Ever noticed that your use of language can create real barriers to communication?

It's pretty well understood that the sort of language you use can really alienate an individual or a group.  That's why we're repeatedly told to communicate in simple language, to avoide technical jargon and to keep it simple. 

I presented a 30 minute information session to 200+ Defence Personnel who were contemplating careers outside of Defence.  A daunting prospect for many of them.  In preparing my session I was very conscious of the language I was using.  You see I sometimes get told off for using a big word when a little word will do.  I like words though and have found that the big words often describe something so specifically and so accurately it's hard to not use it.  Problem is, if the listener doesn't know that big word then all your specific and accurate go straight out the window and you end up nowhere.

What I noticed today as I observed some ex Defence members present their information is that as much as I have my own professional language so to do the Defence personnel.  It got me to thinking... "Is there really a common language?" and "How do two seperate groups really communicate with each other?"

And the kicker "how do we know when we've really been understood?"

Thoughts anyone?

Happy Mondays

Authored by Richard Reeves this book epitomises my attitude and approach to career planning and the world of work.

Richard progressively dismantles the traditional atttitudes to work (that's it's the necessary evil in order to get to the weekend) that we've inherited from our Industrial Age ancestors.

Richard cites numerous examples of changing attitudes to work and seeks to debunk some of the popular myths around work.  For example.  You often see in the press headlines about long hours working cultures eroding relationships.  Happy Mondays references several studies showing that those people working long hours are often choosing to do so and are doing it out of love for their work.

The author talks, often and enthusiastically, about the benefits we can derive from meaningful, rewarding work where the employer strives to meet our social, psychological, physiological needs in return for inspired work.  Sure, employers still have a way to go to get to a point where we can all derive intense satisfaction from our work but many are out there leading the charge.  My advice, if we all seek it, it'll create more demand to which organisations will invariably respond.  If you're not yet convinced, read the chapter on time sovereignty.  Suggestions include a strong push away from standard working hours letting employees decide when they work and for how long.  Performance measurement against outcomes, not face time at a desk when you could be doing anything (or nothing).

Go well, seek employment that makes your heart sing.  That nourishes, enriches, inspires and fulfills you. 

And remember, if you're not looking for it, you've only got yourself to blame.

One simple way to manage stress

It just occured to me, after a fabulous long weekend here in Brisbane, that managing stress need not be as difficult as many people make it.

I personally think it (stress management) starts and ends with the individual.  You need to take responsibility for recognising that you are subject to stress and that it is your responsibility to effectively manage it.  No-one else will (or can) do it for you.  Not your husband, wife, parents, employer, colleagues or friends.  So, with that grim assessment that its all up to you I thought I'd share some information about stress that might help.

• Stress is cumulative.  What didn't bother you yesterday could tip you over the edge today.
• Your body responds to any change as stressful (even positive events).
• Much of our personal stress comes from our expectations about how things SHOULD be, happen or go.  Practice letting go of some of your expectations to watch stress melt away.
• Individuals have different responses and tolerances to stress.  What stresses you out may not bother someone with a more resiliant personality.
• Your individual tolerance to stress changes from day to day - your health, the environment, how much sleep you've had, alcohol consumption, exercise, workload, deadlines.  All combine with your unique make up to influence how much stress you can manage and what your response will be.
• Some stress is good.  As humans we need a certain amount of stress (input) in order to perform at our best.  Procrastinators take heed - you need more stress than many to get moving.

I'm happy to talk more about stress management.  If you have any questions or comments let me know.  But for now, here's my one tip for more effectively manage the stress in your life.

Take a break.  Experts recommend at least one long weekend away every three months.  Can't see it happening?  Stay tuned, in my next blog I'll talk about how to make plans to ensure you get the break you need.

Take care, be well.

The Australian Government is investing heavily in skilled trades and apprenticeships are a great way to do this.  The opportunities for those seeking careers in a trade are greater than they have been for a long while. 

The best bet for more information about apprenticeships generally (including mature age apprenticeships) would be to visit an Australian Apprenticeships Centre in your region.  

 www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/search/aacsearch.asp  Type in your post code on this website to find the office nearest to you. 

This website www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au is a good source of information.  If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us.

Blaze Unlimited, Proudly Supporting National Career Development Week (2 - 8 June)

National Career Development Week encourages Australians to "get a life they love" and pursue a rewarding and enjoyable career. You can see their website here www.ncdw.com.au

As part of this initative Blaze Unlimited is hosting several free events for the community.

• Tuesday, 3rd June. 'Take Charge of Your Career'. 1 hour seminar starting at 6pm.

• Thursday, 5th June. 'How Career Planning Improves Attraction and Retention'. A lunchtime seminar targetted at managers, employers and HR Professionals. Starts at 12:30pm.

• Saturday, 7th June. 'Career Centre Open Day'. A free event starting at 9am on Saturday. We'll be providing free resume reviews, and 10 minute career advice sessions to interested visitors and some giveaways on the day.

Please call 0402 054 303 to register you interest in any of the above events to be sure you don't miss out.