We are already past the half-way mark of 2022, and it is time to reassess those New Year goals. What have you checked off the bucket list? Which goals have changed? What is still left to do? And do you have a plan?
Don’t panic – we are here to help with three fool-proof strategies for success over the next few months, and beyond.
Beef up your presentation skills
Writing in Forbes, Careers’ Coach Ashley Stahl names presentation skills in her top five most important skills for professional progression. She says that right from the moment you take a job interview you are presenting, and as we move deeper into the age of Zoom presenting it’s just as much about tech knowledge as style.
“… presentations are part of working. Focus on techniques using the three Ps of presenting: prepare, practice, and PowerPoint (use of a slide deck),” says Stahl.
“Take a class on preparing for presentations. Join Toastmasters to enhance your public speaking skills. Practice using PowerPoint or other presentation software. Giving yourself a leg up will help you reach your career goals faster.”
Think on Your Feet® is a dedicated communications workshop that will not only help you polish your presentation skills, but also help you defend and discuss an idea persuasively and off-the-cuff. It is also one of the only courses available that helps prepare you for difficult conversations with your team – and in this complex landscape, that is an essential skill to have.
Face your fear of finance
Most senior managers do not work in finance, but are responsible for it. That is a terrifying fact that may make your blood run cold. US Economist Mihir Desai told the Harvard Business School that finance departments deliberately complicate the situation to create mystery.
“… finance is not rocket science. It’s really pretty intuitive and extremely accessible,” says Desai.
“It’s critical and fun for people who understand and appreciate business. They can enjoy learning about companies in deep ways once they understand finance.”
Finance for Non-Financial Managers is a straight-talking course that builds on real-world experience to help you understand the numbers better so you can make better business decisions.
Delegate to get ahead
If you want to win cricket you can’t be the batsman, wicket keeper, and bowler – but you can be the person who delegates those roles appropriately. Dr Scott Williams from Wright State University says that delegating, and doing it well, isn’t just about lightening your own workload. It is empowering for your team and helps build trust. It can support team members to build on and improve skills, and increase a worker’s commitment to the organisation.
As a leader, your job is to delegate effectively. This means you have to understand both the task and the team really well, to match them up appropriately – you don’t want to set people up to fail. It is a delicate balance but done well it can be the making of your team and your own success. IMNZ’s Elevate Programme will help you develop the necessary skills to prioritise tasks, delegate, and manage the whole process including a sensitive appraisal.
To find out more about these courses and the other programmes IMNZ offers visit us online.
