World at Work Tim Dyck

"We got 4 or 5 days worth of work done in one meeting that would've had to be spread across several virtual meetings."
Key Moments
01:02 In-person collaboration holds valuable advantages post-pandemic.
03:55 In-person meetings foster productivity and quality.
07:26 In-person connections deepen engagement and quality.
11:27 In-person meetings are crucial for complex plans.
16:25 Remote support enhances productivity during in-person sessions.
18:04 Understanding body language to enhance collaboration.
Connect with Tim and his team:
Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/
LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc
Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  
Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca
The Power of Meeting in Person
During Jody's recent visit we decided to record while driving between Calgary and Edmonton, Thanks to technology for we were able to safely use time the time to talk about something inspired by our highly productive in-person meeting. There are a number of advantages of face-to-face collaboration in an era where virtual meetings have become the norm. In fact, there are some some tasks that thrive on personal interaction. Amidst our travel adventures to Jasper and Banff National Parks, we share some of the significant advantages of in-person collaboration, especially in today's digital age. Some highlights include:
Enhanced Productivity: Our in-person meeting achieved in one day what would have otherwise taken several virtual sessions. Dedicated time and focused environment make it possible to get through a complex agenda efficiently. Deeper Connections: Meeting face-to-face allows for real human connections that virtual meetings can't fully replicate. The ability to read body language, engage in small talk, and build rapport drastically improves team dynamics and collaboration. Effective Strategic Planning: For complex projects that require detailed planning and input, in-person meetings are invaluable. We tackled an intricate project and the diverse ideas and real-time feedback contributed to more robust solutions. If your team has shifted to a fully remote or hybrid model, it’s worth revisiting the value of occasional in-person sessions. The right balance between virtual and face-to-face collaboration can propel your team's productivity and innovation. To hear more about our discussion and how to leverage in-person meetings for your projects, make sure to listen to this full episode of World at Work.
 

"If you're in the moment of crisis, this is the one time where people are going to be looking to you to take charge and provide direction."
Key Moments
00:00 Threatened by wildfire prompts conversation on crisis management
06:26 Tabletop exercises simulate and improve emergency responses.
09:35 Involving people in decision-making is important for effective action and crisis readiness.
12:04 Plan ahead and assess immediate safety during crisis.
15:10 Provide clear, factual, and regular updates to your team.
19:07 Planning for crises, supporting mental health, flexibility.
20:54 In crisis, take charge with clear direction and manners.
24:31 Guidelines and crisis plan improve organizational culture.
Connect with Tim and his team:
Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/
LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc
Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  
Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca
How to Lead a Team During a Crisis
At some point in their career, leaders will find themselves in the challenging but crucial task of leading a team during a crisis. Whether it’s a wildfire, a pandemic, or any other unforeseen disruptor, being prepared and having a strong leadership strategy can make all the difference. After my experience navigating a wildfire I learned a number of lessons on how to lead a team during a crisis. Unfortunately some I never knew before I went through it. That is why now I like to help other leaders prepare the best they can. 
First and foremost, you must prepare for a crisis beforehand. It may sound strange planning for unexpected crisis, but having at least a framework is essential. Taking the time to train your team on crisis protocols ahead of time will help give a sense of control in otherwise uncontrollable situations.
Conduct regular "tabletop exercises" to simulate scenarios and gather input from all team members. These exercises help get input from vairious perspectives within the organization to make sure all bases are covered. Once a plan is established, communicate clear steps and roles to ensure everyone knows what to do when the unexpected happens.
When a crisis occurs you need to ensure immediate safety of everyone. In any crisis, the first priority is to assess and ensure the safety of your team. Establish clear lines of communication to keep everyone informed and updated. Address any immediate physical dangers and provide support for personal well-being before assessing work capabilities.
One of the challenging situations to work through in the midst and after a crisis are managing expectations and needs. Quickly identify and address the immediate needs of your clients and stakeholders. Maintain regular, factual communication to keep everyone in the loop. Be decisive and flexible in your approach, adapting as necessary to meet the evolving situation.
The better preparation that you do, the more effective you will be and the more protected and healthy and happy and safe the people who are relying on you will be. An imperfect decision is better than no decision. In times of crisis, you must move. Make sure to listen to this episode for more on how to lead a team during a crisis. 
 

"The reality is that if you're not feeling imposter syndrome, then you might actually be doing something wrong."
Key Moments
03:27 Value of embracing unconventional career shifts
06:23 Understanding imposter syndrome and unlocking potential
09:29 Healthy discomfort with imposter syndrome
12:14 Others may see your potential before you do
14:52 Overcoming self-doubt
Connect with Tim and his team:
Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/
LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc
Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  
Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Unconventional Career Paths
Once you understand how to navigate unconventional career paths, you will feel more confident taking on unexpected opportunities. The first step is overcoming imposter syndrome and allowing those unforeseen shifts to lead you toward incredible growth. Feeling like an imposter isn't your enemy. It's a signal that you're pushing beyond your comfort zones and challenging yourself to achieve more. There are a few ways you can embrace those moments of doubt and start to see them as signs of potential growth.
There are several key takeaways from this episode:
**Embrace Unconventional Opportunities:** Life’s zigzag paths often lead to unexpected and fulfilling destinations. What seems off-track might just be your gateway to exciting new doors.
**Normalize Imposter Syndrome:** Feeling like an imposter is not only common but could indicate you’re pushing your limits and growing. It’s a sign to lean in, not step back.
**Seek Growth, Challenge Comfort:** Constant comfort is a comfort zone’s trap. If you’re never feeling out of place, you might not be challenging yourself enough to grow.
Ready to tackle your own imposter feelings and step up your career game? Make sure to listen to Episode 77 of World at Work Podcast. And if you need someone to help you understand your full potential reach out to us at Best Culture Solutions. We are ready to help you conquer imposter syndrome and turn challenges into stepping stones for success.

