The Festive Season is Approaching: 7 Ways to Stay Focused and Motivated to Study

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As the festive season draws near, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of celebrations, gatherings, and delicious treats. However, for many students, this time can also coincide with exams and deadlines. Balancing festivities with your study routine is crucial to ensure you remain focused and motivated. Here are seven effective strategies to help you stay on track during this bustling time of year.

1. Set Clear Goals

Set achievable clear goals

Setting clear, achievable goals is the foundation of effective studying, especially when distractions abound. Start by identifying what you need to accomplish before the festive season fully kicks in. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable parts. For example, if you have an upcoming exam, specify how many chapters you want to cover each week or which topics need deeper understanding. Use SMART criteria—make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Writing these goals down can also provide a visual reminder of what you aim to achieve.

2. Designate a Study Space

A designated study space can significantly enhance your productivity. Choose a quiet area in your home, free from distractions like TV or noisy gatherings. Personalize this space with items that motivate you—perhaps some inspiring quotes or subtle holiday decorations that create a festive atmosphere without being overwhelming. Make sure your study area is well-lit and organized, with all necessary materials at hand. This environment will help condition your mind to focus when you sit down to study.

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

3. Create a Flexible Schedule

A well-organized yet adaptable timetable is essential for striking a balance between studying and celebrations. Make time for holiday activities while scheduling your days around your academic obligations. For example, schedule study sessions for the mornings when you’re most likely to be attentive, and then utilize the afternoons for celebrations or family get-togethers. Being adaptable is crucial; rather than completely scrapping your plan, modify your study times if an impromptu celebration occurs. To effectively manage your social and academic obligations, think about utilizing digital planners or calendars.

4. Stay Active

Photo by lucas Favre on Unsplash

Engaging in physical activity is essential for sustaining energy and concentration. It’s simple to adopt a sedentary lifestyle over the holiday season, when everyone is dining. Include exercise in your daily routine to help combat this; try to get in at least 30 minutes each day. This may be a yoga class, a lively dance party at home with festive music, or a leisurely stroll to take in the Christmas decorations. Endorphins, which are released when you exercise, can improve your mood and focus on your studies.

5. Include Incentives and breaks

Particularly during the holiday season, studying can easily get boring. Include planned breaks in your study sessions to counteract this. Use the Pomodoro Technique, for instance, by studying for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break.

Photo by Aliis Sinisalu on Unsplash

Give yourself a pleasure you appreciate after doing more difficult duties, such as making cookies, watching a Christmas movie, or indulging in a particular delicacy. This method makes studying seem less like a chore and maintains your motivation levels up.

6. Stay Connected with Peers

Studying with peers can provide the motivation and support you need during the festive season. Form study groups, either in-person or online, where you can share insights, quiz each other, and keep each other accountable. Engaging with classmates can also make learning more enjoyable and less isolating. Consider scheduling regular check-ins or study sessions during the week, allowing you to collaborate on difficult subjects or share resources. This camaraderie not only enhances understanding but can also make studying feel more rewarding.

Photo by Mia Baker on Unsplash

7. Stay focused and limit distractions

In an age of constant notifications and social media, limiting distractions is vital. Identify your biggest distractions—be it your phone, social media, or even the temptation to join family activities. Use apps like Forest or Focus@Will to help you concentrate by blocking distracting sites or providing ambient sound conducive to studying. Establish specific times to check your messages or social media, allowing you to focus on studying without the constant pull of your devices. Communicate with friends and family about your study schedule so they can help minimize interruptions.

By implementing these strategies, you can strike a balance between enjoying the holiday season and maintaining your academic commitments. Remember, staying focused doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the festive fun—it’s all about creating a harmonious routine that works for you. Happy studying, and enjoy the festivities!

If you want to do an online degree programme, explore several specialised master’s/bachelor’s/PhD degree programmes that Robert Kennedy College offers through exclusive partnerships with top British universities. You could also chat live with our team of Education Advisers on WhatsApp, who can have a look at your profile and give you some advice.

If you have already made up your mind, click here to apply.

