Should I Send a Thank You Note After An Interview?
On average there are around 118 people applying for the same job you are. Of those first 118 who send in a resume, the typical employer will pull in 6-10 candidates for the final interview. If you can make your resume stand out and get to that final interview phase, the end of the interview isn’t the last chance you have to leave an impression. In such a competitive job market, standing out is crucial.
Your job during the interview process is to make employers know that you are the one they want. They aren’t hiring a resume, they are hiring a person-that’s why letting yourself be seen and knowing how to be seen is so important. The Quiggle Assessment was created for you to know how to articulate to jobs who you are, and why they should want you.
The interview is when you have to shine and leave them with a good impression of who you are. However, the chance to make an impression doesn’t end when you walk out the door. Thank you cards or emails allow you to put your name back in their minds and show more of yourself. So, should you send them? Absolutely.
While emailing is by far easier, a hand written letter is not only more personal, but shows a level of thoughtfulness and initiative that goes beyond an email. The habit of sending thank you notes is one that mothers everywhere have worked to instill in their children but they often stop after the birthday parties do. A handwritten note shows not only gratitude but intentionality, two things that any employer would want to see from a potential candidate.
What should it say?
Since the purpose of a thank you note is to show gratitude, do just that. They could have chosen to interview any of the other applicants, but you made the cut-thank them for that. Take note during the interview of any topic discussed that you can mention, this shows an attentiveness to detail and intentionality that is admirable. The note doesn’t have to be long, but know that the more you show yourself the more they have to become familiar with. When you go above and beyond it says to a company that that is the kind of person you are. Mention what it is about the job that excites you and let them know you are thankful for their time.
How Should You Send It?
Obviously, snail mail isn’t always the most practical, so if you have a way of dropping the letter off at the office it may be ideal. Just because you can’t send a thank you hand written note doesn’t mean an email can’t be done well also. Be prompt with following up however as the decision for who to hire can be swift. Very often people don’t want to seem desperate, but it’s important to remember that desperation and desire are not one and the same. There is nothing wrong with making the things you want clear.
At the end of the day, gratitude goes a long way and there is nothing you have to lose in showing it.
Lead Well,
Is This the Right Job for You?
While in the midst of a job hunt it may not feel like it-but the truth is there are hundreds of jobs and career paths to aim yourself towards. There are jobs you never would have even thought existed but could be the perfect match for you. Knowing where to aim your attention in a job search allows you to put your best foot forward in chasing down the opportunity-but before you start running full speed, is this the right job for you?
If you’re going to want something, it’s important to really want it. When we have a strong desire our determination becomes an asset in chasing it down and making our dreams a reality. So how can you know if a job is a good fit for you?
Will this job mean a large life change such as moving or crazy hours?
Before you get too deep into the application process, ask yourself what you are willing to sacrifice for this opportunity. Do this early because when you decide that yes, this is something worth doing, you’re already setting your determination into action.
Is the challenge of it one you know you can accept and excel at?
A lot of times job postings include expectations if not short job descriptions. It’s important to take note of these and identify whether or not this is an occasion you can rise to. When asking this question of yourself, it’s important to be sure of your answer. If you truly think it’s outside your realm of capabilities-maybe it’s time to take a step back. However, if this is something you know you can do well, hold on tight to that. Let that confidence bleed through the rest of the application process from the way you write your resume to the way you speak on the phone. It isn’t about being confident so much as it is about portraying competency to your potential employer. Once you’ve answered this question, your mission is to find various ways to make it known that you are not just going to meet their expectations-but exceed them.
Does the opportunity excite you?
There is so much in this life that has the capability to excite us-and your work can and should be one of them. If you’re talking about this opportunity to a group of friends and feel yourself getting worked up (in a good way) that’s always a good sign. Where your excitement goes, your dedication and joy follows. If the idea of having this job does nothing for you, ask yourself about the direction you’re going in and decide if it’s maybe time to pivot. At the end of the day, you have this one brilliant life to live, make your day to day life a part of the brilliant ordinary. And if you can’t, it is never too late to find what sparks your passion.
When all is said and done, your life is in your hands and the way you choose to live it can either be done with intention or without. But the ladder is a lot less fulfilling. Chase what you want and let the things you don’t want slip away. Just remember that your life purpose is not to work, it’s to live and love.
