We all know that communication is important for human existence. When communication breaks down, it becomes painfully obvious just how important it is. What we don’t know is how to communicate effectively.

The effects of poor communication can be felt in any relationship, but within the work environment, it’s costly. Employees won’t understand tasks, they may feel disregarded, and may eventually [quietly quit](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/quiet-quitting).

Talent retention, keeping clients happy, and producing work by a deadline are all supported by healthy workplace communication.

We discussed [methods of communications](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/improving-internal-communications-in-the-workplace) before, but now we’re here to help you with communication strategy and style. After reading this article you’ll be able to use these actionable tips to improve your businesses’ communication.
![no image. Text: Tips to improve communication at work include starting with why, creating a confidential communication channel, making connections, asking for feedback, and being aware of body language.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_1_How_to_Improve_Communication_at_Work_12_Important_Tips_1_460bc345eb.jpg)
## 1. Start With Why

Assigning tasks without letting the worker know why it’s important is a surefire way to discourage excitement and productivity. Instead, let employees know the reason behind the tasks and assignments they’re working on. 

A clear and transparent approach to the importance of what employees are doing is important.

Start meetings by explaining why the meeting has been scheduled. This includes why people have been invited to them. Some businesses are notorious for scheduling people in meetings that they shouldn’t be in. Try not to waste people's time, but remind attendants why they’re there.
![image: a person typing on their laptop with one hand while holding their cellphone in another. Text: "Why" should be central to everything your organization does. Let employees in on the mission of your business and why their work matters. ](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_2_How_to_Improve_Communication_at_Work_12_Important_Tips_57ef6d5a88.jpg)
## 2. Create a Safe Space For Employees

Fear of retaliation or being laughed at are two ways to kill creativity and collaboration within your organization. That’s why it’s important to cultivate a place where employees feel safe and encouraged to collaborate. 

Doing this is much easier than some people make it. Make it clear that ideas shared during meetings don’t need to be final or even good. This will encourage healthy collaboration without fear. Teach everyone that mistakes are ok as long as they learn from them.

A no-retaliation plan means that employees can speak up about issues in the organization without fear of being fired, demoted, or shamed. These issues include sexual harassment, hazing, bullying, and other inappropriate behavior. It’s obviously a good idea to have one of these plans in place. It helps your business find and deal with issues that are harmful to your business and your people.

Your human resources (HR) team can help you develop a no-retaliation plan for your organization.
## 3. Create a Confidential Communication Channel

Anonymous reporting channels are important for your organization to have. Some organizations are required to have one in order to maintain license status.

An anonymous reporting channel is an incognito way for workers to air their grievances and whistle-blow serious issues throughout the organization. 

Using an anonymous reporting system protects whistleblowers and the company. Reporters have no fear of reporting and you’ll likely have a greater chance of receiving important reports. 

Receiving reports before issues become major is lucrative because you can stop theft, fraud, or other illegal activity. Depending on the situation, issues can be handled internally and any negative press can be avoided. 

Create a confidential reporting channel with the help of your HR team. The best channels are the ones that are easy to access without anyone noticing.
## 4. Make Connections

Part of being a leader in an organization is taking care of the people you’re in charge of. This isn’t only making sure they have what they need to get their work done. 

An organization with good communication will emphasize conversations about life outside of work. That’s because they recognize the importance of team camaraderie. Outside work conversations help develop meaningful relationships within the workplace that can  increase team morale, commitment, and productivity. Employees and coworkers aren’t cogs in the business machine, they’re people.

The best way to make meaningful connections at work is to communicate at a personal level. This doesn’t have to be formal! Ask about how weekends went and try to find common interests.

Sharing personal interests is important for remote workers too. It’s easy to feel isolated while working from home. Make sure to check on your remote workers from time to time.

**Related Article: [How to Build a Remote Team: Strategies & Tips](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/how-to-build-a-remote-team)**

There are a lot of ways to do this, but the best place to start is with leadership. Create a culture of personal connections by leading by example. Your employees will enjoy their work and work harder.
 
**Related Articles: [Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/emotional-intelligence)**
## 5. Provide Constructive Feedback—Not Criticism

Feedback helps validate and realign employees’ expectations and job performance. Without feedback, workers don’t know if their work is making a positive impact or needs to be corrected. However, it’s important to be mindful of how feedback is given. 

The best kind of feedback is constructive. Just saying something isn’t good is not enough. 

When giving feedback, let the employee know what they’ve done well and ways to improve. Give specific examples and reasons for why. Be empathetic and give feedback how you’d want to receive feedback.

**Related Articles: [Top Soft Skills for Leaders](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/top-soft)**
![Image: two coworkers looking intently at a computer on a table next to a jade plant. Text: managers with good communication skills can provide helpful feedback and adapt their tone for certain situations. ](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_3_How_to_Improve_Communication_at_Work_12_Important_Tips_f169afcc9f.jpg)
## 6. Ask For Feedback

Handing out tasks, monitoring progress, and giving feedback are only parts of what a manager does. Communication is a two-way activity. 

Managers and organization leaders need to be opening up conversations with employees. That means asking for feedback about how things are going. This includes projects, goals, and your personal work.

Asking for feedback gives employees ownership over what the company is doing and how. It’ll give them a meaningful way to interact with and contribute to the health of projects and the business as a whole.
## 7. Be Aware of Body Language

Words, whether spoken or written, are only a portion of how people communicate. Non-verbal communication communicates:

* How much you care
* If you’re honest
* If you’re listening
* What you think about what’s being said

Be aware of how you’re sitting during meetings. An open body posture with a relaxed face will show that you’re open and listening to what’s going on. Crossed arms show that you’re closed off to what is being said. 

Be aware of your body at work to make sure your team members and workers understand that you’re listening and receptive.
## 8. Write Better Emails

Emails are the backbone of most organizations. If you want to effectively communicate at work, you need to write better emails.

A well written email is like a refreshing drink in a desert land. Good email writing is not intuitive, but with the right tips and some practice you’ll be writing more effective emails in no time.
 
Here are some tips on writing good emails:

* Make the subject line relevant: If your subject lines are relevant, people will be able to quickly understand what your email is about.
* Put your questions on the top: Putting your questions toward the top of the email will make the email easier to read and comprehend. Don’t bury your questions or requests under a large preamble.
* Do not assume your task will be completed: Ending an email with “thanks for your cooperation”, “thanks in advance”, or any similar phrases can be seen as rude. 
* Add to the chain: Emails can quickly become disorganized messes. Keep things tidy by replying to the appropriate chains rather than starting a new one.
* Be concise: Emails are not the place to deep dive into topics. Stay on topic and keep your message concise.

Employing these email writing tips will help you become a better communicator at work.
## 9. Don’t Give Up

Healthy communication requires consistent effort and maybe significant change. Don’t give up on your efforts to create a meaningful culture of communication within your organization.

If it doesn’t seem like your efforts are working, double down. Ask employees more questions about work and life, and open up conversations about how the organization operates.
## Services For Arizona Businesses and Employers

Cultivating a culture of communication can be difficult. As a business leader or team member it’s hard to find training opportunities that will actually improve your organization.

Businesses in Arizona have access to services from Yavapai College’s Regional Economic Development Center. Whether it’s scaling, required training, or onboarding courses, the REDC delivers personalized training to support your business at every level.

[Explore your options](https://www.ycredc.com/business-services) and start taking your business communication to the next level.


Image: two coworkers havinn a conversation at a small round table in front of a window overlooking the city.

How to Improve Communication at Work: 9 Important Tips

Considering what career is right for you is difficult. How are you supposed to know what job you’ll enjoy and what will be available? The best thing you can do is research different careers and really consider if it’s something you may enjoy.

Web development is a great career that offers a high salary and job salary, but you’ll need to know coding and have a high attention to detail. Here are some important things you need to know before choosing web development as your career.