“If termination occurs consider it as your opportunity to dig into what it is you loved about that role, what you loved about the organization, and then move forward taking a chance on something new."
Key Moments
01:07 Changing perceptions about termination and its impact.
03:58 Good leadership prevents surprise, but the reality is still shocking.
06:40 Accept the situation with grace, while calling for support.
09:43 Seek union advice or get a lawyer to review fairness and options.
15:30 Review and create a detailed personal finance plan "runway".
17:25 Get clarity on your options and make your next career move.
Connect with Tim and his team:
Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/
LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc
Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  
Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca
How to Navigate Termination
Life throws us curveballs, and sometimes that means facing termination from a job. While the thought of termination can be daunting, there are ways to navigate the transition with grace and strategy. The fear and uncertainty that come with termination can be paralyzing. If you find yourself in a situation like this, remember that you have options and support. There are some key steps to take that will help you from feeling stuck or lost.
Stay Gracious: Responding with grace during a termination can protect your professional reputation and leave the door open for future networking opportunities.
Safety First: If you're not in the right headspace to drive after receiving shocking news, don’t hesitate to ask for a cab or call someone you trust for a ride.
Legal and Financial Consultation: Reach out to a lawyer or union representation to ensure fair treatment and help you explore possibilities such as severance packages. Also, immediately plan your finances to establish how much "runway" you have.
Find Your Next Step: Once you've processed the initial shock, it's time to consider which roles will energize you moving forward.
If you haven’t been terminated, but you suspect termination is on the horizon, you may want to consider resignation. There are times that it may be appropriate to take matters into your own hands.
This episode is a must listen for anyone navigating termination or feels it coming. In addition, Best Culture Solutions offers advice and resources for those finding their next steps. Remember, you're not alone, and sometimes an ending can lead to a new and fulfilling beginning.
 

"Your employment relationship is a two way economic transaction, and so you need to demonstrate to them what value you bring them in order for them to bring value to you in return."
Key Moments
01:20 Dealing with conflict constructively and demonstrating value.
05:20 Understand market value and quantify your impact.
06:37 Challenges of valuing your worth in salary.
10:25 Calculate time saved, demonstrate value, show future impact.
12:50 Ensure strength before engaging, offer compensation analysis.
Connect with Tim and his team:
Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/
LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc
Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  
Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca
How to Negotiate a Pay Raise
Are you considering taking the leap to a new job for better pay, or wondering if your current employer might match your worth? During this conversation, we bring you some powerful insights on asking for that pay raise.
Three key takeaways to unlock a successful negotiation:
**Know Your Value in Numbers**: Don't just highlight your good work; quantify your contribution in dollars and cents. How have your projects boosted profits or efficiency?
**Market Value is Gold**: Understand the market value for your role. Research payscales considering factors like company size, industry, and your job specifics.
**Alternative Compensation**: If the pay scale is rigid, consider negotiating for supplemental compensation for extra projects or responsibilities you're willing to take on.
Negotiation can be a win-win when done right. For more strategies and Tim’s insider tips, make sure to listen to this episode in full. Your bank account might thank you!
 

"If you know that you need to make that change and you're thinking about reaching out to a recruiter, don't waste any time. But don’t just say, ‘hey, can you get me a job?’ Demonstrate your value to them and how you can help an organization." Key Moments 02:23 Reaching Out to Recruiters When It’s Time for Change
05:48 Exploring Career Options with Specific Recruiters
09:32 Demonstrate Value Over Need
10:17 Effective and Proactive Networking
13:36 Confidentiality and Ethics in Recruitment
Connect with Tim and his team: Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/
LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc
Instagram: @best.culture.solutions  
Email: tim@bestculturesolutions.ca
When to Reach Out to a Recruiter There is no reason to hesitate to reach out to recruiters when you are considering a job change. They are there to help job seekers navigate the complexities of job searching and career transitions with a proactive mindset. During this conversation, Katie and I talk about the value of moving away from the conventional job search approach by becoming more strategic and timely in decision-making. We dive into what to do when you recognize that it's time for a professional change, how to effectively connect with recruiters, and the nuances of both internal corporate recruiters and third-party agencies.
Understanding when to initiate contact with a recruiter is crucial, particularly when experiencing unease about job security or pondering a career shift. Acting swiftly is key. There is no sense in taking time once you feel like you need to pivot. Put feelers out early so that you can start exploring options before reaching a state of urgency. This ensures ample time for the industry's recruiting processes.
Once you connect with a recruiter consider how you will work with them. Building a connection with recruiters involves more than just asking for a job; it's about demonstrating value and expressing how one can contribute meaningfully to potential employers. It is essential for candidates to be forthright, detailing their expertise and desired field. This helps ensure recruiters are pairing them with suitable opportunities. Candidates should openly share their professional intentions and seek positions aligning with their skills.
The distinction between corporate and third-party recruiters is a nuanced aspect of the job search. While both types prioritize confidentiality and client success, third-party recruiters are more often driven by placements. That means they may act with more immediacy on behalf of candidates. Using platforms like LinkedIn enables candidates to research and connect with industry-specific recruiters or those associated with desired companies. This is never a bad way of expanding your  job search network.
Make sure to listen to this episode in full if you are a business professional considering a career move or feeling the onset of change. We dive into when to reach out to a recruiter and how they can help craft your strategic career pathway.