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Articles
The Merits of Mentoring
Aug 26, 2010
As anyone who is or has participated in a Mentoring Program can tell you, the productive and positive outcomes from a strong partnership can be extraordinary for the mentoree and equally as beneficial to the organization. But often overlooked are the tangible rewards to the mentors themselves. In addition to the gratefulness and appreciation bestowed on you from the mentoree and the organization, there are a number of other advantages associated with giving the gift of your time, wisdom, and vision to the program.
Read More ...Getting to the Finish
Jul 15, 2010
Have you ever had one of those days in which you feel less than your usual productive self? Have you ever experienced a time in which you are suddenly overcome by deadlines looming in the not so distant future? One of the biggest stressors in both our professional and personal everyday lives is managing unfinished projects and plans. Many times we spend more time worrying about them than it would have taken to actually complete them. There are many reasons why we have not crossed these projects and tasks off our ‘to-do’ list and many are valid. Whether it is increased workloads or just the busyness of our professional lives or commitments at home, the fact remains that they are huge energy drainers.
Read More ... Great Expectations
Jul 01, 2010
When an individual embarks on their professional journey, they are filled with a series of hopes, fears and big aspirations for the future. Past generations of wise professionals can tell rich tales of great success and equally great missteps they may have taken along the way. But whatever story they have to tell is one that spans over many years and is filled with both the triumphs and disappointments that have paved their way. It is in that journey that they have received the greatest reward.
Read More ... Exercising Leadership, Inspiration, and Motivation
Jun 03, 2010
Ask any employer, supervisor, or even direct report what their biggest challenge is and you will invariably hear the word “motivation.” One of the most important skills to have as a leader is the ability to create an environment in which the employee is the driver of their success and you, as manager, the benefactor of those successes.
Read More ... Conducting Effective Conversations and Communications
Apr 06, 2010
From time to time, we all find ourselves in situations where we either had a loss for words or wished we could have said something differently upon reflection. Conducting effective conversations and communications with colleagues, family and friends not only has a direct effect on our interpersonal relationships, but can also influence how we are perceived by others. Speaking appropriately is not only a valuable skill set, but an art form. Knowing when and how to ask and answer questions as well as direct those who we supervise can have a considerable impact on our effectiveness – both personally and professionally.
Read More ... Customers Count
Apr 06, 2010
All industries, whether private or public, know that the best way to keep their competitive edge is to “know thy customer.” Successful customer accommodation and communication will enable you, as an individual, department, or organization to put your best foot forward in setting the stage for professionalism and innovation. In a world that has become increasingly global, some of the best strategies will be born from acknowledging differences and considering future trends and needs of your customer.
Read More ... Tapping Into Your Talent
Feb 11, 2010
As a result of today’s economy, both Government and industry have embarked on efforts to recalculate and readjust not only their resources but their talent. In the midst of downsizes and layoffs, there are also a number of opportunities for success. The trick is to identify, sharpen and showcase those professional attributes that set you apart from the others – your talent. Tapping into your talent is not a difficult process, but rather an awareness of how you fit in and shine within your organization.
Read More ... Moving Toward Motivation
Feb 11, 2010
As we enter the New Year, many of us find ourselves outlining new goals and objectives to achieve in the coming weeks and months. For some it may be a promotion and pay raise and for others it could be a more active lifestyle. But whatever your personal or professional goal is, the one thing that will determine success – and the amount of time and ease it will take to achieve that goal – is motivation. Motivation is that special drive we each have in us whether it is intrinsic (inside) or extrinsic (outside) that propels us to conquer those mountains and overcome challenges.
Read More ... Behavioral Interviewing
Feb 11, 2010
While organizations continue to improve personnel productivity and bottom lines, they have come to the realization that those employees who are most satisfied with their jobs and can provide winning results are almost always, best suited for the positions that they are in. Finding that ideal fit is no easy task and as a result, employers are revising their interview strategies and questioning in effort to zoom in and find that perfect match.
Read More ... Transitioning from Setback to Success
Nov 18, 2009
It is difficult for anyone these days to not be affected from the recent economic challenges of this country and its rippling effects through the workplace. We have all witnessed—either through the media or our own circumstances—the unfortunate effects of downsized organizations and layoffs and its effects on budgets and planning.
