#DILO (A day in the life of) a master’s degree student

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Continuing with our popular blog series that answers some of the questions we at Robert Kennedy College (RKC) get asked frequently by students looking to join one of our online programmes, we asked some of our past and current students to share their thoughts and opinions, to give their feedback on how they handled the challenges of online learning. Hopefully, this will help you to make an informed decision.

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Let’s learn from those who came before and see if what worked for them will help you become a better student!

An Introduction

Who are you, really?

I am an honest and compassionate woman juggling FT work, school, and mother of two amazing children, a wife and a caregiver to elderly ill parents.

Which programme did you choose and why?

MBA Leading Innovation and Change. Without effective leadership, no organisational goal will be reached. Without the ability to innovate and properly manage the change initiatives, organisations flatline and lack growth opportunities.

The Study Plan

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How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? For example, how many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?

I created a schedule for daily obligations and free time. I used my free time to study and read what I needed to learn. I typically spend 2-3 hours Monday to Thursday, 3-4hrs Friday and 5-8hrs Saturday and Sunday. Every second weekend I take a Saturday off and enjoy a day with my family and friends for sanity 🙂

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)

If you work during the weekdays and have children, then the evening is best. It’s dependent on other obligations in your life. But you have to schedule it and make it a habit. It eventually becomes routine if you have some discipline and focus on the end goal of achieving the MBA.

How much time did you devote to each assignment?

In any given week, my minimum time towards assignments and studies is 20hrs.

Travelling and Communication

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How did travelling impact your ability to study?

When I travelled, I took my laptop and some books. Luckily, everything is online so that you can study on the go.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors, given the time differences?

I used email and Teams with my professors and WhatsApp with my peers. Sometimes the times were extremely early morning or late in the evening, but it’s worthwhile.

A typical day as a master’s student

What does a typical day as an Online master’s student look like for you?

Come home from work, go to the gym, enjoy some family time, and then lock myself in my office and study. Most of my free time is devoted to my studies as a student.

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies

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Create a weekly schedule with all commitments and plan your studies. Explain to friends and family you are immersed for a couple of years in the goal of achieving an MBA. Ask for support and help when you need it. I know it will be difficult sometimes, but I have the discipline to persevere. Don’t hesitate to ask your professors for advice when you need some. Don’t give up. It’s a learning experience, and it’s truly worthwhile. You meet some incredible people on this journey. But YOU MUST SCHEDULE YOUR TIME! Priorities must be set as to what’s most important to you.

If you have been thinking about getting your master’s degree, and proving to yourself and others that you CAN do it, now would be an excellent time to take the plunge. Have a look at our list of programmes and see if we have anything that could help.

I hope this blog has answered some of your questions, and please watch this place for more similar blogs. You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, the application process, and the discounts we might offer.

Check out the fresh new look of the Robert Kennedy College (RKC) Website

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Robert Kennedy College has pioneered Swiss quality online learning since 1998. It offers rigorous but flexible learning programmes enhanced by state-of-the-art online e-learning technology. We always like to stay ahead and modern in our approach. So, here’s introducing a fresh, revamped look to our college website.

The user-friendly layout is welcoming, clearly laid out and interactive—the homepage links to programme details, features, and course catalogues. The quick search bar allows you to look for the programme of your choice, be it Project Management, International Business, International Commercial Law or the BA (Cons) programme. Information is available at one click.

The top bar provides links to contact our education advisor in real time through phone, email or WhatsApp.

Further, you find an overview of why to study online with RKC. You can also find all information about RKC’s partnerships with three universities – the University of Cumbria, the University of Salford Manchester and York St John University.

Each dropdown provides detailed information about the programmes RKC offers – Bachelor of Business, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science and Master of Laws.

Next, the ABOUT dropdown provides detailed information about Robert Kennedy College and its partners. Every student seeks information on the fees, accreditation and recognition, and admission requirements. This tab includes everything that you are looking for.

Another great feature you can access is the link to the Ambassadors page. Here you can chat with our ambassadors – current students or alums – to ask any question that you might have about our online Master’s or to hear about their experience of studying with RKC.

The fees page provides comprehensive detail about the fees, instalments and various options for payment. It lets you convert the fee structure into the local currency!

Remember to check out our blog link from the top bar, and for a quick chat with one of our education advisors, click on the WhatsApp logo on the bottom right of the page.

