me to 'get out there' and network in order to get known and to build relationships. Because, like it or not, people buy from people they like, know and trust, it is very unlikely that they buy from strangers - you don't do you, so why should anybody else?

I tried a few network groups, I found some to be too formal for me, others were all female groups and I found that I didn't like that. Then I tried
4 Networking and I really enjoyed it. The breakfast meetings are really well structured but remain very friendly and there at 290 groups all around the country, so once you are a member, wherever you are based or doing business, you can pop into a local group and you are made very welcome.

At each meeting you give a 40 second pitch about your business, you have 3 ten minute 1-2-1 appointments with people of your choosing to learn more about them and their business, and there is a 10 minute 4 Sight presentation, which is an opportunity to learn something new, it is not a sales pitch.

According to the 4 Networking blurb it:

provides personal and business support
somewhere to give and receive advice
a place to find good quality, reliable suppliers
allows you to develop valuable collaborations and alliances
a balance of 50% business, 50% social ... and it works!
ideal for gaining introductions to new business.

It also has a brilliant on-line Forum, which Google just loves.

4 Networking is my group of choice, I enjoy the meetings, I have gained a number of new clients and great opportunities, plus I have met useful suppliers and also made some good friends.

So if you want to get out and about in order to grow your business I recommend
4 Networking and if you want to have somebody alongside you as your business grows and thrives then get in touch with me at www.nichollconsultancy.co.uk for a chat.

I would also love to hear about your experience of networking - just leave me a comment.

Until next time - great networking!

Sharon

Handling Customer Complaints

2011-03-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

"You can handle anything if you think you can.

Just keep your cool and your sense of humour."

Smiley Blanton

Twelve golden rules:

· Treat all complaints seriously, don’t take the complaint or criticism personally;

· make your first response positive;

· don’t rush onto the defensive;

· try to resolve the complaint as your first objective;

· avoid using jargon that the customer might not understand;

· if there has been a mistake – acknowledge it and apologise;

· be prepared to take responsibility for other people’s mistakes;

· take the initiative with suggestions to put things right and offer choices;

· try to make amends – however don’t make promises you can’t keep;

· if the customer is wrong, don’t embarrass them if you need to point it out;

· be tactful and learn from mistakes;

· watch your body language; say you’re sorry with your actions as well as your words.

If you find dealing with complaints from customers difficult or would like to become more assertive, then do get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Until next time - stay calm!

What image are you projecting?

2011-01-28T03:41:00.000-08:00

People make their judgements of us

based on their perceptions of our character,

and those perceptions
come from the image we project.

(from Shaun Belding's book Win at Work)

Why is it that some people seem to get ahead faster than others?

How do individuals develop that positive reputation as the 'go-to' people in the workplace?

What gives some people, the edge in promotion opportunities?

The chances are,
it is because they have marketed themselves that way.

Think about your own personal image, maybe others are misinterpreting your actions?

Perhaps perceiving your thoughtful silence as disinterest?

Or seeing your well-intended 'devil's advocate' approach to being objective as 'not being a team player'?

Or your humerous approach to issues as somebody who doesn't take things seriously enough?

There are three basic steps to marketing yourself effectively:

Position yourself - are you the 'economy' brand or the Finest, how do you want to be perceived?

Live your brand, by reflecting this quality in absolutely everything you do - never be off-duty or caught off-guard.

Be consistent - avoid the temptation to project a different image depending on who you are with.

Whatever you are doing, how others perceive you, is totally within your control. If you feel that you need help with projecting your desired image. Then please contact me at Nicholl Consultancy I look forward to working with you.

Until next time, watch the image that you are projecting!

What are you focusing on?

2011-01-17T09:34:00.000-08:00

Ask yourself where your focus is. Are you focusing on your fear and what can go wrong or are you focusing on the end result that you want to create?

Focus on your potential instead of your limitations.

– Alan Loy McGinnis

F = FOCUS

Keep in mind that when you focus on the end result, your fear usually takes a back seat.

E = ENERGY

Check your energy levels - are they low and negative?

If they are, you are focused on your fears and you are making them a reality.

Ask yourself what is positive about the result you want to create, really explore the benefits of achieving your goals and get excited about them, this will activiate your positive energy and then let this positive energy pull you forward.

A = ACTION

The one thing that kills fear dead in its tracks, is action

Never mistake motion for action

Often our fears are huge in our mind, but small in reality

Adjust your focus, tap into your high, positive energy and then build instant momentum by taking action - immediately!

