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TTC's 25th anniversary July 7, 2022

It is almost impossible to believe that this year is TTC’s 25thanniversary. Since 1995, we have grown from 1 employee to 10 and facilitated mentoring, team building and leadership development programs for participants located all over the world. We won’t be able to celebrate in the traditional sense as our team, probably much like yours, is currently working from a distance. And while we certainly didn’t expect to spend this milestone in the midst of a global pandemic, we can’t help but reflect on how the resulting changes have renewed our energy for the work we do. It has been… Read More

EWG Mentor of the Year! July 7, 2022

On June 1st during the Executive Women in Government’s Mentoring Celebration, two of the program’s current mentors were honored for their extraordinary commitment to mentoring. Program Champion Marilyn Quagliotti (Major General, USA Retired) had the pleasure of awarding Katherine Gugulis (Retired SES) and Beth M. McCormick (Defense, Technology Security Administration) with the 2016 Mentor of the Year Award: Â· "It is my pleasure to nominate my Mentor, Beth M. McCormick, for Mentor of the Year. She consistently made time for our mentoring relationship. She served as an excellent teacher by walking me through OPM’s Guide to Senior Executive Service… Read More

How can Government Encourage More Women to join the Leadership Ranks? July 7, 2022

Mentoring Program Attempts to Dissolve Barriers, Remedy Imbalance In recognizing challenges still exist today for women to attain executive-level leadership roles in the public and private sectors, I'm convinced we can advance the conversation to close that gap. Before thinking about practical steps to give women a stronger voice and encourage them to pursue leadership positions, it's important to reflect on why it matters. There's obviously an equality argument. Women bring something different to the table, and vibrant organizations, whether public or private, need as diverse an executive team as possible. I've spent the past 20 years focusing on developing… Read More

Passing the Torch July 7, 2022

Passing the Torch TTC recently had the honor of participating in the celebration of USPTO Mentoring Program Manger Rosie Saberton’s retirement! It was bittersweet to say goodbye to Rosie, as her passion and dedication to mentoring at USPTO has been nothing short of legendary! But we are very excited that she has passed the torch to Kathy Camou, who has been named the new Mentoring Program Manager. Kathy is well prepared for her new role and has learned from one of the best mentors out there! We wish Rosie heartfelt happiness as she begins her new and exciting journey,… Read More

Speak your Kind July 7, 2022

Earlier this month, TTC held their annual team building session at the Montclair Country Club with this year’s theme of "Speak your Kind.” The morning session was hosted by author, life coach and wellness expert, Kerry Alison Wekelo who provided an engaging and interactive presentation about "What Makes a Great day.” She shared her 6 Daily Principles for a Great Day and how mindfulness can enhance every moment both personally and professionally. During the afternoon, Team TTC shared successes from the past year and their goals for 2018. The also discussed their DISC styles with one another and reaffirmed… Read More

Encourage the Study of DISC Work Styles as Part of the Employee Experience July 7, 2022

Forbes Magazine said that one of the four biggest HR trends to watch out for in 2018 is heavy focus on the employee experience. The attention will be directed toward what the employee journey looks like within an organization. They will also concentrate on how leaders connect the dots between organizational culture, employee engagement and performance management. Differences in work and communication style have much to do with the way professional relationships develop and, in turn, the way employee performance, satisfaction and team success unfold. Join Kathy and Jennifer at the next DISC Train-the-Trainer (March 8-9, 2018) to learn the… Read More

DCAA July 7, 2022

Earlier this month, Kathy and fellow-facilitator (and TTC strategic partner) Nicole Champlin had the pleasure of conducting a Train-the-Trainer event with the folks at the Defense Contract and Audit Agency (DCAA) in Atlanta. Kathy and Nicole worked with seven DCI instructors who came from a variety of professional disciplines including law enforcement, education, military, and EMT. Kathy and Nicole were grateful for the wisdom and experiences the instructors shared and are confident they will do a great job facilitating the mentoring process in-house at DCAA. Read More

Women's History Month 2017 July 7, 2022

As we wrap up Women’s History Month, I am inspired to say thank you to the wonderful trailblazers in my life who have mentored me both on a formal and informal basis. Olive Burns (aka Nana) – My grandmother was a "Rosie the Riveter” during World War II when men went off to war and women went into the factories. I truly believe that the tenacity of women like my grandmother has greatly contributed to the empowerment of women to this day! Barbara Fife – My mother was a teacher and a day care provider as long as I can… Read More

Happy 20th Anniversary TTC! July 7, 2022

What motivates you? July 7, 2022

Last week I had the pleasure of hosting a Train-the-Trainer on the Workplace Motivator’s Model for both my internal facilitation team as well as my Mastermind Group. I’m not sure if you have ever heard or participated in a "Mastermind Group,” but the best way to define it is a group mentoring process. Several women entrepreneurs from around the country get together periodically and mentor each other on best practices, lessons learned and share various strategies to maintain harmony in the workplace and increase productivity. We have been meeting for over six years and hold each other accountable for our… Read More

February 2022 Newsletter: Redirecting a Mentoring Relationship May 20, 2022

As with any relationship, from time to time, mentoring partnerships can snag, stagnate, or outright stall. Changes in schedule, workload, or circumstances can make it difficult to connect. Or partners may find that they underestimated what would be required as a mentor or a mentee and feel overwhelmed. Other times, pairs find that their personalities or communication styles just don’t seem to mesh. Whatever the reason, most partnerships can course-correct if both parties are willing to work together. Below are some simple steps that can help a struggling partnership get back on track. Look in the mirror. Before you give… Read More

