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pricey gifting or priceless giving?

12/15/2020

Kerry Wekelo, Chief Operating Officer, Actualize Consulting

The holidays can be a stressful time – with so many people on your list, it can be difficult to think of meaningful ways to give back to those you love most. Imagine giving a gift that is priceless, stress-reducing, and joy enhancing all tied up in one neat bow of gratitude! As we enter the holiday season, keep in mind that there are many ways to give back to those you want to celebrate – and they don’t have to break the bank.

Family/Friends

· Write: Write a poem or write a short story about your favorite time with that person.

· Picture Collage: Put together a computerized picture collage if you are good with technology. Send them an electronic copy saying how much you enjoy the memories you have shared and looking forward to making more memories.

· Act of Service: Create a booklet of free passes in which you do a task for another person. For your immediate family you can give them a free pass by taking out the trash, cooking a meal, giving them a massage, or simply making their bed. For friends, offer to help them with tasks they don’t enjoy such as one day of purging their junk closet or babysitting so they can have free time.

· Heart Fillers: Fill balloons with messages of love, gratitude and appreciation. They will enjoy popping the balloons to read your message. Another option is to place all the love notes in a hand-decorated jar or surprise them by filling the bathroom mirror.

· Connect: Suggest one-on-one time with the friend or family member, i.e., taking a walk; having non-technology time together; enjoying an activity for which you both share a passion.

Work

· Thankful Note: Write a letter that includes why you are thankful for your colleague. Written notes are powerful as they are not used frequently, and they can be revisited whenever the reader needs a lift.

· Invitation: Invite your co-workers for a virtual get-together outside of work to bond. Share a favorite drink together. For example, we have many on our team that enjoy bourbon, so they will share a virtual drink to enjoy and make memories. Another idea is to host a virtual event such as a cooking class, comedy, or magician and allow everyone to bring a guest.

· Content: Ask your team members or manager to be a part of a round-up article or blog to help them market their talents. Share an article, video, or white paper on a subject you know they would enjoy.

No matter what you decide, make sure you are sharing gratitude and quality time together and, most importantly, remember to give from your heart.

Successfully Managing a Remote Team

12/14/2020

Kerry Wekelo of Actualize Consulting: Five Things You Need To Know To Successfully Manage a Remote Team

As a part of our series about the five things you need to successfully manage a remote team, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kerry Wekelo.

KERRY WEKELO, MBA, is the Chief Operating Officer at Actualize Consulting, a financial services firm. Her book and program, Culture Infusion: 9 Principles for Creating and Maintaining a Thriving Organizational Culture and latest book Gratitude Infusion, are the impetus behind Actualize Consulting being named Top Company Culture by Entrepreneur Magazine, a Top Workplace by The Washington Post, and Great Place to Work-Certified. In her leadership, Kerry blends her experiences as a consultant, executive coach, award-winning author, mindfulness expert, and entrepreneur. Kerry has been featured on ABC, NBC, NPR, The New York Times, Thrive Global, SHRM, Inc., and Forbes

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. What is your “backstory”?

I grew up in a small town in Virginia and studied marketing and finance at Virginia Tech. When I graduated, I got into consulting because it was a way to use my people skills and knack for problem solving. In 2005, my brother asked if I could help him build out the internal operations of the company he started, Actualize Consulting. Actualize has been remote in some capacity since its inception and gave me a lot of experience leading remote teams. As a firm, we were lucky to feel prepared for the switch to fully remote work in the pandemic. We didn’t face any of the growing pains that typically follow a change of that caliber.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?

It’s funny how things in life come full circle — from starting Actualize as a remote company, to having a physical office, and now becoming entirely remote because of the pandemic. Even though we are spread apart, our team is as close as ever and it’s been rewarding to see how our leadership styles have changed throughout the years… and seeing the improvement in creating a workplace that supports its employees. We have built upon a strong foundation and are now reaping the rewards.

Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

Back when I was working for a government consulting firm, one of our clients was the Army. We were doing vendor demonstrations in a hotel, but there was a sales meeting next door to our meeting room where they were trying to hype up the crowd. The sales meeting was so loud, we couldn’t hear our own demonstrations. One of the higher up officers in the army told me that I needed to get the other room to quiet down. At first, I went to the front desk and asked if they were able to control the crowd next door. I went back to the demonstrations, but the crowd was just as loud as it was before. The next time the officer told me to get them to be quiet, I told the manager about the issue — but it still didn’t get fixed. Next thing I know, the officer gets in my face and yells at me, telling me to get them to calm down — “NOW!” At that point, I walk into the room next door and pretend to be an audience member. I raised my hand as if I had a question, and I, in the midst of this huge crowd, tell them we cannot hear our meeting next door. Everyone in the room laughed at me, but they did quiet down. When I came back to the demonstration room, the officer called me the nickname “Killer” for the rest of the day because of the way I pacified that crowd. I gained his respect — it’s a funny story to think about to this day. I also learned how resilient I am… even though this situation was terrifying for someone starting out their career, I did stand up and do what I was asked.