Lead Well,
What to Include in Your Cover Letter
The goal of a cover letter is to stand out to employers and secure yourself an interview. That, along with your resume is the first taste of who you are that potential employers see. It’s one of the first chances you have to make an impression that sticks yet so many people struggle to write one that is compelling. A cover letter is meant to entice employers to want to learn more about you and convince them to want to meet with you or read your full resume.
Any chance you have to allow yourself to stand out is one worth taking-but what should you be writing in your cover letter?
For starters, you should not just be sending the same cover letter to every job, while you can do this, it does better to write a specific cover letter for the specific job you are shooting for. What is it that you want to be doing? Why do you think you can do it best? Every job and company is different and when you write a cover letter, often times copy and pasting the same one you’ve been using for years isn’t the best way to go about it.
That being said, here are a couple of things you can include in your Cover Letter to stand out:
Previous Experience:
As with your resume, including aspects of work you’ve done in the past can be useful in appealing yourself to a new position. While a resume is typically done in a list like format, the Cover Letter is your chance to go more in depth about the kind of work you’ve done in the past. While on your resume you may list your previous duties on your cover letter you can go more in depth about what those duties gave to both you and your previous employers. Take what you learned from those positions and explain how those experiences will allow you to do this new job in a way others maybe cant.
Skillsets Gained:
Your previous experiences likely taught you things in regards to specific skills-talk about them! Explain how what you used to do has made you as a worker even more valuable to potential future employers. Your skills and the specific way you can use them is what employers are looking for. How is it that you can make it clear that what you already know how to do can contribute to what you want to do for this new job. Tailor the skills you talk about having around the job you are applying for.
Your Strengths as a Worker
Aside from all that you have to offer in regards to your experience and skills, the cover letter is a great place to explain what it is about you that makes you an asset. Are you good with people? Do you love to write? How is it that you view interactions with others? Your unique personality gives you an edge, but only if you know how to communicate it. This is where something like The Quiggle Assessment can help you. Through helping you identify the words to use in describing your strengths the Quiggle Assessment gives you the confidence necessary to portray yourself with eloquence and confidence. What is it about who you are as a person that allows you to excel at what it is you’re trying to do?
Why You Will Excel
With everything listed above it’s important to state clearly what it is about you that makes you the right fit for this job. What is it about the company that you see in yourself as well? Why does this kind of job excite you and propel you to exceed? From the skills you have acquired through your experience to the specific strengths you possess as an individual, use the last part of your cover letter as a last chance to stand out. Make it clear why you not only want the job, but why they should want you as an employee.
It’s easy to see a Cover Letter as just another necessary document, but the way you write it allows you to stand out and make yourself known. Don’t let yourself be another resume in a stack, let them know the kind of person you are. Let yourself be seen and don’t be afraid to let it be known why you want this job and how you are the best candidate for it.
When an employer can see you as a real person they are less likely to brush you off as just another paper in a stack.
Want to know how to articulate who you are, your strengths, and a power pitch? The Quiggle Assessment was created for just that. Take it today to learn how to market yourself with authenticity and confidence.
Lead Well,
How Do I Make My Resume Stand Out?
Every new job posting is exciting at first glance, but that excitement is often replaced with discouragement after seeing how many have already applied for said position. With countless applicants piling up for the position you want-how do you keep your own resume from getting lost to the masses?
The important thing to start with is the purpose of the resume. A resume is meant to tell someone not just what you have done, but what you can do and essentially make a case for yourself to get the job. Anyone can make a list of all the jobs they’ve had in the past and slap their name on the top of it, but your resume is likely the first impression a recruiter has of you-don’t bore them. Don’t just present yourself as a potential employee, but as the valuable and unique individual person you are.
Your individuality is the only thing none of the other applicants have to offer, but you have to present it. Here are a couple of things you can add to your resume to help you stand out:
Your Personal Power Pitch:
At the top of every resume is a name and contact information, from there, the eyes follow the natural flow of the resume from previous jobs to skills, etc. Your name is the first thing they learn about you, but what if below your name you add a short and powerful sentence about who you are and what you have to give? A power pitch is meant to convey eloquently who you are in a way that sparks curiosity to hear more. It’s a way to turn your name on the top of the paper, into a living and breathing person for the one reading it to learn about. When you take the Quiggle Assessment you are walked through the process of creating your power pitch because we believe that there is a powerful confidence to be found when you know how to present yourself. What is it that you do? Why do you do it? And how do you do it? Finding the right words is vital due to the fact that you only really have space for 1-2 sentences at the top of a resume.