DILO – A Day in the life of an RKC Student – Nicola M

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts, we have been bringing you insights into our master’s students’ lives, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of the realities of online studies and help you in decision making.    

Here are a few insights and some words of wisdom that one of our online master’s students had to share from her own experience. 

Which Uni are you studying at?  

University of Cumbria

University of Cumbria

Which programme did you choose?  

MBA in Educational Leadership

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?  

I took one module per term – based on 10 hours study per week, except for a mid-term and end-term assignments when an additional 10 hours over the weekend was necessary.


In addition, I devoted an extra 4 hours per week, every week towards my assignment, except for the final term when I was studying on an average of 3 – 4 hours per day to complete it.

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

I usually studied evenings and weekends to fit around my full-time employment.

How did travelling impact your ability to study?  

Travelling did not impact my studies at all.

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

Yes – emails was the common means of communication for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

I typically spent recommended 20 hours/week for each assignment.

Emails was an effective means of communication

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

I would goto full time work as normal every weekday, return and eat supper. Then I would study for 3 hours each evening. At the weekend, I spent at least one full day studying, with extra reading for about 3 hours on a Sunday.

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

My advice will be to read as much as you are able to before you get into the module as then the time for each element becomes very short and you are expected to read and learn information very quickly in order to respond on the group message board.

It is much better to prepare well and not leave anything until the last moment – remember sometimes ‘Turn It In’ can take 24 hours to respond!

If you have been thinking of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher degree, now is the time! Take the valuable advice from our current students, gain from their experience, add your own unique study strategies, and make your own success stories! I would love to feature you one day on our college blog.  

Chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, application process, and for information on discounts we might be offering at this time. 

  

The Seven Foundations of Successful Business Development

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Any organization needs business development to thrive because it fosters sustainability, innovation, and growth. Knowing the essential components of successful business development can have a big impact on a company’s performance. Here, we’ll look at the seven solid business development pillars that can support the growth of your company.

Strategic Vision

It is crucial to have a compelling and distinct strategic vision. It describes the organization’s long-term objectives and provides guidance on how to meet them. All team members and stakeholders should be in agreement with this vision through good communication throughout the organization. A cohesive approach to expansion and development is fostered when all employees are aware of the business’s direction.

Photo by Raúl Gómez on Unsplash

A strategic vision is more than just a mission statement; it’s a roadmap for the future. This vision should encapsulate your long-term goals and the core values that drive your organization. It should answer key questions such as:

  • What do we aspire to achieve?
  • How do we differentiate ourselves in the market?
  • What impact do we want to make in our industry or community?

Ways to achieve strategic vision:

  • Vision Workshops: Engage stakeholders in brainstorming sessions to develop a shared vision.
  • Vision Statement: Create a succinct, memorable statement that reflects your aspirations.
  • Communication: Use internal newsletters, meetings, and workshops to ensure everyone understands and embraces the vision.

Analysis and Research on the Market

To recognize possibilities and risks, one must have a thorough understanding of the market landscape. Thorough market research yields valuable insights into the demands of customers, the competitive landscape, and upcoming trends. Businesses can use this information to customize their services to match consumer expectations and make well-informed decisions.

To conduct efficient market research, you must collect, evaluate, and synthesize information about your target market and audience. This include determining the demographics, tastes, and pain points of the consumer as well as researching rivals and market trends.

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Few ideas to conduct market research and analysis:

  • Surveys and Feedback: Regularly gather customer feedback through surveys and focus groups.
  • Competitor Analysis: Study competitors to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and strategies.
  • Data Analytics: Utilize tools like Google Analytics and market intelligence platforms to track trends and behaviors.

Developing Relationships

Healthy relationships are essential to the long-term success of any organization. This includes ties with clients as well as partnerships, industry contacts, and community service.Strong relationships are at the core of successful business development. Networking with potential clients, partners, and industry leaders can open doors to new opportunities. Building trust and rapport creates a foundation for collaboration and long-term partnerships.