January 2022 Newsletter: Demonstrating Your Readiness May 20, 2022

When we are looking to stretch ourselves with more job responsibility, or even a job promotion, sometimes the most difficult step is sending our readiness out into the universe. We can map career goals and seek out opportunities but demonstrating your capability for a bigger role is paramount. In this month’s newsletter we are going to define steps and strategies to show them you’re ready for more. Own projects from start to finish One of the best ways to demonstrate your competence is by developing expert level knowledge of your projects from their scope (objectives, budget, timeline, key stakeholders)… Read More

TTC’s 25th anniversary May 4, 2022

Staging a Reboot By Nicole Bridge March 16, 2021

This week, I took a back-to-school photo of my three children- right there on the porch, next to the flowerpot, in front of our pink door, as we do every year. Only it isn’t September, it’s March. My kids are among the throngs of school children returning to school after nearly a year of learning on their computers in the kitchen. Returning to school was a big milestone! My sons shoved their belongings into their old backpacks. One resisted brushing his hair and the other tried to get away with a pair of mismatched socks. They were excited to walk… Read More

Listening on screen By: Nicole Bridge November 18, 2020

Virtual working has turned many of us into unwitting stars of the 10” screen. And while the pandemic zeitgeist is that humanity, young and old, has evolved into sophisticated technology users, there are still some glitches. We have all learned to stay calm when we get kicked out of a meeting and mined our homes for the most compelling and tidy corners to use as Zoom backdrops. We even remember to mute our microphones. But the truth is, for many of us, collaborating through a screen still doesn’t feel natural. At The Training Connection, we’ve been developing new resources to… Read More

FINDING MENTORS EVERYWHERE By: Nicole Bridge September 16, 2020

In a formal mentoring program, facilitators invest heavily in pairing mentors and mentees. They sort through demographics such as communication style, career trajectory, and experience. They analyze requests and preferences, aiming to create a mutually beneficial experience for both participants. This involved process is critical when planning successful partnerships that will meet the goals outlined in a prescribed program. There is another type of mentoring, however, that is less reliant on a well-engineered matching system. In this month’s newsletter, we will talk about soaking up mentors using daily interactions with colleagues, organizational leaders, or anyone that you find inspiring. In… Read More

Strategy Versus Tactics: The Case for Delegating By: Eileen Marshall August 14, 2020

Many of those in leadership positions, whether middle-management, team leader or senior executive, know they should be delegating tasks — probably more than they already do. Do any of the following "reasons” sound familiar? "I just can’t seem to let this task go!” "I am worried this will fall off the radar.” "I don’t really trust anyone else to get this done.” "This is really complicated and would take more time to explain than to just do it myself.” We can self-talk our way out of delegating to others - and justify it every step of the way! But if… Read More

Unwritten rules of the workplace: What every mentee should know By: Kim Wheeler July 21, 2020

Every organization has procedures and policies, formal written rules that tell employees clearly what they should and should not do. However, every organization also has a second set of dos and don’ts–a list that few (if any) will tell you about, but that leaders and colleagues will expect you to know and follow. Mentors can help their mentees avoid the discomfort of breaking these unwritten rules. Making mentees aware of the proper etiquette for their organization will help them create a positive impression, which, in turn, can help build a strong reputation and develop critical relationships that can lead to… Read More

Resilience-Surviving and Thriving During the Pandemic By: Ellen Kandell May 1, 2020

A note from Kathy Wentworth Drahosz: Working from home is presenting many new challenges including figuring out ways to stay productive and communicating virtually with your supervisors, team members and customers. Sharing office space and technology resources with your loved ones is creating another dynamic that you may not have had to deal with in the past. With so many competing priorities, your mentoring relationship might seem like the easiest thing to postpone until things get back to normal. When actually you may need to connect with your mentor (and they with you) more now than ever! Mentors can provide… Read More

Situational Mentors: Creating a network of learning By: Kim Wheeler April 14, 2020

When our son decided he wanted to become the goalie for his lacrosse team, my husband and I were thrilled that he’d set such a challenging goal for himself. We supported him, encouraged him, and believed he could do it . . . but we also knew he would need more than our cheerleading to achieve his goal. He needed someone with knowledge and experience to help him develop the skills and technique that we couldn’t teach. He needed a coach–a situational mentor. This scenario is every bit as common in professional mentoring relationships as it is in parenting. Mentors… Read More

Gaining Trust in a Mentoring Relationship By: Kim Wheeler February 20, 2020

If you take a moment to reflect on the people who have had the most positive impact on your career, you will likely think of people in whom you had a high degree of trust. When we trust someone, we know that we can communicate openly with them, that we can rely on them to follow through when they commit to do something, and that we can believe and act on their input. Not coincidentally, these are also the building blocks of an effective mentoring partnership. Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship, but especially so in mentoring where… Read More

Giving and Receiving Feedback By: Nicole Bridge January 15, 2020

As performance review season is upon many of us, in this month’s newsletter we wanted to tackle the topic of giving and receiving critical feedback. All of us will find ourselves on either side of that equation at one time or another. Effective communication starts with setting expectations. If you’re the one giving feedback, consider how your colleague prefers to receive it: In private? If it’s positive feedback, would they like to have wider recognition? If you are on the receiving end, do you have a sense of how often you need to hear feedback in order to feel confident… Read More

You Cannot Pour from An Empty Cup:10 Tips to Cultivate Work-Life Harmony By: Shere Brown December 20, 2019

In our day to day adulting lives, we all have had days or even weeks where we felt like we are being pulled in a million and one directions. With the holidays in full swing, many of us find ourselves juggling more obligations than ever. You might be worrying about finances or the health of a loved one, while managing endless emails and working through lengthy to-do lists. Add that to the shopping, traveling, or scurrying from one meeting or appointment to the next and many of us find there just aren’t enough hours in the day. No wonder why… Read More