Volunteer Experience:
While it may sound frivolous to include in a job application, volunteer experience allows you to materialize more and more as a real person to the one reading your resume. Remember, the person reading your resume has likely been reading them all day, they’ve seen countless names-and in a pile of names, make them see you as a person. A huge part of the human experience is empathy, when you volunteer you are giving your most valuable asset, time, to a cause you obviously care about. Your volunteer experience makes it clear that you are not just a worker, but a member of a community. Let your volunteer work speak for you in the way it allows your passions and soft spots to be seen.
Skills AND Achievements:
Typically on your resume there is a space to explain the specific skill sets you possess that can be of value to an employer. This is without a doubt a space on your resume where you can stand out. And while skills are crucial, it can also be useful to mention the things you have achieved in your life either professionally or personally that you’re particularly proud of. What projects have you done in the past that lit your soul on fire? What’s something you excel at in the day to day with others that would add to a workplace environment? Don’t just tell them what you’ve done, but also what you’re proud of.
Enticing Descriptions of Past Responsibilities:
In the world of resume writing, not everyone comes to it as a copywriter-but if you want to stand out, it may be time to take a couple notes on writing skillfully. Under each previous job you have it’s important to include what your duties were at the time. While it may feel tempting or even logical to simply write down “Handled customer service calls'', the fact of the matter is that a lot of people do just that-but how do YOU do it? What exactly did you do for customers that used to call you? Finding the right adjectives and compelling verbiage to use allows your standard run of the mill duties to stand out.
Conclusion:
At the end of the day, your resume is your first impression. With so many people gunning for the same positions you are, your best bet is to portray your individuality. Let your resume show who you are and what you care about. What is it that you want this person to know about you? Let yourself be known, not just your skill sets or previous jobs.
Lead Well,
Why Do Job Seekers Need to Take The Quiggle Assessment?
A well-written resume, cover letter, and face-to-face interview are not enough for employers to hire you in 2021. Companies no longer want to absorb the high cost of a poor hiring decision and turnover. They want to be more precise and efficient. Your education, skills, and previous experiences are still important; however, predicting future success also depends on candidates’ personalities. Personality tests like The Quiggle Assessment help companies improve candidate screening, identify quality applicants, and increase employee retention.
How do job seekers benefit by taking The Quiggle Assessment?
Whether you are applying for your first job, changing careers, or working your way up the corporate ladder, you have to get noticed in the applicant pool. The Quiggle Assessment identifies your strengths, discerns which careers are ideal for you, helps you stand out, and gives you the tools to market yourself.
By taking The Quiggle Assessment, you will make better-informed choices and be one step ahead of the businesses that use personality assessments as a hiring tool. The Quiggle Assessment measures your emotional intelligence, teamwork abilities, adaptability, work ethic, and motivation. By creating a Success Slogan and Personalized Success Story, you will attract a company’s attention by touting your finest traits with confidence. You will also create a dynamic narrative that hooks potential employers and shows off your value and relevancy.
Here is a letter I received from a college graduate named Jarvis:
My name is Jarvis. I’m 27 years old with a degree in political science and history. Two months ago, I was applying for a fellowship to advance my career. My mentor encouraged me to take The Quiggle Assessment, and it completely changed my outlook on my professional and personal life.
I have always been a nurturing person taking care of everyone, so it was no surprise that my Success Symbol was The Guardian. However, the real magic happened when I worked through the Power-Pitch Generator. I had no idea The Guardian was also a leader and a highly desired personality in a team environment. The Quiggle Assessment was an eye-opening experience for me because it made me realize I can lead a group in my way.
By using keywords and a powerful hook, I was able to articulate my strengths with ease. I embraced my conscientious, authentic, and caring personality and understood how strongly I believed in bringing multiple people together to achieve an optimal outcome.
The day after I took The Quiggle Assessment, I had an interview for this fellowship, and one of the first questions the directors asked me was, “What do you think it takes to be a leader?” I confidently responded by telling them how I led, rather than generic personality strengths everybody mentions when they think of leadership. I described my authentic self and said, “The way I lead is by collaboration. I believe when you pull the team together and get them working towards the same goals, you will have greater success.”
I was excited that I had stellar answers to all their questions and that my responses highlighted my personality. I walked away from the interview with assurance. A week later, I got the position.
