Embrace the Madness
By: Robert F. DeFinis, Ed.D. Did you complete your bracket? Who do you have in the final four? It’s that time of year again! It is a time when we embrace the madness of March with the NCAA men's and women's basketball tournaments. But what does that mean for companies? According to some estimates, the loss in productivity caused by employees watching, skipping work, and running office pools can be up to $17 billion dollars (Challenger, Gray, and Christmas). While this number may seem alarming, I think there is a massive upside to having employees take a break from the day-to-day to engage in what has become an informal American tradition. While not everyone may watch or know what is going on in the world of college basketball, anyone can jump in the fun, learn on the fly, or, at the very least, join in the conversation. March Madness reminds us that our people need opportunities to just have random fun at the expense of the organization - and that's okay! However, if you want to put some structure to it, celebrating March Madness at work can be a fun way to foster team spirit and camaraderie among colleagues. Office Bracket Challenge Organize a March Madness bracket competition among coworkers. Set up a bracket pool where participants can predict the outcomes of each game. Offer prizes for the winners, such as gift cards, company swag, or bragging rights. Watch Parties Host watch parties during lunch breaks or after work hours to watch the games together. Set up a TV or projector in a common area and provide snacks and beverages for everyone to enjoy. Encourage employees to wear their favorite team's gear to show their support. Office Decorations Decorate the office with March Madness-themed decorations, such as banners, streamers, and balloons in the colors of participating teams. Create a festive atmosphere that gets everyone excited for the tournament. Team Spirit Days Dedicate certain days during March Madness to dress up in team colors or sports attire. Encourage employees to show off their team spirit by wearing jerseys, hats, or face paint representing their favorite teams. Bracket Breaks Schedule short breaks throughout the workday for employees to check their brackets, discuss game highlights, or catch up on scores. Encourage friendly banter and camaraderie among coworkers who are following the tournament. Office Pool Potluck Organize a potluck lunch or happy hour where employees can bring in dishes or snacks to share while discussing the tournament. Encourage them to get creative with themed dishes or snacks named after their favorite teams. Trivia and Games Host March Madness-themed trivia contests or games during team meetings or breaks. Create trivia questions related to college basketball history, famous players, or memorable tournament moments. March Madness Awards Create fun awards or superlatives for employees based on their March Madness predictions or level of enthusiasm during the tournament. Recognize achievements such as "Bracket Guru," "March Madness MVP," or "Most Spirited Fan." Virtual Events To keep remote teams or employees who can't be in the office connected and engaged in the March Madness festivities, organize virtual watch parties, online trivia games, or video conferencing sessions.
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Creating a “Welcoming” College Classroom
By: Robert F. DeFinis, EdD. Primary teachers (and most Middle and Secondary teachers) spend a good portion of their time creating a warm and engaging learning environment—both physical and emotional. The process involves effort and intentionality, creativity, and a desire to showcase the learning space. These students will spend a lot of time in the classroom during the school year, so obviously, they want it to be inviting and foster a learning atmosphere. On the other side (post-secondary), the learning environment is often cold. More of a “get down to business" approach because the physical spaces are often shared, and students are not there beyond a few hours a week for a semester. However, this is just the physical aspect. Could we at least do a better job of creating warmth and emotional appeal? I have noticed on many occasions (doing observations or passing through the halls) that when we lack a welcoming learning environment, this often translates into less engaging interactions between students and instructors. Creating a welcoming learning environment in the post-secondary space does not have to resemble a kindergarten classroom. Still, we should consider a few things to encourage a learning environment where we can foster a sense of belonging and engagement among students. Set the Tone Begin the first day of class by warmly welcoming students and expressing your enthusiasm for the subject matter. Clearly communicate your expectations and convey your willingness to support and guide them throughout the course. Create a Comfortable Environment Arrange the physical space to be inviting and conducive to learning. Consider factors such as seating arrangement, lighting, temperature, and accessibility. Ensure that the classroom is clean, organized, and free from distractions. Learn Students' Names Learn and use students' names. Addressing them by name shows that you value them as individuals and helps build rapport. Encourage Interaction Facilitate opportunities for students to engage with one another through group activities, discussions, and peer collaboration. Encourage a respectful and inclusive atmosphere where everyone's contributions are valued. Show Genuine Interest Take time to get to know your students as individuals. Show interest in their backgrounds, experiences, and interests. This can be done through icebreaker activities, one-on-one