What advice would you give to other business leaders to help their employees to thrive and avoid burnout?

The most important thing you can do to thrive and avoid burnout is take time for yourself. When we are so focused on others’ needs to the point that we forget our own, we will not be able to show up as our best selves. No matter how busy you are, take even just 5 minutes to do something you enjoy that isn’t tied to any of your responsibilities. Being a workaholic isn’t sustainable for most people; we only have so much energy to give and when that is out of balance, our home life will suffer. The key is maintaining a balance with a focus on personal wellness.

Ok, let’s jump to the core of our interview. Some companies have many years of experience with managing a remote team. Others have just started this, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Can you tell us how many years of experience you have managing remote teams?

15 years — so lucky to have had all the experience from the start of my employment at Actualize Consulting in 2005.

Managing a team remotely can be very different than managing a team that is in front of you. Can you articulate for our readers what the five main challenges are regarding managing a remote team? Can you give a story or example for each?

Understanding each person’s communication style: Not everyone likes to communicate the same way. For example, some people like to use instant message for small items and email for bigger tasks. Others prefer to talk through each task. It can depend on the person, but becoming familiar with these styles can make sure everything runs smoothly.

Keeping the Team Connected: Team connections build naturally in an in-person environment when you are around everyone for the entire 40-hour work week. When we are separated by distance and computer screens, you need to actively put energy towards getting to know everyone and establishing a bond.

Managing Projects: In the office, you can easily collaborate in conference rooms and by making rounds around the building. In a virtual setting, you are only as collaborative as the tools you have will allow.

Maintaining Communication: When you aren’t working face-to-face, body language is missing from your interactions. Not to mention, small talk doesn’t really exist — so a lot of the little verbal updates you would give your team do not happen organically.

Lack of Visibility: You don’t know what your team is doing at all hours of the day. It can be hard to reach them sometimes.

Based on your experience, what can one do to address or redress each of those challenges?

Learning each person’s communication style can either be done through trial and error, or, to save time, by simply asking them how they prefer to communicate. For example, I tell my team that I prefer IM for small things and if they need to speak with me, I ask that they message me first to see if I am available before I receive a call.

Keeping the team connected despite geographical differences and a virtual workplace requires some creativity. We regularly have “all hands calls” or firm-wide meetings that allow everyone in the company to hear updates and ask questions, partner check-in calls where small cross-sections of teams are in a video call with the firm’s partners, and we virtual team-building events like Zoom cooking classes and workouts.

Managing projects virtually requires the right tools. For example, having a video call software like Google Meet or GoToMeeting helps with collaboration, ProjectPlace helps define and oversee tasks being completed, and Dropbox enables a way to collaborate on files and store them in a place everyone can access.

To maintain ample communication, it is necessary to over-communicate. Sometimes it may seem over the top, but keeping on the same page is harder without organic conversation that happens naturally in in-person settings.

To combat a lack of visibility, ensure everyone is on the same page about their schedules. I personally don’t mind if a team member needs to step out for an hour during the day, but I do ask that they put a note on their calendar that they can’t be reached at that time. This way, I don’t have to waste time trying to track them down. It goes back to the importance of staying in the loop and making sure everyone is communicating effectively.

In my experience, one of the trickiest parts of managing a remote team is giving honest feedback, in a way that doesn’t come across as too harsh. If someone is in front of you much of the nuance can be picked up in facial expressions and body language. But not when someone is remote. Can you give a few suggestions about how to best give constructive criticism to a remote employee?

First, it is necessary to document any feedback you’d like to give. For example, you can send an email that you’d like to talk about X on your next call or even put it as a note in their performance review. Then, try to give it over the phone or in a video call instead of over email. Be clear, be concise, and keep your emotions out of it. Focus on moving forward in a positive way, and use this challenge to strengthen your relationship with the recipient of the feedback. I always like to say, “my goal is to help you be successful…”, because we are all on the same team and should want the best for each other.

Can you specifically address how to give constructive feedback over email? How do you prevent the email from sounding too critical or harsh?