## Benefits of a Web Development Career

Web development isn’t for everyone. But for those that invest in this career, it can be well worth it. Here’s just a few reasons why web development can be a fulfilling career.


### Salary

A good career will engage and challenge you while also paying you well. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys web development then you won’t need to worry about not getting paid well.

According to Glassdoor, [web developers make anywhere between 73k - 119k a year](https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/us-web-developer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,2_IN1_KO3,16.htm). This number doesn’t include any commission, tips, or bonuses. Over time, a web developer's salary will increase—especially if they focus on developing their skills and moving up the ladder.


### Diverse Opportunities

Getting into a web development career means having access to a wide range of career paths, and diverse opportunities. Career opportunities for web developers include:



* Database administrator
* Computer programmer
* Information security analyst
* Mobile app developer
* User experience designer

When you enter the field of web development, you’re able to use your skills in a lot of different jobs. For most, this is advantageous because it gives you the option to move around if things don’t work out.


### High Demand and Job Security

Job security is one of the many benefits of web development. When asked about job security Mike said “Let’s face it, every business needs a website these days. That means we’re in high demand, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.”

Web development isn’t going anywhere. Technology continues to be a dominating force in all industries. Businesses need websites, databases need to be secured, and apps need to be developed. 

There’s a high demand for web developers and that’s not going to change anytime soon.


### Creative and Scientific

Some careers require a creative knack, while others require technical skills. Web development is the best of both worlds. 

Our local expert Mike enjoys changing between the complex and creative tasks of web development and says it’s never boring. “One day you’re designing a slick UI, the next you’re diving into complex algorithms.”

Web development is a very scientific field that requires a technical understanding of computer science, but it also requires creativity and creative problem solving.


## How to Become A Web Developer

To be a web developer you need to have a good understanding of computer science. How you get these skills is up to you. Several web developers have a formal education, but a few choose to teach themselves. 

Whether you’re certain, or interested, in becoming a web developer, this is the path most people take To break into this career.


![Different ways of approaching a web developer education](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Is_Web_Development_a_Good_Career_For_You_Graphic_1_237162ccce.jpg)


### Education

A formal education in web development will equip you with everything you need to know before starting your career. In most cases, a bachelor’s degree is enough, but for higher positions, master’s or doctorate degrees are required.

[The majority of software developers have a bachelor’s degree](https://www.statista.com/statistics/793568/worldwide-developer-survey-level-formal-education/), and getting one yourself could help jumpstart your career.


### Training

As mentioned above, formal education is not necessary to work as a web developer. Learning how to code online can happen through online courses or your own research. 

Online courses are a structured way of learning. They can be done in your own time and offer a flexible learning environment. 

**You can start looking for online courses by looking through the [REDC course catalog](https://www.ycredc.com/courses). While you’re at it, [apply for the QUEST grant](https://www.ycredc.com/quest-grant). It's a great way to find and take online courses for free.**

Getting started may take a while. But once you start your career, you’ll be able to gain a lot of experience which will help you get promotions or apply for better jobs. 


#### Keep Learning

Mike had this to say about the importance of always learning as a web developer. “Embrace the learning curve. Our field changes fast. If you’re not learning, you’re falling behind.”  

Education, training, and learning is baked into web development, it won’t stop. So embrace the learning curve and start learning today.


### Entry Level Jobs

If you’re looking to start your web development career, start by applying for entry-level positions. Here are the types of web developer career paths to look out for in your search.


#### Front-end

Front-end developers are in charge of making the portion of sites and apps that are seen by customers. They do this by using web languages like:

* HTML
* CSS
* JavaScript

Most of the job description for front-end developers involve making sure design elements and the appearance of the site or application look correct and intuitive.


#### Back-end

Back-end developers build the code that acts as the foundation for websites and apps. They build the parts of the site people won’t see.

Building and maintaining code is the main task for back-end developers. They’re required to test systems, keep info secure, and maintain other important features not seen by the user.


### Local Expert Web Developer Tips

Mike, our local expert in Web Development, gave some tips on how to start working in the field of web development.



* **Start with the holy trinity:** HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. There are tons of free resources out there. I started with freeCodeCamp and never looked back.
* **Build stuff:** Don't just watch tutorials. Get your hands dirty. Build a portfolio site, clone your favorite app, or create something totally new.
* **Show off your work:** GitHub is your new best friend. Push your code, contribute to open-source projects, and build an awesome portfolio site.
* **Find your tribe:** Join Discord servers, hit up local meetups, or dive into Stack Overflow. The dev community is generally pretty welcoming.
* **Get some real-world experience:** Internships, freelance gigs, or even volunteering to build a site for a local business. Any experience is good experience.
* **Never stop learning:** Follow dev blogs, binge YouTube tutorials, or take some Udemy courses. The learning never stops in this field.
* **Stay away from AI:** Nowadays, there are too many automated tools that will give you code without any explanation or understanding.  It might work, but you won’t know how, why, or what to do when it doesn’t.  Learn on your own and incorporate AI only when you have a strong foundation.
* **Find a code buddy:** Having someone to learn with, bounce ideas off of, or just commiserate with can be a game-changer. Also, look up “Rubber Duck Debugging”.  It's a real thing, and it works!

## 4 Important Skills for Web Developers

Skills can always be learned, but some people are born with certain dispositions or interests that help them in their careers. For example, some people are naturally more comfortable with public speaking and therefore succeed better in client-facing roles.

Skills like public speaking, problem-solving, and conflict resolution are all soft skills. Other skills like welding, using Excel, and speaking a language are all hard skills. Both of these skill types are important.

Here’s a list of four important skills needed to be a web developer.


![A list detailing important skills for web developers](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Is_Web_Development_a_Good_Career_For_You_Graphic_2_411ee3786c.jpg)


### 1. Attention to Detail

If you’ve ever looked at a line of code you’ll notice a lot going on. Web development is a detail-oriented job that requires focus.

While writing code, a web developer needs to oversee all that they’re working on. This includes reviewing lines of code. This can be a tedious task and it requires a keen eye for details.

Web developers are also tasked with following complex standards. These standards can change from project to project, so keeping them at the front of mind is important.


### 2. Creative Problem Solving Skills

As mentioned earlier, web development is both a scientific and creative field. Sometimes when working on a project, you’ll be tasked with finding solutions to problems.

Creative problem solving is an important skill for web developers to have. Mike says that half the job is figuring out why something’s broken and how to fix it. It takes a lot to make a website or application run smoothly, and problem-solving is a natural part of that process.


### 3. Focus on Long Tasks Till Completion

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys switching between tasks throughout the day, web development may not be for you. 

Attending meetings, collaborating with colleagues, and checking emails are all typical tasks for a web developer. However, the majority of their day involves dealing with code, including writing and testing.

If you want to become a web developer, get comfortable focusing on a single task for a long time. Deadlines are typically short, so dedicating as much time as you can to a project is important.


### 4. Coding

You can’t be a web developer if you don’t know how to code. Learning how to code can happen during formal education, a coding boot camp, online research, or online courses. 

Different coding languages each have their own nuance. Whether you want to focus on just one type of coding language, or become proficient in all of them, you need to understand the ins and outs of coding languages.

Once you’ve learned HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, Mike recommends learning popular frameworks like React or Vue. “HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are your bread and butter, but once you throw in some popular frameworks you’re golden.”


![A laptop with code on the screen on a communal desk](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Is_Web_Development_a_Good_Career_For_You_Graphic_3_74142fce09.jpg)


## Prepare for A Web Development Career At The REDC

The Regional Economic Development Center at Yavapai College offers job seekers in Yavapai County opportunities to jumpstart and grow their careers. 

Whether you’re looking for networking opportunities or courses to prepare you for a new job or an existing job, the REDC has everything you need to take your skills to the next level. If you’re looking for courses you can apply for the [QUEST Grant](https://www.ycredc.com/quest-grant) to get an education for free. 