Mentoring with DISC Style By: Kathy Wentworth Drahosz and Nicole Bridge October 16, 2019

Leading a successful team can be like directing a musical performance. In the same way that orchestra conductors pull diverse musical instruments into one cohesive sound, a manager needs to create harmony between individuals who often bear little resemblance to one another. The most successful managers are able to recognize the differences between their group’s members and, in turn, respect what each can offer to the group. Diversity in style and substance, when properly organized, makes beautiful music. Just as a conductor can identify who plays what instrument, managers need to know the behavioral (work) styles of the individuals they… Read More

LEADING WITH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE By: Alison Sfreddo September 12, 2019

By now we all know about the importance of Emotional Intelligence in the workplace (also known as Emotional Quotient or EQ). How you master your emotions at the office governs the perception that your peers and supervisors have of you. In fact, how you master your emotions can establish your reputation and may dictate how far you will progress within the organization. Leading with emotional intelligence goes far beyond just keeping emotions in check when stressful and contentious events occur. Managing with EQ requires that leaders not only master self-awareness and self-management skills, but they must also use those skills… Read More

A Career of Kindness By: Eileen Marshall June 12, 2019

Here at The Training Connection, we talk about the impact and value of mentoring — a LOT. This is the heart of what we do, of course! On a regular basis, mentors share with us how much they are gaining from their mentoring partnerships, often reporting they themselves feel they have benefitted more from the relationship than their mentees. How can that be? The word "Mentor” is analogous to the word "Parent” in that it is both a noun and a verb. To mentor another is an act of generosity, and highly altruistic. So, what do these mentors know that… Read More

The ABCs of an Overwhelming Workload By: Nicole Chamblin April 15, 2019

How do you prioritize your work when everything is a priority? A few years ago, I attended a conference where the keynote speaker, Dan Thurmon, used a juggling routine to illustrate a very important lesson. Usually he juggles sharp objects and names them as he tosses them the air: Career, Health, Family, Education, etc. As he juggled, he taught us that we juggle in our day-to-day, trying to catch everything at once. At any given time, you can only manage (or have your hands on) maybe two big things at a time. When we try to catch it all together,… Read More

Finding the Perfect Mentoring Match by Jennifer Sellers March 14, 2019

Is finding the perfect mentor like finding a needle in haystack? It doesn’t have to be. Seeking out the right mentoring match may seem like a daunting task at first, but with a little time investment and self-reflection, the process can yield multiple options. Mentors are plentiful. They come in all shapes and sizes. Thinking through what you want to get out of a partnership before you begin your search usually results in the most rewarding and productive match. So, what type of mentor are you looking for? Technical mentors — People you turn to for professional advice. These mentors… Read More

Making a Great Day with 6 Daily Principles By Kerry Alison Wekelo February 12, 2019

Making Great Day starts with turning your focus to your own personal well-being and how that plays out in your daily quest for (work/life) balance. When we challenge our balance by splitting ourselves in two or more directions, we tax our emotional and physical stability. With so many of us experiencing the high stress of life’s challenges and current events, it’s critical that we take time to make ourselves our first priority. Our personal health and careers depend on balance. When we experience balance, we find ourselves exclaiming, "What a great day!” But, on the other side is imbalance and… Read More

National Mentoring Month 2019 January 11, 2019

January is National Mentoring Month! Be sure to give your favorite mentor a shout out today! #mentoring #ttc #nationalmentoringmonth Read More

TTC 2019 Team Building January 9, 2019

Last week, TTC held our annual team building session at the Montclair Country Club with the theme of "She believed she could, so she did.” The morning session was guided by Nicole Chamblin, one of TTC’s talented facilitators and a gifted and knowledgeable time management expert. Nicole not only debriefed Team TTC on our team dynamics, but also shared insightful and innovative material and time "hacks” to frame our planning for the new year. During the afternoon, Team TTC shared successes from the past year and goals for 2019. The Team also created a vision board for the team as… Read More

Happy Holidays from Team TTC! December 19, 2018

Nurturing Your Network By: Nicole Bridge December 13, 2018

As the year winds down, pause and reflect on your career goals. Think back to when you were first hired. What kinds of plans did you set? Have you made progress against them? Are you content? What might bring greater satisfaction? Through this lens, begin setting professional intentions for 2019. While you organize, commit to enhancing your networks by making new connections and taking an active role in your community. In this newsletter we will share some tips and strategies for getting out there and making the most of every chance to meet people who can widen your perspectives and… Read More

Congratulations to Jennifer Sellers, President TTC Inc. December 6, 2018

Twenty years ago, I made a pretty significant decision when I hired a young woman who would one day run my business. Well, that one day has arrived! I would like to announce that as of November 30th, 2018, Vice President Jennifer Sellers has been promoted to President of The Training Connection, Inc. I am so proud of Jennifer and her commitment to helping me grow The Training Connection, Inc. from a one-person operation to a thriving consulting firm that employs 12 full and part time employees. As a result of Jennifer’s new position, my role has transitioned to CEO… Read More

What Does Your Desk Say About You? By: Nicole Bridge November 16, 2018

It might seem like an unusual topic but the way you organize your workspace may say more about your personality than you think. Look around at yours right now. Is it perfectly neat or does it have a more "lived-in” look? Do you display personal mementos? Or prefer plain walls? Do you hang professional certificates and awards? Or have you designated a drawer for items of organizational recognition? Whether you share cubicle space, work remotely from a corner of your home or are tucked inside a private office with a door, your work space paints a picture of your personality… Read More

Developing a Mentoring Plan: Going from â€œNo Ideaâ€ to â€œBuilding a Visionâ€ By: Roger Cote October 15, 2018

