24.01.2017 // Is Strengths-Based Employee Development Right for Your Business?

The traditional approach to employee development is to focus on employees’ weaknesses and how they can improve them. For example, if an employee works better alone than on a team, you’d probably tell him he needs to focus on getting better at teamwork. Recently, however, a new approach to employee development is making waves: strengths-based employee development.

As the name implies, strengths-based employee development focuses on what employees’ strengths are and builds on them, rather than trying to correct weaknesses. There are several ways a small business owner can benefit from using strengths-based employee development.

• While a weakness-focused approach seeks to bring everyone up to a basic uniform level, a strengths-based approach will develop a diverse team with a wide range of specialized strengths. This can give your business a real competitive edge.
• Because it focuses on what employees are good at, rather than what they aren’t, it motivates and energizes employees.
• It makes employees feel important and valued as individuals. That’s especially effective with Millennial employees, who make up an increasing percentage of the workforce. Millennials like to feel they are making their mark from the minute they join your business. By focusing on their strengths, you enable them to contribute right away.

How to Use Strengths-Based Employee Development

Here are five steps to using strengths-based employee development in your business.

Step 1. Identify your company’s strengths. Are you innovative, dependable or fun? Just like a person, if your business is trying to be something it’s not, you’ll work harder but achieve poor results and feel dissatisfied along the way. By knowing your business’ strengths, you can use your employees’ strengths to build on them.

Step 2. Identify your employees’ strengths. There are several ways to do this. Start by sitting down with employees one-on-one to discuss their strengths. Just asking, “what do you think your strengths are?” may not produce anything very useful. If that’s the case, try asking these questions:

• What do you look forward to doing most at work every morning?
• Is there something you do at work where the time seems to fly by?
• What do you most enjoy doing in your time off?
• What did you enjoy doing most at previous jobs?

You can also ask employees to identify each other’s strengths — kind of like a 360-degree performance review, but focused only on the positive. There are also online assessments to help you pinpoint your own and your employees’ strengths. The Clifton StrengthFinder is popular; it was developed by the Gallup Organization as part of a 30-year study of the strength-based approach to management.

Step 3. Match employees’ strengths to their tasks. You can assign employees to specific tasks based on the strengths you’ve uncovered, or you can also just explain something that needs to be done and ask who would like to do it. When employees volunteer for jobs, they’re more likely to choose tasks that play to their strengths.

This part of implementing strengths-based employee development may involve some trial and error. Chances are you’re going to have to move employees around to different positions or assign different types of tasks to see what their true strengths are.

Once you have a clear understanding of each person’s strengths, you’ll be able to better group employees in teams for projects or tasks. The ideal team involves people with a diverse range of strengths. For example, if everyone on a team is good at strategizing and planning, but no one is good at executing, you’re going to be in trouble. Diverse strength will also lead to more creative thinking and new approaches to problems.

Step 4. Provide ongoing feedback. Whether you’re praising an employee in front of the team or in a performance review, it typically goes something like this: “Steve, you did a great job planning and overseeing our customer recognition luncheon.” This type of feedback focuses on how well a task was completed. Strengths-based employee development goes a step further: “Steve, you did a great job planning and overseeing our customer recognition luncheon. It really showcased your strengths at organizing, coordinating and relationship-building.”

Step 5. Make public recognition of strengths part of your day-to-day business. For strengths-based development to really work, employees need to be aware of each other’s’ strengths as well as their own. That’s why it’s important to publicly recognize employees not only for their achievements, but also for their strengths.

You should also encourage employees to give each other feedback and recognition for strengths: “Thank you for helping with the new marketing campaign. Your creative strengths really helped us think outside the box.”

How does strengths-based employee development sound to you? Do you already use this approach?

20.01.2017 // Fun at Work — How to Google-fy Your Business Culture

When most people think about work, “fun” is rarely the first descriptive moniker. Because of this dramatic separation between enthusiasm and “I do it because I have to,”one of the big challenges facing brands and small business today is what HR experts call “employee engagement”. When a company fails to deliver the necessary means to retain top talent or recruit budding millennial up-and-comers, it is likely a symptom of a weak company culture; and this problem typically grows as a company expands.

A bold and vibrant internal culture helps to not only hang on to a brand’s biggest players and draw in new ones, it also feeds productivity, creativity and camaraderie among employees; this is exactly why corporations like Google, Zappos and Facebook are so highly sought after by workers.

In order to make your customers happy, we need to first focus on generating that same sentiment in the workplace.

Your company might not have the bankroll for some dinosaur fossils or big metal slides, but there are plenty of ways to create a positive office atmosphere and a culture of fun at work.