**[Learn more](https://www.ycredc.com/job-seekers) about what the REDC can do for you and your career.**


Is Web Development a Good Career For You?

Time management is an important skill that helps you allocate your time and energy effectively. If your job requires you to work on multiple tasks, manage complicated projects, or meet important deadlines, then you can benefit from improving your time management. 

Most of us already have established routines and methods for accomplishing tasks. This can make it difficult to find ways to improve time management. That being said, there are several strategies for improving time management that can be easily integrated into your current work routine. 

**Read our related article to discover [how to identify areas of improvement at work](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/identifying-areas-of-improvement-at-work-5-ways-to-enhance-work-performance).**
## Why is Time Management Important?

Time management is an essential skill to have, regardless of your job position or career field. Improving your time management at work can not only benefit the organization you work for, but it can also provide several benefits to you as an individual. 
![No image, text: Benefits of time management at work include improved work quality, improved capabilities, achieving company goals, reducing inefficiencies, and improving team morale](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_1_How_to_Improve_Time_Management_at_Work_11ca8fb85f.jpg)
### How Time Management Benefits an Organization

On a large scale, improving your time management skills can help your company achieve their goals and reduce inefficiencies that lead to unnecessary costs. When you use your time effectively, you help your organization maximize efficiency and get the most out of their labor costs.

Managing your time effectively also improves team morale by encouraging a productive and efficient work environment. You can set a positive example for your coworkers, which can lead to enhanced collaboration and team performance.
### How Time Management Benefits the Individual

On an individual level, time management can improve your work quality, increase your capabilities, and decrease stress. By allocating your time at work effectively, you are able to complete tasks quicker and easier. 

Completing tasks quickly and easily will not only increase your productivity, but it can also improve your quality of life. Improving your time management skills eliminates stress caused by looming deadlines, multiple tasks, and poor work-life balance.

**Read our related guide to learn how [accountability training](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/five-ways-accountability-training-can-benefit-your-career) helps you become a dependable employee.**
## 5 Strategies for Improving Time Management at Work

Integrating time management strategies into your work routine will noticeably enhance your efficiency and work quality. The five time management strategies for improving work productivity include:


* Monitoring your time
* Prioritizing your tasks
* Creating an efficient schedule
* Avoiding multitasking
* Organizing your workspace

Let’s take a look at these time management strategies in detail to discover how they help you make the most of your time at work. 
### #1 Monitor Your Time

Monitoring your time involves accurately keeping track of how your time is spent. This will not only help you identify where your time is wasted, but  it will also help you determine how much work you can actually accomplish in a day.

To accurately monitor your time, log your daily activities and to see how long it took to complete them. You can use your daily activity log to monitor your productivity, set realistic goals, and keep track of your progress. 

**Read our related article to learn [how to set professional development goals](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/setting-professional-development-goals-that-won-t-let-you-down).**
### #2 Prioritize Your Tasks

To prioritize your tasks, organize your workload based on the urgency and importance of each to-do. Prioritizing your tasks will ensure that you spend your time and energy on the tasks that matter most. 

One method for prioritizing tasks is the Eisenhower Matrix. The Eisenhower Matrix is an organizational diagram that divides tasks into four categories:

* **Important and urgent**—complete these tasks immediately
* **Important but not urgent**—schedule these tasks to be completed later 
* **Not important but urgent**—minimize or delegate these tasks if possible
* **Not important and not urgent**—minimize or eliminate these tasks

Using the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize your tasks will keep you organized and make sure you're not spending too much time on unnecessary things.
![image: an Eisenhower matrix. Text: an Eisenhower Matrix is an organizaitonal diagram that divides tasks into these four categories - urgent, not urgent, important, and not important](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_2_How_to_Improve_Time_Management_at_Work_ce9f12f1ef.jpg)
### #3 Create an Efficient Schedule

One method for creating an efficient schedule is time blocking, which combines a calendar with a to-do list. To set time blocks, divide each part of your day into specific segments. Then, organize your tasks based on priority and schedule them accordingly. Time blocking should be done in week-long increments with a specific schedule for each day.

Setting time blocks will ensure that you dedicate enough time for each task and all tasks are accounted for. Also, time blocks can enhance your productivity by keeping you focused on a single task at a time.
### #4 Avoid Multitasking

Multitasking might seem appealing because you can make progress on several tasks in a short time period. However, it actually reduces your work quality and increases the time it takes to complete each task. This is because multitasking divides your time and energy that could be concentrated on a single task.

Multitasking wastes time, ruins your focus, and increases stress. Concentrating on one task until it’s completed will help you maintain your concentration and ensure you make the most of your time and energy. 
### #5 Organize Your Workspace

Staying organized will increase your productivity by improving your focus and eliminating wasted time. Having a cluttered work area is distracting, and it makes it hard to quickly find what you need. Instead, your workspace should be organized to boost productivity and eliminate waste.

To organize your workspace, keep only the essentials and make sure everything is easy to find. Whether it’s your computer or work area, remove unnecessary clutter and designate a specific location for every work item. 
## Boosting Team Productivity—How to Improve Time Management as an Employer

Employers and supervisors have a unique opportunity to improve productivity and time management within the workplace. Some of the methods for improving your team’s time managements include:  

* Set clear expectations and deadlines
* Establish planning routines
* Encourage collaboration and communication
* Eliminate wastes of time and resources
* Understand individual strengths and delegate accordingly

By implementing time management strategies and leading by example, you can establish a productive work environment for you and your team.
![image: a man in a suit sticking sticky notes on a bulletin board. Text: By implementing time management strategies and leading by example, employers can establish a productive work environment](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_3_How_to_Improve_Time_Management_at_Work_c4b990934b.jpg)
**Read our related article to discover your [management style](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/what-is-your-management-style).**
## Improve Your Skills in the Workplace with REDC

REDC has the courses and resources you need to develop your professional skills. Whether you want to boost [personal productivity](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/personal-productivity) or improve [time management](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/time-management) skills, we help you get the education you need with our self-paced online courses.

REDC doesn’t just help you acquire skills through certs and online classes, but also through career-focused counseling and guidance. Explore our free [career resources](https://www.ycredc.com/career-resources) to discover how we can help you achieve your professional goals. 

Image: a man in a flannel gesticulating at a laptop during a conference call.

5 Strategies for Improving Time Management at Work

 The workplace has changed over the course of history, but over the last couple of years, workplaces have changed a lot. As remote work becomes more the norm, people find themselves working in brand new environments.

While working from home has been shown to benefit employees and create a healthier work-life balance, it may be a difficult work environment for some. The same goes for working in a traditional office. There are distractions anywhere you work.

The top 10 ways to improve work performance are:

1. Remove distractions
2. Blockout time
3. Set clear goals
4. Track your progress
5. Ask for feedback
6. Take breaks
7. Keep your workplace tidy
8. Keep learning
9. Stay out of office drama
10. Keep yourself healthy

In this article, we’ll walk through each of these with more tips and details so you can be a rockstar at work.

**Read our article about [identifying areas of improvement at work](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/identifying-areas-of-improvement-at-work-5-ways-to-enhance-work-performance) to learn how to be more efficient with your performance improvements.**
## Why is Work Performance Important?
Your work performance defines how well you perform your duties at work. This includes time to complete tasks, accuracy, communication, and adaptability. Everything about how you work your job contributes to this.

Performing well at our job is important because it contributes to the success of the company you work for. It’s also important because it gives you more opportunities for other jobs and career growth.
## How to Improve Your Work Performance
There are so many ways to improve your work performance, and there’s a lot of room for creativity. While embarking on your journey of improving your work performance, keep these things in mind.
### 1. Ruthlessly Remove Distractions
It’s hard to admit, but watching a movie on your second monitor might be distracting you more than you think it is. On average, [US workers lose 1 hour and 18 minutes a day due to distractions](https://www.workamajig.com/project-management-software/top-distractions-at-work#:~:text=On%20average%2C%20U.S.%20workers%20lose,an%20estimated%20%24650%20billion%20annually.). These can come in any form, including self-inflicted distractions.

