How to Implement Leadership Coaching in Your Organisation

As an organisation grows, the need for leadership coaching within it increases. From satisfying customers to working well with partners and employees, to embracing the use of technology, leadership coaching can make a big difference in an organisation. And it doesn’t matter if you work in the United States, The UK, or China, coaching can make a huge difference.

But what is leadership coaching? How can you implement it within your organisation for your leaders and their (SLT) leadership teams? This article will explain everything you should know about leadership coaching.

What is leadership coaching?

Leadership coaching refers to the process of helping individuals to build their awareness personally and strategically and the competencies and skills required to work well in their role. It also helps them collaborate more effectively with other people within or outside of their organisation. As leadership coaching assists people to recognise their talents, they tend to use more of these talents and have more confidence to carry out their duties.

Given its benefits, leadership coaching is not only important to individuals, but can also have a huge impact on the development and success of an organisation and especially its culture. If you want to take your organisation to the next level, more focus and cross-organisation alignment on strategic goals, developing these alongside your people’s personal goals, then this is a powerful combination. It’s well worth investment in leadership coaching for your staff and benefits can be measured more than you think.

Step-by-step guide for implementing leadership coaching in your organisation

Are you ready to implement leadership coaching in your organisation? Things to do;

Have a structure for leadership coaching

Before you start investing in leadership coaching, it’s crucial to have objectives that you want to achieve with the coaching. Enlist champions and clarify chief sponsors of the programme. This will help to keep track of the progress of the coaching.

It’s important to create a structure for the coaching process. Basically, you can start by determining the individuals in your organization that need leadership coaching. The more senior the coachees, the greater the potential of coaching to make a difference. Though the truth is that leadership coaching may not be for everyone. It’s equally important to identify those that not only need it most but have the greatest to gain. After identifying these people, you need to determine when they need leadership coaching. The current career path of individuals is the main factor that will assist you to know whether they need the coaching now or later. Other criteria to think about is do you support your highflyers to excel further or those with challenges such as on PIP (personal improvement plans – those with specific ‘issues’).

Do you have the right resources for accommodating leadership coaching? This is an important question you must answer as you try to create a structure for leadership coaching. This is not just money to run the programmes, but perhaps the process and structures to bring all the learning into the organisation, meetings, reviews, EAP (employee assistance programmes) alignment to HR / Talent Management goals etc.

Communicate with your staff

Don’t wait until you have hired a leadership coach before informing key stakeholders. Let the staff know as early as possible so that they can start preparing for the programme/their development ahead. You should also keep them abreast of the benefits, time commitment, content, structure of leadership coaching and those involved in the process. Also, make sure that the stakeholders know the objectives of the leadership coaching.

Establish an enabling environment

Leadership coaching is bound to bring lots of changes into your organisation if you’re serious about bringing it in. There are few, if any, better ways to develop your people both efficiently (it aligns to needs) and effectively (it’s proven to work). Unfortunately, the change can lead to inconveniences and challenges for your staff too, especially at the initial stage. If the environment is not welcoming to the change, it will be difficult for people to adapt and bring in their upgrade skills a, values and competencies.

Therefore, you need to establish an enabling environment that encourages people to share their thoughts and feelings about their coaching and also be more open to reveal their vulnerabilities. Skilled coaches have this understanding central in their mind to support the programmes carefully. Regardless of how people feel at the initial stage, the environment must be able to support them and their growth.

Partner with an expert leadership coach

Leadership coaching requires the coach to have lots of experience and expertise. So, if you are not a professional leadership coach, you may have a hard time coaching your staff or indeed create issues. You often see internal Hr or Talent Management staff taking quick courses in coaching or taking on life coaches to carry out corporate roles as they are cheaper. HR, Organisational development people have a lot of skills across many areas from payroll, recruitment, managing budgets, employment law and process etc. It’s simply not possible for them to also be expert leadership coaches. The level of skill needed for leaders coaches should not be underestimated. Some of the best coaches have taken 20 years or more to hone their expertise, with many thousands of coaching or training hours. When choosing a professional coach go for experience, similar programmes run before with testimonials, and if they have both corporate experience and psychological – emotional (is best) training then that’s a good start to answer the big question: How do I choose the right leadership coach?

In view of this, you shouldn’t hesitate to hire an experienced leadership coach that can offer high-quality. We’re aware of a few, here’s one that specialises in leadership coaching for teams. As they use psychometric tools that actually develop leaders this can save much time in creating efficient programme design, speed up the progress of growth once it starts and pin-point strengths and vulnerabilities in a profound manner. (At this point we should note that these EQ assessments show strong evidence of development aligned to personal and work goals whereas personality or other psychometrics cannot do this). By hiring an expert, you will work with someone who understands how they can help your staff to develop the right leadership skills from a diverse range of perspectives (workplace, personal , corporate ways of work, business acumen, psychological growth, leadership imperatives and pitfalls etc.)

Be clear when partnering with a leadership coach. It’s very useful to first identify the specific skills you want the coach to have, their way of working and the existing culture of your people. Also, look at their experience in the field and determine whether they are right for your organisation or not.

