A 1-Question Interview...

We live and operate in a virtual world. In this world, we usually have to interview employees or contractors through Skype of through over the phone. Well, I have one question that will help you pick the right person to hire for your next ‘new hire’ quest – regardless of the position.

So, what is the question? “How is who you are now consistent or inconsistent with the person you were at 10 years old?” Now, look at how they answer the question more than the answer itself. Here’s why; the journey they are on is important. If someone where to say, “When I was 10 I thought I’d be an attorney but I ended up being a computer programmer”- you can ask what happened, get more insight as to thought process, ability to follow through on goals, ability to be distracted easily, schooling for computer programming, accomplishments, etc.

If you pay attention to the journey, the self-descriptions, and what they feel are ‘life events’ of importance between 10 and now- you will discover a lot about the potential new hire and their ability to mesh well within your company’s culture.

Trust me, this question works. A great way to see how effective it is is to simply use it on someone close to you before you use it in an interview. Ask your kids, parents, friends the same question. You will see how much information you gain and learn about them within the scope of their answer(s).

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Greatness Defined...

I was asked recently how a woman could become or be defined as a great leader. Hmm. What does being a woman have to do with leading? No one ever asks a man how he can become a great leader. Why are we women singled out?

The truth is there are plenty of great women leaders out there and there are plenty of great male leaders out there. The test of leadership isn’t found within your DNA and birth sex, but defined by the following skills. Do you have them? If so, you’re a great leader.

1) You don’t care what people say, you have your vision and you are moving forward. This stands true only if your vision is positive, lifts others up and you’ve done research to have such a provocative opinion about your vision.

2) You collaborate, you don’t delegate. Anyone can delegate. Not everyone is humble enough to collaborate. You need collaboration with other people to build your brand, grow your business and improve your networking (in person and online) circle.

3) You are a life-long learner. If you didn’t throw your degree on the wall and announce “I’m done” then you are a life-long learned. Continued education is the key to being able to pivot your company when new technologies or methodologies are introduced.

You don’t have to be one sex or another to lead. You simply have to follow the three steps noted above to success.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett of HireIme.com

Your Virtual Office - Free Resources

More people are working from home or running their businesses out of their homes. It seems easy, it's not. At home you have more distractions. You're easily tempted to take an early lunch, chat up the mailman or watch Dr. Oz! If you create the perfect virtual office, you're more likely to stay on schedule.

1. Hire a virtual assistant. You can't do everything all of the time. You will need this assistant, especially as you grow. Even if you work for someone else, the virtual assistant can be your dirty little secret to staying on task and focus. I like this website (AskSunday) because the assistants work and are affordable. How affordable? Prices start at $130 a month! http://www.asksunday.com/services

2. A dedicated virtual office phone. You don't want one of your kids grabbing your business phone, right? I really enjoy the services of Grasshopper. Here's the link. http://www2.grasshopper.com/

Why I like Grasshopper;
A. Call forwarding to mobile phones - work from anywhere
B. Voicemails via email
C. $12.00 a month!

3. Obtain a professional mailing address. You don't want clients to think the packages they sent to you are sitting around on the dining table, do you? Even if this is the case, presentation is everything! I like Virtual Post Mail. Here's the link: http://www.virtualpostmail.com/tour/online-mailbox

This service collects your mail for you, allows you to preview it via email (great for those who travel often), and forwards the mail to your home address. The address is not a PO Box, which looks great on any business card or website. Pricing starts at $5.00 per month.

These are the basics for starting a virtual office. If you have more questions, or need recommendations, please get a hold of me via Twitter.

Happy Friday & I'll talk with you again on Monday!

Twyla

Don't Forget... I'm Speaking in #NYC

Work & Bomb Concerns

With the recent events in France (and around the world) would you know how to handle a bomb scare at work? Many people don't know what to do or how to react. The topic is so uncomfortable that many don't even want to think about it. Well, let me give you the basics. The best defense is an offense, which means thinking about the uncomfortable and knowing how to handle it.

1. First, if you take the call / threat - call 9-1-1- and then notify your boss.
2. Stay away from any specific area or packages. If a caller notes a certain part of a building on the phone, evacuate that area first.
3. Don't bother the first responders. They will provide information on an "as needed" basis. Make sure you give them all the details of the call or received threat and then take care of yourself and your employees. Don't ask questions or pull people away from their jobs.
4. Don't panic. This is easier said than done, but it is important to remain as calm as possible.

