Author: Dr. Flores Page 27 of 44

A week or so ago, I bought fresh shrimp from Costco Wholesale here in San Antonio.

We like having it at home because it’s easy to serve, and it holds everyone over until dinner is ready. Of course, I often make my guacamole recipe, which complements the rest of the menu.

Too Fishy

After trying one of the shrimp, I noticed that it tasted too fishy. Eating one might be fine, but the odor was strong. I decided to put it in the garage refrigerator, so that I could return it to Costco.

The problem, though, was my schedule. My daughter’s graduation had me on the road for a few days, and I’d been busy with work-related items. When I did have time, I forgot the shrimp. Go figure!

This past Sunday, I made it a point to return the not-so-fresh shrimp. I checked the website and learned that the nearest Costco closed at 6 p.m. on Sunday. Hurriedly, I left the house and made it to the wholesaler by 5:40 p.m. The customer service agent said, “So you didn’t like the shrimp.” I let him know that it didn’t taste right, and apologized for not having the receipt. He looked up my purchases in the system, and asked if I wanted store credit or cash. Given that I was going to shop for a few items, store credit worked just fine.

Leaving my Big, Fat Wallet Behind

I’m one who doesn’t like carrying my wallet in the back pocket. In fact, I don’t like to carry coins in any of my pant pockets. The only item in my pockets is my ChapStick. Another important point here is that my wallet will not fit in my pockets because it has way too much stuff in it. I have credit cards, pictures, business cards, and some cash. I noticed recently that I’m carrying Thailand currency in there was well. That’s crazy!

After purchasing Diet Dr. Pepper, peanuts, bananas, and a few other items, I rolled the shopping cart to my car. My wallet was laying in the seat part of the cart. I transferred the groceries from the cart and into my car. However, I accidentally left my wallet behind.

Emily from Costco Called

Upon arriving at the house, which is about 15 minutes from the store, the caller ID showed that someone from Costco was calling. “Mr. Flores, this is Emily from Costco, and we have your wallet. The front door is closed now, but if you make it before 7, we’ll still be here.”

I ran back to my car, and rushed over to Costco. The wallet was stored in a safe, and one of the managers gave it to me. He said, “When Chris was gathering the shopping carts, he found your wallet. I think he’s still outside. “

I went outside looking for Chris (picture provided), and thanked him for finding my wallet. He said, “Yeah … I did find your big, fat wallet! Glad you were able to get it back.” Me too!

The fact that Chris was professional enough to return the wallet says a ton about him. While I was carrying only about $50 in cash, my driver’s license, credit cards, and other valuable items were in there. I will make sure to write a positive note to Costco management praising Chris for his integrity.

While attending a professional development session in Dallas, I decided to buy a Grande Pike Place at a shop that sold Starbucks coffee. This was not an official Starbucks store, but the signage indicated I could find the popular beverage there.

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I attended an internal company meeting as a subject matter expert and the Director of Operations asked me to provide feedback regarding a presentation given by a leader of the organization. He wanted to know how I could help his department align work to meet the company’s new initiatives.

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Ready! Aim! Fire! Fire! Fire!

Like nearly everyone else, I’ve heard that persistence is the key to success. You must develop a good plan, start working on it, and stick with it. You’ve heard that overcoming obstacles takes a committed approach. You must keep working the plan even when times get difficult.

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Image Courtesy: widewallpapers.info

Ready! Aim! Fire! Fire! Fire!

Like nearly everyone else, I’ve heard that persistence is the key to success. You must develop a good plan, start working on it, and stick with it. You’ve heard that overcoming obstacles takes a committed approach. You must keep working the plan even when times get difficult.

While watching a YouTube of Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, someone asked Jobs the keys to success. He talked about being passionate about the work you’re doing. You must have a clear vision, and you must persevere knowing that success is far from easy.

As Jobs continued, he said, “You know … you’ve gotta be a little crazy.” In the context of the conversation, he meant that making it big requires that one ignore all the rationale reasons why something will not work. The fact is that the reasons for falling short are apparent. You know why something cannot be done.

It’s Too Difficult

Launching a new product or service into the marketplace is tough. Before the iPhone, there was no iPhone. However, the technology was evolving, and the consumers were willing to take a chance on a device that gave them more control while on the run. Steve Jobs mentioned that the iPad was scheduled to be first on the market, but he soon realized that the iPhone has more immediate potential … and he was right.