Practice what you preach

It’s not enough to teach your staff how to grow, communicate, collaborate etc. and use their leadership skills to achieve the goals of your organisation. You as a sponsor or leader need to walk the walk. In other words, you need to show them how to lead and collaborate with others by practising what you preach. Show them how it is done and you will be surprised by how others will learn quickly. Sponsors and leaders must be the first to engage in culture change programmes. They must be seen to lead.

Allow your team members to grow

Leadership coaching is more than merely learning the skills required to be a leader. It is a long-term process that involves giving people room to develop their ‘authentic’ way of being, their style as well as the relevant competencies for their role, people skills and awareness of what great leadership is. Therefore, after the leadership coaching, you should notice significant changes to how people think and work. You may want to think about the KPI’s that these relate to before and during the programme to show and measure change.

Also, you need to make your staff comfortable enough to come to you whenever they need further clarification or assistance on how to be a good leader at work. You must note that people will make mistakes as they try to collaborate with others, but they can learn and grow from their mistakes. Give them space and support to do so. Similarly, you should continue to understand what resources can help them grow and do your best to provide these explicitly showing you are listening to them. This builds trust which supports leadership skills development

Let people prioritise their duties

While trying to develop their leadership skills, your team members must not forget their duties. They shouldn’t get caught up in the overall agenda of the organisation and, as such, overlook their duties. As they perform their duties, they can practice the skills they look to develop; communication, collaboration, empathy, and other important skills that a leader needs.

Keep track of the results

Leadership coaching requires a commitment of time, money, and effort. Therefore, as an organisation, it should offer you a good return on investment (ROI). But how do you know the ROI of leadership coaching? By measuring its results. Notably, the results can be numerical or not but there are ways to make the qualitative measurable;

How has leadership coaching improved the overall performance of my organisation? What has my boss noticed? Looking at my annual reviews of things to work on – these can be scored year on year. Look at how you could measure enhanced collaboration or minimise silos? Is there any improvement in communication among various teams, particular challenging relations easing? Are my employees comfortable with the process? Do you use an annual survey and track changes? These are important questions that can help you to keep track of the results of leadership coaching as you implement it.

We hope you learned a little from this introduction to leadership programmes and we wish you lots of success with implementing leadership coaching in your organisation.

10 Ways to Bring the Outside In

Are you looking for ways to bring the outside world inside your home? If you love nature, you’ll want to capture its feeling as much as possible. From plants to water features, there are plenty of ways to make your home feel more natural. Keep reading for 10 ideas that are sure to inspire you!

The benefits of nature are undeniable. Studies have shown that having plants and other natural surroundings inside can reduce stress and make us feel better overall. If you’re interested in making more of nature in your home, here are 10 ways to bring the outside in.

1. Bring In Plants

The easiest way to bring nature indoors is with houseplants. Find some that match your decor and are easy to care for. Plants can also act as a natural filter, purifying the air in your home. Get tips from GIY plants about growing plants in hanging pots, on shelves, or wherever you have some extra space. Having houseplants and doing some indoor gardening can also be a great stress reliever.

2. Add a Water Feature

Adding a water feature to your home can be a great way to bring in the sounds and sights of nature. Fountains or ponds can act as a calming presence in your home. They can also be great conversation starters with guests. You’ll obviously need enough space for these, but it’s possible to find even small fountains and water features for cozier spaces.

3. Install Natural Light

Letting natural light into your home is one of the best things you can do to make it feel more connected to the outside. If you’re able, install some large windows in your home. This will allow more natural light to come in, and it will also give you a better view of the outdoors. A sun tunnel or skylight can also be a great way to bring in natural light if you don’t have room for windows.

4. Hang Baskets

Hanging wicker baskets from the walls or ceilings can be a great way to bring in some texture and color. You can fill them with plants, potpourri, or other decorations to bring in a more natural feel. Adding baskets can be an easy way to update your decor without having to do a full renovation.

5. Use Natural Materials

One great way to bring the outdoors in is by using natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo. These materials can be used in furniture, flooring, accessories, or accents. For example, put a cluster of stones in a glass bowl on your coffee table, or cover a wall with shiplap. Natural materials bring warmth and texture to your home while still maintaining a natural aesthetic.

6. Place Artwork on the Walls

Nature-inspired artwork can be an easy way to add some life to your walls. Look for paintings, photographs, or wall hangings with natural imagery. This could be anything from a scenic landscape to a close-up of a flower. You can also look for pieces that include animal or bird designs, or even abstract patterns. Even covering a wall in nature inspired or jungle themed wallpaper can totally transform a space to make it feel closer to nature.

7. Incorporate Nature-Inspired Color Schemes

Another great way to bring in the outside is by using nature-inspired color schemes. Look for earthy tones like greens, browns, and blues. These colors can give your space a more subtle and natural vibe. You could also use brighter colors like yellows and oranges for a more vibrant and energizing feel.

8. Bring in Natural Sounds

Adding natural sounds like birds chirping or water flowing can help make your home feel more connected to the outdoors. You can easily find recordings of natural sounds online and play them in your home. Alternatively, you can use a white noise machine that has nature-inspired sounds.

9. Make an Indoor Herb Garden

Creating an indoor herb garden is a great way to bring a little bit of nature indoors. You can grow herbs like mint, rosemary, basil, and thyme in small pots. This will give you a supply of fresh herbs for cooking and is also a great way to bring in some natural greenery. You’ll also benefit from the incredible scents that come from growing herbs. Smell a range of different herbs and see which scents you enjoy best.