If you want to improve your work performance, ruthlessly remove any distractions. Doing this may require self-control, but don’t worry, there’s a time and a place for everything.

Distractions like having a movie on, listening to a podcast, listening to music, or playing a four hour YouTube video about [The Spectacular Failure of the Star Wars Hotel](https://www.npr.org/2024/05/26/nx-s1-4978777/star-wars-hotel-youtube-video), are great outside of deep focus work. However, it’s totally fine to put something on during your breaks.
![Image: a blonde woman sitting at a table in front of a brght window, working on her laptop with her headphones in. Text: Cutting out distractions will take a lot of effort, but it's one of the best ways to improve your performance at work](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_1_10_Ways_to_Improve_Work_Performance_While_Working_in_an_Office_or_at_Home_a0c7b97848.jpg)
### 2. Blockout Time
There is so much that comes up throughout the day:

- Phone calls
- Chat messages
- Emails
- A deadline you forgot about
- Fatigue

All of these things are vying for your attention and are inevitable in most working environments. So how do you get them under control? It’s not going to happen on its own. You need to block out time.

Blocking out time lets you take control of your workday. By doing this you’ll be avoiding the inevitable pull of random tasks and responding to emails by scheduling a time to handle each of those tasks.

Here are some things you should include in your blocked schedule:

- Reading and responding to emails and internal messages
- Building your weekly and daily task list
- Reviewing the tasks you need to finish and how close they are to completing
- Deep working time
- Breaks, including lunch

While making your daily schedule, make sure you communicate any changes to your team. If you have an internal system for tracking current availability, use that to easily let your team know what you’re up to.
### 3. Set Clear and Tangible Goals
Setting clear and tangible goals will improve your work performance by giving you a clear roadmap for what to do next. Goals like “I want to be the best” or “I want people to like my work” are not tangible.

The best way to set goals is with the S.M.A.R.T. goals method.

- **Specific**—Keep the goal focused on a specific thing
- **Measurable**—The goal should have progress indicators
- **Achievable**—Make the goal something you can complete
- **Realistic**—What results you’re expecting given your resources
- **Time-bound**—Set a due date for your goal 

Looking at work performance goal examples might help point you in the right direction. Goals like:

- Make three sales this month
- Write 10 articles this week
- Make 20 phone calls this week
- Finish four courses this quarter

Notice that those goals include a number and a due date. These goals also aren’t dependent on other people.
![No image, text:  the SMART goals method means goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_2_10_Ways_to_Improve_Work_Performance_While_Working_in_an_Office_or_at_Home_52024784b9.jpg)
### 4. Track Your Progress
After your goals have been set, track your progress. If you’ve made a S.M.A.R.T. goal, this will be simple. Look at the number you have on your goal and divvy it up on your timeline so it makes sense.

Let’s say you made a goal to complete three online courses in a month. On what days will you be doing coursework? Are there major events in the month you should account for? What days are the due dates?

Keep a close eye on your progress and adjust your efforts when needed.
### 5. Ask for Feedback
Your peers, managers, and bosses will know your work well. They should be able to offer feedback about your work. You could ask for feedback by simply asking, “What could I have done better?” or even, “Do you have any feedback?” However, there are more effective ways to get feedback that will actually help you.

It’s fine to open a conversation about feedback by asking a simple question, but here are some thing you should do to ensure you’re getting the best feedback:

- **Ask about a specific aspect of your work**: Asking someone, “How do you think I’m doing?” without context might be confusing. You should frame your feedback around a specific aspect of your work. You could ask “Do you have any feedback about my work on this project?”
- **Be open to criticism**: When you ask for feedback there’s a chance you won’t like what you hear. To get the most out of feedback, don’t defend any criticisms levied against your work. Be open to the idea that your work can improve and take it as an opportunity to get better.
- **Ask follow-up questions**: Don’t let their feedback stop at the first round. Ask follow-up questions to dig deeper into what they think of your work performance. You could ask them to clarify things or ask them for specific action items.
- **Listen and take notes**: It’s easy to let feedback go into one ear and out the other. Capture this feedback in an effective way. Write things down and use what you get to inform future goals and plans.

There’s always room for improvement and going to your reporting manager to ask for ways you can improve is a surprisingly simple way to find gaps and become a better version of yourself.
### 6. Take Ample Breaks
Your body and brain aren’t built to be productive for 8 hours straight. Working through your lunch, and keeping your nose to the grinder will not set you up for long-term productive success. Building breaks and time to rest your brain throughout the workday will make you more productive by giving you a chance to refresh.

How you structure your work day may not be up to you, but if you’re able, schedule in time to eat, relax, and maybe go for a quick walk. If used well you’ll feel energized and ready to keep finishing up work.
### 7. Keep Your Workplace Tidy
Focusing on a task while your desk is cluttered with scraps of papers, notes scribbled all over, or even food sitting out is desperately difficult for most people. A clear workspace leads to a clear mind that is available to focus and get work done.

Another thing to keep tidy is your digital workspace. Keep your emails, tabs, and documents organized properly. You can choose whatever method works best for you but try to keep everything you need in a moment just a few clicks away.
### 8. Always Be Learning
Your performance at work will only grow the more you learn and grow. Taking time out of your day to keep up to date with industry news and the most recent innovations will keep you on the cutting edge while also motivating you by providing insights and interesting stories about your occupation.

You can go about learning in a few ways. There are so many great books to read that pertain to effective leadership, communication, and workflow. There’s also likely a site that aggregates articles about your industry. Keep up to date by reading these articles and applying what you learned to your work.
![Image: a man with long brown hair working at an office with lots of wires and keyboards. He's got over-the-ear headphones and a plaid jacket. Text: using education to improve work performance involves online courses, blogs and article aggregates, company sponsored professional development and courses through the REDC](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_3_10_Ways_to_Improve_Work_Performance_While_Working_in_an_Office_or_at_Home_a0cb8dccec.jpg)
### 9. Beware of Office Drama
Completing great work is hard enough. Adding office politics into the mix will only muddle and make work more difficult. Keeping your conduct professional will keep you away from the inevitability of office gossip and drama. These things will corrode you and your team’s productivity.

If you find yourself getting caught up with workplace drama, try not to get invested and instead stay professional.
### 10. Keep Yourself Healthy
Feeling sluggish at work is the worst. You’re sitting at your desk wanting to get work done but your brain is foggy and it’s just not working. This is a common experience and one of the best ways to solve it is to take up healthy habits.

Here are some ways you can improve your work performance by staying healthy:

- **Work Out**: You don’t have to hit the gym every day, but you can start small. Daily walks or short workouts 3 times a day are a great place to start working out.
- **Eat Healthy**: Consider your eating habits, are there more healthy foods you could be eating? Opting for healthier work snacks like nuts, yogurt, or dried fruit might be a good option for you.
- **Keep Your House Peaceful**: Going home to a restful and relaxing space will do wonders for your workplace productivity. Try to make a space at home you can go to after work to get some real rest. 

If you can’t seem to build healthy habits or find time for rest, you’re not alone. There’s a large [percentage of people who report feeling exhausted more days](https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/sleep/sleep-statistics/#:~:text=Among%20adults%20older%20than%2018,in%20a%2024%2Dhour%20period.), and a third of Americans report getting less than the recommended amount of sleep.
## Improve Your Work Performance With Help From the REDC
Improving your work performance alone can be described as a lonely experience. Finding courses on your own and doing a lot of introspection can only get you so far. 

