Career Development Archives

Poor Executive Functioning Will Hold You Back

Let’s discuss executive functioning and a real-world scenario many technology execs face. Imagine leading a team and noticing some employees struggling with planning, time management, communication, and organization. Before rushing to conclusions, consider this: in our fast-paced digital world, even the best of us can be overwhelmed with poor executive functioning skills. Those labeled as “poor performers” may actually be dealing with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (HD) since early in their lives.

Executive functioning skills are key for tech executives.

Parents, recognize early signs of ADHD in your children and empower them to succeed academically and in life. Kids with poor executive functioning skills may struggle with forgetfulness, time management, impulsivity, disorganization, and emotional regulation. Explore how ADHD impacts children’s executive functioning abilities and discover tips to improve these skills.

Before we proceed, let’s break down executive functioning into three key components: cognitive flexibility, working memory, and inhibitory control. Children with ADHD often struggle in these areas. Limited working memory capacity makes it challenging to hold information and complete tasks. Cognitive inflexibility hampers task switching and rule adaptation. And impaired inhibitory control leads to impulsive behavior, poor decision-making, and self-control difficulties.

Don’t worry! You can promote executive functioning skills in children.

For cognitive flexibility, engage them in puzzles, riddles, or games that foster creative thinking. Teach positive self-talk, break tasks into smaller steps, and model flexibility in your behavior to enhance mental flexibility.

To support your child’s working memory, encourage the use of tools like lists, reminders, or calendars. Additionally, teach them visual imagery and storytelling techniques to enhance information retention. For improved self-regulation and decision-making, introduce relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to address impulsivity. Clear expectations, consistent routines, and positive reinforcement can also aid in developing inhibitory control.

Developing executive functioning skills is vital for a child’s academic success and well-being.

By understanding how ADHD affects these skills and using targeted strategies to improve cognitive flexibility, working memory, and inhibitory control, we can help children with ADHD reach their full potential.

In conclusion, as tech execs, let’s acknowledge the potential need for additional support beyond standard corporate training. By recognizing and assisting individuals with ADHD, we help their poor executive functioning skills and create an inclusive work environment that empowers every team member to thrive and contribute their unique strengths.

Click here for a post on when to reprimand an employee and how.

Technology to Enhance Executive Functioning Skills

Executive function describes a set of cognitive processes and mental skills that help an individual plan, monitor, and successfully execute their goals. The “executive functions,” as they’re known, include attentional control, working memory, inhibition, and problem-solving, many of which are thought to originate in the brain’s prefrontal cortex.
Psychology Today

As technology evolves, refining our executive functioning skills becomes crucial. The digital age brings a faster-paced lifestyle, bombarding us with overwhelming information. This can lead to decreased productivity and focus. But with the right tools and strategies, we can enhance our executive functioning skills and improve our workflow. Let’s explore how technology can help us achieve this.

Task Management Apps: Task management is a key aspect of executive functioning. In today’s fast-paced world, keeping track of multiple tasks can be challenging. Thankfully, technology provides tools like Trello, Asana, and Todoist to help prioritize and manage tasks effectively. Users can create lists, set reminders, and delegate tasks. This streamlines workflows and reduces stress.
Time Management Tools: To enhance executive functioning, time management is crucial. Technology offers tools like RescueTime, an app that tracks time spent on different tasks. This data helps users identify their most productive hours and recognize distractions affecting productivity. Focus@Will and Forest are apps that aid in staying focused and avoiding distractions. These technologies help individuals effectively manage time and stay on task.
Communication Tools: Effective executive functioning relies on clear communication. Technology offers various tools to enhance collaboration and connectivity. For example, Slack enables quick and efficient messaging, document sharing, and project collaboration. Zoom allows for remote meetings and webinars. These tools foster teamwork and alignment, crucial in remote work situations.
Digital Calendars: Digital calendars are crucial for executive functioning. They offer easy time management, task prioritization, and responsibility organization. Apps like Google Calendar or Outlook allow for reminders and organized schedules, making tasks more efficient. Setting reminders ensures timely completion. Monthly calendars help with comprehensive planning.

Executive functioning skills are crucial in today’s fast-paced world. Technology simplifies organization, saves time, and enhances these skills. With task management apps, time management tools, communication systems, and digital calendars, users can stay organized, manage time effectively, and reduce stress.

Ultimately, technology has revolutionized the way we work and live, helping individuals accomplish more with less stress or burnout. By incorporating these tools into their daily routine, individuals can enhance their executive functioning skills and become more efficient at work.

Get Your Kid a Technology Internship

Are you a tech executive and parent of a college-aged student interested in the world of technology? Inspire your children by sharing your passion for this field! Join me as we explore tech internships and their role in shaping your child’s future!