conversations, or informal discussions. Be Approachable Maintain an approachable demeanor and open communication channels. Let students know they can come to you with questions, concerns, or feedback anytime. Provide Clear Expectations Clearly outline the course objectives, assignments, grading criteria, and deadlines. Transparent expectations help reduce anxiety and uncertainty, allowing students to focus on learning. Offer Support Be available to provide academic support, guidance, and mentorship. Offer office hours or other avenues for students to seek assistance outside of class. Celebrate Diversity Embrace diversity and create an inclusive learning environment where students from all backgrounds feel valued and respected. Incorporate diverse perspectives into your curriculum and foster discussions that promote understanding and empathy. Feedback and Encouragement Provide timely and constructive feedback on assignments and assessments. Recognize and celebrate students' achievements and progress to boost their confidence and motivation. Reflect on Your Teaching Practices Regularly evaluate your teaching methods and solicit student feedback to identify areas for improvement. Adapt your approach based on student feedback and evolving pedagogical best practices. Psychological Safety = Positive Culture
By: Robert F. DeFinis, Ed.D. If I could eliminate one buzzword from the corporate/business world, it would be culture. It seems like for the last decade, it’s the “in” thing to say and talk about. My issue is not with the word or promoting a positive workplace culture. It is the idea that you can achieve a positive and productive work culture through a book, seminar, training exercise, or some other magic pill. A positive culture takes time, effort, and strategy. It’s a process, and in my professional opinion, it starts with psychological safety in the workplace. What is psychological safety? Stated simply, fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable expressing themselves, taking risks, and collaborating openly. You might be thinking… well shoot… we have that! Do you? I have seen many organizations where people talk like this is occurring, but it is possibly just an illusion. Leaders and managers go through the motions, but the results remain the same? Does this sound familiar? The following things should be recognizable to know if you genuinely have an environment fostering psychological safety. Leading by Example Leaders should demonstrate vulnerability, openness, and empathy. When leaders show that it's safe to make mistakes and ask for help, it sets the tone for the rest of the organization. Encouraging Open Communication Create channels for employees to share ideas, concerns, and feedback without fear of judgment or reprisal. This could be through regular team meetings, suggestion boxes, or anonymous feedback mechanisms. Establishing Trust Build trust by being transparent about decisions, communicating clearly, and following through on commitments. When employees trust that their leaders have their best interests at heart, they're more likely to feel psychologically safe. Celebrating Successes and Learning from Failures Recognize and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. At the same time, failures should be acknowledged as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as sources of blame or shame. Regularly Soliciting Feedback Continuously seek feedback from employees about their workplace experiences. Use surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one meetings to gather input and make necessary adjustments to improve psychological safety. Onboarding For Long-term Success
By: Robert F. DeFinis, Ed.D. I don’t often get to onboard and support new hires these days. It’s one of those tasks that we recognize is mission-critical to retaining and building all-star teams, but we possibly water it down because it's time-consuming. Or, even worse, hand it off (or parts) to others who are not trained in how to onboard or don’t appreciate its value. I was reminded recently not only of the value of a good system to layer in a new employee but also of the excitement of new beginnings. Think about it…that moment that you start your new position. The anticipation and a healthy amount of nervous energy that you are about to embark on a new chapter in your career. You get to write the following pages regardless of what occurred prior. Leaders should realize how we start and end things is very important. We can try to get the middle right, but we know that no journey is perfect. We can, however, manage the beginning and the end. With just a few simple considerations in the onboarding and new employee orientation, we can capture that excitement and keep people happy, engaged, and prepared. Here are my ten priorities for a solid transition into any organization. Clear Expectations From day one, clearly outline their roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations. This sets the tone for their work and helps them understand their expectations. Structured Onboarding Provide a structured onboarding process that includes training, orientation sessions, and introductions to key team members. This helps them understand the company culture and how their role fits the bigger picture. Regular Check-Ins Schedule regular check-ins to provide feedback, answer questions, and address any concerns they may have. This shows that you are invested in their success and are available to support them. Mentorship Pair them with a mentor who can guide, advise, and support them as they navigate their new role and the organization. This can be a more experienced colleague or someone in a similar role. Resource Allocation Ensure they have the resources