"Begin at the beginning and go on till you come to the end: then stop.” Lewis Carroll–Alice in Wonderland. Creating a practical plan for a mentoring relationship starts with building your vision. What do you hope to get out of a mentoring partnership? Providing clear descriptions of where you are going with your career will in turn help identify mentors who can optimize this journey. This vision then serves as the basis for developing a plan. But oftentimes, we find ourselves thinking, "I’m not sure where I want to go,” or "I don’t know what I don’t know,” or "Where… Read More

Staying Productive During Downtimes By: Nicole Bridge August 15, 2018

Welcome to the second half of 2018! Even if the beginning of the year flew by at record speed, you might be experiencing an August slowdown. Many colleagues are soaking up the last of their summer vacations leaving roomier calendars, fewer emails and quieter phones. While the break is nice, it can also be disorienting. Some of us find it easier to plan the workday when a busy schedule is impacting our priorities and pushing us to stay moving. This month we will share some strategies for staying focused and using the downtime to get yourself organized for the remainder… Read More

Mindfulness in Mentoringâ€”an Opportunity for Shared Exploration and Discovery By: Roger Cote July 13, 2018

The practice of mindfulness has been around for centuries, dating back to 500 B.C. as an integral element in Buddhist teachings. It has been woven into many cultures and philosophies since then, and made its way into American considerations in 1979 via the efforts of Jon Kabat-Zinn, creator of the Stress Reduction Clinic and the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Over the years, Kabat-Zinn and others have helped mindfulness grow in popularity, partly by playing down the religious and philosophical elements that often turn off prospective practitioners, and focused… Read More

Mentoring Millennials By: Eileen Marshall June 14, 2018

Every generational workforce has brought its own stereotypes and perceptions - and the latest workforce is no different. Millennials — those born 1981 to 2000 — number nearly 90 million of the U.S. population and are now the majority of the workforce. They are considered the "social media” generation and are very tech-savvy. They prefer life experiences over material gains and are marrying later, having kids later, and owning homes later. But millennial employees are still young and have a lot to learn before they become the next wave of leaders. They tend to leave a job earlier than their… Read More

Effective Communication By Nicole Bridge May 15, 2018

The office is a dynamic place. Deadlines are in constant motion, work volumes fluctuate, org charts shift and departmental responsibilities change. And that’s just when things are moving along normally. Today, this quick pace is even further compounded by several concurrent trends. For one, we are all navigating a historically robust workforce with as many as five generations working side-by-side in some offices. With our age differences comes different expectations from our social interactions. Also, rapid advances in technology means we regularly need to take time to learn new systems and alternative approaches to productivity, which can be stressful and… Read More

Mining for Tip and Technique Gems You Can Use Today By: Roger Cote April 12, 2018

Perhaps one of the most valuable benefits offered by being involved with a mentor is the opportunity to learn pragmatic tips and techniques that can help you do your job better. Certainly, anyone entering into a mentoring relationship does so hoping to improve personally and professionally. Long-term goals, five-year plans, and skills and career development goals all tend to find their way into action plans that help define the bigger learning needs. But what about the microlearning needs? Examining every aspect of your program goals helps shape your plans for navigating a mentoring partnership throughout the program’s course. Addressing these elements… Read More

Stay In-Tune with Your Colleagues Through Effective Communication February 23, 2018

Just as each employee shares a different communication style, each feels motivated or encouraged by different types of communication. Brief, or to-the-point responses might sound curt or angry to some. Detailed explanations with friendly remarks might sound long-winded or lacking substance to others. Here are some tips for communicating with different DISC styles. Learn more about how to mentor or communicate with style! Read More

Optimizing Professional Engagement By: Alison Sfreddo February 13, 2018

Professional engagement in the workplace has profound benefits for both the organization and the employee. A recent Gallup survey demonstrated that only 32% of the American workforce is "engaged” in their jobs. By that they mean: enthusiastic about, involved in, and committed to their work. Being engaged at work creates increased production for the organization and professional fulfillment for employees. But professional engagement is not only management driven. It requires initiative and mindful presence of each and every team member to maintain a positive work environment. The following are a few ideas to help you feel engaged and energized: Volunteer… Read More

New Year, Fresh Start By: Nicole Bridge January 16, 2018

Happy New Year! Take this annual fresh start as the opportunity to set yourself up for a successful year. The beginning of the new year is the perfect time to set your intentions for greater efficiency in both your personal and professional life. Consider the way you write your to-do list and how you plan your day. Organize your desk supplies and email inbox so that you can minimize headaches and access the resources you need quickly. Here are some suggestions for increasing productivity and minimizing distractions so you can stay focused and on target with your current responsibilities and… Read More

2018 Train the Trainer! December 22, 2017

The Training Connection would like to extend a personal invitation to attend our upcoming DISC Train-the-Trainer on March 8-9, 2018 at Airlie in Warrenton, VA! This training will give you the tools you need to help facilitate chemistry between mentors and mentorees. What’s more, you will have the unique opportunity to connect with other people developers from a variety of federal, private and non-profit organizations. I hope you can join us as we establish a solid foundation for the proper use of DISC, while enjoying a relaxing and rejuvenating experience at the Airlie!! Please send me an email if you… Read More

Find your Inspiration for 2018! By: Eileen Marshall December 13, 2017

It seems a universal truth that as a year comes to a close, we find ourselves taking stock of how far we have come, and what we have yet to accomplish. This self-evaluation can cover personal goals, spiritual growth or career development — or many goals all at once! Any one of us could search the internet for inspirational quotes or articles — and become completely overwhelmed with the sheer volume — much of it noise — pun intended! So, we’ve done some thoughtful curating and pulled together a list of the most popular podcasts and TED Talks that we… Read More