What do you think of this new look? Let me know your thoughts in the comments section!

FIVE tips for keeping up with your studies during an illness

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A few weeks ago, my young nephew underwent a major surgery. The time around the surgery, we were all tensed and worried for him and did not think about anything else. But now that he is well on his way to recovery, it got me thinking – that he will struggle to catch up on his schoolwork!

The thing is, the surgery is just the first part of the equation. The recovery will take far longer and will have a tangible impact on my nephew’s class performance. But the silver lining is my nephew is young and in a lower grade; it should not be too difficult to catch up with what is being taught.

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But if you are doing a master’s programme, catching up on lost time can get difficult.

While recovering from an illness, most of us will have low energy levels; as a result, the ability to concentrate for any length of time will be limited. Also, we tend to get physically tired quickly and need frequent rest. Not to mention rest will be a crucial component to a quick and complete recovery.

So how can you keep up with your studies during your recovery?

1. Remain optimistic. Falling behind with your work or studies during convalescence is understandable and should be expected. Do not get disheartened if this happens. Unfortunately, you have fallen ill and need time to recover, but that is life. Ask yourself – what is the worst thing that can happen? You will realise that it will not be as bad as you have imagined and will be able to prepare yourself for what is to come.

2. Network with your peers. Asking your friends in class for help can be one of the best ways to catch up on your studies. Ask them if they can set aside a few minutes daily to discuss what has been taught casually. Having a short casual discussion with a friend might not be as mentally taxing on you and will help you catch up and understand what was discussed in class while at the same time serving as a revision for your friend.

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3. Ask for help. Speak with your professors and the college about your illness and recovery. Find out what can be done for you during this time and if there are any exceptions to the norm for medical reasons. Having some extra time can relieve stress and help you focus on recovery while also helping you not fall too far behind in your studies.

4. Schedule your time. Plan what you must focus on to avoid falling behind in your studies. Schedule a time daily to focus on what is essential in your studies at this time, but make sure you work this around your recovery. Your focus during healing should always be on rest and recovery, so schedule your focused studies around your recovery.

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5. Sleep. An illness will leave you exhausted, and your body will need time to heal. Make sure you prioritise rest during recovery, and if you need to spend more time sleeping, please sleep. You can worry about everything else once you recover!

If you have been thinking about doing a master’s degree, and are ready to challenge yourself, look at our list of programmes and see if we have anything you are interested in doing.

You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on the programme right for you, the application process, and details on discounts we might offer.

Facing the Fear of Uncertainty and Embracing the Unknown

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Life is an unpredictable journey, filled with unexpected twists and turns.

While some people love the thrill of the unknown, many become paralysed by dread. The fear of the unknown is a difficult roadblock that prevents us from realising our full potential and living life to the fullest. But with courage and resiliency, one may overcome this anxiety and embrace the unknowable. We’ll look at practical methods in this blog post to overcome our fear of the unknown and live happier lives.

Fear of the unknown is a roadblock that prevents us from realising our full potential

Recognise Your Fear

The first step towards conquering any fear is to acknowledge its existence. Recognise that fear of uncertainty is a normal human inclination and accept it. You may deal with this fear skillfully and constructively if you recognise it rather than suppress it.

Find the root cause.

Understanding the source of your fear will help you better understand why you’re afraid of the unknown. The past might influence this emotion, a lack of control, or a fear of failing. By recognising these triggers, you can confront them head-on.

Develop a Growth Mindset

Adopting a growth attitude is essential to overcome your fear of the unknown. Accept the notion that difficulties and ambiguity present chances for development and education. Consider the unknown an opportunity to broaden your horizons and acquire new experiences rather than a danger.

Develop mindfulness

You may stay grounded in the here and now by practising mindfulness, lowering anxiety about the future. Regular meditation and mindfulness techniques can train your mind to respond calmly to unexpected situations and become more at ease with life’s uncertainties.

Adopt a growth attitude to overcome your fear of the unknown.

Taking Baby Steps

Getting over your fear of the unknown doesn’t require you to make drastic adjustments right now. Begin by gradually stepping outside of your comfort zone. Expose oneself to novel situations, difficulties, and doubts gradually. Your confidence will grow, and your worry will lessen with each modest victory.