Since then, I have encouraged many friends to take The Quiggle Assessment. I’m very grateful for how much more confidence I have in myself and all my future endeavors.
Thank you,
Jarvis
How does The Quiggle Assessment lead to better hiring decisions?
The Quiggle Assessment provides valuable insights into candidates’ behavioral tendencies, how well they work in a team environment, and if they fit into a company’s culture.
Businesses can assess candidates’ personalities for a wide range of job opportunities. By utilizing the results from the assessment, employers can predict employee performance successfully. They can select candidates who enhance their current teams by choosing employees with different personalities and Success Symbols from their current employees. Moreover, companies can increase the quality and retention of their new hires through this screening process.
What are some qualities The Quiggle Assessment reveals about job seekers?
By utilizing the assessment, companies can accurately assess personality traits like stability, communication skills, honesty, leadership, motivation, critical thinking, sociability, passion for learning, curiosity, ambition, self-confidence, initiative, empathy, and creative thinking. The Quiggle Assessment combined with structured interviews can help companies focus on employee quality while reducing hiring and training costs.
What are the long-term benefits of utilizing The Quiggle Assessment?
The Quiggle Assessment helps measure characteristics, stability and develops employees. Businesses will know how much training employees require. The assessment also helps with team building by revealing each employee’s strengths and weaknesses and their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Furthermore, enterprises will understand future workforce development and planning by positioning employees in the roles that allow them to thrive.
Lead Well,
Seven Secrets For Successful Interviews
You scheduled your preliminary job interview with your dream company, and you are expecting your qualifications to speak for themselves.
Sorry to disappoint you, but you have eight seconds to make a lasting first impression and stand out in the applicant pool. Is this nerve-racking, or are you ready to focus on developing vital interviewing skills?
Here are seven secrets on how to form an authentic connection with your interviewer, clearly articulate your value to the company, and market the best version of you.
1. Do Your Homework
The more prepared you are before your interview, the more confident you will be during your interview. Start by researching details about the company through their website and recent press releases. Follow them on social media and set Google alerts to receive notices when the company appears in the news. Research the person or people interviewing you to understand their backgrounds and what you have in common with them.
Ensure you understand the company goals and how you are the best fit for the position you want. Highlight the specific requirements in the job description and align them with your skills. Know the details listed in your resume and quantify your accomplishments wherever possible. Be ready to submit a list of references. It shows you are prepared to be hired immediately. Prepare a list of insightful questions and, most importantly, conduct a mock interview with a family member or friend to gain confidence in answering questions.
2. Nonverbal First Impression
We live in a visual society. Plan your wardrobe the night before and make sure you know the workplace dress code. That includes shining your shoes and keeping your nails groomed. Always arrive at least fifteen minutes early. Carry five copies of your printed resume, a notebook, and two pens. It is more important to maintain eye contact, but you want the option to take notes if needed.
From the moment you arrive, you are being watched. Smile and have confident body language. Treat everyone you meet with respect, from security guards to front desk staff. Even though they are not in charge of hiring you, the hiring manager may ask for feedback. And when you meet the interviewer, offer a firm handshake.
3. Your Success Slogan is Your Hook
Believe in their dreams. We all have visions for our kids and what we want them to accomplish. I would argue that they sometimes mimic our unfulfilled dreams or our passions.
The Quiggle Assessment helps you attract a company’s attention by touting your finest traits with relevancy and confidence. However, the only way to highlight your strengths is by first knowing what they are.
After completing The Quiggle Assessment, you will discover your Success Symbol. You will either be the Creator, Guardian, Royal, Director, Explorer, or Analyst. Knowing your Success Symbol and key characteristics will help you understand yourself and describe which situations allow you to perform at your peak.
The Quiggle Assessment will help you unlock the words to describe your authentic self and differentiate yourself from your competition. Using the Power Pitch Generator, you will select four out of twenty adjectives that suit you best. Then out of those four, you will choose the one that highlights how you want others to view you. To create a Success Slogan, you will then add a noun and verb from a list to create a sentence about you.
We live in a swipe society, and if you want people to focus on you with genuine positive attention, you have to create a powerful hook. For example, The Creator’s Success Slogan could be “I deliver innovative solutions.” By having an authentic way to brand yourself and play up your strengths, you will be able to share your dynamic hook during your interview.