Managing your Strive for Perfection November 14, 2017

Managing your sense of perfection can be very helpful not only in the workplace, but in your personal life as well. Many times, when tasked with an assignment or project, it is not the task itself that appears to be overwhelming, but the anticipation and stress of delivering a perfect product. While you should always aim to exceed expectations, there may be times when your own personal standards are getting in the way. Oftentimes it can be difficult to differentiate between what is actually required and your expectations of that requirement. There are a few ways to ensure that you… Read More

The Dynamics of â€œModern Mentoringâ€ October 16, 2017

Kathy Wentworth Drahosz opened this quarter’s mentoring roundtable by talking about an increase in conversations around modern mentoring, and people trying to come to terms with the shift in mentoring. "We have been seeing a shift in mentoring for the last decade, and many organizations are tapping into what we have coined as dynamic mentoring,” Kathy said. She explained that dynamic mentoring incorporates formal, informal, situational, virtual, and all other types of mentoring. It allows organizations to carefully tailor mentoring to fit the specific needs of the organization and its employees. She described the various types of mentoring and pointed out… Read More

Powerful Presentations by Alison Sfreddo October 12, 2017

Of all of the assignments and responsibilities that can come your way professionally, the most daunting of tasks has to be creating and conducting a presentation. Whether the audience is large or small, putting together a thoughtful and convincing presentation takes forethought, planning, and some calmed nerves to successfully get your point across. Putting together a cohesive and polished slide deck and delivering it with confidence is not as difficult as you might think and the following are some strategies for presenting with power and panache: Zero in on a goal. First determine the purpose of your presentation. Some presentations… Read More

Manage Your Stress Mindfully September 15, 2017

Stress in today’s work environment is expensive. It can rob you of the creative and mental energy it takes to perform tasks effectively and can also make you physically ill. Research has shown that employees who do not manage their stress and anxiety levels have higher risk of heart attack, illness and disease. The good news is that stress and anxiety can be alleviated by incorporating a few simple mindfulness techniques into your day. Mindfulness based techniques allow you to stay in the moment without judgement. You don’t need a special gym membership or equipment. Mindfulness can be practiced anywhere,… Read More

September 2017 TMC Quarterly Roundtable September 11, 2017

We would like to extend this special invitation for you to join us on Friday, September 15, 2017 from 1:30—3:00 ET. There has been a shift in mentoring over the last decade and many organizations are tapping into what TTC has coined as dynamic mentoring. Simply stated, dynamic mentoring fosters formal, informal, situational and virtual mentoring partnerships tailored to the organization’s and individual’s specific needs. Join Kathy Wentworth Drahosz as she provides an overview of this multi-dimensional approach to mentoring and shares what resources are available to accommodate a variety of mentoring experiences and models: - formal mentoring… Read More

Congratulations to the New EWG Board! August 17, 2017

Kathy had the pleasure of attending the Annual Executive Women in Government (EWG) Swearing-in Ceremony of three new members for the EWG Board. Remarks and the swearing-in of the new Board members were given by Mentoring Program Champion EWG Mentoring Program Founder and Director Marilyn Quagliotti, Major General, USA Ret. TTC is very proud of two former EWG Mentoring Program participants. The new President is one of EWG’s mentors: Paige Akins, Department of Commerce and the Vice President is Quan Boatman, a former protégé with GSA. Congratulations to both on their new roles! As a reminder, EWG has just… Read More

Create a Winning Social Media Profile August 14, 2017

Social media can be a very valuable career resource when skillfully managed. It can be an important tool to showcase professional talents and advertise an individual’s personal brand. It is also one of the most effective vehicles for networking. Whatever the site used (and there are a number of them), how you post, tweet or blog speaks volumes about who you are as an individual and professional and can ultimately define your reputation. Social media savvy and etiquette involves keen attention to detail and content. It takes careful planning and thoughtful measurement of posts, opinions, and blogs. The following are… Read More

IDB Anniversary Award for Team TTC August 8, 2017

Congratulations to Team TTC! Last week as Kathy facilitated a series of Mentoring Kick-Off sessions at the International Development Bank (IDB) in Washington, DC, the Program Coordinator (Beth Milovich) surprised her with a 5-Year Anniversary Award for Team TTC. Beth went on to share her appreciation for the on-going support Team TTC provided to the IDB and their dedication to mentoring. TTC looks forward to many more years with IDB! Read More

The TTC June 2017 Roundtable Re-Cap: Facilitating Mentoring Partnership Engagement July 17, 2017

Kathy Wentworth Drahosz launched the June 2017 Program Coordinator Roundtable with a review of the Keys to Mentoring Success, noting how each step contributes to preparing participants for their mentoring journeys. During each of these steps, mentees and mentors have a significant amount of guidance and support; but once the relationships have officially launched, they tend to be left to their own devices to implement their Mentoring Actin Plans. Kathy noted that "we recommend providing feedback on the MAPs just to show them that we’re keeping an eye on things and we’re supporting them as they go through the process.”… Read More

The Stretch Assignment July 12, 2017

Summer can be the perfect time of year to embark upon a stretch assignment. With many colleagues taking their family vacations and postponing launching big projects until the fall, the summer months can free up some time for you to concentrate on your professional development. A good stretch assignment is a great way to turn a corner in your career progression. It should be mentally challenging and allow you to forge a new path or cultivate a new area of expertise. Completing a stretch assignment will ultimately provide you with a new skill, new relationships and new-found confidence. … Read More

2016/2017 EWG Mentoring Program Concludes June 21, 2017

Congratulations to the 2016-2017 Executive Women in Government Mentoring Program cohort as they conclude a very successful year! This year’s end of program celebration was highlighted by Keynote speaker Karen Britton, who is currently a Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Office for e-Management. She talked about her past experiences as the CIO of the Executive Office of the President and as a special assistant to President Barack Obama. Karen was also able share her insights about how she was able to transition from a career to a political position within the EOP, and then to the private sector. Thank… Read More