10. Have a Greenhouse

If you have the space, having a greenhouse in your home can be a great way to bring in some nature. You can put all sorts of plants in there, from flowers to vegetables. This is an especially great option if you live in an area that has cold winters and want to keep your plants safe from the cold. Having a greenhouse will allow you to enjoy nature year-round from the comfort of your home.

If you want to benefit from nature all the time, adding some nature-inspired touches into your home can make the world of difference. From hanging baskets to having a greenhouse, there are plenty of ways you can bring in some natural elements. You’ll be amazed at how much more connected to nature you’ll feel in your own home.

10 Tips for Saving Money When Traveling in Europe

Are you planning a vacation or a trip to Europe soon? Have you been dreaming of a visit to Europe but can’t see how you could ever make it affordable? Surprisingly, there are many areas in Europe that are not expensive to travel to. If you take some extra precautions and plan your trip creatively you will find many areas where you can save money while still having a wonderful vacation.

Protect Your Investment

One important way to make sure that you don’t spend more money than you should is by protecting your trip investment. Travel insurance is one way to protect your investment. You should also carefully evaluate things such as refunds for TUI flight cancellation, hotel room cancellation policies, and reimbursements for any other expenses.

Change up Transportation

Consider choosing alternative modes of transportation while you are in Europe. Instead of flying between countries and cities, it’s often cheaper to take a train or bus. This will also allow you to see more of the country and its culture, villages, architecture, and people as you travel. Unfortunately, f you travel by train or bus your travel days could take longer, and you might not be able to visit as many places as you would if you were flying. On the other hand, you will get to know the places you do visit more intimately, and you will be able to travel at a more relaxed pace. Flying can also mean delays and waiting in the airport, so it makes sense to evaluate all transportation options for cost and time and choose the method that works best for your situation.

Travel During the Off-Season

Consider booking your next trip during a less popular time of year. Traveling during the off-season, when demand is lower, can result in lower prices for flights, hotels, and activities. If you don’t have children who need to be in attendance at school, try not to travel during school breaks. Summer and school holidays are the busiest time of year for most vacation destinations. Other destinations may have their own peak seasons. Ski resorts are obviously busy during the winter, as are tropical locations. Areas that have a lot of autumn color or special harvest activities may be busier in the fall.

Avoid Overpacking

Many airlines now charge for any and all checked luggage. Others charge for overweight, large, or extra baggage. When you travel, you can avoid paying extra fees if you don’t check your bags. By packing only the essentials you can avoid overloading yourself with unnecessary items, avoid delays in the airport and train stations, and make your trip easier and less stressful.

Also remember that unless you are going somewhere very remote, common items will be available locally. It is often cheaper to purchase things like over-the-counter medications, toiletries, and other necessities than it is to pay baggage fees. And once you have traveled this way a few times, you may be surprised at how little you actually need.

Look for Unconventional Places to Stay

Consider alternative accommodations: furnished houses, couch surfing, and house sitting can all be cheaper alternatives to traditional hotels. This is especially true if you are traveling with more than 3 or 4 people, or if you would for any reason need to stay in more than one hotel room. When you stay in a furnished house or suite, you can also save money by cooking some of your own meals or snacks and keeping drinks on hand. Also, consider staying in a hostel. Hostels can be a budget-friendly alternative to hotels, especially if you are traveling alone or with a group of friends rather than a family with children. Many hostels offer private rooms as well as shared dormitories.

Don’t Dine Like a Tourist

Instead of eating at tourist restaurants, try to find local, family-owned restaurants or markets where you can try traditional, home-cooked meals at a lower cost. Besides being cheaper, more casual, and more fun, you will also get a better sense of the culture and cuisine of the area you are staying in. You can also try street food and delis for quick midday meals between tours or activities. If you have children with you, these casual and quick meals may be much easier and more relaxing than attending more formal dining each day. Of course, you will probably still want to visit these tourist dining establishments at least once during your stay. By saving money on your food during the rest of your trip, you will be able to be more extravagant for a few special meals.

Plan Early

Plan your trip in advance by booking flights, hotels, and activities early. Booking in advance can often save you money and you will be better prepared for your trip. This is also the best way to ensure you are able to book all of the tours or tickets that you want. In some places, these tours and activities can fill up fast so if they’re important to you, make sure you book them early. If you do book early, consider buying travel insurance so your expenses can be reimbursed if you cannot travel as expected for any reason.

Shop Around

Shop around before you reserve or book anything. There can be big differences in price between various hotels, flights, and activities. In many cases, you can get much cheaper hotel rooms if you are willing to stay a bit farther out of the center of town or away from the main tourist area. You can also save money on flights by avoiding baggage fees.

Also, look for deals and discounts. Sign up for newsletters from airlines, hotels, and other travel companies to stay updated on sales. You should also search for deals on travel booking websites. Yearly sales such as those on black Friday and other standard sale days can also be good times to find deals.

Cook Your Own Food

If you can find a way to cook some of your own food, you will save a lot of money. Cooking for yourself is cheaper even than fast food or street food. Renting a suite or furnished house instead of a regular hotel room can be one way to make it easy to cook your own food. With a kitchen or kitchenette available in these accommodations, you will have what you need to make at least some of your meals yourself. You can also plan ahead and bring sack lunches if you are going to be gone all day. Even if you don’t have a kitchen, a hotel room with a refrigerator and a microwave can allow you to store the ingredients you need for sack launches and easy snacks.