4. Generate Your Personalized Success Story
In almost every interview, you will be asked to describe yourself. It is a combination of hard and soft skill sets that will get you noticed above your peers. You want to make sure you have your power pitch ready to communicate who you are and the value you bring to the company. The Quiggle Assessment provides a step-by-step approach to boosting your brand and creating your Personalized Success Story.
When you can describe yourself uniquely in five powerful sentences, you will highlight your strengths, skills, and achievements. You will be able to communicate unique attributes, build trust in your potential employer, and prove that you are the right person for your desired role.
For example, the Creator’s Personalized Success Story could look like this. “I generate novel ideas and deliver innovative solutions. By communicating an expressive vision with a step-by-step approach and previous successes in my career, others feel enthusiastic about being a part of my team. I am creative and seasoned in television, digital programming, animation, media writing and thrive when setting objectives and reaching targets. My witty dialogue keeps my working environments, and teams motivated and inspired them to be their very best. I value a diligent, out-of-the-box approach to bringing ideas to fruition and achieving previously unimaginable goals.”
It is essential to control your narrative. You decide what the world thinks, feels, and says about you. It would be best if you did not leave your future up to chance. You hold the superpower to take yourself to greater heights.
Use the Quiggle Assessment to help create your pitch.
5. L.S.D.D.
As a business owner, I have created a dream interview. If someone walked into my office for an interview and used L.S.D.D., I would probably hire them on the spot. Time is valuable, and you cannot expect to have a lengthy interview. L.S.S.D. should only take you thirty seconds to articulate. I gave this advice to my two sons before job interviews.
L – Loyalty “Let me make this clear. I want this job, and I will be loyal to you and loyal to this company.” Every employer wants to feel like you want to work with them, and you will have their back. If you can articulate your desire quickly with enthusiasm, it will get their attention. Potential employers need to know how you can make a positive impact on their company.
S – Show up. You want to make it known that you will be reliable and show up daily, both physically and mentally. An organization wants loyal and diligent employees. A true key to success is being noticed for being your authentic self.
D – Drama-Free. Every company is made up of all six Success Symbols. An employer needs to know that you possess the emotional intelligence to work efficiently with anyone and get along with your colleagues.
D – Do what is expected and work to exceed expectations. There is a hierarchy in most companies and a wish list of what your immediate supervisor (manager, V.P., C.E.O.) requires you to achieve. Let the interviewer know that you welcome their guidance and leadership and that you are capable of leading their teams.
6. Articulate Inspirational Stories About Yourself And Your Brand
We want our children to become upstanding, kind humans. Start by teaching your children about philanthropy through exposure to charities and volunteering. Provide positive reinforcement to nurture their cognitive-behavioral connection. They will become more grateful and generous, and less self-centered. Empower your children to contribute to your communities so they can be a part of something greater than themselves and truly make a difference.
These days, colleges are more focused on admitting students with a philanthropic background. As a bonus, it will boost your children’s chances of getting into a top college and make them more eligible for scholarships.
7. Turn the Tables
Companies expect you to ask questions. They need to know you are serious about working with them. Pose questions about company values, culture, and challenges. Ask your interviewer to describe their career with the company and highlight qualities that can make a candidate successful. Bring up questions about day-to-day responsibilities, how performance is measured, how departments collaborate, and current challenges the company faces. An interview is a two-way conversation; therefore, ask thoughtful and intelligent questions. End your interview by asking for business cards and the next steps. Follow up the day after with an email or personalized thank you letter.
These seven secrets to interviewing provide constructive tools to land your dream job. Being thoroughly prepared with research, your Success Slogan, Personalized Success Story, and compelling stories will allow you to control your narrative and stand out from other qualified applicants. Highlight and market the best version of yourself. I wish you much success!
Lead Well,
Eight Powerful Tips for Successful Parenting
There are no handbooks for being outstanding parents. Juggling responsibilities, balancing priorities, and attending to children’s needs are everyday things most parents do. However, here are eight powerful tips for successful parenting.
1. Walk the Walk
Set a good example by walking the walk regarding positive behavior, attitude, respect, and empathy. Your actions are more powerful than your words. Improve your listening and observation skills. Support what you say with comparable measures, provide rewards, and celebrate successes. Children learn through imitation. They watch everything, thus be the person you want your children to be.
2. A Warm Welcome Home
When anyone in my family enters our home at any time, we are greeted with a cheerful welcome. When we open our door, we hear every family member say, “Dad’s home, everyone!” or “Justin’s home!” or “Mom’s home!” with much gratitude and enthusiasm.