Personally, I don’t think constructive feedback should be given over email. The lack of body language and vocal tone can fog the reader’s own interpretation of the message. Try to give any feedback over the phone, and if that is not possible, keep the focus of the email on forward movement. It is likely both parties want to correct the issue and move positively into the future instead of dwelling on the past.

Can you share any suggestions for teams who are used to working together on location but are forced to work remotely due to the pandemic. Are there potential obstacles one should avoid with a team that is just getting used to working remotely?

Ensure that everyone is using the same technology and that they come up with a cadence for working together. As I said before, understanding communication styles is important, especially when in-person communication is not possible. We have also been more flexible with our employees’ schedules since we understand they are taking on multiple roles (for example, maybe their kids are no longer in a physical school environment.) Make sure everyone on the immediate team is familiar with any accommodations and know how to reach out if there is something pressing that needs to get taken care of.

What do you suggest can be done to create a healthy and empowering work culture with a team that is remote and not physically together?

There are many ways to make sure your organizational culture is not overlooked in a remote environment. You can schedule “mindful breaks” or video calls with team members based around a non-work-related theme. We try to do this at least once a month and participate in activities like Zoom workout and cooking classes. Get creative with the themes of these calls — we even did a virtual wellness competition where we broke up into teams and earned points by completing health-promoting behaviors like a 30 minute workout or drinking enough water during the day. Lastly, something really easy to do is take time at the beginning of a meeting to ask how people are doing and truly listening to what they have to say!

You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)

Empathy — you never know what someone is going through. Everyone is fighting a battle that you don’t know about, so strive to be kind in every interaction. Always check in and be genuine about it — truly listen to their responses and strive for deeper connection.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

“A problem is a chance to do your best.” — Duke Ellington. No matter how smoothly life is going, challenges are inevitable. When they strike, you have a chance to grow and learn. I use my 3P method (Pause to Pivot to a Positive) to help get me through tough situations. Pausing to allow your feelings, pivoting out of the negative spiral, and shifting to a positive perspective have helped me to move forward with grace no matter the situation at hand.

Thank you for these great insights!

GRATITUDE INFUSION - WORKPLACE STRATEGIES

12/14/2020

GRATITUDE INFUSION - WORKPLACE STRATEGIES FOR A THRIVING ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE

Kerry Wekelo is Chief Operating Officer at Actualize Consulting where she is focused on enhancing team experiences by creating a work environment that supports thriving employees and a sought-after workplace. Mike Petrusky asks Kerry about her book “Gratitude Infusion: Workplace Strategies for a Thriving Organizational Culture” and they explore ways to build connections and engagement during these pandemic times. Kerry and her organization have years of experience managing a distributed workforce while also building a culture that meet the needs of employees. Mike and Kerry enjoy the chance to catch up again and you’ll be inspired to “count your blessings” during “the most wonderful time of the year”!

Listen to the podcast here.

Global Recovery monitor

12/10/2020

Join us! Over 1,900 treasury and finance professionals have participated in this COVID-19 economic recovery research. This research allows the industry to learn from the crisis, adapt our current response, and better prepare for future situations. Your input significantly increases the quality of our results and allows for even greater insights to be collected and shared back with you.

Visit https://lnkd.in/e6zRaYc to participate in this period's iteration of the Global Recovery Monitor.

What gratitude are you sharing?

11/26/2020

In today's podcast, you will learn more about “Gratitude Infusion” and how you can make this a part of your leadership culture.

Mike Harbour and Kerry Wekelo discuss how you can make gratitude a successful process in the workplace, a few ways you can use gratitude to build your teams and finally how frequently should you be using gratitude as a tool.

Listen to the podcast here.

the practice of gratitude

11/18/2020

In this episode, Aviv and Kerry Wekelo, COO of Actualize Consulting, explore the concepts of Culture Infusion and Gratitude Infusion. They delve deep into the importance of self-awareness, honesty, and empathy within organizations. Finally, Aviv and Kerry share best practices on how individuals and businesses can practice gratitude to foster personal and professional growth.

Listen in at https://bit.ly/avivwekelo

Techniques for New Established Organizations

11/16/2020

In this podcast episode with the UK Yeukai Kajidori Business Show, our COO Kerry Wekelo shares how we create and maintain our thriving organizational culture – even during challenging times. They talk about the need for open and transparent communication, the use of gratitude, how to keep a pulse on your people's needs, wants, aspirations, and more.