Visualize fruitful results

When faced with uncertainty, our minds frequently accentuate unpleasant scenarios. Visualising successful outcomes will help you overcome this temptation. Visualise yourself thriving and prospering in new circumstances. This encouraging visualisation lets you change your state of mind from dread to exhilaration.

Seek Assistance

Inform your support group, loved ones, or friends about your anxieties. Talking about your concerns can frequently bring relief and a new perspective. People that support and elevate you may be a great source of strength when things are unsure, so surround yourself with them.

Pay Attention to What You Can Control

By definition, we cannot control the unknowable. We always have control over our reactions and behaviours, though. Focus on the present and what you can do to prepare for the future rather than worrying endlessly about what might occur.

Study your past mistakes.

Think back to occasions when you overcame uncertainty and emerged stronger. Keep in mind your tenacity and the lessons you acquired. To tackle current uncertainties with renewed confidence, draw strength from those experiences.

Create a Supportive Schedule

Establish a regimen for the day that promotes comfort and stability. It can be simpler to deal with uncertainties when they come when your life is ordered and gives you a sense of control and certainty. Find things to do that help you feel grounded, and arrange them into your day.

Reframe failure as an opportunity for learning.

The prospect of failure is frequently what makes people afraid of the unknown. View failure differently by seeing it as a springboard for development and advancement. A lot of successful people have failed numerous times before succeeding. Accepting failure as a necessary learning component will make you more inclined to take risks.

Learn for Yourself

Fear can be effectively treated with knowledge. When faced with uncertainty, spend time learning about the circumstance or challenge. Knowing more about it might help you feel more confident and calmer whether you’re embarking on a new endeavour, moving to a new city, or anything else.

Set reasonable goals

When dealing with the unknown, it’s imperative to have reasonable expectations. Not everything will go as planned, and that uncertainty inevitably carries some unpredictability. Accept the possibility of hiccups; they are just a part of the journey.

Accept Flexibility

You must be flexible and ready to adjust to new circumstances to overcome your fear of the unknown. Recognise that adaptability is a skill and that life rarely happens as you expect. You can deal with uncertainty more graciously if you can adapt.

Salute Your Success

Celebrate and acknowledge the advancements you make along the road. Regardless of the outcome, every step you take to face the unknown merits praise. Any success is worth celebrating since it fosters good behaviour and promotes development.

Seek Professional Help

Consider getting professional assistance if your dread of the unknown overpowers you and interferes with your everyday activities. You can get helpful support and direction from a therapist or counsellor to overcome your concerns and create successful coping skills.

It takes time, self-compassion, and perseverance to overcome the fear of the unknown, and this path continues. By incorporating these tactics into your life, you can gradually gain the fortitude to face uncertainty with greater strength and resilience. Remember that anxiety about the future is acceptable, but don’t let fear prevent you from leading an exciting and rewarding life. If you embrace the allure of the unknown, you’ll discover that it opens up doors to opportunities and new experiences you never imagined were even conceivable.

The fear of the unknown can be a formidable force that hinders personal growth and happiness. Nevertheless, with a determined mindset and the willingness to embrace uncertainty, you can overcome this fear and open yourself to a world of possibilities. Remember that life’s most rewarding moments often lie beyond what is familiar, and by stepping into the unknown, you can discover a stronger, wiser, and more resilient version of yourself. So, take a deep breath, trust in your abilities, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth—one enriched by embracing the beauty of the unknown.

Do not let the fear of the unknown stop you from following your dream of pursuing a Master’s programme. Trust that it will be the most rewarding experience at the end of the programme. Take the first step and speak to one of our education advisors today. Conquer the fear of the unknown and embrace success.

FIVE ways how yoga can help you study

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Recently, a friend of mine informed me that his son’s school had mandated two yoga sessions a day as they believe it will help keep the body and mind active, which will help the students in their learning. This got me thinking – does yoga help you study better?

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Now I know there are numerous benefits of practising yoga – several studies claim to have proven this. For the heck of it and, hopefully, for the benefit of our students and readers, I decided to research how yoga can benefit students in learning.

What is yoga?

For those unaware of what yoga is, according to Yogapedia, yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India around 400 C.E. The practice aims to create a union between body, mind and spirit. Modern yoga is most commonly associated with the physical practice of asana, a series of postures often weaved together in styles such as Vinyasa Flow or Ashtanga. Asana practice is generally intended to build strength and stamina, to improve flexibility, coordination and balance, and to relax the body.