they need to succeed, whether it's access to software, equipment, or training materials. A lack of resources can hinder their ability to perform effectively. Encourage Questions Create an environment where asking questions is encouraged and welcomed. This helps new employees feel comfortable seeking clarification and guidance when needed. Recognition and Encouragement Acknowledge their contributions and achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement boosts morale and motivation, helping them feel valued and appreciated. Development Opportunities Provide skill development and growth opportunities through training programs, workshops, or conferences. Investing in their professional development shows you are committed to their long-term success. Open Communication Foster open and transparent communication channels where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas, feedback, and concerns. This helps build trust and strengthens the relationship between leaders and employees. Lead by Example Demonstrate the behavior and values you expect from your team members. Your actions speak louder than words, and leading by example sets the standard for professionalism, collaboration, and integrity. Prime Time Leadership
By Robert F. DeFinis, Ed.D. Any sports fan of the 90s is at least vaguely familiar with Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders (aka Prime Time)! He was a two-sport all-star in professional football and baseball. He is known for his charismatic personality, braggadocious opinions of himself, and a flair for the dramatic! However, he is considered a pop culture icon and had the respect of athletes and sports writers to land him a spot among the greats in Canton. In recent years, he has found a new calling…coaching. He is currently the Head Football Coach for the University of Colorado. A program that has not seen success in quite some time. That all changed this past weekend! Sanders brought his leadership brand to the struggling Buffalo team this past offseason; it was fireworks from the start! After their massive upset in the season opener over nationally ranked TCU, it had me thinking…what unique characteristics does Coach Prime Time possess? It is evident that Deion is authentic, sets clear expectations, fosters a winning mindset, and unconditionally loves his players. He demands much but is willing to celebrate achievement and doesn’t hesitate to call it like it is. Clear Vision and Purpose From the moment Deion stepped onto the University of Colorado Campus, he communicated a clear vision for the program's future. He set the stage for what it takes to be a winning team and how they would get there. He took it a step further by being transparent that not everyone will make it and that it might no longer be the best place for those team members who do not believe in his approach or philosophies. Essentially, he established that there was indeed a new sheriff in town and tough decisions needed to be made. Confidence and Self-belief Again, Deion exudes confidence. Some might falsely identify this as arrogance, but the difference is that he can back it up. He has produced on and off the field time and time again. He comes with more than words and a plan. He executes his vision while moving his followers in the right direction by strategically preparing them better than his opponents. Interestingly, this aspect is done in the shadows while his flamboyant comments are done to distract and bring attention. I equate this to almost like Ali’s “rope-a-dope” tactics in boxing. Fooling his opponent to miscalculate and then be taken out. Inspiring Stories Due to his background and accomplishments, he speaks from experience, and those impressionable young athletes drink it up! Many leaders have cut their teeth in the trenches. However, Deion has done it at the highest of levels. He comes with war stories that very few have and are willing to share. I can only imagine the lessons and personal experiences he uses to teach and mentor these men. Celebrate Achievement Work hard and play hard! From his press conferences and pre/post-game speeches, Deion understands the importance of celebrating achievement and being in the moment. It is understood that at the DI college football level, the amount of preparation and commitment is off the charts, but I don’t think he ever loses sight that these are student-athletes. They, too, require a space to express excitement and joy when they achieve great things that need tremendous dedication. Sometimes, leaders can be so focused on “what's next” that they forget the great things that just occurred. Lead with Love and Compassion Deion is a hugger! Every opportunity he gets to talk about or embrace one of his student-athletes, he doesn’t hesitate. Watching his face light up when they excel shows you that he is committed to their success. It goes beyond winning a football game. It goes beyond them graduating from the university. He is responsible for their mental well-being, personal growth, and becoming exceptional humans – something he takes seriously. Conclusion There are many theories and approaches to leadership. Often, the situation dictates what type of leadership we need to engage in. Deion is showing a hyper-focused style on confidence, outcomes, and love. It is gaining much attention and looks pretty receptive to the college student-athlete. I would not advocate a one-size-fits-all approach, but much of what Deion does is basic and rooted in good motivational practices. The difference…his execution of it! At this rate, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Coach Prime Time with 1 or 2 National Championships under his belt when it's all said and done. Making Sure the "Newbie" is Okay!