Look for Free or Frugal Activities

When you are planning your itinerary, look for free or frugal activities. Many cities in Europe have a wealth of free activities and attractions, such as museums, parks, and churches. Research and plan your trip to include as many free activities as possible. If there are a few pricy tours or other activities that you know you want to do, balance them out with frugal or free options. No one wants to miss that once-in-a-lifetime museum or tour, and by adding in more free options for each expensive one, you can save money overall and still have the trip of a lifetime.

Conclusion

No matter where your travels in Europe take you, or how long you are there, you can find plenty of ways to save money and make your trip more economical. As an added bonus, if you can manage to save enough money on your trip, you may even be able to stay longer and visit more destinations than you would otherwise.

5 Top Reasons Swimming Is the Best Exercise

Swimming is one of the best ways to enjoy bodies of water like oceans, lakes, rivers, and pools. Some people appreciate it as a sport, while others use it for recreation or exercise. Most people swim for fun, but there are several benefits to adding swimming to your exercise regimen.

Most Americans do not get enough exercise, and many live sedentary lifestyles. If you want to include more physical activity in your daily and weekly routine, you should start with activities you enjoy doing. Swimming is an activity that’s fun while providing exertion, so you get the benefits of exercising without getting bored.

People are less likely to quit their exercise routines when they’re having fun. But aside from being enjoyable, swimming can also improve your health and overall quality of life. Here are five top reasons swimming is one of the best exercises you can do.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Exercise is an effective way to decrease stress and anxiety. Over six million people in the United States suffer from an anxiety disorder, with less than half receiving treatment. An active lifestyle is an underrated and overlooked way to treat anxiety. Swimming is a relaxing exercise that can improve your mood and mental health.

When you exercise, endorphins are released in your brain. Endorphins are known as the “feel good” hormones because they relax you and naturally relieve pain and stress. Although exercise does put some level of stress on the body, swimming can cause you to release endorphins without being too strenuous.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a popular exercise known to produce good results over a shorter period. But HIIT can cause injury to your body and, depending on your physical condition, may not be best for you. One of the great things about swimming for exercise is almost everyone can do it. Children can start learning to swim as early as four years old! As you build a swim routine, you can try other methods like cold-water swimming or water aerobics to keep things fun and interesting.

Improves Balance and Flexibility

As your body ages, the need to improve your balance and flexibility increases. Balance and flexibility training can help you avoid falls and decrease your chances of injury. You can improve your balance by strengthening your core using specific exercises.

Swimming helps strengthen your core by using muscles in the upper and lower body for long strokes and flutter kicks. Most people devote time to stretching to improve flexibility, but spending time in the water can also help you become more balanced and improve joint flexibility.

Low Impact on Joints

Certain levels of physical activity can be counterintuitive if too much stress is put on the body, but activities like walking and swimming are light on the joints. Swimming, in particular, uses deep muscle recruitment to increase your heart rate without the strenuous movements in workouts like HIIT or running. You can get low-stress cardio in by taking a swim two to three times a week at the gym or community center.

If you have the space, you can invest in an in-ground pool and mesh pool fence for your backyard. Having access to a swimming pool can provide the perfect rehabilitation opportunities if you’ve had previous injuries. Aquatic therapy can help improve your mobility as you alternate between swimming and water aerobics to keep your body moving.

Build Lean Muscle

Swimming is a full-body workout as it works multiple muscle groups at once. It can help you lose weight and tone your body by building lean muscle. Your body uses more calories to maintain muscle mass, so a regular swim routine can keep you healthy and lean. Exercising in water provides the resistance training you need to keep your muscles working, as it is much harder to move your body in the water.

You can switch up your routine with swimming like any other exercise by learning different swim strokes and workouts. Learning different strokes can also improve your posture as you lengthen the spine and build muscle.

Improve Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in America. Over 20 million adults have coronary artery disease, and numbers are not improving. Like most exercises, swimming has proven to be effective in improving cardiovascular health. An active lifestyle should involve both cardio and resistance training to ensure optimal fitness. Including swimming in your exercise regimen is an easy way to get the benefits of both at once.

The Department of Health and Human Services suggests most Americans get a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. You can include a 15 to 20-minute swim in your workout routine a few days per week to add fun and relaxation that will keep you on track.

Final Thoughts

Although one in four Americans live a sedentary lifestyle, exercise has many benefits. One of the best ways to maintain an active lifestyle is to do physical activities that you enjoy. Swimming is a fun activity that also serves as sufficient cardio for your fitness goals.

Some of the top reasons to use swimming for exercise include reducing anxiety, improving flexibility, and building lean muscle. Swimming is also light on your joints and improves your cardiovascular health. You can improve your health and fitness as a swimmer one stroke at a time.

Time to Move? Here Is How to Choose Your Next Home City

After a few years in one place, you can either settle down or think about moving. If the city you are in is not allowing you to live your best life, it may be time to think about going somewhere else. If you have family, friends, or a job offer somewhere, this can help narrow down the choices. However, if none of those factors exist, it can be a lot tougher to decide where to go next. Here are some questions to help you choose which one of the many cities in the United States you will call home.