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The following are five benefits students can get from practising yoga to help them study better.

Stress buster. Stress is an unavoidable part of life. Not finding a balance between work, family, and school can contribute to stress. Research shows that yoga is one way that many students better balance the stresses of being so busy.

Networking. Yoga is usually a group activity. If you have a few of your fellow students or even some of the college faculty living close by, you could make it a group activity and leverage it to develop friendships and your professional network. For those of you studying online, post the COVID lockdown, several reputed yoga instructors conduct classes online and even apps that can help manage the activity. So it is possible to build relationships online.

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Concentration. While initially, yoga can be difficult on the body, like any activity, once your muscles get used to the movement, it can be quite meditative. Focusing on breathing and slow movements can help clear the mind and give it a break from otherwise stressful daily activities. Students with a clear, focused mind can concentrate better during classes, reading and long study hours.

Posture. Yoga was developed in ancient India by gurus who spent long hours meditating and sitting still in a single place (usually on a hard surface on the ground). If any of you have meditated for any period, you will know how difficult it can be – you can get easily distracted, your body will start hurting in unexpected places, and previously unknown muscles will start to cramp. Yoga was a way for these gurus to combat this and help them meditate for longer periods. As a result, yoga will not only help you improve your core strength and endurance, but it will also help you improve your posture and enable you to sit and focus on your work/studies for a long time.

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Family. With our busy lives and schedules, spending time with family can be difficult. Unfortunately, family time is usually the most compromised of all the activities in our lives. We have work deadlines, deadlines to submit assignments for school, and even time put aside to be stuck in traffic. If we fall behind on any of our deadlines, the only time we can make up without consequences is our family time. This is a mistake. Family time is the most important time we have, for it is for family that we do what we do. Yoga is an activity that people of all ages can participate in, so why not make yoga part of your family time?

If you are a student and finding it difficult to cope with the stress that comes with it, I hope you give yoga a try. Maybe it will help you become a better student and help you attain a better work-life balance.

If you are looking to start studying again and are looking to join a 100% online master’s degree programme, then consider joining our globally recognised master’s degree programmes. Look at our list of programmes and see if we have anything you are interested in doing.

You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on the programme that is right for you, the application process, and details on discounts we might offer.

#DILO – A day in the life of an RKC master’s student – June H

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As a former Education advisor, if I had to pick one of the most frequently asked questions by prospective students, it would be “How many hours do I need to study?”  

The vast majority (if not all) of our students are working and leading hectic professional lives. Some are motivated and have already decided to undertake a master’s, while others contemplate the unknowns of an online programme. In my experience, two things affect their decision the most.   

First – finances, and second, being able to strike the perfect work, study, and life balance. While I cannot completely help you with the finances (partially yes – check out the discount offers currently being offered on our online MBA, MSc, and LL.M programmes), I thought what I could do to help was to bring some facts to light about the other unknowns – what does a typical day in the life of an online master’s student look like?  

Today, we’re looking at June’s typical study days. June, an RKC & University of Cumbria’s graduate, offered us these answers:  

An Introduction  

Which programme did you choose and why?  

I chose MBA programme as it matched my work experience and that is what I wanted to do after graduation.

The Study Plan   

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?  

Each Monday morning I would check the requirements for the modules I was registered into. I would then plan my week accordingly. I put in about 20 hours a week for each module, plus some extra time when completing the assignments, mid-term or final. Each week I tried to respond on the discussion board by Wednesday and then would respond to others on the discussion in the latter part of the week. Of course, sometimes life gets in the way, and I would have to put in more time one week, to make up for the time I missed due to other obligations.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)  

I work best in the morning, so this is my preferred time when possible. To study in the evening I would often go to the local library for a quieter atmosphere that at home.

To study in the evening June would often go to the local library for a quieter atmosphere that at home.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

Probably more than I should have! It depended on the amount of research that was needed for each assignment. On an average about 20 – 30 hours for mid-terms and 40 – 60 hours for finals, with the exception of the residency with the final assignment after returning – I’m guessing I spent closer to 120 hours on that final assignment.

Travelling and Communication  

Did you travel for work? How did travelling impact your ability to study?  