This fun ritual started when the kids were young. My wife Luanne heard a friend of ours say, “When I come home each day, the only thing that greets me is the dog”. She felt so sorry for him that she started this warm welcome home ritual, and it caught on. We have been doing this for at least twenty years. Whenever I feel down or depressed, I have to admit I sometimes walk out the front door and walk right back in, just to be greeted. It feels that good!
3. Circle the Wagons: Your Home is Your Safe Space
From the time my children were little, I would always say, “Look outside. That is where you compete; we never compete in here. Our home is a safe space. No hate is allowed in our home. We must always have each other’s back even for the small stuff like toys or phones disappearing. There are no problems that are too big and no challenges that are too great that we can’t solve together.” My whole family bought into it, and we have each other’s back.
It is essential to keep your home a safe space, a haven where family members treat each other with love and attentiveness. Children need a place to discuss what happened during the day, their successes, what they accomplished, and the pitfalls. It is integral to their emotional and mental well-being.
Some topics your children will discuss will be intense, but it is important not to over-react. Being empathetic about their feelings will reassure them that they are not alone, ignored, or rejected. Children are more likely to open up willingly and fearlessly in a secure home.
4. Be Non-Judgmental
Since adults have more experience than children, it is important not to judge. Children have different ideas, approaches, and solutions. They can come across as juvenile and immature at times. It is essential not to make any derogatory comments to your children.
Instead, support where they are in their lives, and guide them without passing judgment. Allow children to tackle their issues and give them time and space before giving them advice. Moreover, please do not dismiss the importance of the topic they are discussing. It might seem trivial to you but very important to your children.
Set the foundation to encourage your children to follow their passions with perseverance. It gives them a belief in themselves and builds self-esteem and confidence.
5. Encourage Their Dreams and Not Yours
Believe in their dreams. We all have visions for our kids and what we want them to accomplish. I would argue that they sometimes mimic our unfulfilled dreams or our passions. The sooner we can get our kids to identify their true passions and support them, the better life will be for everyone. This topic is a tough one for most people, including myself. Once I changed my mindset, our family developed a closer emotional connection.
My daughter, Corinne, decided at age twelve that she wanted to become a pro volleyball player. I supported and nurtured her passion, but I also gave her the responsibility to work hard to pursue her dream and turn her vision into reality.
6. Schedule a Meeting
Each one of my kids has their “things” that interest them, and they love to do. It is funny because they have the same parents and upbringing, but all three are unique. As my children grew up, I discussed my concerns, offered advice, and talked about important issues frequently, as it came to my head. However, to them it felt like I was nagging them throughout the entire day!
Until one day, I had an epiphany! I approached all three of my kids and said, “From now on, we will schedule a time to discuss things, and during that time, we can communicate our concerns and debate. I am going to love you and be the best Dad I can be.” For the last many years, this has worked out very well, and it took a huge burden off of me. I can relax knowing that we can still communicate in a positive and controlled way, but at a pace that was comfortable to all of us.
7. Your Children Are Tomorrow’s Leaders
Teach children accountability, negotiation skills, and weigh the pros and cons to make informed decisions. Emphasize effective communication, expose them culturally, and help them find invaluable mentors to nurture other skill sets and methods to success.
Show them how to find balance in their lives by participating in team activities inside and outside their school. Guide them in creating and achieving goals through brainstorming, vision boards, project planning, and execution. It will serve them well throughout their lives.
8. Promote Philanthropy
We want our children to become upstanding, kind humans. Start by teaching your children about philanthropy through exposure to charities and volunteering. Provide positive reinforcement to nurture their cognitive-behavioral connection. They will become more grateful and generous, and less self-centered. Empower your children to contribute to your communities so they can be a part of something greater than themselves and truly make a difference.
These days, colleges are more focused on admitting students with a philanthropic background. As a bonus, it will boost your children’s chances of getting into a top college and make them more eligible for scholarships.
Parenting is one of the most challenging and most fulfilling roles we will play in our lives. We are least prepared but know your efforts will make a significant impact and improve family relationships.
Lead Well,
The Quiggle Assessment™
I want to introduce you to a passion project I have been working on for over ten years called “The Quiggle Assessment™.”
I have been utilizing it at my speaking engagements with business owners and conferences with high school youth. It has changed the lives of students, job seekers and company leaders by helping them create their personalized Success Story. Here is what my satisfied customers have to say about this innovative personality assessment. And please tune into my podcast later this month where I show you how I have witnessed “The Quiggle Assessment™” change the world.
