?? Celebrating Milestones: A Journey of Recovery and Resilience ??

Welcome to the second quarter of 2024 and Happy Easter week to those who celebrate!

Where has time gone? I don't know about you but my first quarter flew. Today, I want to talk about a subject that has garnered some noise. How do we integrate connection and camaraderie into our virtual workplaces?

Welcome to the new frontier of work! In today's dynamic environment, the traditional office setting has evolved significantly due to the pandemic. With the rise of remote work, teams are no longer bound to physical spaces. While remote work offers flexibility and advantages, it also presents challenges, particularly in fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among team members, which is a concern for many CEOs regarding company culture. By 2025, many CEOs are expressing a desire to have their teams back in the office, but this can be avoided by incorporating some of these tips and proving that teamwork and culture can thrive with remote workers.

However, with the right approach and strategies, building a thriving workplace culture remotely is not only possible but can also lead to increased productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall success.

Before diving into tips, it's worth noting that remote work has been a reality for decades. In the early 2000s, I experienced remote work scenarios firsthand. While working at the Sonesta Beach Resort in Key Biscayne, I recall having two coworkers who frequently worked from home. Personally, this arrangement didn't bother me, but I noticed other coworkers judged it. Later, in 2006, when I began working with LXR Luxury Resorts representing properties in Puerto Rico and Jamaica, I found myself working from home four days a week due to our corporate offices being located in Boca, while I lived in Miami. This setup wasn't universally accepted, with some team members in the Boca office expressing reservations. As an individual contributor, I felt responsible for fostering relationships with my teammates and assuring them that I was fully engaged in my work from home.

Let's explore some innovative ways to cultivate a vibrant remote workplace culture that keeps everyone engaged and connected:

1. Embrace Virtual Collaboration Tools: Invest in reliable virtual collaboration tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom to facilitate seamless communication among team members. Encourage the use of video conferencing for meetings as it helps build stronger connections.

2. Prioritize Transparency and Trust: Keep everyone informed about company goals, initiatives, and decisions through regular updates and transparent communication channels. Encourage open dialogue and feedback to create a culture of trust where every team member feels valued.

3. Foster Social Connections: Organize virtual coffee breaks, team-building activities, or online happy hours to foster social connections among team members. Utilize platforms like Donut or Water Cooler for random pairings and networking.

4. Celebrate Achievements and Milestones: Publicly celebrate team achievements, milestones, and individual accomplishments to foster a culture of appreciation and recognition. Consider implementing virtual recognition programs like "Employee of the Month" awards.

5. Encourage Work-Life Balance: Promote a healthy work-life balance by setting clear boundaries and encouraging employees to disconnect after work hours. Respect different time zones and flexible schedules to accommodate diverse work preferences.

6. Lead with Heart and Courage: In remote leadership, courage is key. Lead with sincerity, motivate your team with both words and actions and empower them to contribute to collective success.

As we navigate remote work, let camaraderie and teamwork guide us towards a bright future. Forward, colleagues, towards new opportunities and boundless potential!

Blessings and love,?

Vimari

Here are some best practices to consider when building a vibrant remote workplace culture:

Best Practices for Remote Workers:

1. Establish a Dedicated Workspace: Create a designated area for work to minimize distractions and promote productivity.
2. Set Clear Boundaries: Define boundaries between work and personal life to maintain a healthy balance.
3. Communicate Effectively: Utilize communication tools effectively to stay connected with colleagues and managers.
4. Manage Time Wisely: Develop a schedule and stick to it to ensure tasks are completed efficiently.
5. Stay Organized: Use digital tools or planners to stay organized and manage tasks effectively.
6. Seek Support When Needed: Don't hesitate to reach out for help or clarification when faced with challenges.
7. Prioritize Self-Care: Take breaks, exercise, and practice self-care to maintain mental and physical well-being.

Additional Tips for Remote Workers:

1. Initiate Virtual Coffee Chats: Take the initiative to schedule one-on-one virtual coffee chats with colleagues to foster personal connections and build rapport.
2. Participate Actively: Engage actively in virtual meetings, discussions, and collaborative projects to demonstrate your commitment and contribute to team camaraderie.
3. Share Personal Updates: Share occasional personal updates or anecdotes during team meetings or in communication channels to humanize your interactions and strengthen connections with colleagues.
4. Offer Help and Support: Volunteer to assist colleagues with tasks or projects when you have the capacity to do so, demonstrating your willingness to support team members and collaborate effectively.
5. Attend Virtual Social Events: Make an effort to attend virtual social events organized by the company or team, such as online happy hours or game nights, to interact with colleagues in a relaxed setting and foster camaraderie.
6. Express Appreciation: Take the time to express appreciation and gratitude for your colleagues' contributions and support, whether through direct messages, virtual shoutouts, or participation in recognition programs. Stay Visible: Maintain visibility within the team by actively participating in communication channels, sharing updates on your work progress, and engaging in relevant discussions or initiatives.