Studying would become difficult due to disparate bandwidth availability. Having said that, it was often an opportunity on the plane or between flights to study during quiet times.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?  

The five hour time difference between Ontario Canada and Switzerland was bit of a problem, especially trying to get assignments in on time.

A typical day as a master’s student  

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?  

Since I work best in the morning, I would get my coffee and start by checking the discussion boards and making note of what I needed to give a response for. I mapped out my reading for the week, and so would spend my allotted time doing the reading and listening to webcasts. By Wednesday each week, I would put my contribution to the discussion board.

Any advice?  

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.  

Make a schedule early on to get the mid-term and final assignments completed.

Create files on your computer to keep your modules, assignments, and research organised so that when you are completing your assignments you can easily find your materials. I noticed that many students did not participate in the discussion boards, and I think they missed a valuable part of the learning. And potentially we missed out on their experience and perspective that they may have shared with the rest of the class.

 

June advises to create files on your computer to keep the modules, assignments, and research organised

All right, so this was a sneak peek of a typical day in  life as a master’s student. I hope you find it insightful and informative and that it gives you an idea of what to expect when you enrol for our master’s programmes. Watch this space as we have many more interesting insights coming up! 

Six tips for dealing with academic failures

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Failure is a part of life, and there is no way around it – everybody will fail. As long as you learn from your failures, failures can be good. Unfortunately, not everyone can get over failures.

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In my youth, I would have fallen under the category of not dealing with failures well. In high school, I remember being terrified about exams and assignments. I remember breaking out into a cold sweat before exams, and if I failed, the anxiety and shame of “what would happen next” would almost cripple me. I did not deal with it well. I just stopped caring about exams, results or assignments. As a result, I did not perform well for a while and fulfilled what I had feared would happen.

With age and hindsight comes wisdom (I hope). For me, wisdom came from one of my professors. He was counselling a classmate who was handling failure poorly. He asked this student first not to panic and think – what is the worst thing that could happen to me of this failure? This question profoundly affected me, and to this day, every time something goes wrong, I ask myself – what is the worst thing that could happen? At least until now, the answer has been “nothing I can’t handle”.

How you deal with failure is important, and the following are six simple tips that have worked for me.

1. Calm down and think. Now, you might think that is easier said than done – I JUST FAILED IN MY EXAM?ASSIGNMENT! This is where my old professor’s advice works for me. So, ask yourself – what is the worst that could happen, and can I deal with it? More often than not, the answer will be YES. Things are now always as bad as you imagined.

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2. Analyse the failure. Why did you fail? What did you do wrong? What did you do right? What can you do to change? What can you keep on and improve on?

3. Understand the process. Figure out what happens next. This is usually easily accessible information available to students and can be found in the student handbook or the college website. Ask your professors or student support team if you need help or more information. Find out the deadlines if you need to resit, reapply or resubmit.

4. Speak with your professor. Don’t be scared of your professors. They are teachers and are there to help. If it is an assignment, ask them where you lost marks and how you could improve to meet expectations. If you lost grades because you did not understand something or misunderstood the subject, ask for guidance and clarification.

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5. Prioritised study. I have written many times about the importance of scheduling. And after a failure, you have the opportunity to finetune your schedule to focus on your weaknesses. Schedule more time to improve the areas you are weak, or you could go the other way and focus on strengthening your strengths. Prioritise and schedule when, how and what you are focused on learning.

6. Support. People find strength in many places and people. It is not only important for your support system to rejoice with you in your success. My support system (your parents, spouse, children, friends, teachers, peers, etc.) provides me strength when I fail in the form of advice, help, or just being a shoulder to cry on. When they help me overcome my failure, they share in my success, which makes them happy and improves relationships. I know this is how I feel when the roles are reversed.

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I hope these simple tips help you overcome any academic failure you might face.

If you are looking to join a 100% online master’s degree programme, then consider joining our globally recognised master’s degree programmes. Look at our list of programmes and see if we have anything you are interested in doing.

You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on the programme right for you, the application process, and details on discounts we might offer.

Unlocking corporate success: Understanding the employee value proposition

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In today’s competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent has become more challenging. Companies increasingly realise the importance of developing a strong Employee Value Proposition (EVP) to differentiate themselves and create an engaging and fulfilling work environment. In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of the Employee Value Proposition, explore its significance, and discuss how it can contribute to organisational success.

