Jenny Handley Performance
Feb 09
by jennyhand in Cape Times – Career Times 0 comments

PAVING THE WAY FOR YOUR CHOSEN CAREER

Many of us are fully into the swing of things of the working year, except for those at university, who only get going next week. This column is for you. Use your last week of being on holiday to plan. After a really long break it is hard to get a momentum going, especially when the start of the year is camouflaged by even more socialising. It forms part of your overall brand plan. An important part of your studies is making contacts, friendships and relationships, and often one re-ignites these relationships in business years later.  However, if the socialising has too much focus you may end up adding a year or two to your studies, which makes you lag behind on the starting blocks. See your years as an opportunity to learn more than merely in lectures. Join societies, play sport or even turn your hobby into a business. Watch others succeeding in the industry you have chosen, and preferably, use those long holidays to officially learn and absorb during internships. I am a huge fan of internships, having taken on interns for almost every year. I have witnessed firsthand how important they are, and have closely followed the […]
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Feb 02
by jennyhand in Cape Times – Career Times 0 comments

BUILD ON STRENGTHS WITH CONSTANT LEARNING

Last week I was gentle with you, merely suggesting that you consider some goal setting for the new year. Now I would like to be more directive, as once you have decided exactly what you are aiming for, you have to determine how you will accomplish those goals, or your goals will merely be dreams. When I embark on the writing of a book, I start with the end in mind, the title and front cover, what work it will attract and what impact it will make. Then I work back to decide on content and framework, research, before the actual writing. I then put numbers in place, not only to keep my accountant happy, but because business is about figures like profit, loss, sales, cash flow, print runs, chapters, pages. I write a ‘how’ for each heading. Start your plan with numbers, even if only listing your three main goals. Remember that your budget is your resources – what you have to get you where you wish to be. These are often your strengths, which range from your own special qualities and talents to the people who help you along the way. Have you considered how you will optimise […]
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Jan 26
by jennyhand in Cape Times – Career Times 0 comments

GOAL-SETTING TIPS ON HOW TO FULFIL DREAMS

Of all the columns I write, my favourite is always this one – the first of a new year. The festivities are over and a tight waistband is   the only reminder of the frenetic, fun end to a busy year. Time away from work has allowed reflection on the year gone by, and for the crystallisation of goals for the new year. Some of us are naturally goal-orientated, others more laid-back and likely to let life unfold without right plans. I am definitely of the first variety, and firmly believe that it has stood me in good stead in my working life. My business has survived 20 years, and, whilst it and I have gently morphed into something that was perhaps not part of the original plan, it has achieved what it set out to. I clearly remember the humble beginnings as if it were yesterday. I left a demanding job to spend more time with my toddlers, flexibility being my main goal. Secondary was to make a difference and to do something I really loved. The byline of my business then, a PR and promotions company, was ‘facilitating with flair’. I started with R500 and a fax machine, […]
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Jan 19
by jennyhand in Cape Times – Career Times 0 comments

ADD THE BRANSON INSTINCT TO HIRING METHODS

Last week I was lucky to be working (hard!) in London. One of my meetings was in the Virgin Battleship Building. I was instantly inspired by the enthusiasm, energy and drive of the people who are so obviously committed to the brand…and to the people they work for. In this dynamic environment team members seemed self-propelled, responsible and productive – in spite of their relaxed and informal work setting. My message to leaders out there is – hire like Branson.  Richard Branson of Virgin hires for aptitude, attitude, intelligence (ability to be creative and find solutions), intensity, and integrity…and believes that these qualities are inherent, not learned. I have never made a mistake when hiring on instinct, even when individuals are under-qualified. I think sometimes it may be an advantage – those who demonstrate passion and potential, come with no bad habits, show a great attitude and are grateful for the job – out-perform those who are better qualified.  Qualifications can always be added whilst in employ if you think the candidate deserves or needs them. Think back to school days when a new learner arrived. They were immediately appointed a buddy – someone to show them around, to make […]
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Nov 10
by jennyhand in Cape Times – Career Times 0 comments

Take time to rest and work when you’re needed

Last week reminded me of how busy the last quarter always is, and no matter how much you pre-plan, you cannot avoid overload.
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Nov 03
by jennyhand in Cape Times – Career Times 0 comments

The three P’s that get a grip on stress

At this time of the year we are surrounded by those who are approaching stress and challenges. Some may be about to start writing exams, others are really busy at work.
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Oct 20
by jennyhand in Cape Times – Career Times 0 comments

Help others, help yourself

One of the many challenges of a being a business owner is balancing business and benevolence. One can do a little good here and there, or make a concerted effort to align with one worthy cause.
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