R = RESULTS

Once you have taken action, you will create results by default

Once you have created a result, no matter how small it is, ask yourself if you are moving closer to your goal or further away?

Then make the necessary changes and take further action

By building on small wins, your momentum will increase and you will breeze through your fears without any problems.

If you feel you need help with your focus, then please just get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy and I will help you to get started.

Until next time - keep the end in mind.

How to create more time in your day

2010-12-17T05:19:00.000-08:00

Question: I have loads of plans for my business, but I never seem to have any time available to complete them. How would I go about getting more time in my business?

If you want to make good use of your time,

you’ve got to know what’s most important

and then give it all you’ve got.

Lee Iacocca

Answer: Great question! Excellent time management is something that is absolutely critical for everybody, but particularly if you run your own business. A good place to start with your time management is by being really clear on how you are spending your time. Carefully monitor exactly how you spend your time over the period of a week. Prepare a page for each day of the week, with 30 minute time slots on it, and then fill in your tasks as you go, we all under-estimate how long things will take us, which results in other things, which may be really important, not being done at all. You may be quite shocked at how much time you lose by answering non-urgent e-mails or allowing phone calls to go on for longer than necessary – it all mounts up. By doing this, you will notice, which things you spend too long over and also what you are doing which can either be delegated or are not required to be done at all.

Once you fully understand how you are spending your time, you need to ask yourself the following questions for each of those tasks:

1. What would be the impact on clients if the task isn’t completed today?
2. What would be the financial impact on the company if the task isn’t completed today?
3. Where there are deadlines, which ones can be put back until another day?
4. What are the causes and effects of completing (or not completed) a specific task day?

By answering those questions honestly, you can then further separate out the tasks which must be completed immediately, and if you have a number of those tasks, how do you prioritise them?
Well, I give each task a letter, for example:

A = Top priority jobs – those which must be completed today
B = Jobs that should be completed today
C = Jobs that you’d prefer to complete today but can be put off until tomorrow
D = Jobs where the deadline is some way off and you can complete later.

There are aspects of all jobs which we prefer to others that we need to accomplish. Then we procrastinate over the things we dislike doing the most by putting it off, although the thought of having to do it often hangs over us. Endeavour to get the things you dislike doing completed as early in the day as you can, this will give you a great sense of satisfaction and will allow you to continue through the day ‘on a high’.

By using the above techniques you should easily be able to save yourself at least 30 minutes per day, which adds up to 2.5 hours per week, more than enough time to get going on the plans you have for your business.

If you feel that it would be easier for you to get control of your time management if you were working with somebody then please just get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy and I would love to get you started.

Finally, have a fabulous Christmas and a successful 2011 - bye for now!

How to get organised

2010-12-09T11:05:00.000-08:00

This is another question some of my clients have asked that I thought I would share:

Question: I’m struggling to get organised I know that being organised will help me develop my business, but I’m not sure where to start. Please help!

Organising is what you do before you do something,
so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up
- A A Milne

Answer: I can relate very closely to this question, because unless my office is well organised I cannot be productive. In fact, I will find all sorts of excuses to avoid going into it – which is not helpful when you are self-employed!

The best thing to do is to set some time aside and commit to getting started. The longer you put it off, the more disorganised you get. Even if you can only spare an hour a day, then by the end of the week, you will be 5 hours more organised!

Start on one side of your office and decide how far you are going to move around the room before the time you have set aside runs out, then start sorting, have the shredder ready for anything that is no longer required and lots of bin bags. I am a great believer in ‘divide and conquer’ and what I mean by that is separate things into organised groups not one big heap!

Sort your paperwork into categories eg: Useful articles, marketing information, invoices, outgoing expenditure receipts, clients/customers etc. and remember your office will look worse before it starts to look better!

Once you have cleared out the space that you have allocated for that day, then start to re-examine the piles of paperwork and see if there is any duplication and be ruthless, then do some more shredding – I like that bit!

I find box files really useful, you can label them clearly and they look nice on shelves or in bookcases and the information in them is easy to access. So make sure when you start your organising that you have lots of box files to hand.

Now put the paperwork that you have sorted into appropriate groupings, into the relevant box files and put them away on shelves, I like to put them away alphabetically, so you know that your Accounts files will be stored before your client/customer information.

Keep repeating this exercise until you have worked your way around your office. By doing it in a methodical way, you will easily be able to see your progress. Also you will have examined every piece of paper in your office and will be reassured that there is nothing overlooked that might have the ability to come back and bite you because you have forgotten about it!

