Employment

[Friday]

Are there any small business loan govt. programs currently available?

 

[Joy Palmer]

Are there any small business loan govt. programs currently available?

Yes, there are several government programs that provide small business owners with access to loans and other forms of financial assistance. Here are a few programs to consider:

1. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP): This program provides forgivable loans to small businesses to help cover payroll and other expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. PPP loans are available through participating lenders and can be forgiven if certain conditions are met.

2. Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program: This program provides loans to small businesses impacted by natural disasters, such as hurricanes or wildfires, as well as economic disasters like the COVID-19 pandemic. Loans are available up to $2 million and can be used to cover working capital needs, such as payroll and accounts payable.

3. SBA 7(a) loan program: This program provides loans up to $5 million for working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate. These loans are available through participating lenders and are guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA).

4. SBA Express loan program: This program provides loans up to $350,000 for working capital and equipment purchases. Loans are available through participating lenders, with a streamlined application process and expedited approval times.

5. USDA Rural Business Development loan program: This program provides funding to rural businesses for working capital, real estate purchases, and equipment purchases. Loans are available up to $10 million, with flexible repayment terms.

These are just a few of the many government programs available to small business owners. To learn more and find the program that best fits your needs, visit the Small Business Administration (SBA) website or speak with a business consultant.

 

[Friday]

Are there any programs designed to teach small business owners the ins and outs of starting a new business?

 

[Joy Palmer]

Are there any programs designed to teach small business owners the ins and outs of starting a new business?

Yes, there are various programs available that help teach small business owners the skills, information and resources needed to start a new business. Here are a few programs to consider:

1. Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): These are public-private partnerships that offer a variety of educational services, such as business plan development, financial analysis, marketing strategies and funding opportunities. They also provide free consulting services, training workshops, and access to business resources. SBDCs are usually affiliated with universities, community colleges or state economic development agencies.

2. SCORE: SCORE is a nonprofit organization that provides free business mentoring services and education to entrepreneurs. Mentors are experienced business owners and executives who volunteer to share their expertise and knowledge. SCORE also offers webinars, online courses, and interactive mentoring sessions.

3. Women's Business Centers (WBCs): These centers specifically serve women entrepreneurs by providing training, counseling, and resources designed to help women start and grow successful businesses. WBCs also offer business plan development, financial management assistance, and networking opportunities.

4. Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA provides a variety of services to help small businesses succeed, including free online courses, webinars, and tutorials. The SBA website also offers a wealth of information on topics such as starting a business, obtaining financing, managing employees, and marketing your business.

These are just a few of the many programs available to help small business owners learn the ins and outs of starting and running a successful business. By taking advantage of these resources, entrepreneurs can gain the skills and knowledge needed to overcome common challenges and achieve lasting success.

 

[Friday]

It's common for our brains to prioritize immediate rewards or gratification over long-term benefits. When we have a task or project that doesn't have an immediate deadline or consequence, we may be more likely to delay starting it or work on other, more immediately rewarding tasks.

This phenomenon is known as procrastination, and it can be caused by several factors, including fear of failure, fear of success, a lack of motivation, or a lack of clarity about the task or project.

In your case, it seems that when you have a deadline and the task is more urgent, you are motivated to start and complete it right away. However, when the deadline is further away, you may be more inclined to put it off until later, which can result in the task taking longer to complete.

To overcome procrastination and improve your productivity, it can be helpful to:

1. Break the task down into smaller, more manageable pieces that can be tackled one at a time.

2. Create a realistic timeline for completing each piece of the task based on your available time and energy levels.

3. Build in accountability by setting deadlines or sharing your progress with a friend or colleague who can hold you accountable.

4. Focus on the benefits of completing the task, rather than the discomfort or challenges it may present.

By implementing these strategies and being mindful of your tendency to procrastinate, you can improve your productivity and achieve your goals more efficiently.

So it makes sense that the excitement of a new project allows me to complete it faster/more effectively, whilst the anxiety of finishing a project on time slows me down?

 

[Joy Palmer]

So it makes sense that the excitement of a new project allows me to complete it faster/more effectively, whilst the anxiety of finishing a project on time slows me down?

Yes, that's a possibility. The excitement of a new project can activate the reward centers in the brain, leading to a boost in motivation and productivity. On the other hand, the anxiety of finishing a project on time or the fear of failure can activate the stress response, leading to a decrease in motivation and productivity.