Use every opportunity at your disposal and [reach out to the REDC at Yavapai College](https://www.ycredc.com/job-seekers). The REDC is dedicated to offering [career training and upskilling opportunities](https://www.ycredc.com/courses) for businesses and job seekers located in Yavapai County. Anyone can receive the training they need to step into their dream role or get the promotion they’ve been wanting.


A bright, open office with lots of desks but one person working

10 Ways to Improve Work Performance While Working in an Office or at Home

Finance is a diverse career field that can provide job stability, lucrative opportunities, and paths for advancement. If you consider yourself a numbers person with an eye for details, then you may want to consider a career in finance. 

There are a variety of finance jobs to specialize in whether it’s accounting, investment banking, or financial planning. Getting started in a finance career often requires proficient knowledge and a diverse set of skills. 

Finance is a competitive field that can be difficult to get started in. However, even if you don’t have prior experience in finance, you can still gain the knowledge and education you need to launch your career. 
## Gain Financial Knowledge: Here are 4 Strategies for Learning About Finance 
Before you can get started in a finance career, you need to gain a foundational knowledge of a variety of topics. Four strategies for gaining the knowledge you need to start your finance career include:

- Get a formal education
- Network with professionals
- Apply for internship opportunities
- Upskill your knowledge

Let’s take a look at these strategies in detail to discover how they can prepare you for your future career in finance. 
### #1 Get a Formal Education
The best way to gain technical knowledge in finance is by taking formal education courses. Getting a formal education will build the foundation of your financial knowledge and teach you a variety of topics that are needed to start your career in finance. 

Some of the formal education courses that can benefit a career in finance include:

- [Business Statistics](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/mindedge-introduction-to-business-statistics)
- [Financial Planning and Control](https://catalog.mindedge.com/yavapai/courses/1135/financial-planning-and-control)
- [Finance Essentials](https://catalog.mindedge.com/yavapai/suites/24578/certificate-in-finance-essentials)
- [Budget Management](https://catalog.mindedge.com/yavapai/courses/1165/understanding-and-managing-budgets)

These courses can provide you with knowledge in a diverse range of financial topics. Completing these formal courses can also appeal to potential employers and prove that you’re a qualified candidate for hire. 

**REDC’s [online courses](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/all?page=1) are self-paced, allowing you to get the education you need on your own time.**
![image: a woman with red nails using a macbook on her bed with checkered sheets. Text: the best way to gian technical knowledge in finance is by taking formal education courses.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_1_How_to_Start_a_Career_in_Finance_With_No_Experience_1c264d489e.jpg)

### #2 Network With Professionals
Expanding your professional network opens up immeasurable opportunities, no matter what career you’re looking into. Networking with industry professionals can teach you valuable insights into the financial industry, such as:

- How the financial market is trending
- How to become successful in finance
- What the common challenges are
- What different job roles look like
- What opportunities are available for internship or employment 

Networking is also an effective strategy for getting your name out there and connecting with potential employers. To expand your network and connect with industry professionals, you should attend seminars, go to networking events, and utilize online networking sites like LinkedIn. 
### #3 Apply for Internship Opportunities
Working as an intern can teach you additional skills that will prepare you for your future career in finance. Internships provide a unique opportunity to learn industry insights, get hands-on experience, and network with industry professionals. 

If you use your internship opportunity effectively to learn and grow, you can build professional relationships with your colleagues and supervisors. This often leads to full-time job offers at the company you’re interning for. Even if you don’t secure a full-time position, internships can lead to positive endorsements, mentorships, and other job opportunities. 
### #4 Upskill Your Knowledge
Upskilling your knowledge involves supplementing your education with practical soft skills. While hard skills relate to industry-specific technical knowledge, soft skills relate to how well you work by yourself and with others. 

Some of the soft skills that can benefit a career in finance include:

- [Critical thinking](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/critical-thinking)
- [Business etiquette](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/business-etiquette)
- [Risk assessment and management](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/risk-assessment-and-management)
- [Knowledge management](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/knowledge-management)
- [Personal productivity](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/personal-productivity)

Upskilling your knowledge with soft skills will enhance your personal and professional development. Also, completing soft skill courses can bolster your resume and help you stand out from the competition.

Upskilling can also involve certificates for hard skills, like learning new software or mastering more in-depth financial concepts.
![image: a man with glasses and a dark blue button-up shirt gleefully celebrates a team win  in a concerence room. Text: Hard skills are related to industry-specific technial knowledge, soft skills relate to how well you work by yourself and others.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_2_How_to_Start_a_Career_in_Finance_With_No_Experience_ba5b5eb201.jpg)
## Starting Your Financial Career: How to Get a Job in Finance With No Experience
After you’ve earned the education and knowledge you need to start your finance career, it’s time to find your first job. To find your first job in finance, you should:

- Utilize your personal and professional network
- Research employment opportunities online
- Look for internship opportunities
- Look for freelance jobs
- Attend job fairs

While you’re searching for a job, you should prepare for interviews and make sure your resume is up to date. Your resume should highlight the skills, education, and experience that relates to the finance industry. Also, you should tailor your resume to fit the specific requirements that are listed in each job posting.

**Worried about gaps in your resume? Read our related article on [how to navigate resume gaps](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/navigating-resume-gaps). Also, check out these [career resources](https://www.ycredc.com/career-resources) at the REDC for more  resume tips, training, and career counseling.**
![image: a cartoon graphic of a person with a giant pencil the size of his body, approaching what looks to be his resume. Text: Your resume should hightlight the skills, education, and experience that relates to the finance industry](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_3_How_to_Start_a_Career_in_Finance_With_No_Experience_48238198d9.jpg)
### Find Entry-Level Finance Jobs
Most higher-level finance jobs require you to start an entry-level position and work your way up. The common entry-level finance jobs include:

- Accountant
- Auditor
- Analyst 
- Tax specialist
- Junior investment trader

Upward mobility is common in the finance industry. After you master entry-level roles, you can qualify for higher-level roles like senior positions, supervisor positions, and director roles. Certain chief-level roles are at the highest level in the finance industry, and they include chief financial officer (CFO), chief operating officer (COO), and chief risk officer (CRO).

**Read our related article for a step-by-step guide on [how to become an accountant](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/how-to-become-an-accountant-a-step-by-step-guide-to-financial-excellence).**
## Kickstart Your Career in Finance with the REDC
The REDC at Yavapai College offers the tools and resources you need to prepare for a career in finance. We’re here to help you every step of the way with our self-paced online course and free career resources. 

Check out our [online course catalog](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/all?page=1) to view the courses that can help you get started on your career in finance. 


Image: a macbook with charts pulled up on the screen, while the user holds a small tablet next to it

4 Strategies for Starting a Career in Finance Without Experience

If you’re currently in the market for a new job, then you may have realized that this process can take longer than you expected. Whether you are urgently looking for a new job or you have a little bit of time to spare, searching for a job while you are unemployed can be stressful.  

That being said, there are a lot of ways to make the most of your time while you’re unemployed. These strategies can better prepare you for your next job, help set you apart from the competition, and may even reduce the time it takes to land a job.  

If you’re unemployed and looking for your next job, then take a breath, budget wisely, and follow these steps.


## Don’t Give Up—What to Do When Jobless

Although you may be worried that your job hunt is taking too long, it’s important that you don’t get discouraged. Finding the right job is a lengthy process, and it’s common for it to take months before you land your first interview.

Unemployment is often a temporary setback that you face while you’re working towards your long-term career goals. As you prepare yourself for your next job, focus on the improvements that you’re making rather than the temporary circumstances that you’re in.


![A hiring handshake.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Strategies_for_Job_Seekers_Graphic_1_3d24204389.jpg)


## 5 Efficient Strategies for Urgent Job Seekers

It is important to make the most of your time while you are unemployed, especially if you’re urgently looking for a job. Even if you don’t have a lot of time to spare, there are still plenty of opportunities for you to prepare yourself for your next job and help set yourself apart from the competition.