Defining Employee Value Proposition

The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is the unique set of offerings and benefits an organisation provides its employees in exchange for their skills, capabilities, and commitment. It represents the value employees receive beyond their salaries, such as career development opportunities, work-life balance, company culture, rewards and recognition, and the overall employee experience.

In a highly competitive job market, a compelling EVP can be a powerful tool for attracting and recruiting high-quality candidates. Photo credit: Canva.com

Importance of EVP

A strong Employee Value Proposition (EVP) can have several positive effects for both employees and the organisation as a whole

  1. Attracting Top Talent: In a highly competitive job market, a compelling EVP can be a powerful tool for attracting and recruiting high-quality candidates. It communicates to potential employees why they should choose your organisation over others, emphasising its unique advantages and opportunities.
  2. Increase Employee Engagement: An effective EVP can significantly enhance employee engagement. Engaged employees are more productive, innovative, and dedicated to achieving the organisation’s goals. When employees feel their needs and aspirations are met, they are more likely to be committed, motivated, and enthusiastic about their work.
  3. Improve Retention Rates: A robust EVP can increase employee retention rates. A positive EVP can create a sense of loyalty and commitment among employees, reducing turnover and the costs associated with recruitment and onboarding. Employees who feel valued and fulfilled in their roles are less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere.
  4. Enhance Employer Brand: A strong EVP builds a positive employer brand. It establishes a reputation as an organisation that values its employees, invests in their development, and provides a supportive and fulfilling work environment. A positive employer brand attracts top talent, enhances the organisation’s image, and can lead to increased customer loyalty and positive brand perception.
  5. Boost Productivity and Performance: Employees who feel valued and supported are likelier to go the extra mile and perform at their best. A strong EVP creates a sense of purpose and satisfaction in their work, leading to increased productivity and higher-quality output. Engaged and motivated employees are also more likely to seek opportunities for growth and improvement, driving overall performance levels within the organisation.
  6. Support Organisational Goals: An EVP aligned with the organisation’s mission, values, and strategic objectives can drive employee behaviours that support those goals. When employees feel a strong connection between their work and the organisation’s purpose, they are more likely to work towards achieving its vision and contributing to its success.
  7. Foster Innovation and Creativity: A positive EVP encourages an environment that fosters innovation and creativity. Employees who feel supported and empowered are likelier to contribute new ideas, take calculated risks, and challenge the status quo. A strong EVP creates a culture that values and rewards innovation, leading to increased competitiveness and adaptability in the marketplace.
  8. Enhance Employee Well-being and Satisfaction: A robust EVP addresses the holistic well-being of employees, including their physical, mental, and emotional health. Organisations can enhance employee satisfaction and overall well-being by offering benefits, resources, and support programs that promote work-life balance, employee wellness, and a positive work environment.
  9. Competitive Advantage: A well-crafted EVP can give your organisation a competitive edge by differentiating it from competitors. It helps create a distinct employer brand and establishes your organisation as an employer of choice.
A strong EVP creates a sense of purpose and satisfaction in their work, leading to increased productivity and higher-quality output. Photo credit: Canva.com

Components of a Strong EVP

To enhance the Employee Value Proposition (EVP) and provide a compelling offering to employees, organisations can consider implementing the following elements:

