By Mindy Bortness

When I was working in the marketing department of The San Diego Union-Tribune, a job I loved from the moment I stepped in and sparked a love for hiring intelligence, I used to sign my name with a smiley face.

Every memo, email or handwritten thank you note, I always signed:

Thanks,
Mindy

This little act of cheer was an extension of one of my core beliefs: optimism. It was, and still is, very important to me to extend optimism with every new interaction, client or project I’m working on.

To me, being optimistic is all about energy. When I approach a new situation with optimism, I’m bringing a lighter, more open energy into the interaction. This intention then becomes the focus. Despite what energy exists prior, or any somber facts that lead up to a current difficult situation, the infusion of optimism is always an energy reset for forward momentum and results.

By Holly Mitchell

When I owned my small business in Boise, Idaho, I decided to run an incentive program amongst my sales team to help them be more goal oriented and to drive sales. I told them that the first person to reach sales of $25,000 for the month would be celebrated with a spa day provided by the company. I encouraged the team members to text the group every time they made a big sale, in the hopes of motivating everyone to compete.

This was a tactic that had worked for me in my own sales career over the years. As a highly self-motivated person, I am always energized by others’ success. What I didn’t realize at the time is that this tactic doesn’t work for everyone. In fact, it did the exact opposite for one of my employees. She didn’t say anything for quite some time and even participated in the group text. However, one afternoon she came into my office completely in tears. She told me that the contest wasn’t helping her. It made her feel inadequate and had even decreased her motivation. Read More

Featuring Ron Price, In Trust Magazine, Fall 2019

“Wax on, wax off,” instructs Mr. Miyagi as he instills the fundamental basics to Daniel, who would grow to be The Karate Kid. The classic movie follows the developing relationship between the martial arts master and his young student. It’s a mentorship made in Hollywood heaven. But mentors provide a vital role in in everyday lives. Read More

By Dale Dixon,

“The number-one threat to old and big brands is the lack of agility. We must react at the speed of market, or faster.” Dr. Evans Baiya

Jennifer Didonna has worked at Better Business Bureau Northwest + Pacific for two months as the marketing coordinator. In mid-October, she experienced a day with the Innovator’s Advantage Academy. “I loved the immediate collaboration on everything,” Jennifer said.

“Everyone was open and offered constructive feedback. I loved the process and understanding of the process. It was really cool to collaborate with different personality types, leveraging strengths, and cultivating native genius.”

That’s just one day!