Here are five strategies that can quickly help job seekers while they are on the hunt for a job. 


### 1. Update Your Old Resume

Updating your resume will not only identify your professional qualifications, but it can also make a lasting impression on potential employers. The key components of a strong resume include:



* Your contact information


* A brief professional summary, tailored to the job you’re applying for


* Relevant work experience


* Education history 


* Degrees, certifications, and professional licenses 


* Professional development achievements

There are also ways that you can leverage gaps in your resume to work in your favor. If a potential employer asks about the gaps in your resume, this is a great time to discuss how you used your downtime effectively to make yourself a more qualified candidate.

**For more information, check out our article on [navigating resume gaps.](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/navigating-resume-gaps) The REDC at Yavapai College also has resume experts to help you create the perfect resume to get hired fast. [Check out our career resources](https://www.ycredc.com/career-resources) to get started.**

![Bulleted list of ways to get the most out of your resume](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Strategies_for_Job_Seekers_Graphic_2_e3a2744471.jpg)


### 2. Create a Personal Brand Statement

A personal brand statement lets the professional world know who you are, what you do, and what you stand for. Aligning your online platforms with your personal brand statement will help you stand out from the crowd, network with other professionals, and maybe even catch the attention of potential employers. 

Professional online platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed are popular avenues for employment. By establishing your personal brand statement on these platforms, you can increase your visibility and decide how you want the professional world to perceive you. 

**Want to turn out a great statement? Check out our article about [how to write a personal brand statement](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/how-to-write-a-personal-brand-statement) and why it is important.**


### 3. Research Your Future Career

You should use the time that you’re unemployed to get a firm understanding of what your future career entails. Researching your future career can help you identify additional steps  that can better qualify you for employment and also get you up to speed for when you finally land the job. 


### 4. Research Potential Employers

While online platforms can be a great way to look for job opportunities, know that not all companies use them. By researching and reaching out to different companies, you can gain valuable insights into who may be hiring and what it may take to get hired.

Researching potential employers will also prevent you from getting scammed. Unfortunately, online scammers take advantage of job seekers with fake job postings and job offers. 

**Read our related article to learn how to [verify the credibility of companies](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/how-to-check-the-legitimacy-of-a-business) and avoid job offer scams.**


![A newspaper open to the Jobs Wanted page](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Strategies_for_Job_Seekers_Graphic_3_92945917f6.jpg)


### 5. Use Career Resources Provided by REDC

REDC at Yavapai College offers a long list of [career resources](https://www.ycredc.com/career-resources) to help you establish yourself professionally and make you a qualified candidate for hire. These valuable career resources are completely free, and they are easily accessible online. 

**Whether you need help preparing for an interview, writing a professional resume, or connecting with potential employers, REDC has the resources you need to take the next step in your career. [Learn more about how we can help job seekers](https://www.ycredc.com/job-seekers).**


## Set Yourself Apart With Education and Upskilling

Learning new skills through formal education is a uniquely beneficial strategy that can help you land a job in your dream career. Upskilling your current knowledge will help qualify you for additional jobs and teach you information that can’t be learned anywhere else.

Not only will you gain knowledge through upskilling, but you’ll earn certifications that will strengthen your resume and make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Upskilling is a key component of professional development that is worth the time and effort that you put into it. 

**Read our related article to learn what [micro-credentials](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/micro) are and how they can help you land your dream job.**

![List of the benefits of upskilling.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Strategies_for_Job_Seekers_Graphic_4_09cf010e67.jpg)


### Take Online Courses at REDC

With the help of [REDC’s online courses](https://careertraining.ed2go.com/redcact/), upskilling has never been easier. These online courses are self-paced, meaning you can take as long as you need to get the education you require.

Whether you want to learn additional skills for your current career path or learn the skills that can propel you into a new career field, REDC offers the courses that can help you land your dream job.

**Read our related article to discover the many [benefits of online courses.](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/benefits-of-online-learning)**


What to Do When Unemployed: Strategies for Job Seekers

Are you currently unemployed? Do you feel like you hit a dead end in your career path? Is your current job not what you anticipated it would be? Are you looking for a career that has better opportunities?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you may be interested in starting a new career path. Your career should align with your interests and help you achieve your personal and professional goals. When you feel like your career is holding you back, then it’s time for a change. 

Whether you are unemployed or stuck in a job you don’t want, getting started in a new career can seem daunting. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to help you get started in your dream job. 


![Two women discussing a job application.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/How_to_Start_a_New_Career_Graphic_1_b59825ac30.jpg)


## How to Decide on a New Career—Identifying Your Interests and Strengths

The first step in deciding on a new career is determining what your interests are. Look at your hobbies and figure out why you enjoy them. Do you enjoy reading and writing, creating art, solving puzzles, or being outdoors? 

Once you have a solid idea about your interests, assess your strengths. Think about which jobs and school classes you excelled at. When you have determined what your interests and strengths are, you can then research careers that are compatible with them. 


![List of tips for deciding on a new career.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/How_to_Start_a_New_Career_Graphic_2_13e33d5695.jpg)


## How to Find a New Career—Researching and Networking

After you’ve identified the careers that align with your interests and strengths, it’s time to look for job opportunities. Certain online websites like LinkedIn and Indeed are popular platforms that businesses use to post job openings. 

It’s also a good idea to research companies that are related to the career you’re after. Reaching out to these companies directly can lead to job opportunities, and, at the very least, they can let you know their requirements for employment. 


### Networking to Find a Career

Expanding your network is a great way to meet professionals in your desired career field and make connections that could lead to job opportunities. There are several ways to expand your professional network, some of which include:



* Networking events


* Job fairs


* Social networking sites


* Internships

While online job boards are great places to start looking for a career, you should know that most people are hired through professional networking. In fact, [nearly 85% of jobs are filled via networking](https://worldmetrics.org/networking-statistics/#:~:text=%22-,Nearly%2085%25%20of%20jobs%20are%20filled%20via%20networking.,-%22).

**The Yavapai County Regional Economic Development, or the REDC, can connect job seekers with local businesses through job fairs across Yavapai County. [Check out our events page](https://www.ycredc.com/events) to see what’s happening in your area.**

![A group of coworkers discussing an idea.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/How_to_Start_a_New_Career_Graphic_3_f74f28328a.jpg)


## Factors to Consider Before Starting a New Career

The first thing to consider is whether starting a new career is the right choice for you. Think about whether your current job can help you achieve your personal and professional goals. If not, then it might be time for a change.

Another factor you should consider is whether or not you are qualified for another career. Although a new career may align with your interests and strengths, many jobs require experience, certifications, or degrees. 


### Financial Factors to Consider Before Starting a New Career

Recently, job switchers that moved to a lateral position have seen up to an [8% pay increase on average](https://payinsights.adp.com/). Sometimes, however, starting a new career means starting at an entry level position. 

If your new career requires you to start at an entry level position, then you may experience a pay decrease. This isn’t always the case, and sometimes starting a new career can open up greater opportunities for higher pay than your current career does. 


## 5 Effective Strategies for Starting a New Career

Now that you’ve decided that starting a new career is the right choice for you, it’s time to take action. By using these effective strategies, you can ensure a calculated and smooth transition into your new career. 


### 1. List Out Your Experience and Achievements 

The best way to showcase your professional experience and achievements is with a strong resume. Your resume should be tailored to highlight the skills and experience that will translate to your new career. A strong resume will appeal to potential employers and help set you apart from the competition.

**Need a hand writing a strong resume? The [free career resources at REDC](https://www.ycredc.com/career-resources) can help you craft a resume that can catch the attention of potential employers.**


### 2. Research Potential Careers

Your new career should align with your interests, strengths, and experience. Also, you should identify which career paths can sustain you financially and bring you fulfillment. When researching potential careers, consider what the prerequisites are, if there’s opportunities for growth, and if it’s something you want to do long-term. 


