Are You Paying the Loyalty Tax? Uncover the Cost of Comfort in Your Career!

Welcome to another edition of Kickin' it with Kristen — your midweek motivation every Wednesday!

Don't put off your potential — try coaching and book a complimentary Coaching Session today! #leadership #personaldevelopment #learning

??Aha! Moment

Ever had that lightbulb moment when a simple truth suddenly becomes crystal clear? Last week, I had one of those moments while attending a panel on salary negotiations and elite job searches. One panelist dropped a truth bomb that I haven't been able to shake:

When you stay with an organization for a long time, you end up paying a loyalty tax and don’t know your market value.??

Reflecting on my career journey, I realized this was spot-on. Over the years, I've seen folks leapfrog to new companies, significantly boosting their compensation in the process. Meanwhile, I witnessed new hires at my old company—where I spent 30 years—start at higher salaries than those who had shown years of loyalty. It's a tough pill to swallow, but it highlights a crucial career strategy: understanding and advocating for your true market value is critical.

This realization isn't just about money; it's about self-awareness and actively managing your career trajectory.

Have you experienced this "loyalty tax"?

How has it influenced your career decisions?

Let’s kick it around and share strategies that help us stay competitive and fulfilled in our careers! #CareerGrowth #SalaryNegotiation #KnowYourWorth

1??One Thing I...

?? Learned - I hosted a chief meetup where Lea Durante introduced her innovative "PSST" 4-step methodology to regulate your nervous system: Pause, State, Story, Take Action. We explored complex concepts like the nervous system's ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal states. Lea talked about how it is possible to "turn your triggers into glimmers and unlock vibrant energy & optimized health," aiming to enhance deep satisfaction, fun, and joy. The session was enlightening, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing our physiological responses for better well-being. If you are interested, you can check it out here.

?? Read - This week, I read a recent edition of Sahil Bloom's Curiosity Chronicles, centered on a transformative concept: "Your entire life will change the moment you..." Sahil discusses the power of small, decisive actions over mere intentions. The journal prompt he revisited was a powerful reminder of how simple shifts in behavior and mindset can dramatically alter our trajectories. The key takeaway: Change begins when we stop gathering more information and start acting on what we already know. This resonated deeply with me as it underscores the importance of moving from planning to execution.

?? Watched - "Thank You, Good Night. - The Jon Bon Jovi Story." One of the biggest takeaways was Jon's unwavering commitment to excellence and refusal to perform unless he can give his best. Having worked with him on an event, I saw firsthand his dedication to ensuring fans always enjoy the show to the fullest. After the first show he did for us, he significantly changed the setlist based on our feedback. His focus on fan satisfaction exemplifies the importance of responsiveness and passion in delivering outstanding performances.

?? Accomplished - I have officially completed all of my training with HelmsBriscoe and successfully sourced two extraordinary client meetings this week. This milestone marks a significant step in my professional development, enhancing my ability to deliver exceptional value to clients. The experience has not only reinforced my skills in event sourcing but also boosted my confidence in creating impactful, memorable events tailored to client needs.

??Insight for the Week

Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. — Mahatma Gandhi

?Ask Kristen

Thanks to everyone who sent in questions. This one came from the state of Illinois!

Q: I would love to hear a bit more about the work you are doing with HelmsBriscoe. It sounds great.

A: It is great! I joined HelmsBriscoe because of my passion for the event and hospitality industry, coupled with the flexibility HelmsBriscoe offers to work as much as I want and from wherever I choose. This combination allows me to deliver exceptional service tailored to your specific needs.

I assist with site selection! I help find the perfect hotel or venue for various meetings and events, especially those requiring more than ten hotel room nights. Whether you're planning a business meeting, an association gathering, a beautiful wedding, a family reunion, an executive or coaches retreat, a training session, a workshop, or even a summit, I have the expertise and resources to assist you. To better understand how I support event planning needs and the process involved, I've attached a video outlining the power and process of what I do. If you would like to learn more, just let me know!

Do you have a question about a current leadership challenge or situation? Please feel free to send me a direct message!