Photo by MD Duran on Unsplash

How to build strong relationships:

  • Networking Events: Participate in trade shows, conferences, and local business events to meet potential partners and clients.
  • Follow-Up Strategies: Implement follow-up protocols after initial meetings to maintain connections.
  • Community Engagement: Engage in local community events to build goodwill and brand recognition.

Value Proposition

A clear value proposition distinguishes your business from competitors. It articulates the unique benefits your products or services provide to customers. Understanding and effectively communicating your value proposition is vital for attracting and retaining clients. A value proposition should make it obvious why customers should pick you over rivals and what makes your good or service special. It need to cover the advantages and results that clients can anticipate.

Strategies for innovative value proposition:

  • Encourage Creativity: Foster a culture where team members feel empowered to share ideas and experiment.
  • Collaborate: Partner with clients or other organizations to co-create solutions that address mutual challenges.
  • Feedback Loops: Regularly solicit feedback on your products/services to identify areas for improvement and innovation.

Leveraging Technology

Using technology to its full potential can greatly improve your business growth efforts. Make use of marketing automation tools to expedite procedures, data analytics to obtain insights, and CRM systems to maintain relationships. You can make the most of your outreach and make sure that everyone on your team has the resources they need to thrive by utilising technology.

Photo by Luca Bravo on Unsplash

Few strategies to leverage technology:

  • Adopt CRM Systems: Use customer relationship management tools to keep track of interactions, manage leads, and analyze customer data.
  • Utilize Data Analytics: Leverage analytics tools to gather insights on customer behavior, market trends, and campaign performance.
  • Marketing Automation: Implement automation tools for email marketing, social media posting, and lead generation to save time and ensure consistency.

Effective Communication

Effective communication is crucial for the growth of a firm. This covers listening to your clients as well as how you convey your thoughts. Make sure your messaging speaks to the particular issues that your target is facing. By using narrative, you may improve communication and increase the relatability and memorability of your value proposition.

How to foster effective communication for the business:

  • Tailor Your Messaging: Customize your pitch based on the audience’s needs, using industry jargon or simple language as appropriate.
  • Use Storytelling: Share success stories or case studies that illustrate the impact of your product or service.
  • Active Listening: Make sure to listen more than you speak. Understanding client needs is key to providing solutions.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Because of the rapid changes in the corporate world, it is imperative to make a commitment to lifelong learning in order to remain relevant. Urge the members of your team to look for opportunities for professional growth, go to workshops, and keep up with current business trends. Be receptive to criticism and prepared to modify your plans in light of fresh data or changes in the marketplace.

How to follow a continuous learning approach:

  • Invest in Training: Encourage team members to pursue workshops, online courses, and certifications related to their roles.
  • Seek Feedback: Regularly ask clients and team members for feedback to identify areas for improvement.
  • Embrace Change: Stay open to new ideas and be willing to pivot your strategies based on insights and trends.
Photo by Jo Szczepanska on Unsplash

Business development is an ongoing process that requires attention to various interconnected elements. Each of these pillars plays a vital role in the overall success of business development. By investing time and resources into understanding your market, building relationships, communicating effectively, planning strategically, innovating, leveraging technology, and fostering continuous learning, you create a solid foundation for growth. Embrace these pillars, and watch your business thrive in a competitive landscape.

Whether you are aiming to develop your own business or are a thriving business development manager, share your thoughts and challenges you faced in business development in comments section below.

DILO – A day in the life of an RKC student – Robert C

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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?  

I asked a few of our students from different walks of life, occupations, and personal situations to answer a few questions on their study tactics and strategies, plans and reality, and so on.  So, through our ‘#DILO ‘a typical day in the life of a master’s student’ blog series, we bring to you one of our actual students or alumni sharing the insights.   

Today, we’re looking at  Robert’s typical study days. Robert studied Master’s of Business Administration programme from University of Cumbria.

An Introduction  

Which programme did you choose and why?  

I chose an MBA programme in International Business in order to boost my wealth of knowledge for conducting business through a wider lens that could help me steer the company and any new initiatives to greater heights from an informed foundation.

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?  

I usually read, research or write on an average 4-5 hours per night during the week and 6-8 hours on the weekend. I would begin my studies after returning from work, after dinner close to about 9 pm.