Read More ... Navigating the New Work Style
Nov 18, 2009
The 21st century workforce is constantly changing and evolving. There have been a number of changes throughout the past decade that have had a tremendous impact as to how this country’s professional now does business.
Read More ... Tips for keeping yourself “In the Pink”
Sep 30, 2009
In recent months there has been considerable focus on the health of our nation and where we are in terms of general wellness and our ability to fight disease and infection. The value of physical, emotional and spiritual wellness has gained considerable prominence not only among society but also in the workplace. Study after study has proven the effects of wellness on productivity and personal contentment.
Read More ... Perfection Management
Aug 18, 2009
Perfection. It is the one thing that we often expect from ourselves (and others) not only in the workplace but on a personal level as well. On a daily basis we either knowingly or unknowingly set a number of goals and standards for ourselves and when we achieve them we experience bliss. But when we feel we have not met those expectations or perceive that others do not appreciate our efforts, we are often left with a sense of disappointment or defeat. Perfection Management is knowing when our best is expected and when simply meeting the task at hand is sufficient.
Read More ... Surviving the Summer Shift
Jul 09, 2009
As the summer season approaches, it brings along the promise of restful and relaxing days at the beach; the long anticipated vacation to the mountains; and the seemly less hectic days at the office. For some, however, the transition into the summer months can bring its own array of challenges as routines are modified and commitments change.
Read More ... Perfecting the Plan
Jun 18, 2009
(Tips for creating a dynamic and achievable Mentoring Action Plan)
When first making the decision to embark on a year-long mentoring program, there is both excitement and anticipation as to what will be gained in terms of personal and professional growth.
Read More ... 2009 Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Featuring One of TTC’s Own
May 13, 2009
May, 2009: On May 2–3, 2009, TTC’s own Jennifer Sellers and her friend Courtney Dove joined more than 3000 other participants in Washington, D.C. to walk against breast cancer and raise money to help fund access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer.
Read More ... Mentoring the Next Generation
May 06, 2009
Every few decades a new generation enters the workforce eager to change the world. For a long time, it was the Baby boomers that were the primary age group that dominated the nation’s workforce. Today, those Baby Boomers have become mentors to a number of different generations who bring much diversity to the labor force in terms of age, experience and behavioral style.
Read More ... The Training Connection Chosen to Receive Coach of the Year Award
Apr 01, 2009
At the annual TTI Winners' Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona, Kathy Wentworth Drahosz and her team of consultants were awarded for their outstanding efforts and dedication to making a difference in the lives of many through executive and employee coaching and mentoring initiatives.
Read More ... The Necessity of Networking
Mar 25, 2009
The art of networking – whether social or professional – has always been a staple of success for anyone who wants to move forward and further in their career.
Read More ... Simplicity of Situational Mentoring
Feb 05, 2009
There are probably a great number of people out there that given all the time they desired, would readily embark on a mentoring relationship. But as many are strapped for that precious time, either for family or their own personal and professional responsibilities, they tell themselves that they cannot make that important commitment to another. Many times they envision both long hours at the cost of what they need to accomplish in the near term. But there is a way for anyone to share their talents without the great expenditures of time and energy.
Read More ... Opt for Optimism
Jan 09, 2009
Happy New Year!!
While many of you may be scratching your heads as to the merit of this salutation amidst the current economic climate, the often overlooked mind-set of optimism can have a very real effect on how we view others and situations and most notably – how others perceive us.
Read More ... Creating a Vision and a Plan for your Business
Dec 16, 2008
On October 5, 2008, Kathy Wentworth Drahosz spoke at workshop for the American Massage Association. One of the attendees, Susan Patton, wrote this article as a reflection on Kathy's message.
Read More ... Connection and Reflection
Dec 16, 2008
During the holiday season, we are often reminded of the importance and satisfaction we get with connecting with those who have made a difference in our lives. Whether it is family, friends or a special colleague or mentor, it is this time of year that we reflect with great gratitude on those who are or have been champions of our cause and have given us so much in terms of personal and professional growth. This year in particular, with its many transitions and uncertainties, gives us the perfect opportunity to reflect and reconnect with those who have made a difference in our lives and who continue to support and advocate our success.