Another useful habit to get into, is to allocate the last 15 minutes of your working day, into putting everything away that you have used – this is called the “clear desk policy’ and then make a ‘To Do’ list for the next day. That way your office will always be tidy to return to and you won’t have to avoid it because it is messy.

Remember the 7 Step methodologies for organisation:

1. Sorting – eliminate all unnecessary paperwork.

2. Straightening or setting in order – There should be a place for everything and everything should be in its place.

3. Sweeping or Shining – Keep the workplace tidy and organised.

4. Standardising – work practices should be consistent and standardised.

5. Sustaining the discipline – maintain and review standards regularly

6. Safety – make sure your workplace is a safe place to be.

7. Security – protect yourself both electronically and personally against risks to your key business categories.

If the thought of getting started is too hard for you, then contact me at www.nichollconsultancy.co.uk and I will make it easier.

Until next time - get shredding!

How to stay motivated when working on a Project

2010-12-03T09:12:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked this question by a client and thought if they were struggling with it, then maybe it would make a good blog article, let me know if you find it helpful.

Question: I always seem to start on a project but then when it gets hard, I don’t have the motivation to complete it. How can I keep motivated on completing my projects?

Great things are not done by impulse,

but by a series of small things brought together

- Vincent Van Gogh

Suggestion: If the project is exciting and it stimulates you, then yes, it is easy to get started. However, once you hit the first problem, it all gets a bit daunting and not so exciting and it is easy to find lots of reasons (excuses!) to put off going back to it, because you feel that you need a huge chunk of free time to focus on the problem properly and you never seem to have that amount of free time.

The key here is to break your project down into much smaller steps that will gently lead you onto the next step and if you hit a problem, then break that down into small chunks, make that difficult phone call or do that piece of research, and also don’t forget to reward yourself each time you have moved your project further forward. Even something quite small, like a nice cappuccino coffee can be just the incentive we need to crack on for another twenty minutes, that could take you past the problem that was stopping you and move you towards the next step.

In the past when I have been struggling to complete something, I have chunked it down quite significantly and challenged myself to spend at least one hour per day on it (or however long you can allocate to it) and not allow myself any excuses and by doing that and getting started, I often find that I get engrossed in what I am achieving and carry on for longer. That way you complete your project much faster and stay motivated because you can see results, and the cappuccino coffee maker gets well used!

If you are struggling with something and would find it helpful to be challenged by somebody who has your success at the very core of their business then please get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy

Until next time -have a successful week!

Buff Up Your Business

2010-11-24T03:32:00.000-08:00

The final strategy in the "Buff Up Your Business" series is:

Strategy 7 - Upgrade Who You Are

Though no one can go back and make a brand new start,

anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.

~ unknown Author

The better you are personally, the better your business will become.

Just what are the key things you should do, to ensure business success?

Set strong boundaries
Raise your standards
Improve your communication skills
Improve your management skills
Build your professional network

Anybody who thinks they are already doing all of these things perfectly are kidding themselves, there is always room for improvement and in my experience, it is always more effective when two people are working together on these things. Why not contact me at Nicholl Consultancy and we can get started. Alternatively, if you are already brilliant at these things and don't need any help - then let me know your secret! I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Until next time, have a fantastic week.

Buff Up Your Business

2010-11-16T07:27:00.000-08:00

The next strategy in the "Buff Up your Business" series is:

Strategy 6 - Expect and Require a Lot from Everyone

"Nobody rises to low expectations."

~ Calvin Lloyd

This includes: Vendors, staff, your management team, customers and yourself.

What should you expect?

On time performance
No problems
Value for money
Quick payment
Accuracy
Great attitude
Maximum performance
Professionalism
Consistency

If you are not getting these things regularly, then questions need to be ask, how are these issues holding my business back?

If you would find it easier to explore these questions with somebody who is not closely linked with your business then please get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Until next time - Have a successful week.

Buff Up Your Business

2010-11-10T11:27:00.000-08:00

The next strategy in the "Buff Up Your Business" series is:

Strategy 5 - Invest in your Business

I have a problem with too much money.

I can't reinvest it fast enough, and because I reinvest it,

more money comes in.

Yes, the rich do get richer

Robert Kiyosaki

Research shows that you should invest between 2% and 10% of your sales to stay ahead of the competition.

But, what should you spend it on?

1. Research and Development - It is important to firmly focus on your customer or client, what do they need from you? What keeps them awake at night? That is what you need to be developing and ready to supply to them, just because your product or service suited them last year, it may not suit them this year or next year, find out where they are heading and be ready for them.