What Motivates You: Why do you do what you do? June 14, 2017

The most successful and happiest people in today’s work environment are those who are doing work that is compatible with their value system and the values of the organizations they work for. Have you ever worked for an organization where the corporate values were completely the opposite than your values? Perhaps you are motivated by being a part of something larger than yourself and making a difference. And the organization you work for is driven by the bottom line and demonstrating a good return on investment. Can you be successful in an organization that values different things? Will you be… Read More

TMC Quarterly Roundtable May 19, 2017

TMC meets on a quarterly basis to bring Program Coordinators together to share their mentoring program best practices. This month we invited Nicole Chamblin to present her tips and techniques for Time and Project Management. The following is a summary of her dynamic presentation. /files/MARCH%20Roundtable%20Article.pdf Read More

Creating a Custom Mentoring Plan May 16, 2017

When first making the decision to participate in a mentoring program, there is both excitement and anticipation as to what will be gained in terms of personal and professional growth. While many participants often find themselves with a number of great ideas for their career development, others may sometimes hit a road block when tasked to map out those ideas. The development of an engaging and challenging plan should not be an overwhelming project. The following are a few simple considerations in creating a dynamic and meaningful mentoring action plan: Make it Manageable. While it is admirable to have… Read More

How Supervisors Can Enhance the Mentoring Experience April 11, 2017

For many, the role of the supervisor and your relationship with them can be both multifaceted and at times complicated. Oftentimes, we perceive our direct supervisor as that one person who can make or break our career. But often overlooked is the way in which they can have a very positive role in our career growth and progression. In the course of a formal mentoring program, the supervisor can prove to be one of our most valuable assets. They are the ones who can observe first hand the milestones that we have met as well as the pitfalls that… Read More

Women's History Month 2017 March 20, 2017

The Training Connection is celebrating Women's History Month all this month! Read More

TTC Has NEW Email Addresses!! March 13, 2017

Gaining that Competitive Edge March 13, 2017

Today’s competitive work environment demands that employees position themselves with marketable, highly desirable skills and capabilities. When you learn how to take an active role in your own career development you position yourself to take advantage of opportunities as they arise and you are much more likely to achieve long-term success and progression within the organization. Gaining that competitive edge goes beyond mastering the skills associated with your current position and requires a shift in both attitude and perspective. The following are a few shifts in the right direction: IMAGINING THE POSSIBILITIES — Enthusiasm provides energy to carry you… Read More

Maximizing Developmental Assignments February 13, 2017

Developmental assignments are an excellent opportunity for mentees to expand their career horizons and explore their full potential. When they are well thought out and centered on the career goals, they can provide the opportunity to broaden typical work experiences and enhance career progression. To get the most from a developmental assignment, mentees should apply the following rules: Set Goals. It is important to know why you have chosen a specific assignment and have a clear idea of what you hope to accomplish or achieve through it. Some common expectations for developmental assignments are to enhance leadership capacity, create or… Read More

Thank Your Mentor Today! January 19, 2017

January is National Mentoring Month! Don't forget to THANK your Mentor today!! Read More

The Merits of Mentoring January 12, 2017

January is National Mentoring Month. And as anyone who has participated in a Mentoring Program can tell you, the productive and positive outcomes from a strong partnership can be extraordinary for the mentoree and equally as beneficial to the organization. The gains and successes that mentorees enjoy when they make the commitment to mentoring are immeasurable. The following are just a few of the many benefits of mentoring: Career Rejuvenator. What better way to revitalize a career and talents than to be guided by an experienced and respected professional. By establishing a solid mentoring relationship, mentorees not only expand their… Read More

National Mentoring Month 2017! January 3, 2017

Happy Holiday's from The Training Connection 2016 December 21, 2016

Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2017! ~Team TTC Read More

Sharpening Your Problem Solving Skills December 15, 2016

Challenges and changes are a part of everyday life — both personally and professionally. Instead of watching them mount or negatively affect the bottom line, the best way to overcome them is to acknowledge the challenge at hand, develop a strategy to solve it and ensure it is not repeated. Although this may seem to be easier said than done, with a thoughtful approach to planning, a problem can be solved with minimal impact. The most effective leaders and problem solvers have developed strategies that they put into practice when overcoming every day challenges and organizational obstacles. The following are some… Read More

USFS Mentoring Design Team November 23, 2016

Kathy & Jennifer had the opportunity to work with a small mentoring design team at the US Forest Service, Intermountain Region (Utah). The Intermountain Region encompasses 34 million acres of National Forest land (the largest in the nation)! We are very excited to work with this dedicated group of people who care greatly about conservation education as well as connecting people to the outdoors! The Intermountain Region’s mentoring program will be unique in that it will not only help to develop and retain current employees but also inspiring and exposing our next generation to careers and opportunities at the US… Read More

Mentoring Virtually in a Teleworking Environment November 15, 2016

For many organizations, teleworking has become the norm. As a matter of fact, a recent Gallop poll found that the number of employees that telework (at least a few days a week) has climbed to 37%. This trend however, should not deter anyone from engaging in a mentoring relationship with a teleworker. There are actually a couple of benefits. For one, many teleworkers are assigned to the same site as their mentoring partner and are often on-site a few times a week therefore creating an opportunity to meet face-to-face. In addition, teleworking partnerships save over 2 hours commuting to and… Read More

Mentoring Expertise: What Does it Take to be an Expert in Your Field? October 14, 2016