### 3. Narrow Down Your Options

After researching what career paths you're interested in, you should narrow your list down to two or three careers. From here, you can identify the job positions related to your desired careers.


### 4. Upskilling

Learning new skills will ensure that you are qualified for your new career. Some jobs require specific skills and certifications in order to be considered for hire. Even if your next career doesn’t require them, learning new skills can bolster your resume and set you apart from other candidates.

**Upskilling your professional knowledge has never been easier with the help of [self-paced online courses at REDC](https://www.ycredc.com/courses).**


### 5. Apply, Apply, Apply

When you’re applying for jobs, you should research job opportunities thoroughly and keep track of the ones you applied for. After you have submitted your applications, follow up with the hiring managers to check-in and see what the next steps are.

**Read our related guide to discover [how to check the legitimacy of businesses](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/how-to-check-the-legitimacy-of-a-business) and avoid job offer scams.**


## Get Started in Your New Career With REDC

REDC at Yavapai College provides the tools you need to get started in your next career. Whether you want to connect with potential employers or brush up on your interview skills, [REDC’s free career resources](https://www.ycredc.com/career-resources) can help you every step of the way. 


### Upskill at Your Own Pace

At REDC, we make it easy for you to get the education you need to propel you into your next career. Our online courses are self-paced, allowing you to learn professional skills and earn technical certificates on your own time.

Check out our [online course catalog](https://www.ycredc.com/courses) to discover the courses that can help you kickstart your new career.


### Learn for Free With the QUEST Grant

Getting your education at the REDC is not only convenient, but it can be affordable too. The QUEST Grant can cover the cost of your online classes, letting you get the education you need without spending a dime. 

If you are worried that tuition cost is holding you back from getting started in a new career, [apply for the QUEST Grant today.](https://www.ycredc.com/quest-grant) 

How to Start a New Career—5 Effective Strategies

An effective manager or business leader should always keep an eye out for ways to cut down on waste. Eliminating waste—whether it’s costs, time, or manpower—will promote efficiency and growth within your business. 

One proven method of eliminating waste is a lean process. Although a lean process was originally developed to optimize manufacturing, it can be applied to nearly every industry to reduce waste and boost efficiency.


## What is Lean Process Improvement?

Lean process improvement is a methodology that emphasizes the elimination of waste within a process. To put it simply, a lean process helps you accomplish more with less. 

One of the most important aspects of this process is encouraging continuous improvement. To effectively implement a lean process, every level of the organization should be constantly looking for areas of improvement. 

![A single laptop and mouse open on a clear desk.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/What_is_a_Lean_Process_Graphic_1_661ab4319e.jpg)

## Eliminate Waste With the 4 Steps of a Lean Process

A lean process should be used at every level of the workflow process, and it can be broken down into four simple steps.


### Step 1: Identify a Problem

The first step in a lean process is identifying areas of improvement. Some of the most common problems that the lean process can improve are:



* Bottlenecks 


* Unnecessary expenses


* Overstaffing


* Overproduction 


* Delays


* Defects

Bottom-up communication is an essential part of identifying areas of improvement. As a manager or business leader, you should encourage your team to be on the lookout for wasted resources.


### Step 2: Identify a Solution

Now that you have identified a problem, it’s time to brainstorm solutions. To do this, you should work with your team to come up with a plan that will improve the affected process. Sometimes, multiple problems within a process can be solved with a single solution. 

**Read our related article to discover [creative problem solving techniques in the workplace](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/creative-problem-solving-at-work).**


### Step 3:  Implement the Solution

During this step, you and your team apply changes to the process that will hopefully reduce waste. Communication is vital during this step to ensure that your team is effectively applying the new changes. 


### Step 4: Monitor and Review Progress

The last step is assessing the new changes to determine if they are actually eliminating waste. Also, you should make sure that your team can effectively apply these new changes long-term. Although a solution may provide temporary improvements, you should ensure that it doesn’t negatively impact other aspects of the process. 

![Male office worker taking notes at a standing desk.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/What_is_a_Lean_Process_Graphic_2_ba7dd926fc.jpg)
## 5 Key Concepts of a Lean Process

Understanding the key concepts of a lean process is particularly beneficial for managers and business leaders. While the steps of a lean process should be applied at every level, the key concepts help eliminate waste at a larger scale. 

The five key concepts of a lean process include:



* **Assess Value**—Determine what the customer values in the product or service


* **Visualize Process**—Visualize which activities contribute to customer value


* **Identify Practices**—Remove any obstacles that can disrupt the team’s workflow


* **Pull System**—Implement actions based on actual customer needs, not based on forecasts or projections


* **Continuing Process**—Continuously look for opportunities to improve processes

These key concepts will optimize your resources while keeping you on track towards completing your business objectives. To ensure a lean process is performing consistently, the key concepts should be applied in a continuous cycle. 

**For more information on what makes an efficient business leader, read our related guide to discover the [responsibilities of project managers](https://www.ycredc.com/blog/project-manager-responsibilities).**


## Achieving Organization – 5 S’s of a Lean Process

An important part of a lean process is organizing workflow. To make it easier to remember, the organizational aspects of a lean process can be identified with the following 5 S’s:



* **Sort**—Remove unnecessary items from the work area, retaining only what is needed


* **Set in Order**—Every item should have a designated location to promote efficiency


* **Shine**—Keep the workplace clean and organized, make sure items are returned to their designated locations


* **Standardize**—Ensure workplace practices are consistent and every employee is aware of their responsibilities


* **Sustain**—Continuously engage with employees to review and maintain practices

By following the 5 S’s of a lean process, you can implement a workplace environment that encourages organization and consistency. 


## Putting It Into Practice—How to Implement a Lean Process

There are a variety of techniques that can be used to effectively implement a lean process. These techniques condense the important aspects of a lean process into routine practices that are easy to implement.


### Kanban Boards

Kanban Boards are visual tools that help manage workflow. They are especially useful for keeping track of timelines, identifying bottlenecks, and visualizing progress. Kanban Boards maximize efficiency by organizing tasks and improving workflow.


### Kaizen Philosophy 

Kaizen is a Japanese philosophy that means continuous improvement and change for the better. Kaizen recognizes that no system is perfect, and there should be a continuous effort towards perfecting a system with incremental improvements. This philosophy emphasizes collaboration, waste elimination, and continual optimization.


### Work in Progress (WIP) Limits

WIP limits are constraints on the amount of work that is assigned to an individual or team. These constraints are implemented to prevent overloading team members with tasks. WIP limits enhance productivity and quality by allowing team members to apply their focus on one task at a time. 


### Lean Six Sigma 

Six Sigma specifically targets defects in a manufacturing process. It encourages data-driven improvements to reduce product variation. When combined with a lean process, it helps manufacturers reduce waste and achieve a high level of quality and accuracy. 

**Want to learn how to implement Six Sigma into your process? We offer a [powerful, self-paced certificate](https://www.ycredc.com/courses/lean-process-and-six-sigma) that gives participants an overview of the Six Sigma methodology and some of the tools required to deploy Six Sigma in their own organizations.**

![List of 5 S's of a lean process organization](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/What_is_a_Lean_Process_Graphic_3_f6a087f006.jpg)

## Take Your Business to the Next Level With REDC

The Regional Economic Development Center (REDC) at Yavapai College has the tools you need to help you scale your business. We collaborate with business leaders to provide a variety of growth-oriented services for you and your business.

We offer everything you and your employees need to upscale your business, from events and business connections to customized corporate training courses. If you’re looking for effective strategies that can take your business to the next level, consider checking out the [business services at REDC](https://www.ycredc.com/business-services). 

A planning board covered in sticky notes.

What is a Lean Process? Learn How to Boost Efficiency and Eliminate Waste

Everyone has been at a job or been in a situation where they’ve been burned by poor communication.