How’s the weather?

It is no secret that the weather can affect your mood, productivity, and health. Some people like warm climates while others prefer cold ones. If you love the outdoors, it can be depressing to be stuck in a city that gets a lot of rain. Therefore, you should look at the weather and climate of different cities and make a list of the ones that are most attractive to you. Look up temperature, rainfall, humidity, and sunshine hours. Some cities such as Albuquerque and Phoenix get a lot of sun while other cities such as Seattle and Pittsburgh get very little.

What’s your housing budget?

Property prices can vary widely from city to city. Not surprisingly, places such as Los Angeles and Miami are some of the most expensive places to live in the US while places such as Buffalo and Knoxville are among the cheapest. That said, many factors can impact housing prices such as location, transportation options, and neighborhood amenities, and the price of property can change significantly from one neighborhood to the next. Visit the website of a reputable real estate agent such as Myers & Myers Real Estate to research available listings and see if you can comfortably afford a mortgage or rental in your city of choice.

Can you get a good job?

The job market is a big factor in choosing your next city. Some cities are very competitive and it can be more difficult to secure a good job there, especially if you have to come up against locals who may have better connections. However, other cities have excellent job markets with high demand for workers and a wide variety of job opportunities in a variety of industries. Visit job sites such as Glassdoor to look for open positions in your desired industry and to explore companies based in these cities. It could save you a lot of stress if you can secure a job before your move, and your new employer may even pay for some of your relocation expenses.

What’s the culture like?

Some cities are more diverse and tolerant than others, which can be an important factor for many people when deciding where to live. Cities that are accepting of minorities and people from a variety of backgrounds usually have a more vibrant cultural scene than more homogeneous cities. Certain cities are also predominantly Republican while others lean towards Democrats. You may be politically neutral but keep in mind that political affiliations of the populace can affect local regulations as well as social attitudes. If diversity and inclusion are a high priority for you, do some research on the city’s history, culture, and political affiliations before making your decision.

How far away are your loved ones?

Proximity to friends and family can add to your quality of life. A move to a new city can be an exciting adventure but there is always the risk of feeling lonely and isolated if your friends and family are not close by. Be sure to take into account the distance between your new home and your loved ones when planning your move. You should also consider the cost of commuting to visit them regularly and whether this will put a strain on your finances. For instance, it may be cheaper to move closer to your parents than to pay for domestic flights to visit them every major holiday.

Where do you want to be in five years?

If you are thinking about moving, it is important to consider not only where you want to live but also how long you plan on staying there. While you could very well move again in five years, it may not be practical or economical to do so. Ideally, the place that you move to should be one where you can see yourself enjoying long term—or at least close to where you want to eventually put down roots. It also makes sense to think about the future when it comes to purchasing property because the sooner you start paying off a mortgage, the more you save on rental payments. That said, taking out a mortgage is only a sensible financial decision if you stay for longer than three years.

There are many things to consider before you pack up your life and start anew in a different city. Although a move can be scary and stressful it can also be very exciting and rewarding. The most important thing is to make sure that you take the time to do your research and choose the right destination based on your needs and circumstances. Do not be afraid to take the plunge. Who knows, you may soon find yourself living your dream life!

5 Reasons To Rent an Apartment Off Campus

Most new students prefer to stay on campus. It is where you get the traditional college experience, meeting tons of new people and making friends for life. Your responsibilities are taken care of and you can focus on your studies. Living off campus is generally seen as a cheaper but inferior option.

However, that is not entirely fair. While many people who choose to stay off campus do so to save money, there are other really good reasons to rent your own apartment.

Here are 5 reasons to rent off campus that aren’t money-related.

1. Learn about finances

Life after college packs some unpleasant financial surprises for the majority of graduates. They leave with their degrees, ready to face the world, and find that they have no idea what they’re doing. They have to figure out the whole ‘adult’ thing while trying to get their careers started.

When living off campus, you get a head start. You have to protect your stuff with student renters insurance, giving you an understanding of the ins and outs of insurance policies. You need to pay for your own utilities. You have to deal with things like security deposits.

Instead of waiting until you’re finished studying, you begin your financial life immediately. By the time you are ready to start your career, you already have some know-how for navigating the financial world.

2. Learn basic life skills

It’s not just the financial world you need to figure out when living off campus. You also need to learn basic life skills. Don’t let the word ‘basic’ fool you. We’re talking about fundamentals, but they’re not always easy.

For example, feeding yourself is about more than buying groceries and cooking. You need to learn how to stock a pantry. You also need to learn about food hygiene so as to avoid getting salmonella poisoning.

If you leave college without these skills, you may feel at a disadvantage. Although you’re supposed to be an adult, it can feel like you still have a long way to go to becoming independent.

3. Build communication skills

Communicating with people as an adult is very different to doing so when you’re younger. There is no longer a strict hierarchy. The rules you learnt as a child simply don’t apply. If you treat other adults as if you are not equals, they will take advantage of you.

When renting off campus, you need to communicate effectively with landlords, service providers, neighbors, and potential roommates. It can feel like a trial by fire, but it is better than having to do so when you start your first full-time job.

When living on campus, on the other hand, it is possible to continue treating authority figures as ‘adults’, rather than people you need to communicate with on a level playing field.