  1. Competitive Compensation: Offer fair and competitive salaries that align with industry standards and reflect the value employees bring to the organisation. Additionally, consider performance-based bonuses, profit-sharing, or stock options to incentivise and reward outstanding contributions.
  2. Comprehensive Benefits: Provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks like wellness programs, gym memberships, or flexible spending accounts. Tailor the benefits to meet the diverse needs of your employees.
  3. Career Development Opportunities: Invest in employee growth and development by offering training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths. Provide resources for continuous learning, certifications, and skill-building to empower employees to reach their full potential.
  4. Work-Life Balance: Promote work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, flexible schedules, or compressed workweeks. Encourage employees to take vacation time and provide policies that support parental leave, caregiving support, and personal time off.
  5. Positive Company Culture: Foster a positive and inclusive company culture that values diversity, collaboration, and respect. Create opportunities for social engagement, team-building activities, and employee resource groups. Encourage open communication and transparency throughout the organisation.
  6. Recognition and Rewards: Implement a robust recognition program that acknowledges and rewards outstanding employee performance and achievements. Celebrate milestones and successes publicly to boost morale and motivation. Provide regular feedback and constructive evaluations to help employees grow and improve.
  7. Meaningful Work: Ensure employees find their work meaningful and aligned with their passions and skills. Offer autonomy and empower employees to take ownership of their work. Provide opportunities for employees to work on challenging projects, contribute to the company’s mission, and make a real impact.
  8. Supportive Leadership: Develop strong leadership that is accessible, supportive, and encourages employee growth and development. Create opportunities for regular check-ins, mentorship, and feedback sessions to foster a positive relationship between managers and employees.
  9. Work Environment and Facilities: Provide a comfortable and well-equipped work environment that supports productivity and well-being. Consider providing amenities like on-site cafeterias, fitness centers, or relaxation areas. Offer modern office spaces, ergonomic furniture, and state-of-the-art technology.
  10. Employee Engagement Programs: Develop employee engagement initiatives, such as employee recognition programs, team-building events, volunteering opportunities, or employee resource groups. Encourage cross-functional collaboration and create a sense of community within the organisation.
Provide regular feedback and constructive evaluations to help employees grow and improve. Photo credit: Canva.com

Building an Effective EVP

  1. Understand Your Target Audience: Conduct research to understand your target talent pool’s needs, expectations, and aspirations. Tailor your EVP to address their specific desires and motivations.
  2. Assess and Align Internal Practices: Evaluate your current practices, policies, and company culture to identify improvement areas. Ensure your EVP aligns with your organisation’s mission, values, and strategic goals.
  3. Communicate Consistently: Develop clear and compelling messaging to communicate your EVP to current and potential employees. Leverage multiple channels, such as your company website, social media, and recruitment campaigns, to consistently promote and reinforce your EVP.
  4. Measure and Evolve: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your EVP through surveys, feedback mechanisms, and employee retention metrics. Adapt and refine your EVP based on the feedback to ensure its continued relevance and impact.
An effective Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is a powerful tool to help organisations create a compelling employer brand. Photo credit: Unsplash.com

In today’s talent-driven landscape, organisations must go beyond offering competitive salaries to attract and retain top talent. An effective Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is a powerful tool to help organisations create a compelling employer brand and enhance employee satisfaction and engagement. It is essential to tailor the EVP to meet your employees’ specific needs and aspirations. Regularly seek feedback, conduct surveys, and engage in open dialogue to understand what matters most to them and continuously refine your offerings. By providing a compelling EVP, organisations can attract and retain top talent, enhance employee satisfaction, and drive overall success.

#DILO (A day in the life of) a master’s student – Kevin Young

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This series has fast become one of our most appreciated blog posts. This “Day in the Life of” series focuses on the challenges and rewards our students derive from doing an online master’s degree with us, and we have been blessed with students who were more than happy to volunteer their time and share their experiences.

There is no better way to learn than from those who came before and see what worked for them. It will help you become a better student and help you make an informed decision.

An Introduction

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Who are you?

I am Kevin Young, a Robert Kennedy College (RKC) and York St John University (YSJ) MBA student.

Which programme did you choose and why?

MBA Management Consulting because after several years consulting in South East Asia & Australia, I decided to gain an MBA and set up my own consultancy business, which I am now in the process of doing.

The Study Plan

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How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? For example, how many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?

I dedicated hours each week and knew the only way to get through this was to stick to a plan. A good timetable and study plan do help. Also, I would spend my lunch break doing some studying or reading relevant to the module.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)

Sundays were my best study day. After early morning coffee, I would spend the whole day working on my modules.

How much time did you devote to each assignment?

I started the assignments as I did my lessons, so they were in parallel – just to ensure I could keep up.

Travelling and Communication

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How did travelling impact your ability to study?

I would also do a bit of studying on a plane. A flight from Singapore to Brisbane is 8 hours – that’s a full-day study!

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?

Online makes it easy because there is no time zone relevant to working on the modules. For the dissertation, my supervisor was in the UK, and I was in Australia, so it was 9:00 am for him and 6 or 7 pm for me to connect – no issue, and it worked really well.

A typical day as a master’s student

What does a typical day as an Online master’s student look like for you?