I know it is Friday. I know this topic isn't the easiest and by no means are these four steps (above) meant to cover every aspect of a bomb threat. But, if you can remember these basics, you are a lot better off than the people who don't even want to think about this possibility.

Here's a free checklist in the meantime: http://emilms.fema.gov/is906/assets/ocso-bomb_threat_samepage-brochure.pdf

Until tomorrow,
Twyla N. Garrett of HireIMe.com

Can You Make it In the Homeland Security Business?

Do you have what it takes to own a security services business? I'm not talking money or ideas. I'm talking grit and getting your hands dirty. Not sure if you have what it takes? Take my test. Answer yes or no if you agree or disagree with each statement below and see what I have to say at the end.

1. You believe you can balance work with a personal life.

2.'Fake It To You Make It' is the best advice you ever received.

3. You can't wait to be rich, which will be soon since all business owners have tons of money.

4. You can have a day job and run a business at the same time.

5. There is nothing to fear about employing other people. It is great to have people work for you.

6. You're going to be loved by everyone because you have a business and your business will take off right away.

7. You believe a mentor is important.

If you answered "yes" to any of the above questions, you don't have what it takes to be a business owner. The above statements are all myths and some of the most popular reasons why businesses fail. Grand ideas, assuming riches will happen overnight, faking knowing how to provide a service or products, etc. are all big red flags in the business world.

If you answered "no" to any or all of the questions above, pat yourself on the back! You're a true entrepreneur.

Twyla

Defining Disaster w/ Pets

Many of you know what a disaster is. But, do you really know what qualifies as an actual disaster? Disasters include everything from terrorist attacks to traffic accidents, floods to fires. The key to navigating a disaster (with as little loss possible) is to be prepared. Being prepared means having a plan in place for your home, family, business (employment), and your pets.

I know this seems to be common sense, but in a time of crisis simple things can become overlooked.
For pets make sure you have proper identification and that the animal is actually wearing it! Invest in good transport kennels before a disaster hits. Keep a stock pile for extra food and gallons of clean water. If your pets take medication, keep a spare prescription in an emergency kit. If you have a diabetic pet make sure to discuss a pre-disaster plan with your vet at the next appointment.

Never ever evacuate a home or business and leave a pet behind. If you are told to evacuate, leave early and take the animals with you, even if you think you'll be gone just a few hours. It is a good idea to Google in a list of hotels that take animals in your area and two hours outside of your area. Jot down the phone numbers and put them in your wallet. Even if you put the numbers in your phone, keep a copy in your wallet because the disaster could interrupt cell phone service.

In today's world, it is hard to not think about these terrible topics- but it is a reality that we have to live in. We often make plans for ourselves and forget to make a plan for out pets or those we are caring for who are elderly or sick. Take some time today to do this for yourself and others.

Twyla N. Garrett

The Interview... Con't

Should I write about what a waste of resources and money "The Interview" movie is costing the Department of Homeland Security. Nevermind the fact that since 8am this morning CNN has done nothing but cover the story. I understand the threat that was made. I'm not downplaying its seriousness at all. I just can't believe that a movie has now turned into an international incident.

In case you've been hiding in a cave, "The Interview" was scheduled to open Christmas Day, but Sony canceled its debut following a threat from a group that claims it hacked the studio. Despite speculation the comedy might be released digitally after this whole series of nonsense and threats of been put into motion, studio Sony Pictures said in a statement that it "has no further release plans for the film."
Variety calls "The Interview" an "alleged satire that's about as funny as a communist food shortage, and just as protracted." Yet this "comedy" about two TV guys tasked with assassinating North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un has sparked a cyberterror campaign that amounts to extortion.

So where do we go from here? Well, I'm not sure. The DHS and the FBI have to handle things on there end. The DHS did state there was a credible threat and so they are moving in accordance to policy to seek out who made the cyber attacks, etc. I do agree that this country shouldn't put anyone in danger over a silly James Franco / Seth Rogan movie but what kind of message are we sending to the world by pulling the movie? We teach our kids to stand up to bullies and the minute the big bully pushed us as a country, we fell. Sure, the movie is silly and probably not that funny- but I think we are missing the principle. We shouldn't back down from bullies- period. Our country exists on the premise of freedom of speech. We just showed how much we, as a country, are willing to retract that freedom because of a threat. I think that is a real shame.