4. Get time off

Campus living can be relaxing and fun. However, when you stay on campus, you spend almost all your time at the university. Instead of going out for entertainment or to meet friends, you do everything on campus. This is a great way of saving time and money, but it can lead to burnout.

Off-campus renters, however, get to disconnect from the university every single day. Instead of going from one side of campus to another, you go home after classes. Your free time is entirely yours, and you get a more diverse experience.

5. Find balance

The fact that you get time off makes it easier to find balance. When you’re in school and in college, everything can feel like one big experience. Even when you exercise, for example, you may be doing so in the context of college sports.

Living off campus gives you the chance to find balance on your own. It is not easy compartmentalizing your time and figuring out how to take care of every part of your life. However, it is yet another skill that is crucial to learn. It contributes to your physical and mental health, giving you a foundation for living a balanced, healthy life.

Many students live off campus purely for financial reasons. But there are other advantages to living off campus, and it can be the perfect way to get your adult life started.

5 Tips to Increase Sales

As a business owner, you’re always looking for ways to increase sales. More sales mean more revenue, allowing your company to grow and succeed. But if your sales are plateauing or decreasing, increasing sales becomes an even higher priority. While it’s not unusual for a company’s sales to fluctuate and sometimes go through slow periods, improving your strategies is critical for the success of your business.

If your company is struggling with sales, start looking at any weak areas in your business that need improvement. Your leadership will define your company, so make sure you’re the best leader you can be.

What can you do to increase sales and achieve your goals? Here are some tips that can help.

1. Hire an amazing team.

Hiring a competent, high-performing sales team is the first step to achieving your sales goals. You need professional team players on your team that will work hard to reach their team goals. Putting together a good team starts with hiring. Look for candidates that are experienced and have achieved things in their previous companies that you hope to achieve in your own. While you might have to pay higher salaries for experienced employees, it’s a worthwhile investment.

You should also provide proper training and guidance to your sales employees. Sales coaching will help them to improve their skills and do their best work for your company.

2. Keep your customers happy to get referrals.

Your customers will sell for you if your company maintains a high standard of customer service. They’ll tell all their friends and family about your products if your company impresses them and provides both great products and service. So make sure that customer satisfaction is a priority in your company. Fulfill your customer’s needs and exceed their expectations.

If your customer service needs improvement, try identifying areas that need some work. Give your customers ways to express their feedback through reviews and surveys. Pay attention to what they have to say. Then make changes to give your customers a better experience with your company. Put in place clear, effective service standards for your team to implement. That way you’ll be able to maintain consistency and quality in your company.

3. Make sure to adapt your sales strategy.

To keep up with the competition, you need to have a good sales strategy and make changes to your strategy when necessary. What worked a few years ago probably won’t now. From new competitors to shifting consumer habits, your sales strategy needs to change with the times.

Creating the right message is key to winning over potential customers. They might not immediately recognize how your product could benefit them or solve a problem that they experience. With your messaging, you can show them why they need this product. It’s critical that you constantly hone and adapt your company’s messaging to appeal to your customers. Don’t just tell them how great your product is; show them how it will improve their life, and highlight the features that differentiate it from the competition.

Make a point of reviewing your sales strategy regularly and adjusting it to achieve better results. The right sales strategy will get you more sales.

4. Review results as a team.

Your sales team should be working together to reach their sales goals. But if your team isn’t united or some are struggling more than others, it might be the result of a lack of communication and teamwork. Make it a point to regularly review company sales as a team. Exchange feedback and allow everyone to express what’s working for them and what struggles they’re dealing with. If certain members of the team aren’t making enough sales, analyze what the reasons might be. Help them to identify any weak points and give them the tools they need to succeed. Perhaps a high-performing member of the team could offer them some guidance and coaching for a time to improve their results. If your team can work together and everyone is doing their best to achieve their goals, you’ll be able to achieve the best results.

5. Set small goals to reach bigger ones.

Your big-picture sales goals might be overwhelming to your sales team if you don’t give them a clear path to achieving them. Break down your objectives into small, actionable goals that your team can easily reach. Small goals are easier to work towards and help your team to understand how to reach the bigger ones.

Increasing your company’s sales is important if you want to grow your business and reach your revenue goals. But it takes work and consistency to sell more. You’ll need the right team and excellent customer service. Work closely with your team and help them to see where to improve and what they’re doing well. Give them goals and help them to succeed. Follow these tips to improve your sales and grow your business.

4 Tips That Will Make You a Better Cook

Cooking delicious homemade meals takes skill and practice. Everyone loves eating a rich flavorful dish in the comfort of their own home, but not everyone is a natural in the kitchen. While some people seem to have a natural talent for combining flavors and ingredients and cooking them to perfection, others seem to burn everything they put in the oven. But whether you’re a good cook or not, there are plenty of ways you can improve.

Learning new techniques and recipes is a challenge, but it’s worth the effort. With patience, you’ll soon be hosting dinner parties and showing off your cooking skills to all your friends. Here are a few things you can do to become a better cook.

1. Choose quality ingredients.

Your ingredients are what make your meal a meal. The quality of your ingredients will affect the taste, color, and texture of your dish, so don’t just go for whatever’s cheap. Choosing high-quality ingredients will elevate your recipes and make them even more flavorful.