Leadership "Don'ts" for Building Camaraderie for Remote Workers:

1. Micromanage: Avoid micromanaging remote workers as it can lead to disengagement and resentment.
2. Exclude Team Members: Ensure that all team members are included in virtual meetings, discussions, and activities to prevent feelings of isolation.
3. Dismiss Concerns: Take concerns or feedback from team members seriously and address them promptly to maintain trust and morale.
4. Neglect Regular Check-Ins: Don't forget to schedule regular check-ins with team members to provide support, guidance, and feedback.
5. Underestimating the Importance of Camaraderie: Recognize that building camaraderie among remote workers is essential for fostering a positive work culture and driving team success.

Don'ts for Remote Workers:

1. Isolate Yourself: Avoid isolating yourself from your remote team by not actively participating in virtual meetings, discussions, or social events. Isolation can hinder team cohesion and camaraderie.
2. Overlook Communication: Don't neglect communication with your colleagues by failing to respond to messages, emails, or requests in a timely manner. Lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings and hinder collaboration.
3. Exclude Yourself: Avoid excluding yourself from team activities or discussions by not attending virtual meetings or declining invitations to social events. Participating in team activities fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
4. Hog the Spotlight: Refrain from dominating discussions or seeking attention during virtual meetings or group interactions. Hogging the spotlight can alienate colleagues and hinder collaboration.
5. Dismiss Feedback: Don't dismiss or ignore feedback from your colleagues, supervisors, or peers. Constructive feedback is essential for personal and professional growth, and dismissing it can hinder your development and strain relationships.
6. Neglect Support: Avoid neglecting to offer support or assistance to your colleagues when they need it. Fostering a supportive environment where team members help each other contributes to building camaraderie and trust.
7. Be Inflexible: Refrain from being inflexible in your work approach or schedule. Flexibility is crucial in remote work environments, and being rigid can hinder collaboration and teamwork.

By implementing these best practices and monitoring key indicators, organizations and individuals can effectively build camaraderie among remote workers and create a positive and productive work environment.

How do you know if it's working???

Assessing the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at building camaraderie among remote workers involves monitoring various indicators to gauge the impact of these efforts. Here are some key metrics to consider:

1. Engagement Levels: Keep track of remote workers' participation in virtual activities, their responsiveness in communication channels, and their attendance at team meetings or events. An uptick in active engagement suggests that remote employees are feeling more connected and engaged with their colleagues and the organization as a whole. ??

2. Team Morale: Regularly assess the overall morale of the remote team through surveys, feedback sessions, or informal check-ins. Positive feedback, expressions of satisfaction, and a sense of enthusiasm among team members indicate that camaraderie-building initiatives are resonating with remote workers. ??

3. Collaboration and Communication: Evaluate the quality and frequency of collaboration and communication among remote team members. Improved collaboration, effective knowledge sharing, and the presence of open communication channels signify that remote workers are successfully connecting and fostering a collaborative environment. ??

4. Retention Rates: Monitor retention rates and employee turnover within the remote team. A decrease in turnover suggests that remote workers feel satisfied and connected to the team, indicating that camaraderie-building efforts are effective in fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty among employees. ??

5. Performance and Productivity: Assess the performance and productivity of remote workers over time. An increase in productivity, the achievement of goals, and positive performance reviews may indicate that a strong sense of camaraderie is positively impacting remote workers' performance and motivation. ??

6. Feedback and Surveys: Gather feedback from remote workers through surveys, polls, or one-on-one conversations. Seek insights into their experiences, perceptions, and suggestions for improvement regarding camaraderie-building efforts. Positive feedback and constructive suggestions can inform adjustments and improvements to the approach. ??

By regularly evaluating these indicators, organizations can gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of their initiatives to build camaraderie among remote workers. This informed approach enables organizations to make necessary adjustments and enhancements to further strengthen team cohesion, collaboration, and employee satisfaction in the remote work environment.