To listen in, visit https://bit.ly/kwyeukai

tHE 5 WHYS

11/15/2020

Kerry Wekelo, Chief Operating Officer, Actualize Consulting

Do you ever wonder how toddlers learn so quickly? Their unwavering curiosity fosters conversations that fuel their desire for knowledge. When my kids were young, I can remember them asking me “why” over and over – for hours! Here is an example:

Why do leaves change colors?

Because they are not getting as much sunlight in the fall.

Why?

Because they stop making chlorophyll to prepare for winter.

Why is that?

Once they stop making chlorophyll the green color starts to fade and the reds, oranges, and yellows become visible.

Why do the leaves fall off the trees?

A leaf's job is to turn sunlight into food for the tree.

Why is that?

As there is less light the tree does not need as much food, and the leaves fall off for the winter.

By staying inquisitive, they stay primed for information. It has evolved into something I personally practice, called “The 5 Whys”. This technique is powerful in any situation in which you are trying to uncover the root cause. The next time you want to solve a problem or help a client uncover their true needs, give it a try – ask “why” five times

Mindful tips to keep THE peace

11/8/2020

MINDFUL TIPS TO KEEP THE PEACE DURING POLITICAL DISCUSSIONS

Kerry Wekelo, Chief Operating Officer, Actualize Consulting

Two contentious subjects to broach in conversation are politics and religion – unless both parties are in total agreement, discussions can get heated. We are taught that in order to preserve relationships, both personal and professional, we should stay quiet about our political and religious leanings. However, after the divisive 2020 election, it is only natural (and human nature) that political discussions and the like are showing up at work and at your holiday dinner table.

This makes for an interesting dilemma – where do we draw the line to choose how and with whom to have our political discussions? For work, the reasons to avoid such a controversial topic are clear: legal concerns, workplace distraction, team division, and an uncomfortable working environment should all be considered. At home and with family, that line is a bit less clear… but it is important to set the boundaries needed for your personal health. Here are 8 ways to stay mindful in stressful or divisive discussions.

1) Pivot the conversation:

At work: Shift to a work-related topic. For example, if someone raises the topic, you might say, “I hear you. It’s a different time than many of us have experienced before.” Pause. “I wanted to talk to you about our upcoming deadline and what we need to do to complete everything in time.” Or “Yes, I understand. I’m sorry to interrupt you...I have a task I need to complete and focus on right now.”

At home: Shift back to positive family matters. “I see what you’re saying.” Pause. “Did you hear about *insert family member and their accomplishment.*

2) Acknowledge tensions as they arise: If a heated political discussion begins, interrupt and say, “Uh oh, things are getting a little tense here. How about we take a break from politics for a while?”

3) Limit conversation engagement. When a conversation turns to politics, excuse yourself to use the restroom, grab some water, or walk around the office.

4) Relate. Stick to neutral observations and impartial comments. “We can agree this scenario is difficult to comprehend on both sides.” Or “I think we can agree this topic is debatable.” These phrases help the other person feel heard without you personally stating your opinion or political preferences.

5) Smile and nod. Saying nothing and listening -- genuinely, with curiosity -- is a sure way to stay in a safe conversation space. After a few minutes, you can politely excuse yourself by lightly saying, “Ok, time for me to get back to work/other task.”

6) Honor your own boundaries. Set the intention to not engage in political discussions; simply say “I’ve decided not to have political conversations right now. Let’s give ourselves a break to focus on something else for a while.”

7) Show respect. Even if you disagree, be respectful. Never attack someone’s opposing views – we each have a unique life experience that shapes our perspective. Being kind is much more important than trying to convince someone you are right. If, at home and with close friends or family (not the workplace), you do wish to share your views, do so in a gentle, non-attacking manner.

8) Pause and Take a Breath: We’ve all been in situations where we start to tense up – our heart races, our chest tightens, and fight-or-flight kicks in. Instead of biting back, try to center yourself in the moment. Take a deep breath to physically feel a difference.

To limit the impact of the current political landscape’s negativity, try to focus on the areas that matter most to you, and choose carefully when and where you step into the political sea. It’s probably best to keep debatable subjects to a close group of friends instead, especially if you know things may turn ugly.

An old fable to call upon is the one that encourages us to ask ourselves three important questions before we speak: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? Let’s all take that filter to our political conversations at work and beyond.

Maintaining balance and open communication

11/5/2020

In this session Kerry Wekelo, Chief Operating Officer at Actualize Consulting shares her six guiding principles on managing a remote workforce including the use of technology, effective communication, engaging remote workers and work/life balance strategies. These tried-and-true principles will help you and your team thrive personally and professionally. Watch the Webinar here.