Share your thoughts with me on Twitter of Facebook.

Twyla N. Garrett

Stop. Think. Connect. Are You Aware of This Campaign?

Today I want to cover the Stop. Think. Connect. Campaign being run by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Not many people are aware of the campaign, which is counterproductive to why it was initiated in the first place. As a leader on Twitter for being a Homeland Security resource, I thought it would be a good idea to update everyone on what exactly this campaign is.
According to the National Retail Federation, 141 million people spent $57.4 billion dollars during Thanksgiving weekend last year, and consumers spent nearly $600 billion during the 2013 holiday season. The biggest shopping season of the year comes with great deals and benefits to shoppers, but it also comes with certain risks.
Stop. Think. Connect. Is an online security campaign, which ties into how much money people are spending online. The DHS launched the campaign to help consumers shop safely and keep their personal information and financial accounts private. The campaign offers tips on how to do this, some of which I have noted below;
1. Use and maintain anti-virus software and a firewall. Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your computer and leave you vulnerable.
2. Beware of deals that sound too good to be true. Use caution when opening email attachments and don’t follow web links included in unsolicited email messages. Watch out for extremely low prices on hard-to-get holiday items. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Keep a record of your order. Retain all documentation of your online orders in the event that your purchase does not ship or there are unauthorized charges on your credit or debit card. Also, be sure to review your credit card statement each month for irregularities.
4. Get savvy about Wi‐Fi hotspots. Limit the type of business you conduct when using public Wi-Fi networks. Avoid shopping online when using public Wi-Fi as your information can easily be accessed by hackers on a public network.
5. Shop on reliable websites. Take a look at the website’s trademark or logo to make sure it’s valid. Also, pay attention to the website’s URL. Malicious websites may look identical to a legitimate website, but the URL may use a variation in spelling or a different domain (e.g., .com vs. .net).
Since our social media culture is so 24/7, we often forget that (like the real world) bad people exist. Don’t allow yourself to become vulnerable during this holiday shopping season- or anytime. Follow the tips noted above and connect with the DHS directly for more information on the Stop. Think. Connect. Campaign.
Until tomorrow,
Twyla N. Garrett

Really James Franco?

I can't believe that I have to address the issue of James Franco and Seth Rogan's latest movie scandal- but I do. Homeland Security also had to release a statement about the pair's latest movie project, The Interview, today. Why? Well, the plot of the movie is about killing the leader of North Korea. The Department of Homeland Security said today that it is unaware of any active plot against movie theaters in connection with the hacking of Sony Pictures in spite of many stories circulating the Internet.

That's right, the DHS had to address a James Franco movie because of terrorist plots / rumors online that are making people nervous about heading to the movies on Christmas Day- which is one of the biggest movie days of the year! “We are still analyzing the credibility of these statements, but at this time there is no credible intelligence to indicate an active plot against movie theaters within the United States,” the DHS official said in a statement. “As always, DHS will continue to adjust our security posture, as appropriate, to protect the American people.” The unsigned note, assumed to be from the hackers who breached the computer system of Sony Pictures last month, is the first threat of physical violence in the on-going drama. (Forbes)

If you're concerned about safety during a movie, please follow the steps below and always report suspicious activity You can always connect with me on Twitter too. Let's continue the conversation.

Steps for Movie Safety;

1. Sit in the back row, preferably on one side or the other. This not only gives you a clear view of everything — and everyone — in the theater, but it also gives you easy access to the door.

2. See movies early in the day. There’s no telling when a psychotic person might open fire in a crowded area, but safe to say it’s more likely to happen at a midnight screening than an afternoon matinee.

3. Keep your cell phone handy. It’s polite to stay off your cell phone during a movie. No one likes seeing that flash of blue screen in a dark theater. But keep your phone on and handy, in case you need to make an emergency call.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

The New Website (HireIME.com) Is Up!

My team and I are soooooo pleased to announce the launch of our brand new website, HireIme.com.

Are You Likable?