EmpowHER: Strengthening Minds, Empowering Lives Wellbeing Collective for Women Join Now and Be a Part of the Movement!

Calling upon the incredible Superwomen, Wonder Women, and all the achievers reading this newsletter—EmpowHer is tailored specifically for you!

Are you ready to embark on an empowering journey with us? While our EmpowHER initiative was initially scheduled to launch earlier, we're excited to announce that we're gearing up to kick off in June!

You still have the opportunity to join us as we dive into this transformative experience. Our EmpowHER initiative is designed to strengthen minds and empower lives, and we want you to be a part of it.

Whether you've been contemplating joining or simply haven't had the chance to participate until now, this is your moment. Don't let it slip away. Seize the opportunity to be part of something incredible as we make strides together.

In today's whirlwind of deadlines and virtual meetings, it's easy to overlook our well-being. But it's time to change that narrative and prioritize your health and happiness alongside your professional success.

That's where "EmpowHer" comes in...

EmpowHer is your gateway to becoming a more empowered, healthier individual. We're not just offering ordinary well-being tips—we're providing you with a powerful tool to transform your life. Imagine a day when stress is minimal, and your workspace brims with positivity and enthusiasm. That's our vision, and we invite you to join us on this journey.

Dedicated to nurturing well-being in the workplace through open dialogue and conversations, each session will feature mental fitness and positive intelligence tips tailored specifically for women. Real stories from real people—our Be Productive Coaching tribe—are stepping forward to share personal well-being journeys that resonate with the challenges and triumphs we all face. Let's connect, relate, and create an atmosphere of inspiration, like gathering around a virtual campfire.

Moreover, this monthly gathering isn't just about learning—it's also a prime opportunity to network and connect with like-minded women. Whether you're seeking mentorship, looking to share experiences, or simply want to expand your professional circle, our EmpowHer community provides a supportive space for fostering meaningful connections.

With an investment of only $360 for twelve months or $60 per session, EmpowHer is accessible to all who want to prioritize their well-being and professional growth.?But hurry, spots are limited! We're looking for just 10 women to get this started. So, join us as we embark on this journey together, empowering each other to thrive in both work and well-being.

Ready to join us???? To join EmpowHER and be a part of something amazing, complete the form below and get ready to embark on your journey to empowerment:

??? Let's make waves and drive progress together!

As we continue with our newsletter, I am thrilled to share with you a special feature close to my heart. Today, we shine a spotlight on a dear friend?who has been making waves in the realm of recovery coaching. But before we delve into that, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on a personal milestone: two years alcohol-free!

Since returning from the Camino in 2022, not a day has passed without my thoughts or conversations circling back to that transformative journey. The vivid recollection of every step along the way has become a cherished part of my daily reflections. Setting out on this adventure, my primary goal was simple: to embrace complete presence. Achieving this required making personal commitments. The first came in January 2022 when, after abstaining from alcohol for several weeks, I noticed a heightened sense of presence and decided to extend the experiment. It's important to clarify that my decision to curtail alcohol consumption wasn't rooted in past abuse but rather in a growing awareness of its impact on my productivity. This realization, coupled with concerns about the pandemic's toll on immunity, prompted me to largely refrain from drinking. This caution seemed effective, as my household remained Covid-free throughout 2020 and most of 2021, until a bout with the Omicron variant just before Christmas. Reflecting on that time, I can't help but suspect that a birthday celebration with friends, marked by a few too many drinks and relaxed inhibitions, may have contributed to my contracting the virus.

The experience of battling COVID-19 forced me to confront the consequences of compromised judgment. Determined to prioritize health and safety, I resolved to not let alcohol cloud my judgment again. As I recuperated, an unexpected fall led to a ligament injury just months before my Camino trip. Focused on recovery, I abstained from alcohol during therapy sessions and beyond. Even when in Spain, surrounded by wine culture, I chose sobriety to ensure an energized and focused pilgrimage. And it was amidst the breathtaking vistas of Finisterre, Spain—once believed to be the edge of the world—that I decided to toast our journey with glasses of Cava. Surprisingly, the experience left me disenchanted with alcohol, marking the end of my drinking days.

For many, the journey toward sobriety is filled with challenges, uncertainties, and triumphs. It's a path marked by resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering determination. And as I reflect on my own journey, I am reminded of the power of perseverance and the transformative impact it can have on our lives.