Students
The Quiggle Assessment™ gave me the confidence to write compelling essays highlighting my strengths. I applied to sixteen universities articulating my uniqueness in my applications. But this is not how my journey began...
I was finishing up my Junior year of high school and eager to be a senior. I knew it would be one of the most exciting times in my life. As I started applying to top colleges, I began feeling anxious and stressed. My applications were weak, and I could not find the words to make me stand out. When I thought about possibly leaving my family and most of my friends for four years, I became depressed.
I am usually a confident person. I have a 3.7 G.P.A., play basketball and edit my school’s digital newspaper. I even spent a summer with my youth group in Europe. I am well rounded but struggled with my college applications.
My Economics teacher noticed how overwhelmed I was and introduced me to The Quiggle Assessment™. It was only 21 questions, and the results helped me discover my Success Symbol, The Explorer. I am a daring, resilient, adventurous, and an ambitious teenager. I wanted to one day be a CEO of a consulting company.
The Quiggle Assessment™ helped me create a Success Story to market myself using my character strengths. I got back on track and began writing essays with ease. I was able to market my distinctive traits.
The Quiggle Assessment™ guided me to dig deeper and discover who I truly am. And it made the college admissions process enjoyable. I can finally visualize my path to success.
Thanks,
Deepak Shah, Phoenix Arizona
Job Seekers
For the past five years, I have worked as a medical sales rep. It was fast-paced and exhilarating, but I had little life/work balance and never took a vacation. It was time for a change. I recently had my first child, and I needed a flexible schedule. The Quiggle Assessment™ helped me discover my passion and transition to a rewarding and lucrative healthcare management career.
Before discovering my Success Symbol, I was naive about creating an impactful online bio. I listed all my medical sales experience on my resume and got rejection letters and emails. I was shocked that my years of being a successful sales rep could not lead to a management role.
I excelled in academics and had a Master's degree in Spanish. I was one of the top reps in my region, but I could not create a resume and cover letter to show my strengths. One of the moms at my "Mommy and Me" group suggested The Quiggle Assessment™.
After learning my Success Symbol was "Director," it encouraged me to embrace my ambitious nature as well as my ability to be receptive and diplomatic. I was able to write a compelling Success Story using pivotal words highlighting my experiences. I aligned my online bio with the culture of the companies I applied to. I focused on my personality and values and was overjoyed when I received a call from the top healthcare consulting firm's vice president, welcoming me to their team as a Regional Manager.
The Quiggle Assessment™ showed me step by step how to create a hook and leave a memorable impression. I updated my bio with purpose and optimism. I rediscovered my true potential and made a successful career change. And best of all, my family and I are happy with my life/work balance.
Thank you.
Maria Luisa Sanchez, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Company Leaders
A year ago, I got hired at what I thought was my dream job, Vice President at a top consulting agency, but my team and I could not meet any of the quarterly numbers. I was on the verge of being fired.
A colleague introduced me to The Quiggle Assessment™. I took the test and encouraged my team to do the same.
My Success Symbol was the Guardian. I was elated to read about all my positive traits. Guardians are approachable and make others feel safe in their presence. They are authentic, dependable, loyal, and humble.
I was a mom of three high school kids at home, but I never thought of bringing those qualities to the workplace. I always tried to be rigid and emotionless in my business transactions.
The Quiggle Assessment™ allowed me to be my authentic self, solve problems, and cope with communication conflict much better than before because the assessment also made me aware of my weaknesses.
I had my entire team take the assessment and it turns out my team was filled with many of the Success Symbols, we just needed to learn how to capitalize on all of our personalities. Our brainstorm sessions became effortless and we had many new ideas on working efficiently. The internal politics faded away, and our focus was on our clients and productivity.
The Quiggle Assessment™ inspired me to be a more empathetic leader and motivated my ethnically and educationally diverse team to grow and surpass our goals. We expanded our creativity and problem-solving because every team member was engaged in our decision-making. I began seeing our work results and the positive impact we were making on our clients and the company.
Thank you!
Sandra Hoffman, Boston Massachusetts
Seven Questions Leaders Must Ask Before Making Big Decisions
Leaders are key decision-makers. Eventually, every CEO will face a choice that could either make or break their organization. To be successful, one must make significant decisions when the stakes are the highest.