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

I found morning hours very apt especially if the assigned time implied adjusting your wake-up schedule and morning routine. Moreover, the weekends were more productive for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

Depending on the assignments, I would spend minimum one day on an average for completing assignments.

Travelling and Communication  

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

The forum is a great tool however, most professors are available through email which made communication very easy and effective.

A typical day as a master’s student  

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

A typical dat would be like this: Wake early.. ready emails and forum posts, gather information for assignments if necessary. Once home from work begin reading, research or writing. Weekends are different as I have the whole day to manage my time. I generally aim to end my weekend studies by 4 pm

Any advice?  

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

Yes a few!

Ask many questions to ensure they have all information needed to help manage time.

Stay ahead of reading assignments.

Read all suggested and mandatory articles while monitoring external news sources to support learning objectives

Stay focused and positive— keep your end goals in kind at all times and know that the sacrifices will soon pay off

Alright friends, this was a sneak peek of a typical day in  Robert’s 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! 

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

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts we have been bringing you insights into the life of our master’s students, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of realities of online studies, and help you in decision making.  

This week we take a look at a day in the life of our MBA student from University of Cumbria. Here is an insight and some words of wisdom from their own experience. 

An Introduction 

Which Uni are you studying with? 

University of Cumbria.

Which programme did you choose and why? 

Masters of Business Administration. I wanted the fluidity of the degree to be able to strategically move upward within organizations. 

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? 

Prepare a study plan and pick a time of the day that works best for you

I followed the recommended guideline. I had some classmates who did the mandatory modules first, then took the modules that were aligned with their profession, but that would have prolonged the completion of the program.

I followed a mandatory two hours daily schedule, sometimes, three to four hours depending on the subject.

I would suggest however, to read through the course requirement at the beginning of the course to get an understanding of the requirement.

Begin early to draft the final assessment for the module and make revisions as the material becomes clearer.

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

Allow yourself enough time for each
assignment

Morning hours and weekends were more practicable for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment? 

It depends on the subject. Some familiar subjects were easier and more interesting and those that were challenging got extra attention. Roughly 3-4 days per assignment, inclusive of research, rough draft and final submission.

Travelling and Communication 

How did travelling impact your ability to study? 

Initially, travelling impacted study times. It required major adjustment to after work schedule and infringement on family time. It really came down to prioritizing what was important at that particular time.

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

The interaction with the different time zones was a bit of negative factor for me. One had to keep in mind the time differences and make the adjustments.

A typical day as a master’s student 

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

Getting up a little earlier to put in extra time, when it is quiet in the morning. Listening to podcast on related materials during breaks and the long drive home.

Any advice? 

Take advantage of every opportunity.

Make a structured daily schedule that includes two hours of daily studies. Break it up if necessary.

Most importantly during overwhelming and difficult periods… take a break.. take a deep breath… and start again.

Have a core group of people in the program that you can interact with, share and exchange information.

Well indeed, incredibly helpful advice. To get you through the master’s studies we have a great faculty who are subject-matter experts, guide and encourage the students to achieve their potential.  

If you have been dreaming of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher education, now is the time! Take the valuable advice from our current students, gain from their experience, add your own unique study strategies, and make your own success stories! I would love to feature you one day on our college blog. 

Chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, application process, and for information on discounts we might be offering at this time. 

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!

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.

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.

Newest programmes by Robert Kennedy College (RKC) – All you need to know about Bachelor’s in Business Administration

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A bachelor’s programme is a stepping stone in the field of specialisation in which one wants to build their career. Bachelor’s degree is a degree awarded by a college or university in the subject of choice upon completion of undergraduate studies.

A bachelor’s degree enables you to gain advanced knowledge of the subject, learn new ideas, enhance employability skills, boost earning potential and provide networking opportunities. Obtaining a bachelor’s is usually the first step towards achieving a higher academic degree like a master’s or doctorate.

 A bachelor’s degree is usually the first step towards achieving a higher academic degree

While a bachelor’s degree can be pursued soon after finishing high school, it has become increasingly common for people to undertake a programme later in life as well.