2. Marketing - I suspect that many of us are guilty of only focusing on marketing when we see that our diaries have gaps in them or when our order book is looking empty. That is the wrong time to start marketing. Why? Because it takes time for people to get to know you and want to buy from you. Marketing needs to be a continuous process, you should keep your company in the forefront of people's minds, so when they are ready to buy, you will be their first option. This is best done by drip-feeding rather than by flooding. Don't like marketing? Just contact me at Nicholl Consultancy and I can recommend a brilliant company.

3. Sales - Make sure you follow-up on any enquiries you may have had in the past, you probably are reluctant to contact people that showed an interest once but who didn't go on to buy from you. However, all that means is that they didn't need you at the time and if you ignore them in the future, when they are ready to buy, they won't come back to you, they will buy from somebody else, why? Because you didn't keep up the relationship and they may well have forgotten about you - just gently keep in touch by giving them information about new things you are offering, or promotions you are running, or passing on websites that you think they may find helpful, don't keep trying to sell to them, but become a helpful adviser, then they will want to turn to you when they are ready to buy.

4. Staff Training - Your staff are the life blood of your company, ensure that they know that you recognise that. Investing and updating the skills of your staff brings a two-fold benefit, they feel valued and your business gains an advantage. Are they communicating in the most effective way possible? Are their time-management skills really sharp? Do they know how to priorities efficiently? What about when dealing face to face or on the phone with your customers or clients, do they come over as professional and assertive or are they a bit aggressive or subsmissive? Is that the impression you want potential prospects to have of your company? Does your company have a directive style of management or are your staff encouraged to take responsibility for their own outputs? All these things can be easily addressed through the right training and workshops. The right training, with the right provider is always money well spent. Take a look at my workshop page at Nicholl Consultancy.

5. Technology - We don't keep up with technology are our peril. How much time do you waste by not automating as much of your business as possible? Do you have to respond to each e-mail separately and then write separate e-mails encouraging people deeper into your marketing funnel? This all takes up your valuable time and can easily be automated by auto-responders - just google it for lots of options. Make sure you have processes in place that can evaluate everything that you spend money on eg: how many people your website? Have you a means of capturing their information when they visit, if you don't, how can you build up your database in order to market more effectively? There are lots of ways that technology can help your business and save you time. Put times aside regularly in your diary to get clear on the things that are most time consuming for your company and then explore the technology that can help with it.

We can work on this together, why not get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy

Until next time -have a successful week

Buff up your Business

2010-11-03T12:10:00.001-07:00

The next strategy in the "Buff Up Your Business" series is:

Strategy 4 - Get all the Information you need to Run your Business Successfully.

"When you can measure what you are speaking about,

and express it in numbers,

you know something about it;

but when you cannot measure it,

when you cannot express it in numbers,

your knowledge is of a meager and unsatisfactory kind."

Lord Kelvin 1883

From a Financial perspective you should have regular reports on:

Your sales;
cost of sales;
general and admin expenses;
operating and net profits;
accounts receiveable and accounts payable

You should be able to see at a glance what your sales are for the current month compared to last year. Do you need to do something extra right now, or are you matching or exceeding the figures?

Have you researched all avenues to ensure your admin expenses are being kept down?

On the operational side you need reports on:

Production rates;
customer count;
staff count/turnover
customer satisfaction ratings;
employee satisfaction ratings;
project status.

Do you know what your employee satisfaction ratings are?
Do you ever do a staff satisfaction survey?
Or have discussions about how things could be improved?
Do you ask for their ideas?
Remember happy staff are productive staff!

If you find the thought of all this a bit daunting and feel that it would be easier to plan it out with somebody then I would love to hear from you. Get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Until next time, have a productive week.

Buff Up Your Business

2010-10-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

Strategy 3 of the Buff Up Your Business Series is:

Spend 10% of your time with your Top 10 Customers

To my Customer.

I may not have the answer, but I’ll find it.

I may not have the time, but I’ll make it.

UNKNOWN

Why is it so important to spend 10% of your time with your Top 10 customers?

Because 80% of your business comes from 20% of your customers;
they make your company possible;
they have all the answers;
they will help you grow and run your business.

You need to find out from them why they like doing business with you, as well as finding out what more you could do for them - go the extra mile.

Also find out where they see their business in the next year or so and adapt what you currently provide them with, to ensure you would be their preferred supplier when their business gets to the next level.

How can you do all this?

Well, what about putting together your own survey? You can do this very easily and at no cost - how amazing is that? Just go to http://www.surveymonkey.com/ and get started. I am not linked to this site in any way, I have just used it to great effect in the past.