Read More ... U.S. OPM Gives TMC a Tip of the Hat
Dec 10, 2008
September, 2008: The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) just released their latest Best Practices: Mentoring report for developing and implementing a formal mentoring program, and has recognized The Mentoring Connection and The Keys to Mentoring Success by Kathy Wentworth Drahosz as key resources for developing mentoring programs.
Read More ... Make the Commitment to Your Career Advancement
Nov 12, 2008
All of us have dreams for our careers and many have immediate aspirations to ascend to the next professional level. As these imaginings can be easy to envision, it can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint and perform those objectives that will be needed to realize them. Commitment to career development takes energy, commitment, and continual assessment and reflection. But when you are fully engaged, motivated and enthusiastic with the process, the sky can be the limit! The following are productive tools that can help you to realize those dreams faster than ever thought possible.
Read More ... Let Go of the Mess and Get Rid of the Stress
Oct 14, 2008
For many of us, making the time to either begin or complete a task can take an incredible amount of energy. Sometimes it takes all of the energy we can muster to get through the day. We walk into our workplace and are suddenly overcome by the myriad of commitments and expectations that await us (usually in the form of a mountain of paperwork) and end up stepping out immediately to get that much needed cup of coffee or conversation with a colleague.
Read More ... Dynamic Mentoring, Part IV of IV: The Stretch Assignment
Sep 11, 2008
Over the course of the past few months, we have explored the many diverse and enriching opportunities for both professional and personal growth. This month, we cap off our series with the most challenging and rewarding of all – the stretch assignment.
Read More ... Dynamic Mentoring, Part III of IV: Learning By Doing
Aug 14, 2008
In the third article of our four part series, we will concentrate on the learning-by-doing process and what it can yield in terms of skills, exposure and contacts. We all know the value of hands-on experience and in the mentoring process, the benefits of a learning by doing assignment can be multifaceted. When we tackle an activity that is new to us, we not only become proficient with a new skill, but the added benefits can be equally advantageous.
Read More ... TTC does 107.3 FM
Jul 28, 2008
If I asked you to describe the ideal way to celebrate your birthday, most may say, “birthday cake” or “oh let’s go out to lunch.” But, when you ask Jennifer how she wants to celebrate her birthday, want to know what she says???
Read More ... Dynamic Mentoring, Part II of IV: The Informational Interview
Jul 08, 2008
In the second article of our four part series, we will discuss the merit and planning of a successful informational interview. The informational interview not only answers questions about a particular skill you would like to sharpen, but can also serve to expand your professional network.
Read More ... Hands In Demand to Provide Corporate Wellness Classes
Jun 30, 2008
Local entrepreneur and Hands in Demand owner Mary Fairbairn, CMT is now offering wellness yoga activities to corporate clients.
Read More ... Dynamic Mentoring, Part I of IV: Learning Activities and Learning through Others
Jun 06, 2008
As the time honored tradition of mentoring has gained renewed popularity and momentum, the many rich opportunities for personal and professional growth have also increased. This article explores various types of learning activities, beginning with the experience of learning through others.
Read More ... Supervisor Sense
May 15, 2008
For many of us, the role of the supervisor and our relationships with them can be both multifaceted and at times complicated. Oftentimes, we perceive our direct supervisor as that one person who can make or break our career. And in fact they can, in a very positive way, help us to achieve our goals when we include them in our professional development.
Read More ... Positive Self Direction
Apr 08, 2008
There are a myriad of events and circumstances in our lives that can lead us down a path – usually of least resistance – that we would not (and sometimes should not) be on. With spring right around the corner, remember that there is a “springtime” for everyone. By taking a series of small but no less significant steps, we can change both the direction and meaning that we have always envisioned for ourselves and our lives.
Read More ... The Truth about Trust in the Mentoring Relationship
Mar 18, 2008
The true definition of trust has always been difficult to define as it means so many different things to so many different people. It is often that intangible “gut instinct” that we have toward another person. Many times we cannot put our finger on why we feel a certain way toward another, but chances are there were many subtle triggers that have contributed to our perceptions. With that said, we ourselves emit our own nuances that significantly impact the way others perceive us.