How to Make Work Fun

Let Personalities Shine

People spend the majority of their lives working; for many, it can feel like a big sacrifice to check their authentic personality at the door in favor of a tie and dress shoes.

At companies like Google, Facebook and other more laid-back companies, employees are encouraged to dress how they want (granted that it is work appropriate) so that they can feel comfortable and more like themselves.

Zappos.com CEO, Tony Hsieh sums this up perfectly: “A lot of people act different on the weekends versus the office. It’s like they leave a big part of themselves at home. We encourage our employees to be themselves. We want them to be the same person at home and the office.”

But comfort is more than just a dress code.

Celebrate each employee’s unique creativity by allowing them to decorate their desk and construct their own “home away from home.”

When people are more relaxed and feel that they can truly be themselves, it is much easier for them to build work relationships and genuine connections within an organization.

Dish Out Perks and Treats

Many corporate environments can be highly stressful. And stress is one of the biggest killers of health, positive moods and productivity.

Despite this, various Google employees report lower levels of anxiety.

How can this be?

Google and similar organizations offer their teams a variety of perks like on-site massages, magnanimous vacation plans, complementary fitness programs and other extras that aim to help folks unwind.

Again, your business might not have the means to fund company wide deep-tissue massages or gym memberships for the entire crew, and that’s fine. One of the quickest and easiest ways to boost company moral and office engagement comes in the form of food; and I’m not talking about comfort foods like French fries and lasagna.

By providing your team with a variety of healthy eating options, you are setting everyone up for success. Blueberries and oranges are great relievers of anxiety, but they aren’t necessarily fun.

Services like SnackNation jazz up your workplace culture by delivering boxes full of tasty and nutritious foodstuffs that can increase productivity and promote a positive work atmosphere, all while giving folks the boost they need to finish out their projects.

Let Your Employees Self-Manage

When a business does not provide employees with the tools needed to go above and beyond for customers, it creates a poor experience on both ends.

Full autonomy in customer service and other departments boosts employee engagement, creates a stellar experience for consumers, and helps to engender lifelong company advocates.

Zappos has become legendary for their customer service through this approach. By giving their customer service reps free reign to do right by their shoppers, employees are more enthused to find helpful solutions and it makes them feel like they are making an impact; which they truly are, as customers who receive the full treatment will remember their superb interaction.

Promote Playtime

This might sound like a ridiculous thing to do in a work environment, but in order for teams to stay motivated and energized, they need downtime away from their desks.

Contactzilla is another brand who caught on to this concept and installed a game room in their offices which houses a pool table, sofa, beanbag chairs and other spots for employees to kick back and clear their heads.

Something as simple as a 15 minute game of pool can help to form bonds between co-workers and gives people time to chat, smile and approach their work with a new perspective.

Socialize with Team Outings

Team building events like grabbing a couple beers or going to dinner together is a fantastic way for people to have fun and connect with their co-workers outside of the office. Simple get-togethers like these often inspire at-work collaborations that would not have occurred otherwise.

More importantly, studies have shown that, “Employees who felt they worked in a loving, caring culture reported higher levels of satisfaction and teamwork,” as well as a reduction in the number of sick days an employee takes.

Additionally, 75 percent of employees who have a “best friend” at work are more engaged than those who don’t and 72 percent are more satisfied with their jobs.

Brands like Google, Facebook, Eventbrite, Lytf and many others are all implementing innovative ways to strengthen their company culture and create a more fun and loving environment for their employees.

These tactics can have substantially positive impacts on morale, productivity and job loyalty. Give your guys something to rave about and you might just end up on the next best companies to work for list.

18.01.2017 // 10 Tax and Budgeting Moves to Start the New Year Off Right

While the prospect of comprehensive tax reform looms large, there are some actions that you can take now that will help you and your business do well under current or new tax rules. In addition, law changes and other factors may influence actions you need to take now.

Here are 10 ideas.

Business Finance Tips for 2017

Review 2016 Revenue and Expenses

How did you do last year? Were your revenues what you expected them to be? Were your expenses higher or lower than you budgeted? Understanding what happened last year should suggest you what to do now. Perhaps you should raise prices for your goods or services, rein in spending, or make other adjustments to improve profitability.

Adapt to Minimum Wage Increases

While the federal minimum wage is unchanged so far for 2017, there have been some increases at the state and local levels. For example, Washington’s rate increases to $11 per hour. A similar rate applies in New York City for employers with 11 or more employees ($10.50 for smaller employers). Check with your state labor department or view this map to make sure you are following the law.