In this edition, we not only celebrate my two-year milestone but also honor the incredible work of my friend Inez Camacho, or as I call her Nesa, pictured here, whose dedication to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery is truly inspiring. If you or a loved one is embarking on the path to recovery from any addiction, I invite you to reach out to Nesa for guidance, support, and encouragement. Together, we have explored the importance of community, self-care, and resilience in navigating life's challenges and embracing a path of healing and we know that you can too!

It's a wrap! The second Joy! Joy! Joy! Fest at?Florida International University - College of Business?was once again an incredible celebration of joy, well-being, and connection. We delved deep into "Strategies for Achieving Success" with the essence of joy, transforming minds, hearts, bodies, and spirits. Once again, we created a vibrant community of joy-seekers, sparking connections that will last a lifetime.

First, a huge thank you to?Dean Hardin?and the?Florida International University - College of Business?for his support and interest in sponsoring this event fully, thank you! The fact that FIU cares about joy and well-being and is taking action for its students, Faculty, and staff is admirable.

A huge thank you to all of our volunteers and partners. We could not do this without you. You helped spread the word, thank you! ????

Our?Keynote?Kathryn Gordon, wow...she killed it! She aligned your R.E.A.L. Success talk so beautifully and authentically. ?? We are also grateful that?Jon Gordon?(her husband and top Leadership Speaker and Author) agreed to carry her bags so she could relax while in Miami. ??

Here is a glimpse of our event. I invite everyone who sees this to help us carry joy forward, spreading happiness and making a positive impact wherever we go. ??

Email me if you are interested in learning more about the Windmill of Joy and the Joy! Joy! Joy! Fest.

Joy! Joy! Joy! Fest 2024 Highlights from March 7th!

Are you a meeting planner feeling burnt out? You're not alone. Juggling stakeholder needs and keeping your schedule afloat can be a recipe for stress.

It's always a pleasure to be featured and asked to contribute to publications and Podcasts. In this recent article for Prevue Meetings, I explore 7 practical tips to prevent burnout specifically for meeting planners! ?Learn how to set boundaries, delegate tasks, and prioritize self-care to keep your passion burning bright.

Check out the article now and discover how to thrive as a meeting planner!

Are you tired of feeling held back by your inner critic? Do you long to enhance your emotional intelligence and overcome anxiety? Are you ready to transform your life for the better?? If so, we have an exciting announcement for you!

Our upcoming Positive Intelligence 7-Week Program, kicking off on May 4th, is your ticket to mastering these essential skills and so much more.

This program is designed to empower you with the tools and strategies to boost your happiness, productivity, and the quality of your relationships. Science-based, the Positive Intelligence program combines cutting-edge insights with practical exercises to help you unlock your full potential. In this transformative program, you'll not only learn how to quiet your inner critic but also discover how to harness the power of emotional intelligence to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience. Through my expert guidance and actionable techniques, you'll gain the tools to:

1. Silence the relentless chatter of your inner critic and cultivate self-compassion.
2. Enhance your emotional intelligence to better understand and manage your emotions.
3. Overcome anxiety and build inner strength and confidence.
4. Cultivate a positive mindset that enhances your overall well-being.
5. Increase your productivity and effectiveness in both personal and professional pursuits.
6. Foster healthier and more fulfilling relationships with those around you.

Imagine the freedom and peace of mind that come from breaking free from self-doubt and anxiety, allowing you to thrive in both your personal and professional life.

Don't miss out on this life-changing opportunity! Register now to secure your spot in our Positive Intelligence 7-Week Program and take the first step towards a happier, more fulfilling future.

I can't wait to embark on this transformative journey with you!

Not sure if this is for you or if you have the time? ?

Listen to Beth's Testimonial and Check Out Others Below

Positive Intelligence Is Not Just For Individuals Drive Productivity & Sales with the PQ Powered Teams Program

Is your team thriving or surviving in today’s fast-paced world? This is the same amazing program as the PQ Fundamentals for Individuals but focused on teams who want to increase productivity and sales.?

Organizations of all sectors and sizes — from hospitality to healthcare to government and enterprise to SMB — face major challenges in today’s dynamic business environment.?

• Only 23% of global organizations say their leaders have the capabilities to navigate a disrupted world. (Deloitte)
• Just 21% of full- and part-time employees globally are engaged. 19% of employees globally are actively disengaged. (Gallup)
• 40% of employees globally say they are thinking about leaving their jobs in the next three to six months. (McKinsey)

As sales and business leaders for decades, our focus has been helping teams scale. To ensure your company is future-ready, you need solutions that can be deployed globally with speed and measurable results.?