Then, once you have the information you need to decide which direction you need to take your business don't struggle on your own, why not get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy and we can work on your strategy together.

Until next time, have an amazing week.

Buff Up Your Business

2010-10-22T07:14:00.000-07:00

Strategy 2 of the "Buff Up Your Business Series" is:

Substantially Increase your Net Profit

Business is not financial science,
it's about trading.. buying and selling.
It's about creating a product or service so good
that people will pay for it.
Anita Roddick

1. Make profitability your focus - don't sell your skills or products too cheaply, many of us are guilty of that, remember it is not what we think it is worth, it is more about the benefits or profits the client will achieve as a result of it.

2. Develop timely and accurate financial statements - set yourself financial milestones along the way, by doing this you will quickly know when you have fallen behind on your forecasts and when it is time to put in more effort to make up the shortfall, much easier to do this as it arises rather than trying to make up for lost ground towards the end of your financial year.

3. Have a plan for what you are going to do with your profits - how exciting! Knowing know how you are going to reward yourself once you have achieved your financial forecast, really helps you to realise that all the hard work will be worth it and will keep you on track. What about putting a picture of that wonderful holiday destination or the new car you will buy, in a place where you will see it regularly, that will spur you on!

4. Watch Expenses like a Hawk - Each time you commit yourself to a financial outlay, reassure yourself that it is the 'best value for money' you can get, notice I say 'best value for money' and not 'cheapest' remember cheapest is not always best. Always try to negotiate for the best price or persuade the company to 'add something extra' if you buy from them rather than their competitors.

5. Increase employee retention and productivity - it costs about 7 times more to recruit and train a new member of staff than to keep your current staff happy and on side. Speak to your staff regularly and find out from them, what you can do to make their working life more satisfying, they may surprise you, by asking for more responsibility - great - that way you can free up more of your time by delegating more effectively, or it could be something as simple as you providing cakes on a Friday!

6. Systematise Everything - Anything you can do to make things run without your intervention is well worth the initial effort in setting it up. Things like autoresponders to enquiries on your website, website that automatically create a database of people donwloading things from your site, to a messaging company that takes all your call for (say) one afternoon a week which would allow you some quality uninterrupted time to focus on your business strategy, telemarketers who can contact your current clients/customers on a regular basis to find out what you are doing well and what can be improved to ensure they stay with you. Anything that frees up your time, is well worth systematising.

7. Be a Leader in your Field - Be proactive - keep asking your clients/customers what is it that you could provide them with that would help their business most in the future, keep an eye on the news and newspapers to see what is currently causing people problems and see if you can provide something that would help them. Keep observing trends and think about how you could 'ease the pain'.

If you would like to have somebody work alongside you as you are putting these strategies into place, then please just contact me at Nicholl Consultancy, I would love to be part of your success!

Until next time, when we will be looking at Strategy 3 of "Buffing up your Business"

Take care and have a great week.

7 Strategies to "Buff Up Your Business"

2010-10-11T09:41:00.001-07:00

To be successful,

you have to have your heart in your business

and your business in your heart.

Thomas Watson Sr.

Over the next few weeks, we will take a look at seven different strategies that will make a difference to your business, provided you put them into practice. Because that is the key to everything - actually taking action.

Strategy 1 - Know why your company is in business

It is imperative to know:

Your company vision and mission
What kind of business you own and run
How you want your customers and staff to perceive you?
What makes it all worthwhile?
What the company's values and goals are.

Your vision takes into account the current status of your business and serves to point the direction in which you want to go.

For example: you may acknowledge that your business already meets industry standards in customer support but your vision might be that you will exceed industry standards and move customer care to a higher level within a given time period.

Your mission is more concerned with the overall aim of the business - a reason for being. For example: to deliver a product or service which surpasses your competitors offerings.

Your values are things like integrity, professionalism, delivering results, respect etc. and of course your goals are the targets you set for yourself and the business in order to make your vision become a reality.

If you find it difficult to find answers to the five bullet points above, then you probably need to explore them with a business coach, somebody who is not closely involved with your business, so they are unbiased and can assist you to look at things in a different way.

Why not take advantage of my offer of a free 45 minute coaching session to explore your business in more depth. Just contact me at Nicholl Consultancy and we can make a start.

Until next time when we will look at Strategy 2 - "How to substantially increase your net profit"

I wish you a productive and exciting week

Regards Sharon

Have you done your "heebie-jeebie" today?