Traditionally one had to go to a university to study bachelor’s degree. But in the modern context, earning a bachelor’s degree online has become much easier.

RKC has pioneered business and legal education online for over 24 years, allowing thousands of professionals from every continent to achieve new heights in their lives and careers. Today you can benefit from our latest bachelor’s in business administration programmes.

Robert Kennedy College offers the following two bachelors programme in business administration:

  1. Diploma in Business administration
  2. BA (Hons) Business Administration

Diploma in Business Administration

The diploma programme offers fundamental knowledge and understanding of business administration and management. This programme is suitable for someone looking to advance their career in any industry, equipped with advanced business intellect to help improve businesses and their operations.

Five reasons to study Diploma in Business Administration:

  1. The Diploma is delivered in partnership with the University of Cumbria, rated in the top 10 in the UK for developing business leaders and ranks 14th overall in the Top 50 universities for business.
  2. The course can be studied entirely online to graduate in just nine months. 
  3. Enhance your employability with strong problem-solving aptitude, practical business knowledge and skills and applied leadership.
  4. No traditional examination system, but one learns through real-life case studies, essays and assignments.
  5. Gain entry to the next step in your career: study Bachelor’s BA (Hons) in Business Administration.
 The course can be studied entirely online to graduate in just nine months

The programme consists of the following six Level 5 modules. Each module is worth 20 credits:

Organisational Behaviour

Services Marketing

Culture and International Business Systems

Corporate Social Responsibility in Practice

Global Economics 

Operations Management

BA (Hons) in Business Administration

BA (Hons) in Business Administration is a bachelor’s degree programme offered by the University of Cumbria, UK, ranked 8th in the world (Times higher education impact rankings). The programme is provided exclusively to the RKC’s diploma graduates who have gained a solid foundational knowledge of business subjects.

University of Cumbria, UK

The programme is delivered online and can be completed in as little as 12 months.

The bachelor’s programme consists of four modules. The Level 6 modules total 120 credits, including a 40 credits independent business project:

Business Psychology (20 credits)

International Marketing (20 credits)

Global Business (20 credits)

International Human Resource Management (20 credits)

Business Independent Project (40 credits)

Upon successful completion, an internationally recognised British Honours degree is awarded by the University of Cumbria.

 Upon successful completion, an internationally recognised British Honours degree is awarded by the University of Cumbria.

The bachelor’s programme serves as a solid base to launch and spearhead a career in business. Apply online today and become part of a professional network of business students. Chat live on WhatsApp with our education advisors to learn more about the admission procedure, eligibility requirements, fee structure, payment plan and upcoming intakes.

Student Interview – Tina

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Henrik Johan Ibsen, the Norwegian playwright and theatre director, once said, “A thousand words leave not the same deep impression as does a single deed.” Unfortunately, after his death, this quote was plagiarized and para-phrased into what we know today.

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Group photo of RKC 2018 Graduation @YorkStJohn in the Quadrangle

But motion picture has completely changed the way we consume data. Not only does it enable us to take in more information in a short time, but it also makes the information more credible. Hearing it straight from the source makes a difference. 

Robert Kennedy College (RKC) is pleased to share with you, our readers, students, alumni, and potential students a series of video interviews with some of our graduates, sharing their challenges and tips and tricks for successful studies. It does not matter the programme or the university these students graduated from, they were all students of RKC, they all faced similar challenges in doing a master’s programme online, they all faced a decision – to do or not to do an online master’s degree.

Here is your chance to hear directly from our students and hopefully help you make an informed decision, to help you study better, or simply to motivate you to live your dreams and to achieve your goals. 

Meet Christina, RKC alumni and graduate of York St John University, as she shares her thoughts and decision-making process on why she choose to get back to studying and the challenges she faced.  

York.mba – student’s story – Tina

Hopefully this interview has answered some your questions about RKC and doing a master’s programme online, and please watch this place for more similar blogs. You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for a more personalised discussion of your needs and best match with the programmes we offer, and the application process.

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