People Will Talk Bad About Me

Being the topic of conversation is actually good. “Did you see what Jon is doing now?” “You know Marybeth has that crazy business idea!” “Ryan is flying to California to meet with an investor. He’s never home!”

You will find that many people speak negatively about those who are making waves. It’s the easy thing to do, and the undercurrent is usually envy. Notice the things that are said about those who are doing nothing: “Harry is having a tough time!” “Ginger has three kids, and it’s tough for her to find a job. Poor soul!” “Michael just lost his job. That’s not right!”

Think Crazy

Thinking crazy means that you look at the upside. While you might fail along the way, the goal is to keep trending up. The other point here is to stay in the corridor of opportunity. It’s important to keep meeting people who are doing innovative stuff. By staying engaged, you will soon have your chance.

When the chance arrives, you must be prepared. One saying goes, “When we are not prepared, the opportunity will make us look like a fool.” Therefore, you should develop the skills and knowledge base necessary to do well in your profession. While perfection is not required, competency is necessary.

The YouTube clip in which Steve Jobs discussed the “crazy” point was just a couple of minutes long, but message is enormous. If you are “normal,” you can expect “normal” results, which means that you are in the middle of the pack. However, when you are ready to create a tidal wave, a tsunami, it’s time to be crazy!

The online learners who do well are usually those who have a clear idea of why they are pursuing their education. In other words, the degree they will earn will benefit their career. Some of my students tell me they are returning only because they are tired of being passed over for promotions, and it’s time they have that piece of paper called a diploma. Apparently, this accomplishment alone will open the promotional opportunities. Students taking that approach are more likely to fail in the online learning world. Instead, they must have a bigger picture in mind, one that includes a long-term plan.

Select the Right Degree Program

One huge advantage of virtual learning is that you can find the right program for you. If you desire to be a Chief Technology Officer, you should pursue an undergraduate degree with a technology angle, such as B.S. in Information Systems. Given that you want to someday qualify for a “C” level position, you must earn a higher level of education, such as a Master’s in Computer Information Technology, or even an MBA. You can go further and complete a Doctorate in Information Systems. Once you know the end goal, you can start working today on what it takes to make that dream a reality.

Align Your Experience to Your Education

We’ve all heard people complain about how a lack of experience is keeping them from moving up the corporate ladder. The work you want will not always come to you. You must take the initiative and volunteer for projects and other work that is aligned with your career goals.

There is so much work to be done in today’s companies, and no one is asking for it. If you go to your boss tomorrow and let her know that you are willing to take on more responsibilities, she is likely to look at you in shock. If you want the experience, you can earn it quickly because work is everywhere. The advantage of seeking more work is that you will be placed on projects in which you will meet influential people from other departments. These are the same individuals who will soon look for hard working and committed employees to fill high-ranking positions, such as the CTO.

An Online Degree is Only Part of the Equation

While earning a college degree will result in increased opportunities for you, you must also consider professional certifications. If the project management field interests you, go to PMI.org and read-up on the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. If the HR field is your cup of tea, visit SHRM.org to learn more about the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) credential. These certifications require extensive work experience, and the candidate must also pass a rigorous exam. In short, the combination of a college degree with a professional designation places you on a path to long-term success.

I attended an internal company meeting as a subject matter expert and the Director of Operations asked me to provide feedback regarding a presentation given by a leader of the organization. He wanted to know how I could help his department align work to meet the company’s new initiatives.

The Presentation

The presentation took about 45 minutes, and it covered many details. As I listened to the Marketing Director cover the key points, I noticed an underlying theme. In essence, they were looking to expand service to other parts of the United States because sales were lagging in the local market.

Expanding the map is a strategy used by many companies, but it should be done as a planned action, and not necessarily as a knee-jerk reaction to other underlying problems. From my initial observation, it appeared that customers were leaving because the competition was providing a better product at a competitive price.

The President

Given the seriousness of the matter, the president of this electronics company was in attendance. He listened intently, and finally rose to speak when the presentation was complete.

He asked the following questions:

• “What exactly is our problem?”
• “Did we seek feedback from our customers to avoid this situation?”
• “Why didn’t we anticipate this issue before it worsened?”