Becoming an expert in any given field takes commitment, determination and more importantly — time. Research shows that it will take the average person between ten and seventeen years of dedication, practice and experience to become considered an expert in one’s field. Very few professional accomplishments happen overnight. A person cannot simply step into a profession and immediately be considered an expert. Career management expert Caela Farren (author of Who’s Running Your Career?) describes the steps toward mastery and what employees should be capable of accomplishing at each level and what is needed to help them master the expertise of their… Read More

How Did He Do That? September 16, 2016

Sometimes an unconventional approach to learning can the most inspiring! Last week, DHS HQ Mentoring Program participants had the unique experience to learn from the renowned motivational speaker: Andrew Bennet. Through a series of intriguing illusions, participants were able to gain new insights on how best to manage change, build strong professional relationships and come out on top when facing adversity. What a great way to close down their formal partnerships and move forward with purpose! Read More

Polishing your Professional Appearance September 15, 2016

Organizations have evolved over the years, and so have perceptions as to what is and is not acceptable to wear in the workplace. Your personal appearance creates the first impression that others have of you and therefore how you present yourself is just as important as well you perform on the job. Polishing your professional appearance does not have to be time consuming or expensive and the following are a few things to consider when refining your style: Too much of a good thing. Excessive make-up, fragrance or accessories are not appropriate for the workplace. All can be… Read More

You're Invited! Train-The-Trainer Workshop November 2016 July 19, 2016

Join us for a unique two-day workshop to develop an expertise of the DISC behavioral assessment tool! RSVP today to reserve your spot! Read More

Conducting a Productive Informational Interview July 13, 2016

The informational interview can be a valuable tool to help you navigate the political waters of an organization or put you on the right road toward career progression. Informational interviewing is also a great developmental tool for anyone interested in learning more about an organization, occupation, or industry. Moreover, informational interviewing provides an excellent opportunity to expand professional networks by strategically selecting the right people to interview while gaining increased visibility within the organization. Conducting an informational interview is not difficult provided that the preparation of questions and selection of a professional to be interviewed are well thought out and carefully… Read More

TTC Receives FDA CDRH Director's Award June 14, 2016

Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, the Center Director of FDA’s CDRH (Center for Devices and Radiological Health) honors Mentoring Program Manager Alethia Alford and TTC’s Kathy Wentworth Drahosz with the Director’s Special Citation Award for the development, implementation and management of a highly effective and well regarded CDRH mentoring program. This unique program incorporates a variety of program components including self-assessment tools, courses, shadowing experiences, and other experiential learning activities. All of these aspects support the active mentoring partnerships and help participants acquire and/or enhance those competencies necessary to become a successful government leader and manager. TTC has been partnering with CDRH… Read More

Conquering the Conversation February 17, 2016

In both personal and professional life, the manner in which we communicate with others can have a tremendous effect on the perceptions others have of us and can impact our career progression. Without question, the success of our interpersonal relationships is greatly dependent on our ability to effectively get our message across. Stellar interpersonal skills not only give us the edge in the workplace, but they can also smooth many relationships in our personal lives. Winning over others and persuading them to see things our way is not as difficult as it sounds and with the following hints, you too… Read More

Celebrate National Mentoring Month and Thank a Mentor! January 20, 2016

Building High Performing Teams January 12, 2016

A high performing team is not just a group of people who have learned to cooperate with one another. True teams have a shared sense of commitment, a compelling mission, and strong values and culture by which they lead and perform. These organizational philosophies vary from place to place, but working toward a common purpose is critical to the team’s success. Ask any manager what they look for most when hiring on a candidate and they will tell you it is the ability to be an effective team player. High performing teams hold themselves accountable at both the individual and… Read More

Happy Holiday's from The Training Connection! December 21, 2015

Staying Energized in the Workplace this Holiday Season and Beyond December 11, 2015

The value of physical, emotional and spiritual wellness has gained considerable prominence in the workplace. Study after study has proven the positive effects of wellness on productivity and personal contentment. It can also give the extra energy needed during these busy months and help sustain and grow a rewarding mentoring relationship. Most of us know firsthand what a terrific sense of health and wellbeing can bring to our personal lives and the happiness and peace of mind it can yield in our relationships, hobbies and personal goals and achievements. To be healthy is to be productive and the following… Read More

Managing Time November 12, 2015

In an age of instant information, virtual communications and real-time tools to make our lives more efficient, we still seem to be always pressed for time. We often think that there are not enough hours in the day or that we have too many tasks or commitments to cram into a relatively short period of time. But rather than looking at tasks and activities as time consuming, we should instead study what we are doing and analyze where our actual minutes are being allocated. The most effective way to manage time is to carefully consider what our priorities are… Read More

Strategic Career Management October 14, 2015

We all know that the invaluable insights and guidance of a great mentor can have a significant impact on our professional journey and career successes. And if you ask those mentors what the most valuable words of wisdom they have imparted over the years, their responses would be strikingly similar — a laser focus, unrelenting tenacity, and a driven commitment to stay ahead of the game. Advancing your career takes dedication to what you are passionate about, channeling that energy into a plan, and making the commitment to stay on track. It is also about aligning yourself with people who… Read More

Reverse Mentoring by Alison Sfreddo September 11, 2015

Reverse mentoring (the pairing of a young upstart as mentor with a seasoned manager/professional as mentee) has emerged as a beneficial professional partnership given the advances in technology and the rise of a younger and more diversified workforce. As the concept and practice is not a new one, the merits of this type of mentoring partnership can have very real benefits for both the younger mentor and the more seasoned mentee. Reverse mentoring also gives both partners a variety of new perspectives on how management views the younger employee and how the new upstart regards their manager and the organization.… Read More