Read More ... Goal Setting - It’s All About Getting There, Part II
Feb 20, 2008
Although a seemingly daunting task at times, without question, the establishment of goals and completion of those objectives will be the key to any long term success and the one vehicle that will bring your dreams closer to reality. The importance of goal setting cannot be understated.
Read More ... Goal Setting - It's All about Getting There, Part 1
Jan 18, 2008
Many of us have been caught in the midst of a day-dream envisioning things we never thought possible: i.e., getting a promotion, running your own company, developing new technology, traveling the globe, etc. Your heart starts to race and you think, “How exciting it would be to accomplish that!” Then, lack of time and other personal or professional commitments step in and your vision becomes foggy. Making a commitment to yourself, and taking the small steps needed to achieve your vision, is critical for your long-term happiness and success.
Read More ... The Great Gift of Gratitude
Dec 13, 2007
Participating in a mentoring program, whether formal or informal, can take up a lot of time for both the mentor and the mentoree. Remembering and acknowledging the time and effort your mentoring partner puts in to the mentoring program is essential to showing your partner you appreciate everything they have done to help you succeed.
Show them you are thankful!
Read More ... Embracing Change and Managing a Smooth Transition
Nov 26, 2007
This article discusses embracing and managing change to foster personal and professional growth.
Read More ... Role Reversal: The Challenges and Rewards of Caring for our Aging Parents
Nov 16, 2007
“About 44% of Americans between the ages of 45 and 55 have aging parents or in-laws as well as children under the age of 21; 64% of those providing care for their aging family members are employed full-time or part-time” (Epp, n.d.). These are some staggering statistics. There is enough pressure from day-to-day work responsibilities, and then to go home and have to care for an aging loved one can be draining. External factors such as this can impact your work-life and home-life, however, there are many resources available to help guide you through this process so you are successful both personally and professionally.
Epp, Hanni. (n.d.). The Sandwich Generation. Retrieved November 11, 2007 from the World Wide Web: http://www.caregiverresource.net/materials/Caregiver's%20Corner/CaregiversCorner%20-%20The%20Sandwich%20Generation.htm
Read More ... The Great Mentoring Moment
Sep 19, 2007
This article addresses the advantage of a situational mentor and how to make the most of situational mentoring experiences.
Read More ... Flash Mentoring
Sep 04, 2007
Formal mentoring programs are a great way to retain tacit knowledge from your senior workforce and grow your younger employees to be future leaders. While the intention of the program is promising, the biggest obstacle formal mentoring programs encounter is consistent time commitment from both partners. This is where Situational Mentoring or “Flash Mentoring” as it is referred to in this article, can offer a great reward.
Click HERE to read more about "Flash Mentoring" by Brian Friel.
This article was published by GovExec.com in August 2007.
Fundraiser for Prince William Forest Park
Aug 23, 2007
The Training Connection, Inc. and Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage of Lake Ridge join forces to raise funds for Prince William Forest Park.
Read More ... Are You Obsessed by Time or Lack of it?
Aug 08, 2007
These days, everyone seems to be concerned with the lack of time they feel they have to complete daily tasks. Here is a rather different approach to time-management, challenging you to look beyond the fact the task takes up time and instead look at what the task yields in the end.
Read More ... NEW WEBSITE!
Jun 15, 2007
The Training Connection would like to announce the launch of their new website!
Focus on mentoring for sake of tomorrow's workforce
Jun 13, 2007
Mentoring programs can hasten the learning curve for new employees, improve employee performance, and alter the culture of an organization by creating a collaborative, team-based and results-oriented structure.
Read More ... Local Entrepreneur Honored as the Recipient of the 2006 Trainer of the Year Award
May 22, 2007
Ms. Kathy Wentworth Drahosz, local entrepreneur and author, was recently honored by Target Training International, Ltd. (TTI) as the 2006 recipient of Trainer of the Year Award for her outstanding work in professional career development.
Read More ... Symphony Or Noise?
May 22, 2007
What is your favorite symphonic instrument? When I think of my school orchestra, I loved to hear the French horn. I knew it was a difficult instrument to learn to play, yet its velvety richness is the backbone of many orchestral pieces. However, would you want to hear Beethoven played by an orchestra composed entirely of French horns? Would a French horn player enjoy trying to mimic a tuba, kettledrum or piccolo?
Read More ...
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