As the president spoke, many of the attendees had a tough time making eye contact with him. Instead, they pretended to jot down notes as they scribbled in their brand new notepads.

The president spoke for about 5 minutes before the self-appointed talker took the stage.

The Talker [Dale – Manager]

“Sir, if you don’t mind, I would like to share some ideas regarding your questions.”

The president acknowledged the manager [talker], and the monologue ensued.

I took down a few notes until the ink nearly ran out of my pen:

• “When I worked at Steele Electronics, we had a similar problem. The customers were leaving left-and-right. I did the best I could to keep them, but the sales guys pissed them off too much. I was fighting an uphill battle. There was little I could do, but I kept trying.”

• “The customer is important, and it appears to me that we have too much friction in this company. The Sales Department is blaming Manufacturing, and Manufacturing is blaming the leadership team.”

• “I am here to get things done, and I don’t care who gets mad about it. If you don’t like how I run my department, you need to post somewhere else.”

The Point

Dale (“Talker” and “Manager”) made some valid points over the next 15 minutes. However, he was hired only a few months before, and had yet to gain the respect of other key stakeholders. In fact, he dominated so many of the meetings that people began finding excuses to miss his meetings (other meetings, sick child, sore back, Hurricane Sandy, and so on).

One other issue here is up-staging the president. While the president had poor leadership skills, it was weird observing Dale speak in the forefront, while the leader of the company was in the background, both physically and metaphorically.

My comments to the Director of Operations were specific to how they can leverage their strengths. However, the “Talking Manager” shed light on an even bigger problem, and one that went beyond the scope of my assignment.

Over the past 10 years, I have completed more than 300 hours as an online student. I do not share that to impress you. Rather, I would like to impress upon you techniques I have learned that will help you excel in the virtual environment.

Maximizing your learning as an online student requires the following:

• Know the expectations
• Start early in the week
• Maintain a professional approach

Know the Expectations

Before starting any assignment, whether participating in the discussion board or writing a 30-page project, you must review the requirements. In most cases, these instructions are found in the syllabus. If not, the instructor will provide additional information. In some cases, you will have a rubric that explains how you will be graded. Whatever you have, make sure to align your assignment precisely to the requirements.

I’ve had students who score poorly on assignments because they write according to the expectations in their workplace. While I respect that approach, the point here is that curriculum is built to use our creative thinking and research skills. Focus on the requirements, and you will do well.

Start Early in the Week

Those students who begin their work early will remove much of the anxiety experienced by online learners. If you procrastinate to the last day before the assignment is due, you can expect Murphy’s Law to kick-in. I have heard countless stories about hard drives crashing, computers being stolen, swimming pool accidents, and even fatal car crashes involving family members. I understand that unexpected events will happen, but if you take action early in the week, you are prepared to handle those unforeseen events.

Maintain a Professional Approach

When working on my doctorate, I read many articles on how the internet provides people with the anonymity to be brave, rude, and arrogant. In other words, since they can’t see their audience face-to-face, they seem to think that they are free to write whatever they want, regardless of how it is interpreted. From experience, I can assure you that your professionalism can make or break you online learning career.

When writing your online facilitator, make sure you are professional.

The following comments are ill advised:

• “Professor, I am not feeling good today. I will turn my assignment in tomorrow, and no penalty should apply because of my situation.”
• “My computer broke, and I can’t meet my discussion board participation this week. Sorry!”
• “Professor, I wish you would spend more time explaining what is due this week. Because you have not, I can’t do my work. I’m sure you understand.”

When reading those comments from students, facilitators will be less likely to bend.

Here is one approach that does work:

 “Professor, I am traveling for business this week, and my assignment will be at least one day late. I understand that a 10% penalty applies for each day I am late, and this has taught me that I should start earlier in the week.”

As an online instructor, I like the last comment the best. I might still apply the late assignment penalty, but I will remember this student when working on final grades. If the student is near the cut-off point between an “A” and “B,” the higher grade will be awarded.

Successful online learners are focused both on the assignments and on the mechanics of online learning. By knowing the expectations, starting early in the week, and keeping a professional approach, your chances of excelling as an online learner skyrocket.