By: Robert F. DeFinis, Ed.D. In the United States, we know that summer is ending when we start to see the “back to school” supplies stockpiled at the local Walmart. Parents and educators are in a frenzy with all the preparation needed to get the academic year off to a great start, and all of this is occurring before one single leaf drops on the East Coast! During this time, I also like to remind administrators and seasoned educators to keep a protective eye on one group of teachers – the NEWBIE! Sure, there is a sense of excitement with obtaining your first teaching assignment and finally putting all that hard work into practice. However, there is a harsh reality as to why many studies suggest that north of 30% of new teachers leave the field in the first five years. This is why it is mission-critical to ensure that your school/institution has adopted best practices to support their needs, specifically their mental health. As a new teacher, it is crucial to prioritize your mental health and well-being. You can utilize resources like teacher wellness programs, psychological well-being management, stress relief techniques, self-care habits, and professional support networks. These resources can help you maintain a healthy work-life. Understanding the Challenges Mental health and wellness are imperative for novice educators, as they can demonstrate a challenging progression from a student (or subject practitioner) to an instructor. As a new teacher, one faces numerous classroom difficulties, such as conduct management, student appraisal/evaluation, and curriculum alignment and delivery (just a few examples). These tasks require noteworthy intellectual exertion and energy that can affect one's mental prosperity. Self-Care Practices As a new teacher, taking care of oneself should be a top priority. Establishing healthy self-care routines is essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being, mainly when dealing with the challenges of beginner teaching. Making self-care a regular practice can help manage stress, increase resilience, and prevent burnout. A few simple methods to get started include:
New teachers must create an effective support system to preserve their mental health. Finding the time, energy, and resources to establish relationships with colleagues and mentors can be challenging. Possessing a substantial support system plays a crucial role in dealing with the strains of teaching. One recommendation is to pair your NEWBIE with a mentor teacher early on. Whether there is a formal or informal process to your school’s mentorship approach, a new teacher should be paired with someone who can coach, support, and guide this new colleague in a professional and nurturing way. There are dozens of online resources to establish this process. Effective Time Management As a novice educator, it is essential to possess strong time management capabilities to remain on top. Effective time management can help teachers balance their personal and professional lives, reducing stress and burnout. A consistent schedule can reduce stress and improve productivity, allowing educators to perform more effectively. Here's a helpful suggestion for new teachers who want to enhance their time management skills. Consider making a daily to-do list, allocating fixed times for planning and grading, taking regular breaks, and delegating tasks whenever feasible. Try to group similar tasks instead of multitasking to maximize productivity. I cannot stress enough that time management is a constant moving target. All professionals need to reexamine periodically their commitments and time allocation. It is easy to develop or fall back into bad habits. Seeking Professional Development For a new teacher, it's essential to consider the benefits of professional development for your overall well-being and mental health. Participating in professional development opportunities can keep you up-to-date with the latest teaching trends and provide valuable guidance on creating an effective learning environment for your students. It provides access to resources to help you manage stress and work-related pressures more efficiently. Attending conferences, workshops, or seminars is an excellent way for teachers to learn from one another and expand their knowledge base. While many new teachers come right out of college or from a teacher preparation program, there are teachers at the postsecondary level who come directly from industry. Getting these educators started on the right path with support and development in the art and practice of teaching is good. Practicing Self-Compassion As a new teacher, it can be challenging to find time for self-care. The demands of lesson planning, grading, and keeping order in the classroom can leave little room to prioritize personal needs and leisure activities. Practicing self-compassion can help you extend kindness and understanding to yourself and others. It's important to remember that everyone experiences hardships occasionally, and embracing imperfections without judgment or shame is okay. Self-compassion can also help you focus on your strengths rather than weaknesses, which can help you develop resilience when facing difficult situations like criticism or struggling with schoolwork. Engaging in self-care activities like meditation, yoga, journaling, or walking can help you develop self-compassion and take a break from work. Recognizing Signs of Burnout It's not uncommon for new teachers to experience burnout due to stress, anxiety, and the demands of teaching. Signs of burnout can include feeling overwhelmed and struggling to concentrate on tasks, emotional exhaustion, disconnection from colleagues or students, and a lack of motivation to do activities that used to be enjoyable. If physical signs such as headaches or insomnia arise, it's essential to immediately prevent them from worsening. I strongly recommend speaking with your mentor teacher (or administrator) to determine what internal services are available first. I have seen that a regular meeting cadence between new teachers and their support people/team can resolve many problems early on. It also establishes trust that the school and administrators are here for them and care. Conclusion While teacher well-being and mental health are essential for all instructional staff, we must be mindful that, like the new faces in front of them, new teachers are juggling many things with little reference and experience to help them navigate. This is why more seasoned educators and administrators can be of great value to the onboarding and overall retention of those we call the NEWBIE! |
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