2010-09-29T09:27:00.000-07:00

I can hear you all asking "what is a heebie-jeebie"? Well, according to the actress Celia Imrie, a heebie-jeebie "is a job that you don't want to do but you know you have to". We all have them, whether it is making that cold call, preparing and sending a difficult e-mail, designing a new workshop or a myriad of other things, that fall into the 'too difficult' to start category.

"I like work, it fascinates me.

I can sit and look at it for hours"

Jerome K. Jerome

I find the best way to motivate myself, is to promise myself a surprise reward once I have completed my "heebie-jeebie". What is a surprise reward? Well, I have a designated box in which I put slips of paper into, and on these slips of paper I have written things I would love to do if I only had the time and recently I have asked my friends to write reward ideas for me and they have been putting them into the box also.

So, when I have published this blog, I shall be dipping into my reward box and I'm really looking forward to finding out what my reward is.

Why don't you post a comment and let me know the type of rewards you give yourself when you have earned them? Also, if you need help to get started on your "heebie-jeebies" then just get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Until next time, good luck with your heebie-jeebies!

Are Men the Best Bosses?

2010-09-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

I read in the Daily Mail recently, the results of some research carried out on 3,000 people, by the online recruitment firm www.UKJobs.net which states:

'Incredibly, both men and women are in total agreement

that men make better bosses

63% of women and 75% of men'

The reasons given for their answers were:

1. Women are only too happy to talk about their staff behind their backs
2. They are incapable of leaving their personal lives at home
3. They suffer mood swings
4. Likely to have a hidden agenda
5. They get involved in office politics
6. Women with power are 'loose cannons'
7. They feel threatened by colleagues and are too competitive
8. Too sharped tongued
9. They are too cliquey
10. They spend too much time worrying about their appearance.

The study goes on to say that 'No one is suggesting that women aren't intelligent enough to be in senior positions, far from it, but perhaps some need to be more approachable and less competitive. The study also said 'While women are more than capable of progressing to a management role, some lack the key skills required to be a good boss'.

Now, I am not saying that I necessarily agree with the findings, but in my experience, companies often fail to provide the necessary leadership training and assume that because they have promoted somebody, that overnight they will gain the necessary skills to lead effectively.

If you feel that there are areas of your leadership style that need to be explored then please get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy.

Oh, and the good news is,'we shouldn't forget that a third of those polled did say women are better to work for.'

Until next time - be the best you can be.

A rewarding way to make a huge difference to a child

2010-09-10T02:52:00.000-07:00

My blog this week, is regarding something I am passionate about - making a difference to the life of a child, what could be more rewarding for both of you?

Think back to when you were growing up, if you had really supportive parents and an equally rewarding experience at school, then you probably think back to your childhood as a wonderful time in your life.

If however, you were one of the unlucky ones, whose parents weren't quite so interested in you or hadn't had such a great childhood themselves and didn't really know how to relate to you, then you may not look back with such fondness.

“Promise me you will always remember,

you are braver than you believe,

stronger than you seem

and smarter than you think”

Christopher Robin to Pooh

Four years ago, when I set up Nicholl Consultancy, I really wanted to fulfil my 'social responsibility' not only because businesses are expected to do that, but personally, I wanted to make a difference.

It is very strange when you firmly focus on something, opportunities arise. At this very time, when I was thinking about what I could do. A parent at a local primary school, made me aware that the school was going to try something new. This was, inviting 'responsible adults' to mentor some children at their school, who were struggling with things like, confidence, self esteem or even something as basic as having somebody with time to listen to them.

I was really interested, and after an evening held by the school, to find out more about it, I was hooked. After being CRB checked, and the school gaining parents' permission for their child to be mentored, I said I would like to mentor three children, once a month and the school were delighted - they would have been equally delighted if I had said I could only mentor one.

I spend about 40 minutes with each child, on a one to one basis, in an area where others pass through on a regular basis, like the school library, thus protecting myself and the child and we talk about things that the child wants to cover. Often, the sessions starts slowly until they warm up and feel secure enough to talk freely. I usually have paper and crayons on the table and the child often, without being asked, starts to draw pictures that graphically show what is bothering them, and then I ask them to explain the picture to me, but more often than not, the child talks about what it is as they are drawing because they are distracted by what they are doing. Sometimes it is something as simple as joining a social club and they are worried if people will like them or it could be that they just don't know how to control their anger.

Before we start working together, I explain to the child that anything we talk about is in confidence, with two exceptions, if they tell me that they might be a danger to others or that they are in danger themselves, then I will tell the school. If they agree to this, then we can start the session.