I almost fell to the floor with laughter in the lobby of my building today. I was waiting on a client. While waiting, this man was on his cell phone screaming (probably at his wife or partner) that his employees hated him. I wonder why! He kept screaming and screaming, he was getting louder and louder. I started to think "how can you be so smart and yet not understand why you're not likable?"

Business is tough. You often have to be hard as nails, but you don't have to scream or be a jerk most of the time to get your point across or as a way to feel respected by employees. In fact, studies show that nice CEOs tend to have more loyal employees and better retention rates when it comes to turnover. So, what makes a CEO likable? I've come up with a few theories.

First, I think people like honest people. Even if the truth is going to hurt, people rather know where they stand with someone vs. being told one thing and not knowing the truth. Honesty tells the world that the CEO is about transparency and isn't into playing politics, which equates to success.

I also believe people want to be heard. CEOs who take the time to listen to their employees are more likable and respected. Even if you don't agree with what an employee is stating, simply listening validates that their opinion / concerns are heard and this will have a positive result internally.

Finally, work. Yes, work! CEOs who are out of the office "doing lunch" or "golfing" automatically cause resentment among many people. Sure, you need to wine and dine potential clients and business partners, but don't make a habit out of it. Instead, keep the blinds or door to your office open. Let your staff see you working. This will let your staff know that you are involved with the company and it will also keep them more accountable.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Dealing with Difficult Clients

I’ve touched on this before, but I want to dedicate today’s blog to those who expect perfection at the cheapest rate possible. I recently stood behind a lady in Starbucks who was bringing her drink back. Starbucks has a great policy on drinks that are made to subpar standards. They will remake the drink for you until they get it right. She had a tall drink. She went on and on about how terrible it was. She was making me late for a meeting. She demanded her money back. The barista said ‘no’ and explained the policy. She continued to hold up the line. Shortly after, I found out she was complaining about a basic, tall coffee. The cost was less than two dollars. Annoyed, I gave her the two dollars….. My meeting was worth more to than the cost of her coffee.

After my meeting, I was waiting for a cab in a professional building’s lobby. I heard three people talking about their marketing company. They were upset that it had been three months with no results in their opinion. So, I asked them who the marketing company was. They gave me the name. I asked them if they have seen business increase over the past three months. They said they have, although it has been a slow journey. I asked them why they thought the marketing wasn’t working. They said because the company hasn’t hit the million dollar mark in sales yet. I asked them what they did at their company, they said sales!

Sometimes companies make mistakes. Sometimes companies can be the blame for the shortcomings of other people. Either way, there are going to be difficult people in the world and difficult clients.

The best way to deal with a difficult person or client is to be empathic, shut up, listen, and then offer a solution in a low, calm voice. If this doesn’t work, ask the customer how you can rectify the issue. If their solution is way off base, ask them to leave. There is no saving this customer regardless of what you offer. You should move on.

Starbucks, in this case, could have saved their complaining client by adjusting their policy and providing her with her two dollars back. The marketing company noted above can’t do anything about its perception. The sales people are simply relying on the marketing company to do its job and theirs. In this case, the marketing company needs to fire the client.

I hope these two different examples help you determine when and how to move forward when dealing with difficult clients.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Can You Be Persuasive?

Part of owning a business, or being in sales, is knowing how to close a deal and be persuasive. Not too many people are masters of this art. You can pitch your product or services all day long, but if you can’t convince people to part with their money- your business will fail!

If you want to become better at selling your products or your services, you have to look to improve upon your convincing skills. I did my research and have developed 3 easy steps to becoming more persuasive. The first step is an easy one. Shut up! That’s right, stop talking. Many people sell themselves out of a sale because they keep talking. Instead, talk about how your product or services solves a problem for the potential client and then zip your mouth. If they’re interested, they will ask the questions and come to a conclusion quickly. If you keep talking, you complicate this process.

You also want to share both positives and negatives. If you promote your products or services as fail-proof, your client will not sign up with you. You want to WOW the audience and promote your product but you don’t want to stretch the truth or over promise. So, briefly touch on the negatives associated with your products and services and then move on. Again, shut up about the negatives after you have covered them.

Finally, slow down. If you talk fast, you have to learn to work on slowing down. Most people distrust a fast talker. This is a proven fact. People buy from people who speak using a regular pace and tone. Talking too fast, swearing, using a high-pitch voice, saying “yes” to everything- these are all red flags for people. If you use these tactics, you will not persuade a single person.