How can you choose high-quality ingredients? For produce, try to buy from local vendors. If your city has a farmer’s market, that’s a great place to get quality produce as well as other locally sourced ingredients. Choose meat and seafood that’s fresh. To find high-quality ingredients, you may have to shop in a few different places. Compare the quality and prices of a few different grocery stores to find out which ones have the best ingredients at the best price. If you want to try a recipe that’s from a different country or cuisine, some ingredients may be more difficult to find. If you have any ethnic grocery stores close by, you can visit them to find the ingredients you need. For example, if you are making Texas style tamales, try looking for the ingredients at a Hispanic market. You’ll be able to find the most authentic ingredients and your recipe will turn out even better.

2. Follow a recipe.

There are an almost infinite number of recipes on the internet and in recipe books. Many recipes have been carefully crafted by professionals who have tested lots of different ways to make a dish and settled on one that provides the best results. For amateur cooks, recipes can help you to learn exactly how to combine ingredients to make a flavorful, delicious dish.

If you’re not the best cook, start out with an easy recipe. Follow all of the instructions and use the same ingredients. If you’re unfamiliar with a certain technique, search the internet for a tutorial or a video. Once you’ve got the basics down, you can try more complex recipes.

3. Use the right tools.

Having a well-equipped kitchen doesn’t make you a Masterchef, but it is a good idea if you want to improve your cooking. Using the right tools will help you achieve the best chopping and cooking techniques. Good quality knives and a large cutting board are a good place to start. Certain recipes may require special kitchen appliances, which you can buy as you begin to try new recipes. A stand mixer is important for baking and making frosting and whipped cream. Food processors are also very useful. A variety of large and small pots and pans is also necessary to keep on hand.

It’s also essential to take good care of your kitchen equipment. Hand wash anything that can’t go in the dishwasher. Learn how to season and maintain cast iron pans. And always keep your knives sharpened.

4. Understand how to make flavorful dishes.

As you try new recipes and practice in the kitchen, pay attention to the ingredient combinations in your recipes. Learning how to properly combine salt, acid, sweetness, and other flavors to make a complex dish is a must if you want to be a good cook. Learn how to use spices and herbs in your cooking to create dishes with a depth of flavor. Don’t limit yourself to salt and pepper. There are so many delicious spices that can transform your dishes.

Once you’ve learned how to balance flavors and use spices correctly, you’ll be able to modify your recipes to your liking, or even try making your own dishes.

While it may seem like some people are born skillful chefs, don’t become disheartened if your cooking is mediocre. Instead, look for ways to improve and of course, practice your skills. Use the best ingredients you can find for your recipes. Follow your recipe’s instructions closely to learn the best cooking techniques. Get yourself some good kitchen equipment so you always have the right tools on hand for any recipe. Learn how to build and balance flavors in a dish and use a variety of spices for the best flavor profiles. If you follow these tips, you’re cooking will improve in no time.

Top Tips for Earning Money While You Travel

Are you tired of the traditional 9-5 job? Do you want to see the world while earning money? There are actually many ways to make money while traveling – and here are some of the best methods for doing so. Whether you’re a digital nomad or just looking to pick up a few extra bucks on the side, there is an option for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next trip today!

Many people want to travel, whether it’s somewhere nearby they’ve never been to before, or across the world. But most think that money is going to be a prohibitive factor. Yet if you’re willing to think outside the box and think creatively, it’s possible to travel on a shoestring. And even if you’re not a budget traveler, there are still ways you can make your travels work for you and earn you some money while you’re having fun. Here are some top tips on how to earn money while you travel.

Become a Freelancer

With the power of the internet, freelancing has become a viable option for many people looking to make money while they travel. If you have a skill or service that can be done remotely, such as writing, design, web development, photography, etc., you can easily make money while you explore different places. Many people are hiring virtual assistants (VAs) these days, and you don’t necessarily need formal qualifications to do this, although you do need to be very organized. There are many freelance websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer, which can help you find jobs.

Teach English Abroad

If you’re a native English speaker, teaching English abroad is a great way to make money while you travel. Many countries are looking for English teachers and there are lots of opportunities available worldwide. You don’t need to be a certified teacher or have a degree in linguistics, although it might help. Most of the time, all you need is a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, and you can be well on your way to teaching English abroad.

Get A Great Credit Card Deal

Using a credit card is sometimes the best way to get the most out of your travels. There are many credit cards that offer rewards and perks, such as cash back, free flights and hotels, or even discounts on rental cars, so look out for travel credit card offers that could work for you. Research different credit cards and figure out which one is the best for your specific needs. That way, you can get the most out of every dollar and maximize your travel funds.

Rent Out Your Home Or Room

If you’re planning on taking an extended trip, you might want to consider renting out your home or room. This is a great way to make some extra money while you’re away and can help cover some of your expenses. There are many sites such as Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway where you can list your property and make some money from it.

Start A Travel Blog

If you’re passionate about travel, why not share your adventures with the world? Starting a travel blog is a great way to make money while you travel. You can monetize your blog through affiliate marketing, ad revenue, sponsored posts, and more. Plus, you can share your tips and experiences with others who are looking for advice on their own trips.