I have been doing this for four years now and have seen some amazing changes in the children that I mentor, but as a qualified coach, I often decide to coaching them instead, if I feel that they have the answers within themselves or are powerful enough to take the initiative.

Rewardingly for me, when some of my mentees have moved to secondary school, they feel that they have benefitted so much from our work together, that they want to continue and after contacting their secondary school, and explaining what we have been doing, they are very happy for me to continue with them and of course, now they are asking me to mentor some of their own pupils that are struggling with their social skills!

It makes you realise that your valuable time has been well spent when you receive feedback like:

"My chats with Sharon are helpful because she taught me how to cope with my emotions and direct it into being better behaved. I've stopped deliberately hurting people and I want to go on seeing her because, although I'm being good, I'm not perfect and it's nice to have someone who understands"

"I enjoy talking to Sharon, because it helps me make sense of my life"

"My time with Sharon has taught me valuable skills which will really help me later in life. I feel that she has improved my confidence and has helped me with my behaviour. I would like to thank her for putting up with me!"

So if you have any free time or your company is looking for something to help them fulfil their social responsibility and you consider yourself to be a 'responsible adult' why not get in touch with your local primary or secondary school and tell them how you would like to get involved.

If you want any more details, then please contact me at Nicholl Consultancy and I will be delighted to talk further.

Until next time - how are you going to make a difference?

Winning Attitude Part 5 - Passion

2010-09-02T01:36:00.000-07:00

When you're truly passionate about something,

work ceases to be work

The final characteristic of a Winning Attitude according to Shaun Belding in his book "Win at Work" is:

Passion

Are you passionate about what you do? Do you wake up each morning excited about how you are going to be spending your time and what you are going to achieve? If not, then it is likely that you are a square peg in a round hole.

Did you just fall into your current role or did you explore what you really wanted to do with your life, and set yourself goals to achieve it?

If it was the latter then congratulations, because those who set themselves goals are most likely to succeed and will enjoy the process, because you understand why you are doing what you do and what you want to achieve at the end of it - you have a plan.

For the others, as far as I know we are not going to get a second chance at this life, so you might as well make the most of things now. If you would like help with that, then get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy and let's get started, I really look forward to hearing from you.

Bye for now.

Winning Attitude Part 4 - Continuous Improvement

2010-08-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

When the Student is ready, the Master Appears
Buddhist Proverb

Let's examine the fourth characteristic that people with the "Winning Attitude" have, according to Shaun Belding in his book "Win at Work" and this is:

Continuous Improvement

I believe this short video by Cherie Carter-Scott says it far better than I could. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. If you would like assistance to ensure your continuous improvement then please just get in touch with me at
Nicholl Consultancy

Until next time, have a successful week.

Winning Attitude Part 3 - Self Belief

2010-08-09T02:43:00.000-07:00

"The greatest mistake you can make in life

is to continually be afraid you will make one"

Elbert Hubbard

Let's examine the third characteristic that people with a 'Winning Attitude' have, according to Shaun Belding in his book "Win at Work" and this is:

Self Belief

How often do you find yourself working through reasons why you can't do something?

How often do you find yourself looking for excuses not to try something new?

But when you really get down to it, what you are really concerned about, is not being good enough or failing, so you would really rather not try.

Yes, it is very easy to always work within our comfort zone, but how limiting is that? Giving up on yourself and always 'staying safe' means that you will never do anything more exciting than you have done up to now. You will never have a job that is more interesting than the one you have now, you will never visit new places, or have new experiences, because you will talk yourself out of trying anything new, because you might not be good enough - how boring. Is that the life you will look back on and be proud of?

Instead, why not decide right now, that you are going to stretch your horizons and give new things a go? Yes, it will be scary but that is how you know that you are still alive!

I am not suggesting you start really big, but start to tell yourself that you are as good as everybody else, if not better and watch those people that you admire and wish you were more like and gently start to model what they do and, very importantly, notice how you feel when you have stretched yourself and tried something new.

If you are forever attending meetings but never saying anything, because you are worried that people will snigger at your comments, then set yourself a goal to make at least one comment at each meeting you attend from now on, and if people snigger it says more about them than about you. Just look them in the eye and carry on speaking.

If you keep a low profile at work because you are concerned that you might be given a task that you might not feel comfortable doing. Then take your courage in both hands and ask your manager, what one task you could do for them, that would help them with their workload?

Yes, doing these things will feel uncomfortable at first, that is how you know you are stretching your comfort zone and expanding your horizons and that has to be a good thing.