The PQ Program represents a breakthrough in raising Emotional Intelligence (EQ) across an organization. In fact, 17 out of 18 EQ competencies are automatically developed through the program, generating measurable results for our clients.?

If you are a?leader considering how to spend your 2024?Training & Development budget, you'll want to put your budget?towards training that will be sustainable and result in ROI.? The PQ Program takes the potential for human growth to another level?by creating a category of mental fitness that offers a?practical, sustainable operating system.?The program uniquely impacts what we?call the trilogy of success for individuals and teams:?well-being, relationships, and performance. The program’s impact is measurable and, most importantly, practical.?

Accountability and Support

As Certified Positive Intelligence Coaches, my colleague Rachelle Stone and I?will lead group meetings and support you and your team members throughout the program.?You can select any date, and we can start a private Co-Hort just for your team.

Let's discuss how our foundational program will increase your team's performance, well-being, and connection.

Learn more by clicking below:

??Tip of the month??

Tips for Coaching New Employees to Overcome Performance Anxiety

Starting a new job is like stepping into uncharted waters, full of excitement and uncertainty. But amidst the thrill, many new hires face a common challenge: performance anxiety.

As a coach, it's my?job to guide them through these rough seas and help them thrive in their roles.?

Let's explore some practical strategies to coach new employees through performance anxiety and set them up for success. ??

1. Create a Supportive Environment:??We all perform better when we feel supported. Encourage new hires with words of encouragement, celebrate their wins, and offer constructive feedback to boost their confidence.?

2. Set Clear Expectations:??Uncertainty can be overwhelming. Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and goals so new employees know exactly what's expected of them, allowing them to focus on their tasks without unnecessary stress.?

3. Provide Training and Guidance:??Equip new hires with the skills and knowledge they need to excel. Offer comprehensive onboarding, access to resources, and opportunities for growth to help them navigate their new roles with confidence.?

4. Encourage Open Communication:??Create an environment where questions are welcomed and concerns are addressed. Open dialogue fosters trust and allows new employees to seek help when needed without fear of judgment.?

5. Support Stress Management:??♂?Teach practical techniques like deep breathing or time management to help manage stress. Encourage self-care and emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.?

6. Lead by Example:??Show new employees that setbacks are part of the journey. Demonstrate resilience and positivity, and share your own experiences to inspire and motivate them.?

7. Celebrate Progress:??Every step forward is worth celebrating. Recognize their achievements, no matter how small, and encourage them to keep pushing forward.?

Coaching new employees through performance anxiety requires empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to see them succeed. By creating a supportive environment, setting clear expectations, providing guidance, and leading by example, we can help new hires overcome their fears and thrive in their new roles.

Remember that our support doesn't end here guiding each other through the ups and downs of the workplace and celebrating every milestone along the way. ??

Until next time, keep inspiring and empowering those around you!

Learn more about what we do and who we serve by watching this brief video, including client interviews.

?? Empowering Senior Professionals & Teams for Success ?? About Vimari & Be Productive Coaching:

Vimari Roman, a Professional Certified Coach, serves as a catalyst for professional transformation, guiding individuals toward peak performance and fulfillment. With over two decades of experience in the Hospitality and MICE industries, including roles at Sonesta, LXR Luxury Resorts, Hilton Hotels, and Accor, Vimari transitioned into coaching driven by her passion for leadership empowerment.

Drawing on her extensive background in career strategies, leadership, and human behavior, she excels in helping professionals uncover their purpose and achieve career satisfaction. With over 25 years of leadership experience, Vimari has mentored and coached thousands of high-performing professionals across diverse industries, nurturing their unique abilities and fortifying their mental resilience, leading to peak performance, fulfillment, and growth.

Vimari is also certified as a Leadership and Positive Intelligence? Coach. She is a sought-after speaker on topics such as Mental Fitness, Personal Branding, Purpose, and Career Strategies and Transitions. In 2019, LinkedIn recognized Vimari as a LinkedIn Career Expert. Additionally, she serves on the Board of the South Florida International Coaching Federation (ICF) Chapter and as faculty at 50/50 Women on Board, teaching the Personal Brand Workshop. Moreover, Vimari is an adjunct faculty at FAU, where she teaches the Certificate in Event Management program.

Know someone who could benefit from working with a coach specializing in executive & leadership coaching,?career strategies, professional branding, positive intelligence, and mental fitness? Personal Introductions are the lifeblood of solopreneurship!?www.beproductivecoaching.com.