What is your decision-making process?
If your answer is “I don’t know” or “I’m still working on it,” here are seven questions to jump-start your thinking. These are questions every leader must answer—either intentionally or intuitively, alone or collaboratively—when making big decisions.
1. Did previous decisions lead to success or failures?
History can inform your decision-making process. There have been situations when previous choices were invaluable, and when they failed. Knowing preceding results can help guide leaders to make sound decisions.
2. What problem are you solving?
It is crucial to identify and address the underlying needs that must be solved to achieve the objectives and reduce obstacles. Prioritize the problem and implement processes according to its impact and urgency.
3. Whom should you include?
Will executives, board members, and human resources be included in your core group? Or will your team consist of a few key members? Decide who the driver of the decision-making process is and the team’s makeup.
4. What are the benefits and critical risks in making this decision?
Before implementing any plans or procedures, know the potential impacts on the company and its employees. Leaders need to be conscious of who will be affected and how. Preparing for change ahead of time will keep you at an advantage. Address possible consequences by brainstorming various scenarios.
5. How will the decision be communicated to stakeholders and employees?
It is essential to express each point of the decision clearly and thoroughly. Schedule a meeting or conference call, create a project summary report, or send out a newsletter. Be aware of your audience and gear your delivery uniquely towards stakeholders and employees.
6. Are the possible solutions aligned with your company’s core values and corporate culture?
A company’s guiding principles determine workplace culture and identify the organization as a whole. They set the tone for the business. Misalignment can damage relationships and productivity. When making a decision, be sure it aligns with the company’s core values.
7. Who will be accountable for following through on the decision to lead to success?
This is a critical step in forming a collaborative, results-driven team with a clear vision and direction. Select key members who consistently communicate well with each other, review micro and macro goals, have the ability to adapt to change and accelerate performance and productivity.
What big decisions are on your horizon?
As you think about your leadership style and how you will apply these decision-making principles, remember these words by Franklin Roosevelt: “There are many ways of moving forward, but only one way of standing still.”
The bottom line is when making critical decisions; great leaders know what questions to ask. Not asking them can result in significant damage. Asking and getting enough timely answers usually results in significant opportunities and accomplishments.
Lead Well,
Five Strategies to Propel Team Members
The most powerful method to motivate others is to lead by example. Having an optimistic outlook and showing personal integrity can influence teams to adopt the same attitude. By comprehending what ignites people, leaders can inspire teams to perform at their peak enthusiastically. Here are five strategies to propel team members:
1. Delegate Responsibilities: Leaders need to remain vigilant every day. And employees require the space to perform at their best. Micromanaging others damages the effectiveness and achievements of teams. If employees have a clear understanding of the business’ vision, it will motivate them to work diligently. Critical information can be retrieved by any person in the company, including the bottom-up and collective wisdom. Delegating responsibilities demonstrates trust in employees and provides the freedom to utilize their skill sets and hold them accountable for the company’s success and failures.
2. Recognize Talent - Team members exceed their potential when leaders show faith in their competence and abilities. Creating a habit of praising and complimenting a job well done increases organizational engagement and recognition. Employees who receive credit regularly will work harder and feel more valued.
3. Schedule More One-On-One Time – Outstanding leaders show genuine interest in every member of their team. Developing personal connections will increase loyalty and motivation and strengthen relationships. Boost productivity and buy-in through the lost art of one-on-one conversations. By spending more time with your employees, you will discover their interests and aspirations and create opportunities for them to reach their short and long-term goals.
4. Provide Ongoing Training and Resources – If you want to grow, build, and advance your company, it is crucial to go above and beyond for your employees. By providing the finest workspace environment, team members will be more engaged and assiduous. Find out what employees need to be more efficient every day. Maybe it is flexibility by adjusting their hours, additional training or development programs, or the latest technology. And by investing in a mentorship program, teams will comprehend business goals on a larger scale and have a connected workforce.
5. Build a Purposeful Workplace – Ensure each person feels like their role and daily work are related to their individual and company’s greater purpose. Aside time during the week to discuss shared values and strategy alignment. Be available to be contacted for questions, projects, ideas, and feedback. Provide access to programs that provide meaningful knowledge and link performance with team goals.
These five strategies to propel team members will allow employees to feel valued and encourage the importance of teamwork. Having an empowered workforce will inspire everyone to work harder, build stronger connections, and lead your company towards extraordinary success.
Lead Well,