Take Part-Time Jobs

If you want to make more money while you travel, taking part-time jobs is a great way to do so. There are many opportunities available from teaching English to working in a bar or restaurant. You can also look for seasonal jobs such as harvesting fruits and vegetables or working on a farm. Doing this will help you make some extra money while immersing yourself in the local culture. Some of these jobs will also provide accommodation and food.

Become an Au Pair

Another great way to make money while traveling is to become an au pair. This involves working for a family overseas and looking after their children in exchange for room and board. This is a great way to learn about the culture and customs of another country while making money. You don’t need any particular qualifications, just a willingness to take on the responsibility.

Get Crafty

If you’re a crafty person, you can make money while traveling by selling handmade items such as jewelry, postcards or knick-knacks. You can either set up shop in a local market or list your items for sale on sites such as Etsy, Redbubble and ArtFire. This is a great way to make some extra money while you’re traveling and show off your creative skills.

Do Odd Jobs

Finally, there are always odd jobs that you can do while traveling to make a bit of extra cash. You can look for casual labor such as gardening, cleaning, or handyman work. You can also look for babysitting jobs or pet-sitting jobs in the local area. This is a great way to make extra money while you travel and get to know the locals.

Whatever route you choose to take, it’s important to remember that making money while you travel takes some planning and effort. But if you’re willing to put in the work, it can be a great way to make your travels more enjoyable and rewarding. Good luck!

How to Save Money on Your Household Expenses

How much money do you think your household spends each month? If you’re like most people, you probably have no idea. The fact is, most households are spending way too much money on unnecessary expenses. Here are some ways that you can save money on your monthly expenses. By following these tips, you can start to put more money back in your pocket each month!

Many households don’t keep a close eye on what they spend on a monthly basis. And contracts we have with utilities and other service providers have gradually crept up in price over time, meaning that we have started to pay over the odds for certain aspects of daily life.

If you suspect you are paying more than you should on household expenses, here are some ways you can start saving money.

1. Look For Deals On Utility Bills

Many utilities companies offer discounts if you switch providers, or even if you’re just willing to bundle multiple services. Compare what you’re paying with other providers in your area to see if you can get a better deal. The main utilities most people have contracts with are: electricity, gas, internet, phone, and cable. Find broadband plans, research energy deals, and generally look at better deals you can get for each of your utilities. Then ask each of the best providers if they can bundle some utilities together too.

2. Renegotiate Your Insurance Rates

Insurance rates can vary from provider to provider. If your rates have been steadily going up, then it’s time to shop around for some better deals. Speak with different providers about the coverage that you need and compare the rates to see who can offer you a better deal. The main types of insurance most people have are: homeowner’s, car, health and life. Again, some insurance providers will offer more than one type of insurance, and they may be able to offer you a deal if you bundle some together.

3. Shop Around For Groceries

Grocery shopping is one of the biggest expenses for households, but if you shop around you can find some great deals. Compare prices across different stores and online retailers to see where you can get the best deals. Check out different sales and discounts, and take advantage of any coupons you can find. Additionally, consider buying in bulk when it comes to non-perishable items.

4. Cut Back On Dining Out

Eating out is a great way to enjoy some time with friends and family, but it can be a major drain on your budget. Try cutting back on the number of times you eat out each month and make more meals at home. You’ll be surprised at how much money you can save just by cooking more meals yourself.

5. Monitor Your Water Usage

Most households use more water than they realize on a daily basis. From taking long showers to over-watering the lawn, it all adds up. Monitor your water usage and take steps to reduce it, such as fixing any leaks, installing low-flow shower heads, and using a water meter. These small changes can add up to big savings on your water bill.

6. Check Your Mobile Phone Plan

Mobile phone plans can be very expensive, so it pays to shop around. Compare the features and pricing of different plans to find one that fits your needs and budget. Also, consider whether you really need all the bells and whistles that come with a more expensive plan. Many people can get by with a basic plan and still get all the features they need. If you need a new mobile phone, consider buying it outright if you can afford to, rather than paying it off on a monthly basis. You will almost always save money in the long-run by doing it this way.

7. Look Into Refinancing

If you have a mortgage or other large loan, it may be worth looking into refinancing to get a better rate. You can also consider consolidating some of your debts into one loan with a lower interest rate. This is an easy way to save money on your monthly payments, and it can help you pay off your debts faster.

8. Review Your Automobile Expenses

If you own a vehicle, you likely have a lot of expenses associated with it. From gas and maintenance, to car insurance and registration fees, the costs can add up quickly. Review your expenses and see if you can make any cuts. Consider taking public transit or carpooling to save on gas, and shop around for better auto insurance deals.

9. Look For Discounts On Entertainment

Going to the movies, having a night out at a bar, or going to a concert can be expensive. Before you go, try to look for discounts or deals that you can take advantage of. Many venues offer special discounts on certain days or time periods, so do your research before you go. You can also try buying tickets in advance to avoid long lines and extra fees.

10. Open A Savings Account

Finally, it’s important to start saving for the future. Open a savings account with your bank and make regular deposits into it. Set aside a certain amount each month and make it a goal to save as much as you can. This will help build your savings and give you some financial security in case of emergencies.

By following these tips, you can start to save money on your monthly expenses and build a strong financial foundation. It may take some time and effort, but budgeting and saving will pay off in the long run.