Luckily, I could sometime sneak a bit of studying into my working day, especially at lunchtime. At the end of the workday, I would go home and spend four or more hours in the evening. I would often have Saturday free with the family and then get stuck on Sundays. Saturday was a fallback day if I was getting behind.

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.

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Have a study plan and stick to it – almost project manage your time! Don’t try to do two modules together; just concentrate on each one at a time. Use the class chats to query things or get advice. Above all – enjoy the learning! I was lucky in that I was passionate about the subjects in the module.

We at Robert Kennedy College are here to support you through the entire process and encourage you to get in touch with our team of Education Advisors and chat with them Live on WhatsApp if you have any questions about our programmes, fee structure, the application process, or details on discounts we might be offering at this time.

If you have already made up your mind and are ready to apply, then just click here.

How to reverse and overcome the obsession with busyness

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In the last blog, we learnt about the culture of busyness. Busyness refers to the pressure society places on individuals to constantly be active and productive, frequently at the price of their relationships and personal well-being. Because of the various adverse effects of busyness, organisations are looking for ways to combat the scourge.

According to psychologists’ findings, people tend to value something more when they work harder to achieve it. This tendency is popularly known as ‘effort justification’, and people feel more committed to a task when more effort is involved, even when the task is meaningless. While the employees go into an ‘automatic mode’, managers tend to make decisions based on institutional knowledge and culture, which are just bad habits.

It’s easy to become overwhelmed with the constant stream of responsibilities and tasks that we have to manage

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the constant stream of responsibilities and tasks we must manage. With the rise of technology and the increasing demands of work and personal life, it can feel like we are always busy and never have enough time to get everything done. However, there are ways to overcome this feeling of busyness and regain control of our lives.

Here are some tips to help you manage your time more effectively and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life:

Prioritise your tasks and eliminate low-value work

One of the most effective ways to overcome busyness is prioritising tasks. Many organisations dump shallow work on the employees, such as reporting, unnecessary meetings, data work etc. This does not allow them to do deep work reducing productivity. Organisations should focus on employee-engaging activities rather than just keeping them on the clock. Make lists of everything you need to do and rank them in order of importance. This will help you focus on the most critical tasks and ensure you are not wasting time on less important activities.

A lot of organisations dump shallow work on the employees, such as unnecessary meetings

Learn to say no and delegate tasks

Often, busyness is a result of taking on too many commitments. Learn to say no to requests that are not essential or do not align with your priorities. This will help you free up time to focus on the tasks that are most important to you. If you have too many tasks to manage, consider delegating some of them to others. This can help you free up time and focus on the tasks that are most important to you. Delegating can also help you develop your team members’ skills and build trust in your relationships.

If you have too many tasks to manage, consider delegating some of them to others.

Set the right behaviour and take breaks

Companies can overcome busyness by setting the correct examples. Leaders should neither themselves nor let the employees burn the midnight oil. Taking regular breaks throughout the day can help you recharge and refocus.

Schedule short breaks throughout your day to stretch, take a walk, or simply relax

Schedule short breaks throughout your day to stretch, walk, or relax. This can help reduce stress and increase productivity.

Set boundaries by rewarding output, not just activity.

It is essential to set boundaries to manage your time effectively. This means saying no to distractions and interruptions that can derail your work.

Communicate your boundaries clearly

Communicate your boundaries clearly to others and set expectations about when and how you will be available. Employees are at risk of overwork and burnout by not setting boundaries and encouraging performance-based pay. Instead, output quality should be the measure for assessing compensation and rewards.

Practice self-care

Finally, taking care of yourself is critical to overcoming busyness. This means getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in activities that help you relax and recharge. Prioritising self-care amongst employees can help you reduce stress, improve your focus, and increase your overall well-being. Organisations should follow a generous vacation allowance. Research shows that employees who are offered unlimited vacation end up taking less time off. And most of employees work during their vacation. Such incentives should not only be responsibility of the government but on the companies.

Taking care of yourself is critical to overcoming busyness

In conclusion, busyness is a common issue that many of us face in today’s fast-paced world. However, by prioritising your tasks, learning to say no, taking breaks, using technology to your advantage, delegating tasks, setting boundaries, and practising self-care, you can overcome this feeling and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.

What are your views? Let us know in the comments below.

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