I hope these tips help you improve your sales. If they do, please share your story with me on Facebook or Twitter.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Reasons to say ‘No’ to customers.

I’ve used this blog as a platform to help business owners not be bullied by potential business. The customer isn’t always right and you, as a business owner, retain the right to decline a request. I recently received a message asking when it is appropriate to say ‘no’ to a customer. So, I’m listing the top three reasons below. Enjoy!

1. The task is outside the contract. If the client asks you to do something outside the contract – even if they’re willing to pay for it- say no. Chances are the request isn’t something you are an expert in and the client will eventually be disappointed because of a lack of experience. Second, the service many not make sense for the company’s brand.

2. The customer is asking for something that doesn’t work to enhance their overall goal. Maybe you are designing a website and the customer wants hot pink font. Unless there is a really specific reason for this font, you would typically advise against this. It is OK in most cases to say ‘no’ to hot pink font. Stick up for your reasoning behind why saying ‘no’ means yes for their business.

3. The request is illegal. This seems obvious but some clients can be convincing. If your attorney or tax advisor would say ‘no’, then you have to decline the request.

I hope this clarifies when and why to turn a client / customer request down.

Until next time,

Twyla N. Garrett

How to be the smartest person in the room.

I often feel like I am the smartest person in the room. I know that I am not, but I read an article on how being confident about your intelligence level and increase it, lol! Seriously though, there are a few tricks available to help you become smarter. I wanted to share them with you on today’s blog. They’re listed below;

1. Write everything down that you learn. Don’t rely on your brain to retain important information. Note taking, even if you text message yourself, is important. Your brain tends to hold onto concepts and points longer if you write them down, so- get the pen or tablet out at your next big meeting.

2. Play board games. Yes, it is very important to play board games. Why? All the strategizing and puzzles actually help your brain expand and think through unpredictable situations. Many studies show playing a board game twice a week can help improve your IQ by a point every year!

3. Surround yourself with smart people. This may sound cliché, but it works. Ever hear that birds of a feather tend to flock to together? Well, it’s true. So, join some social groups that focus on the environment or certain causes that incorporate strategizing, thinking and working together as a team for the greater good.

Some people believe going back to school helps your intelligence. In can, but only if you enjoy the subject matter. Don’t go back to school for the sake of going back to school. Instead, make sure you are engaged with the concept of why you need to go back to school, otherwise- it is a waste of time and money.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Dr. Twyla Garrett Speaking At The United Nations in New York City on July 16th

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRLog (Press Release) - Jul. 15, 2014 - MANHATTAN, N.Y. -- Twyla Garrett has spoken at renowned events, including The White House, across the country for the past five years. As a two-time author, serial entrepreneur and owner of the homeland security company IME, Garrett is scheduled to speak on the topic of innovation this Wednesday, July 16th, in New York.

“I can’t wait to participate at the New York Impact event. The early bird tickets are already sold-out. I know I can offer attendees a lot of great insight on innovation. I encourage a collaborative process. I want people to interact at this event and follow me on Twitter for an after-event Q&A session,” said Garrett.

The IMPACT Summer Academy for Emerging Global Leaders will take place at the Church Center of the United Nations in New York (777 United Nations Plaza 2nd Floor) on Wednesday, July 16th. The event starts at 9am and runs until 6:30 pm. Tickets start at $35 dollars and range up to $115 dollars. Tickets can be purchased online using any major credit card or PayPal. For more information, or to purchase tickets, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/impact-summer-academy-for-em...

Twyla Garrett will be speaking between 10am and 11:30 and is co-hosting the discussion with Dr. John P. Fernandez, Ph.D. President, ARMC Global; Author, Leading in a Diverse and Conflicted World and 9 other books on Race, Gender, Diversity and Inclusion in corporate and business setting. Other speakers include Ambassador Edita Hrda, Permanent Representative of the Czech Republic to the UN, Dr. Meredith L. Sadin, Ph.D. Princeton University, and more.

Members of the media are invited to request an interview with Twyla Garrett prior to, during or after the IMPACT at The United Nations event by contacting her media manager.