Note the Higher Social Security Wage Base

If you have owners, managers, and other high earners, the company may have higher payroll taxes for the year. The reason: The wage base for the Social Security tax portion of FICA in 2017 is $127,200 (up from $118,500 in 2016). There is no limit on compensation subject to the Medicare tax portion of FICA.

Check for Changes in State Laws on Leave Time

States have been implementing laws on paid family leave time, sick pay, and school/parental leave time. For example, Vermont mandates paid sick leave as of January 1, 2017, although employers with five or fewer employees are not subject to the rules until 2018. Under this new law, employees earn one hour of sick time for each 52 hours worked, up to 24 hours per year in 2017 and 2018, and 40 hours beginning in 2019.

Mark Your Odometer

If you use a personal vehicle for business driving, you need to keep track of your mileage. Start doing this by noting your odometer on January 1. Use an app, such as MileIQ (PDF), or a written log to substantiate your business driving for the year so you’ll be able to deduct the cost of business driving. You need this record even if you rely on the IRS standard mileage rate (53.5 cents per mile in 2017).

Budget for Postage Hikes

Beginning January 22, some new rates go into effect. For example, the price of a first-class stamp will go from 47 cents to 49 cents.

Implement the New I-9

Starting on January 17, you must use a revised form for verifying the legality of a new employee to work in the U.S. The new Form I-9 only needs an employee’s last name (rather than all names used) and some sections have been simplified.

Decide Whether to Use Health Reimbursement Arrangements

Part of the 21st Century Cures Act, which was signed into law on December 13, 2016, allows small employers to reimburse employees for their individual health insurance premiums. As long as employers follow certain rules regarding caps on reimbursement, notice requirements, and more, employers won’t be penalized for having a health plan that does not comport with Affordable Care Act requirements, as had been feared before this law. It’s been estimated that reimbursing employees costs about 60% less than offering a company health plan, so more small employers can assist employee with their health coverage through small business HRAs.

Meet with Advisors Now

Before you go too deep into the New Year, schedule an appointment with your CPA or other to get ready to file your tax return and other information returns for 2016. Also, talk to your insurance agent if you haven’t already done so to price out your coverage needs when the anniversary of your policy (or policies) occurs.

Monitor Legislative and Regulatory Developments

With a new administration, things are going to change, and will likely impact your business. Make sure to watch developments carefully so you can take action as needed.

11.01.2017 // International Thank You Day

Date in the current year: January 11, 2017

Every year people all over the world celebrate International Thank You Day that falls on January 11. This celebration is the ideal opportunity to show your gratitude to people who make your days what they are.

The origin of International Thank You Day is unclear. No one knows who established it and when. There is an opinion that greeting cards companies promoted this holiday to increase their sales. But this doesn't make the concept of International Thank You Day less appealing.

Celebrate this day by showing your appreciation to people who make your life better and more beautiful. One single word can make people who surround you happier, isn't it great?

Unfortunately we often forget to show gratitude to others. We think only about ourselves and don't notice all the things that relatives and friends do for us. Be polite, think of others and then simple “thank you” will make their day better.

This day is considered as one of the most polite days. But don't forget thank all people who deserve it during the rest of the year!!!

23.12.2016 // Season Greetings!!!

22.12.2016 // Invitation to Nürnberg Spielwarenmesse

Invitation to Nürnberg Spielwarenmesse

Dear All!

The Company "Ranok-Creative" invites you to visit its stand at the International Toy Fair and get acquainted with the assortment and Novelties 2017!!!

20.12.2016 // Revolving Topics for Social Media Post Inspiration

Social media provides endless possibilities for small businesses. That means there are seemingly endless types of posts that you can share on different social media platforms. But when you need some extra inspiration, here are 50 different social media post ideas to use when creating content you can share with your followers.
Social Media Post Ideas
Quick Tips
Social media is perfect for quick bursts of information. If you can share quick tips that are likely to be helpful to your target audience, you can provide value without even requiring them to visit a separate website.
Product Photos
Aside from promoting your products with links, you can share photos of them to increase visibility and get customers more familiar with your offerings.
Customer Photo Re-posts
When your customers post photos of your products or content that is somehow related to your brand, it can be a good idea to share it on your own pages as well. Just ask your customers’ permission and then tag them in your post to give credit.
Polls
Social media can also be a great tool to gather information from your target customers. So you can post polls on platforms like Twitter and Facebook so that your followers can easily choose their favorite options when you ask questions.
Fill-in-the-Blank Posts
You might also choose to get a little more creative with how you interact with your followers. For example, you can post a fill-in-the-blank challenge to encourage your customers to respond.
Behind-the-Scenes Photos
You can also give your social media followers a look at your team and how you run your business by regularly posting photos of things like team events, product production or even your workspace.
Behind-the-Scenes Videos
Or you could create a video or two to show off some of those same factors about your business.
Infographics
Infographics are visual representations of data that you can use to share facts in a more interesting way on social media.
Interesting Stats
Or, if you want to share some quick stats, you can simply write out social media posts that include that information.
Product Input Requests
You can also ask customers on social media to share their input about your products or services.