It's important to note that not all anxiety is debilitating or unproductive. A moderate amount of anxiety or pressure can actually help us stay focused and motivated, as long as we have effective coping strategies in place to manage it. However, if anxiety is severe or chronic, it can interfere with our ability to effectively manage our time, prioritize tasks, and complete projects on schedule.

By understanding the factors that contribute to productivity, such as motivation, reward, and anxiety, we can develop strategies that help us optimize our performance and achieve our goals more efficiently.

 

[Friday]

understanding the factors that contribute to productivity, such as motivation, reward, and anxiety, we can develop strategies that help us optimize our performance and achieve our goals more efficiently.

Tell me more?

 

[Joy Palmer]

Tell me more?

Sure, understanding the factors that drive productivity can help us identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to boost our motivation and performance. Here are a few tips that can help:

1. Set specific, achievable goals: Having clear, measurable goals can help boost motivation and provide direction for your work. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and set deadlines for each one.

2. Create a schedule and stick to it: Establishing a routine and creating a schedule can help you stay on track and avoid procrastination. Block off specific times for work, breaks, and other activities to help you manage your time more effectively.

3. Identify your most productive times: Some people are more productive in the morning, while others do their best work in the afternoon or evening. Identify your most productive times and plan your work accordingly.

4. Create a positive work environment: Your physical surroundings can have a big impact on your productivity. Create a work environment that is comfortable, well-lit, and free of distractions.

5. Take breaks: Taking regular breaks can help you stay focused and avoid burnout. Try taking short breaks every hour or so to stretch, move around, or do something else relaxing.

By implementing these strategies and being mindful of the factors that drive productivity, you can boost your motivation, work more efficiently, and achieve your goals in a more effective way.

 

[Friday]

By implementing these strategies and being mindful of the factors that drive productivity, you can boost your motivation, work more efficiently, and achieve your goals in a more effective way.

What are signs that I am achieving this?

 

[Joy Palmer]

What are signs that I am achieving this?

There are several signs that you may be achieving increased productivity and efficiency in your work. Here are a few examples:

1. You are completing tasks and projects on time or ahead of schedule: When you are productive, you tend to get things done efficiently and effectively, meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations.

2. You are able to focus for longer periods of time: When you are productive, you are able to sustain your focus and concentration for longer periods of time, allowing you to complete tasks and projects in a more efficient manner.

3. You are less stressed about your work: When you are productive, you tend to feel more in control of your work and less stressed about meeting deadlines or completing tasks. This can lead to a greater sense of ease and well-being.

4. You are able to take on more work: When you are productive, you may find that you are able to take on more work or responsibilities, due to your increased efficiency and ability to manage your time effectively.

5. You feel a sense of accomplishment: When you are productive, you tend to feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from completing tasks and projects. This can lead to increased motivation and a greater desire to take on new challenges.

These are just a few signs that you may be achieving increased productivity in your work. Keep in mind that productivity is a process, and it may take time to develop new habits and strategies that work for you. Celebrate your successes along the way and continue to build on your progress.

 

[Friday]

My former CV / Resume no longer applies, as I am changing careers. Showing up to interviews empty handed feels wrong. What should I do?

 

[Joy Palmer]

My former CV / Resume no longer applies, as I am changing careers. Showing up to interviews empty handed feels wrong. What should I do?

If your previous CV or resume no longer applies because you're changing careers, it's important to create a new document that highlights your relevant skills and experience for your new career path. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Research the new career: Learn more about the qualifications and skills that are needed for the new type of job. Identify the skills and experiences that you have that are transferable to this new field.

2. Update your resume: Rewrite your resume to reflect your skills and experience that are relevant to the new career path. Focus on transferable skills, such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Consider using a resume format that highlights your skills and achievements, such as a skills-based resume.

3. Consider additional education or training: If you lack certain qualifications or skills, consider taking courses or earning certifications to make yourself more marketable to potential employers.

4. Practice interview skills: Prepare for interviews by researching common questions and practicing your responses. Focus on examples from your previous experience that demonstrate transferable skills.

5. Create a portfolio: Consider creating a portfolio that showcases your work and illustrates your skills and experience. This can be a great visual aid in an interview.

Remember, changing careers can be challenging, but with some preparation and hard work, you can successfully make the transition. Presenting a well-crafted resume or portfolio during an interview can demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to the position.