About: Twyla Garrett, CBM, CHS III is an extraordinary serial entrepreneur, corporate speaker, and compelling author who has been personally invited to speak at The White House on the issues of creating jobs, economic growth, and the controversial fiscal cliff of 2012. Garrett is known for her notable (sometimes 100% self-funded) business deals as much as she is for providing excellent opportunities to individuals facing immense challenges.

Ms. Garrett is an executive consultant to federal, state and local emergency management and homeland security programs nationwide. Her operational experience dates from response operations in 2003 and has continued for 10 years in direct or indirect support as a consultant to government.

MEDIA MANAGER: Helene Vece of HireAProWriter.com

Manhattan Office: (917) 410-7938

244 Madison Ave, Suite 2550. New York, NY 10016

2 Bad Choices with Instant Repercussions

Someone recently asked me, via Twitter, if I have ever immediately regretted a business decision. I think we all have, which is why I am penning a book on failure. One of my most valued lessons is knowing that there are two bad choices every business owner will make in his or her life that will immediately be regretted- followed by a hard lesson. Trust me when I say that these two bad choices can be avoided, which is why I am sharing them. I don’t want you to learn these lessons the hard was so I am hopeful you will keep reading.

#1. Stating you tried your best and failed. We, as people, are conditioned to say “I’ve tried my best” when we are met with failure. Instead of knowing you have this label excuse in your back pocket, say something meaningful before a challenging task. Say “I will” and then do it. It doesn’t matter in life if you try or not. Millions of people try every day fail. Why? They have the “I’ve tried my best” excuse available. Make no excuses for failure, make up your mind not to fail! So, don’t regret letting a client or a boss down by stating this excuse. Instead, work harder and longer and make it happen.

#2. Refusing to apologize. This is a big one for most people. Don’t take the lame cop out with an “I’m sorry you feel this way.” What’s wrong with simply saying “I’m sorry”? Swallow your fear--or pride--and say you're sorry. Then you'll help the other person let go of their resentment or bitterness and both parties will be able to move on. Saying you’re sorry means you take accountability for something, a rare thing in today’s world.

So, remember – say you are sorry and refuse to try your best, instead do your best.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

3 Companies You Can Start for Under $4k

Someone once told me it takes money to make money. Well, yes- sometimes this is true. However, there are countless million dollar companies that started off as bootstrap businesses- sometime only on a hundred dollars or a few thousand dollars.

I wanted to share my thoughts on three types of businesses you can start right now without spending more than four grand.

No.1: An expert witness company. Imagine being paid for your opinion and insight. Well, this company makes money doing just this! If you have an expertise that could be useful in legal cases, you can market yourself to attorneys to act as an expert witness.

No. 2: Personal concierge company. If you are big on details, high-end shopping and are not afraid to work alongside CEOs and celebrities- this business platform is a great option. The most likely clients for a personal concierge service are top executives who find themselves at the office by 7 a.m. and are there most nights until 9 p.m., leaving them very little time to do all those things that often need to be done during those very hours, which is where your company comes in!

No. 3: Graffiti removal. Perfect for large cities and you can obtain both personal clients and even government ones, too. Create an arsenal of cleaning products that can clean almost every kind of product (paint, chalk, markers) from every kind of surface (cement, wood, pavement). The best way to conduct a graffiti service is to offer a subscription-like arrangement. Once a month or whatever interval makes sense for your clients, go around to their property and clean off the graffiti.

I don’t think you need more than a grant to start any one of the above companies, but if you can start off with more money as part of an ad campaign- the better!

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Train Your Brain for Success

It is possible to train your brain for success. There is a difference in thinking between being successful and wanting to be successful. Besides taking actionable steps towards your goal, it is imperative to follow these three steps to train your brain to accept success.

First, do any creative work on your ‘to do’ list first. If you wait to work on creative tasks, you will find yourself blocked- especially if you wait until the end of the day. If you need to work on a creative project, get to it right away and make this a habit. Procrastination is not a key to success.

Next, eliminate the need to multi-task. Contrary to popular belief, multi-tasking is ineffective and lowers quality and productivity. Focus on one thing and only one thing at time. Focusing on too many things means you are missing something, which isn’t a key to success.

Finally, value your time. Don’t be afraid to decline a lunch meeting here and there or to say ‘no’ to a requested meeting. Prioritize your schedule first and you are already on the right track.

Until next time,

Twyla N. Garrett