Believing in yourself is not a big-headed thing to do, it is an amazing thing to do, because it opens up all sorts of adventures and exciting opportunities.

Why not ask three friends and colleagues that you trust, to write down 3 statements that they feel describe you and have them sign it and give it to you. I bet you will be surprised by how positively they see you and your capabilities. Keep those statements and whenever you need to 'top up your self-belief' then re-read them.

Self-belief means looking past failures and towards opportunities and ways to make things better for yourself. If you would like to have somebody working alongside you as you stretch your comfort zone, then just get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy, I would love to help you.

Have a great time expanding your horizons!

Do you have a Winning Attitude? Part 2

2010-08-02T07:01:00.000-07:00

"The way to gain a good reputation,

is to endeavour to be what you desire to appear as"

Socrates

Let's examine the second common characteristic that people with the 'Winning Attitude' have, according to Shaun Belding's book "Win at Work" and this is:

Understanding Yourself and What's Important

How well do you really know yourself?

Have you ever allowed yourself the time to sit down and make a list of what is really important to you, the sort of things you need to be doing and achieving in order to feel proud?

What are your values, those things that need to be present in your life, for you to be truly happy?

This can be quite hard to do and you need to be very honest with yourself, you will need to recognise your shortcomings as well as your strengths. But once you have a very clear picture of what makes you 'tick', you will then be able to see what needs to be happening in your life for you to feel positive about yourself.

For example, if you decide that your family is really important to you but you find that you are regularly missing out on family outtings or that you are missing out on the things that are important to your children, like sports days or school plays, then very quickly you will feel that you are not 'being true to your values' and you will feel unhappy with your lot. Of course, it is not always possible to just leave what we are doing and rush home, but if you were able to ensure you are at home at a reasonable time a couple of times a week, then you are heading in the right direction.

The more your actions align to those things you feel are important to you, the greater your satisfaction and success and you will ooze confidence and strength of character.

If you feel that it would be easier to work with me as you get a better understanding of yourself and your priorities, then please get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy I am waiting to hear from you.

Do you have a Winning Attitude?

2010-07-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

Nothing Positive ever came from a Negative Attitude

In Shaun Belding's book "Win at Work" he identifies 5 common characteristics that people with the winning attitude have:

1. They are positive;

2. they understand themselves and what's important;

3. they believe;

4. they continuously improve;

5. they have passion.

Let's look at No. 1. Are you naturally a positive person? Or do you find that you often speak about yourself in a negative way "I'm not as good as so in so at that", I'll never be able to do that" actually we often speak to ourselves in a way that we would never dream of speaking to our friends and colleagues.

For the next few days, why not be more aware of the way you speak to yourself, and when you find yourself doing it negatively, stop and reframe the statement into something positive for example when you find yourself saying "I'll never be able to do that" change it into "With some research and guidance I will become much better at ..."

Another thing I encourage my clients to do, is keep a 'Praise Diary' we often miss compliments from others or brush them aside, because we are embarrassed, but they are there and we should acknowledge them. So if you start to listen for those compliments and at the end of the day, jot them down in your praise diary, you can look back over them at intervals and this will help instil positive feelings about ourselves and our achievements.

If you need help with your positivity and cultivating your winning attitude please contact:
Nicholl Consultancy, and we would be delighted to help.

I look forward to exploring "understanding ourselves better and what is really important" next time. Have a really positive week.

Procrastination

2010-07-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

I have a brightly coloured post-it note attached to my computer and it says "Never mistake motion for action" however, even though it is right in front of me, unless I am very disciplined, that is exactly what I do. I can find whole days just disappear before my eyes and I haven't even begun to do what is on my list but I have been really busy doing ...... nothing that is remotely important. Am I the only one?

So what I do now is, before I go to sleep, I decide what I really must achieve the next day, and I am very realistic about this, there is no point in overloading myself, and then the next morning, I go straight into my home office and get going, without even going downstairs and making a cup of tea. Because I use that 'cup of tea' as my treat, once I have got going and done about 30 minutes work towards what I must really achieve that day, I reward myself with a cup of tea. Once I have got going, I find that I can keep going, especially when I start to see results. Try it, it might work for you too.

But if you feel you need support with this, please get in touch with me at Nicholl Consultancy

Welcome to our Blog

2010-07-19T04:34:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Nicholl Consultancy Blog. Here you find useful articles as well as case studies of our work, news and updates.
People are at the centre of everything Nicholl Consultancy does so please get involved with this Blog; interact with it and let me know if I can be of help.

My new website is up and running so please feel free to view it here.