For instance, you arrive at the office and open your work chat app. To your dismay, you find out you missed a conversation that ended with the announcement that it’s a work from home day for everyone.

Or it’s getting toward the end of the day and you get a sudden email wondering if you’ll be able to get your project in on time. They think today is the due date, but you have it scheduled for next week. 

The issue with poor internal communication is that it negatively affects everyone involved. It confuses employees and creates chaos where there doesn’t have to be.

In this article we’ll cover:

- Why internal communication is important
- 9 ways to improve internal communication

## Why is Internal Communication Important?
Internal communication might not seem like a big deal, but without proper protocols, your business can become a mess. Here’s the reasons you should care about internal communication.
### It Helps Keep a Record
Having a record of communications, deadlines, and project procedures will help your business improve and cover itself in case something were to happen. A standard procedure for communication will make digging through these communication channels much easier.

Clear records are helpful to look back on to understand hiccups in a project and how things played out. Your business can use this information to improve procedures and learn from past mistakes.
### You’ll Avoid Miscommunications
Missing due dates, misunderstanding tasks, and other general confusions can be mitigated by implementing an internal communication plan. A good internal communication plan will include protocol for how to structure tasks and deliver those tasks to team members. 

Getting bombarded with random bits of information will confuse and frustrate employees. Good internal communication will negate this by ensuring that important information is delivered clearly and correctly.
![Image: a woman with brown hair and a jean shirt, standing but leaning over her laptop on her desk while talking on the phone. Text: over communicating can be just as confusing as no communication. a proper communication plan will mitigate this confusion.](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_1_Improving_Internal_Communications_ce1b15d944.jpg)
### Your Employees Stay Tuned in
As the workforce continues to shift more to remote work, managers need to find ways to keep remote workers tuned into what’s happening within the organization. Standard practices for internal communications will do just that.

Standard practices like weekly check-in’s, organized chat rooms, and open door communication practices, will keep employees tuned into what’s happening within the organization, even if they aren’t physically there.
## 9 Ways to Improve Internal Communications 
An organization with poor internal communication will suffer from overcommunication, long meetings, and unnecessary conversations about things that have already been covered. Fixing internal communication within a business requires new policies, tools, and even a culture change.
![no image. Text: 9 ways to improve internal communication - create a standard operating procedure, keep communication guidelines available, choose the right tools, start from the top, keep channels open ot all, create a social intranet, organize, utilize emails instead of meetings, and try out 1-on-1s](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_2_Improving_Internal_Communications_e33810a30a.jpg)
### 1. Create A Standard Operating Procedure
If you really want to improve your organization's internal communication, you’ll want to develop a standard operating procedure (SOP). With an SOP everyone will be on the same page regarding:

- Who to communicate with
- What tools to use for communication
- Changes in policies
- The onboarding process
- Responsibilities

Creating an internal communication SOP requires:

- Evaluation of current tools
- Determining pain points
- Establishing goals
- Finding tools
- Modification when necessary

A good communication SOP will be built to change when things fail. Communication is something that can always be innovated upon and changed. If something isn’t working, revisit the plan and adapt.
### 2. Keep Communication Guidelines Available
Internal communication SOPs are useless if no one has access to them. These guidelines are important for maintaining the efficiency of your communication. So make sure your people can easily refresh their memory on the protocol. 

To do this, make your SOP documents easily findable in whatever project management tool you use. This could look like having a designated space for all important internal protocol documents including:

- Communication guidelines
- Project guidelines
- Project management set up guides
- Important onboarding documents

By keeping these protocols close, employees can quickly find the important information they need to successfully work in your organization.
### 3. Choose The Right Tools
Project management tools are vital to creating a productive working environment. They also help maintain communication.

Businesses are required to keep track of a lot of tasks and information. With a project management tool, you can keep track of due dates, internal check-ins, and documentation all in one place. 

There are a lot of great project management tools out there. A lot of these tools are specific to project types. [Jira](https://www.atlassian.com/software/jira) is great for software development, but Asana is good for keeping track of different teams. Depending on the size and scale of your business projects, you could choose a simple program like [Asana](https://asana.com/product), or choose to upgrade to a large workspace platform like [Basecamp](https://basecamp.com/features).

Whatever tool you use, make sure to use it to its fullest potential by learning all you can about it. Some tools can do some really cool things you wouldn’t think about at first glance.
### 4. Start from the Top
Start implementing change from the top. Those in leadership positions should know what’s working and what’s not. Use that knowledge to make your internal process smoother. 

Your leadership will also be able to establish and maintain an open door policy making communication channels more effective and helpful. Team members should be able to chat freely about projects and strategies to improve processes, that’s why an open door policy is so important.
### 5. Keep Channels Open to All
Internal communication when everyone’s door is open. Workers shouldn’t have to ask their team to ask their department lead to ask one of their team leads to ask someone in that team a question.

Cross department communication and open door policies are important for creating a transparent and honest perception of what’s happening within the business.

To implement an open door policy, define the policy in your organization and give employees ample opportunities to communicate with higher ups and other leads, managers, and team members.
### 6. Create a Social Intranet
Without the proper tools, creating open and helpful communication channels can be difficult. However, with the proper tools you can create helpful channels to keep your business organized and work culture healthy.

Software like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Chat, or Discord can help your business’ teams stay up to date. You can use them to create chat rooms for different projects or subjects. You should also consider creating a room for employees to chat about life outside of work. 

A social intranet will help create a positive work culture by allowing conversations to occur easily. Depending on the scale of your business you may need to spend some extra time making sure important messages aren’t getting drowned from responses.
### 7. Organize, Organize, Organize
Most companies have a shared drive everyone can look through, add to, or edit. For your business to be successful, you’ll want to keep those files as organized as possible. 

Create a workflow for people to use while adding documents, this will keep everything nice and tidy. You can organize by department, team, client, project, project specifics. By organizing this way, all documentation exists within a logical flow.

You should also organize your social intranet to include the proper people in the correct channels. If you have a chat room or thread for your development team, don’t include the employees on your video team.
### 8. Is This An Email or a Meeting?
Everyone has experienced attending a meeting you don’t have to be in. Sitting there listening to not important information while thinking about the tasks you have to complete by the end of day. It’s not great and it demotivates employees.

Running a successful meeting means inviting only those who need to be there. Meetings shouldn’t be used to get everyone up to speed on every little thing. Before scheduling a meeting, consider if there’s a better way to get the information across. You could use your businesses intranet to message only those who need to know, or you could send a company wide email. If your channels are open, employees can always ask questions there.

Improve your organization's internal communication by scheduling less meetings and writing more emails.
![image: a laptop with gmail opened on safari web browser. Text: if information from a meeting could have been covered in an email, send an email!](https://redc-strapi-backend.fly.dev/uploads/Graphic_3_Improving_Internal_Communications_a6d73b576b.jpg)
### 9. Try Out 1-on-1s
A 1-on-1 is a meeting between two people. It’s not that wild of a concept, but when used in a  business setting it will help you catch issues in your workplace before they become major problems.

1-on-1s give employees a scheduled time to talk about their work - what’s working and what’s not. 1-on-1s should be scheduled by team leads with the people they lead. These meetings should include questions like:

- How are you enjoying your work?
- Have you learned anything new?
- Are there any pain points?
- Have you noticed any areas that need improvement?

Over time these meetings will become more and more invaluable for improving your business.
## Improve Your Internal Communication With the REDC
Internal communication is something that requires constant maintenance and adherence to guidelines. Managers and owners alike can benefit from a healthy internal communication process while employees will enjoy working in an open and ever improving workplace.

The REDC helps businesses achieve healthy and helpful communication by offering important [services to Arizona businesses and employees](https://www.ycredc.com/business-services). Your business can receive employee training and consultation with industry experts. 

[Get in contact](https://www.ycredc.com/contact-us?reason=To+Become+a+Partner) to start leveraging all the resources available to your business.


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