After taking more than 300 hours as an online student, I developed the skill of reading my online instructors. As an online instructor for a decade now, I have a better understanding of the interaction between online students and their professors.

In virtual learning, the instructor is referred to as the facilitator. The word facilitator is more appropriate because this individual is facilitating your learning, and that is different from the instructors’ role in a face-to-face class. In fact, most of the online facilitators have little to do with building the curriculum for the class. The class is pre-built, and their role is to ensure you meet the requirements.

The First Week

During the first week, you can tell the expectations of the facilitator. If this person is participating intensely in the discussion questions, you must be prepared for someone that is going to expect the same from you. In online learning, students are expected to participate in threaded discussion questions (a.k.a., Discussion Board), and most colleges expect posting meaningful messages on 3-5 days. If the facilitator is exceeding expectations by being very participatory, you can expect she will require more of you.

Grading of Initial Assignments

When evaluating the general “difficulty” of the class, I look at how the facilitator graded my first week’s assignment. If the feedback is specific, such as using “Track Changes” in the MS Word document, you can expect a more intense class. In other words, the facilitator will not hesitate to give you the grade you earn because she is committing the time to review your assignments. It is difficult to challenge someone who is spending the time to meticulously review the quality of your work.

In some cases, facilitators are inundated with their day-to-day employment activities, and they might only provide a cursory look at your homework. When taking this approach, they will generally provide a general summary of your work, and the grade will be good. The point here is that they are mostly interested in you submitting the work on time, and hope that you paid attention to the requirements. If you have this type of facilitator, you can expect the class to be easier.

Develop a Consistent Approach

Regardless of the facilitator, you must have a consistent approach to each online class. Here are the musts:

• Read the expectations of the assignment. Know what you must submit.
• Review the syllabus for formatting requirements. If you are expected to write in APA Style (6th ed.), make sure you are prepared to do so. I recommend you buy the manual with spiral binding because it is easier to use, laying open much easier.
• Understand the implications of submitting work late.
• If you are provided with a rubric, align your assignment accordingly.

The bottom line is that you are responsible for the work that you submit. I often have students tell me they are 3.8 or 4.0 students. My response to them is that in this class they have to show me the quality of work that merits that GPA. As facilitators, we’ve heard that line so often that it is now funny and baseless.

You can vary your approach toward the class based on the type of facilitator you have but, regardless, the work has to get done, and it must meet the requirements stipulated by the university you are attending.

To succeed as an online student, you have must have a paradigm shift. Instead of thinking that you are going to walk into a classroom and learn from a professor who lectures while you take notes, the mentality is different and unique. With online learning, you are in control. You will still have lectures, but they will be in writing, audio, or video formats.

Many of my new online students experience anxiety because they are waiting for the rest of the class to enter the physical classroom in which they can strike-up a conversation. With online learning, the classroom is virtual, and your communication with the instructor and fellow classmates happens using technology.

Given that many of us are comfortable with Twitter, texting, and Facebook, the paradigm shift is more subtle today. In other words, after just one class online, you can become an expert with the learning modality.

Task-Driven People Succeed

The students who make the transition to online learning faster take a task-driven approach. Your best friend is the syllabus. In fact, in virtual learning we say that the syllabus is the contract between the professor and the student. You should immediately find the page that lists the assignments, and you will notice that they are organized by week. With this information in hand, you can start working on the deliverables to ensure they are submitted on time.

The online students who excel start their work early in the week. Those students who procrastinate will find that the homework mounts, and will eventually be overwhelmed with the workload. In fact, some new online students will eventually drop out because they fail to take a proactive approach to their learning.

Your Writing Ability Defines You

To succeed as an online learner, you must work on your writing skills. Many students are use to the cryptic writing done through IM and texting, and that will not cut it when learning online. It is critical to write in coherent sentences that ensure your message is strong and persuasive. You must integrate research from credible sources. Of course, you are not expected to have this skill perfected when starting your online program, but you must be willing to make the mindset adjustment from Day 1.

Your transition to online learner can happen faster if you are willing to accept the paradigm shift. You will not have anyone looking over your shoulder reminding you of a missed assignment. It is up to you to accept the responsibility for your education. In fact, one notable advantage of graduates from online learning colleges is that they are diligent and proactive individuals, skills that are in high-demand in the workplace.