15.12.2016 // 2017 toy trend: Body and Mind

“Body and Mind” is one of the three toy trends for 2017. This brings together products which help children achieve physical and mental relaxation through play, leading with fitness and exercise to good balance in their everyday lives.

According to a US study, children and young people are increasingly spending their time in the virtual world when not in school or doing homework, whether in front of the television or on game consoles, tablets or mobile phones. They use a digital medium almost six hours a day. Even 38% of children under 2 years of age have access to mobile devices. Getting young people physically active again is also a key element of Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign. Children need 60 minutes of physical activity every day to stay fit and healthy: simply getting outside again, letting off steam and having fun. This does not even mean abandoning their digital companions anymore, as proven this summer with Pokémon GO.

But active fun can also be had without any technical devices. Take the Gonge Roller, for example. This roller can be balanced on by children, young people and adults alike. The versatile motor activity object teaches motor skills and coordination in a playful way. Once up on the Roller, the balancing fun can begin.

Active games which can be played at home in a small space are also particularly popular. Yoga Spinner from Thinkfun is a delightful game that encourages balance and physical flexibility. Developed for children aged 8 to 10, the game offers an introduction to the world of yoga and an escape from digital life. 

06.12.2016 // The 6th of December is Saint Nicholas Day

05.12.2016 // Tips for Retailers When Dealing with the Holiday Labor Shortage

With unemployment rates dropping and retail wages rising, small retailers who need seasonal holiday employees are facing stiff competition from big retailers this year,  Monster.com (NYSE:MWW) reports. Adding to the crunch, since Christmas falls on a Sunday this year, more consumers are projected to head to brick-and-mortar stores for last-minute gifts since they won’t be able to get products shipped fast enough. That means more customers and potentially less help.

How can your business successfully compete for retail employees at this critical time of year? First tip: Start hiring now. Here are seven more.

How to Beat the Holiday Labor Shortage

Offer Employee Discounts

At holiday time, employee discounts can be a good motivator for taking a job. Even if the employee doesn’t personally want what your store sells, they likely have someone on their gift list who does.

Make It Fun

Working retail during the holidays is about as stressful as it gets so re-energizing your staff is key. Hold contests or dress-up days. Bring in treats to keep energy levels high. Help your staff blow off steam after hours by planning parties or coordinating activities like roller skating, bowling or happy hour get-togethers.

Give Out Bonuses

Offer an end-of-season bonus for employees who make it through the entire holiday season. You can also offer intermediate bonuses along the way for accomplishing goals you set for employees, such as a perfect on-time record or sales quota. Bonuses don’t have to be cash, either: Give out gift cards to a local restaurant, movie theater or even to your store.

Offer Longer Hours for Those Who Want Them

Hiring fewer employees and offering longer hours can save you money in the long run because you have to train fewer people. Many seasonal retail workers want as many hours as they can get, so this can be a selling point.

Set Regular Schedules

Retail employees hate “on-call scheduling” where they don’t know their schedule until the last minute. Using employee scheduling software, you can easily plan retail schedules ahead of time. Try to give employees similar hours every week and provide at least a week’s advance notice of schedules. When inevitable changes happen, employee scheduling software also makes it easy to request substitutions at the last minute. You can text or email employees and they can choose to take the shifts or not.

Pay Higher Wages

Know what’s competitive in your area in terms of retail wages, and be willing to pay at the top end of the scale for quality employees. After all, during the crazy holiday shopping season, store staff are a key differentiator for a small retailer. While paying on commission may seem like a smarter move, higher wages tend to lead to better service. Commission-based employees may “hard sell” to boost their own income, leading to regrets (and returns) later on. Well-paid employees are more likely to provide thoughtful service and take the time to really listen to customers’ needs.

Spread the Word

Existing employees and regular store customers are a great source of potential employees. Email customers on your email newsletter list and ask if they know anyone looking for seasonal work. You can even offer a hiring bonus for those who refer someone who successfully completes training and works throughout the season.

How do you plan to look for seasonal workers this year?