Mentoring the Next Generation of Millennials August 11, 2015

Every few decades a new generation enters the workforce, fresh with new ideas, enthusiasm and an entirely new way of doing things. For a long time it was the Baby Boomers and then Generation Xers who dominated the labor force. But now the generation that is most prevalent in our professional worlds are the Millennials. As a matter of fact, the U.S. Census Bureau has projected that this group is poised to overtake Baby Boomers in sheer numbers this year. As the majority of mentors are well aware that they are sharing their wisdom and experience with a younger crowd… Read More

Maintaining Momentum during the Summer Months July 13, 2015

For the next few months, many of us will be enjoying much anticipated vacations and a few long weekends away from the office. But less time in the office does not have to translate into less time spent with your mentoring partner. There are a number of fun and creative ways to keep your partnership moving along and the following are some tips maintaining momentum during the summer: Modify you Mentoring Agreement. Plan to take a portion of your next mentoring meeting to share your summer calendar with your mentoring partner and evaluate if the current meeting times and frequency are… Read More

Take a Break and Recharge! June 15, 2015

As the summer months approach, many of us are beginning to formulate our summer plans. But believe it or not, there are a considerable number of those that have not given the thought of a week or even a day or two away from the office a second glance. As a matter of fact, a 2014 study commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association found that only 77% of Americans used their paid vacation time. As organizations restructure and workers are faced with additional responsibilities and reduced resources, many feel that any time spent away from the office would bring them only… Read More

The Secrets of Successful Situational Mentoring May 12, 2015

Situational mentors are the right help at the right time. They are your go to people -- if you got a situation you go to a situational mentor. Situational mentors come in all shapes and sizes and are one of the most universal keys to success both personally and professionally. Situational mentors inspire, encourage, motivate and share lessons from their past experience. They can answer a specific question or offer their support and guidance through a current problem or challenge. Anyone can employ a situational mentor and better yet, anyone can be a situational mentor. The following are some attributes of… Read More

Redefining the Mentoring Relationship April 14, 2015

By: Kathy Wentworth Drahosz and Alison Sfreddo Think for a moment about your current mentoring relationship and how it can evolve after the formal program comes to a close. All good things do not need to come to an end and the mentoring relationship is no exception. When you have made the investment to build a formal mentoring connection with your mentoring partner, there should be no reason for the relationship to come to a complete halt. The key is to make the commitment to keep the connection. Although communications may be less frequent, explore ways to continue the… Read More

January is National Mentoring Month! April 8, 2015

Celebrate National Mentoring Month and Thank a Mentor! April 8, 2015

Happy New Year! What better way to begin the New Year than to celebrate mentoring and all of the good it can bring throughout the year and beyond. This month is designated as National Mentoring Month and January 15th has been assigned as Thank Your Mentor Day. This is the perfect opportunity to express your gratitude and let your mentor know how they made a difference in your life. There are a number of ways to thank a mentor and how they have improved your personal or professional life for the better and the following are just a few things… Read More

The Art of Effective Negotiations April 8, 2015

To many, the art of negotiation is a complicated and daunting process. But as intimidating as it may seem, the ability to effectively negotiate is a critical skill to have both personally and professionally. Shying away from the process can have a number of consequences and can result in missed opportunities - especially on the job. It is important to keep in mind that successful negotiations are not confrontations but rather a savvy process that persuades another to see things your way. There is a method to successfully negotiating and there is a great emphasis on detailed planning and effective… Read More

Thriving during the Holiday Season April 8, 2015

Every year, it seems as though the holiday season approaches without warning. As exciting as the season can be reuniting with friends and family, there are a number of additional activities and responsibilities that we must attend to. The key to managing the additional expectations and responsibilities is moderation. By accepting the fact that we may not be able to attend every party or complete that project ahead of schedule, we are able to keep up with the demands of the season. The following are some strategies for a stress-free season: Strategically select social engagements. There is a flurry of… Read More

Jan 16, 2015 - Happy National Mentoring Month! January 16, 2015

In honor of national mentoring month, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the gift of mentoring. Hardly a day goes by without me quoting one of mentors. Some of my favorite quotes include: "When one door closes another door opens.â€ "Success is taking the potential you were born with and living up to it!â€ "You canâ€™t do your best swan dive while replaying in your mind your last belly flop.â€ So today, I want to honor my mentor Dr. Jan Northup. Jan was one of the most talented (and giving) women I have ever known and I… Read More

Aug 13, 2014 - Wellness in the Workplace August 13, 2014

Much has been written about wellness in the workplace and the innovative ways employers are getting their employees to move more, make healthier food choices and take initiative over their own preventative care. The state of our bodies and minds can be an accurate barometer of our professional success and personal happiness. Personally, when I am eating right, exercising and just making good choices, I have tons of energy and my mind is clear and focused. One of the best ways to enhance your own personal wellness is to commit to a plan with the very people that you spend… Read More

May 05, 2014 - Happy Spring! May 4, 2014

As many of you know, spring is my most favorite time of year! Spring reminds me of new beginnings and renewal and this spring in particular has been one of my most promising and productive! We are amidst of rolling out a number of new products at TTC and I am very excited about the launch of a new virtual mentoring event in the coming months. First, we have been doing quite a bit of writing. We are about to roll out our new and improved Mentor-the-Mentor series and have designed four fabulous handouts to accompany our revised and enhanced… Read More

Jan 06, 2014 - Happy New Year! January 6, 2014

January is an exciting time of year. As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season comes to a close, a new year is ushered in that always fills me with excitement and a promise of an even better year to come. I always find this time of year the perfect opportunity to reflect on the many blessings that the past year has brought to Team TTC as well as the challenges that we have individually and collectively overcame. My team has been very resilient this year as some have experienced some personal losses but during these challenging times we… Read More