Step 1: Tap into the Power of Connections – Start by tapping into your personal and professional network. Reach out to friends, colleagues, and acquaintances who might have leads on tech internships for your kid. The goal is to secure an internship at a reputable firm with structured mentorship programs and a supportive yet challenging environment.
Step 2: Discover Hidden Gems – Did you know that government and nonprofit organizations offer tech internships for young talents? Check out programs like National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, and National Institutes of Health. These opportunities can pave the way for your kid’s future success.
Step 3: Dare to be Bold at Career Fairs and Industry Events – Encourage your kid to explore the tech scene at career fairs and industry events. These vibrant gatherings are perfect for networking, discovering potential techno-internships. With a strong resume and portfolio, your aspiring tech superstar can confidently showcase their passion and goals, leaving a lasting impression.
Step 4: Skills that Shine – To succeed in tech, kids should focus on gaining skills and experience. Encourage exploration of programming, coding, and web development. Engage in personal tech projects, interact with libraries, and enroll in online courses. With these skills, they’ll have an edge in internship applications by showcasing expertise with strategic keywords.
Step 5: The Game-Changing Application Process – Next step: apply for the internship. Encourage your kid to evaluate options carefully and follow up diligently. Tracking applications and noting responses is crucial. A personalized email or call to follow up shows genuine interest. Make sure they understand dress code, requirements, and company culture for a professional and confident approach.

In today’s dynamic tech industry, internships are more than valuable; they’re a launchpad for an incredible career journey. With these strategies, equip your kid with a guide to secure their dream technology internship.

Remember, persistence, passion, and professionalism are the secret ingredients to success in this exhilarating world of technology!

If you would like some help looking at internship options, please contact me!

Dealing with Negative Feedback

As a tech exec you are bound to receive negative feedback now and then, whether it’s from your employees, customers, or stakeholders. While negative feedback can be demotivating and disheartening, it’s essential to take it as constructive criticism and grow from it.

As a leader, it’s crucial to handle negative criticism without demotivating your team or creating a negative work environment. Let’s explore effective ways to deal with feedback and turn it into a positive experience for everyone.

Listen attentively: When getting negative feedback, it’s hard not to take it personally and be defensive. But it’s crucial to approach it with an open mind and listen attentively. Try understanding their perspective and what led to their feedback. This creates a positive environment where people feel comfortable expressing their concerns.
Acknowledge the feedback: After listening attentively, it’s crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the feedback. Acknowledging doesn’t mean agreeing; it demonstrates respect, values their opinion, and shows your willingness to consider their input.
Take responsibility: As a leader, it’s crucial to take responsibility for the team’s actions and decisions. When receiving negative feedback on behalf of the team, avoid deflection or excuses. Instead, own up to any mistakes made, building trust and demonstrating accountability.
Work on a solution: feedback is not a roadblock, but an opportunity to improve and grow. After acknowledging and taking responsibility, work collaboratively with your team to find a solution. By involving everyone in decision-making, create a positive work environment all feel valued and heard.
Follow up: The last step in handling negative feedback is to follow up with the person or team who gave it. Inform them about the steps taken to address the issue and plans to tackle it in the future. By following up, you demonstrate that you value the feedback and are dedicated to making positive changes.

Dealing with negative feedback is challenging, but as a leader, it’s crucial to handle it effectively. Listen attentively, acknowledge, take responsibility, work on a solution, and follow up to create a constructive environment. Remember, negative feedback is an opportunity to learn and grow.

By embracing negative feedback, you’ll be able to create a more positive workplace culture and become a better leader for your team.

Is an MBA Still Worth It?

As a tech exec, you may consider an MBA to enhance your resume and leadership standing among peers, and concerned if the MBA is still worth it. Aspiring tech execs may also view the MBA as a means to establish themselves and ease the path to tech leadership.

Does MBA still hold the same cachet as it did years ago?

If you’re considering an MBA, I wouldn’t discourage it. The education it offers is valuable for leaders and aspiring ones. Some companies still highly value this designation. Explore the impact it has had on those who have received it to judge if it’ll help you advance in your organization. If the value seems limited, it might not be worth the time and impact on family. However, if MBAs have benefited others in your company, it’s worth considering, especially if your tuition is covered.

Consider your level in the company and your career stage.

MBA returns can diminish at a certain point. Evaluate the benefits and your company’s emphasis on MBAs. Additionally, an MBA can add value if you’re interested in leadership beyond technology, such as COO or CEO roles.

If you’ve just graduated college and are considering an MBA, my advice is to begin your career at a company that offers education financing. Pursuing an MBA while still in college adds to the future financial burden. Many employers cover educational costs to develop their leaders. Research and explore the benefits offered by potential employers.

In summary, if you’re early in your career and in a company that values an MBA, go for it, especially if they’ll fund it. Adding to your resume is always beneficial when you have few obligations, like a family. The added value an MBA could bring down the line is unpredictable, as there are a lot of unknowns when you’re young.

Click here for a post on the top college computer science programs.