Author Archives: Jenice Armstead

About Jenice Armstead

Dr. Jenice Armstead is a military veteran, author, motivational speaker, Professor and Academic Business Department Chair with over 17 years professional experience in the public and private sector. Jenice’s expertise covers human resources, business management, the federal hiring process and government hiring policy. She understands the significance of human capital value for organizational development. She has an exceptional aptitude for teaching difficult topics with practical approaches. Jenice has a MBA with a Concentration in Human Resources from Saint Leo University and a Doctorate of Business Administration from Jones International University.

We All Love

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Today, my heart is heavy; yesterday, March 27, 2021; Our Princess went back to God. Princess was more than a canine to us; she was a comforter, a confidant, a joy, and an unconditional loving family member. You are never able to prepare yourself for the physical separation of a family member. The gift of love is what connects us all (especially animals). Princess was my wife and I first “baby” of our new life after being honorably discharged from the United States Navy. Princess was born in Dallas, Texas, on May 8, 2005. She traveled to Atlanta, Ga, shortly after. She has 1 brother (Papi). Princess comes from an extensive canine “Show Dog” bloodline.


On July 21, 2006 my wife and I were walking around an Atlanta, Ga mall. While rushing to leave due to hunger, I was speed walking past a pet store. “Wait, do you see that?” My wife said. “What?! No, we need to leave … to eat … it’s getting late,” I said abruptly. “But, look how cute she is.” My wife said as she was gazing into the “puppy in the window.” “No, I don’t want to look cause I am going to fall in love, and I am not trying to fall in love with a puppy we are not going to get,” I said adamantly. “But, she’s the only pug, you said you always wanted one, and she’s all by herself … and she’s so cute.” My wife said, walking into the pet store. “Okay, fine … but we’re only looking … 5 minutes … then, we grab something to eat and head home, okay?” I said with a bit of excitement. The first time I saw Princess, I knew we were not leaving that place without her, I couldn’t … she was perfect for us and us for her. “You wanna hold her?” the owner asked. “NO … no, I do not want to hold her,” I said, feeling my heart well up with love. “Yes, you do, you want to … let me grab her, no harm in a little puppy hug.” The owner said, partly laughing. He handed Princess to me, and I immediately fell in love, like real LOVE. She smelled like a baby … I didn’t even know that was possible. Before I knew it, some random kid asked to hold her … when I didn’t want to let her go, I knew she was our baby now.

We were blessed to have Princess in our life for 15 years and 10 months. I will always be grateful for everything she did for me, our family, and my life overall. I will always love and miss you, little mommy … always. Thank you for your unconditional love; we will hold you in our hearts forever.

Rest in Peace – Princess McGinnis-Armstead

Encouragement to Get Vaccination

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First, I want to wish you, and all those you love safety and healthy. I also want to thank all the front-line workers (doctors, nurses, grocery store workers, food delivery, and take-out employees and everyone who has been working, looking for work, or creating jobs for those who need a job … thank you. I received my COVID-19 Vaccination along with my beautiful, supportive, and encouraging wife.

We have all had reservations about this new vaccination. But the actual truth is we all need to get vaccinated to protect one another. Yesterday, at 1:15pm I received my COVID-19 vaccinations (as a United States Veteran) at the James A Haley, VA Hospital Complex in Tampa, Fl. Not only was my experience a pleasant one, but I was also able to connect with peers, seniors, and all those ages in-between. The staff explained all the guidelines and processes to know what to expect before and after getting vaccinated.

I am happy to say, I have only had a few symptoms after getting the shot: slight headache and sore arm at the sight of the injection. Easy peasy … this is not only for me but for you (the people in my community, the people I work with, the students I teach, the stranger I may never know the name of), please do the same for me and those you love.

Encouragement to Get the Vaccination

Paving it Forward – Pep Talks

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There was no doubt that 2020 was a rough year, to say the least. So, instead … I wanted to say the “most.” I wrote Pep Talks the Series to help those new to the workforce, looking for a change or just need a “Pep Talk.”

Pep Talks is an introduction to a new way of interviewing and obtaining a job in today’s competitive market. Pep Talks is all about giving the reader an advantage over their competitors when working toward the goal of gaining more knowledge and understanding. This new job market is all-out unconventional ways of obtaining knowledge while learning employment tactics that work. Pep Talks explains how the new Job market knowledge and understanding how to better improve the chances of being “individually recognized” as a professional are vital. Pep Talks assists with building job confidence and self-­‐‑esteem along with providing detailed examples for the reader to use for interviews. Pep Talks is designed to assist the reader in planning, executing, and managing their own career and potential growth in their field of choice.


Each section has interactive “fill in the blank” areas for guiding the reader with critical thinking examples to assist with brainstorming and “Confidence Boosters” provide the reader with constant motivation for obtaining their “dream career.” Pep Talks serves the newly looking or the job seeker looking to change career paths. Pep Talks provides methods that assist with the career search and provide motivation for future endeavors.

If you would like a eCopy of my book, you can have a copy. That simple. I believe this is my small way of helping those who need a “Pep Talk” at any stage of professionalism you may be at. Here is the truth … you CAN do it. I have had several people, co-workers, peers, and family members give me a much-needed “Pep Talk” and now I want to pave it forward and give YOU, yes YOU – a “Pep Talk” too…because everyone needs a “Pep Talk” sometimes.

Much success and happiness to you,

Jenice aka Dr. Jaye

For more information to get your eCopy, simply contact me at my official website: www.jenicearmstead.com

Organizational Diversity and Inclusion Action Plans

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Photo by: Nicolas Swatz

Diversity and inclusion in the workplace is a must. In light of the recent and past events, I would challenge all organizations to create an action plan for diversity and inclusion. An action plan should include creating real, actual, tangible, active strategic plans for addressing and implementing diversity and inclusion policies and updated training for new and current employees. These actions should include the history of the organization’s workforce and an analysis of the organization’s actual issues of a lack of diversity and inclusion. This is the perfect time to put all the words that have been spoken into action.

The good news is organizations don’t have to make this a large budgetary line item. Implementing diversity and inclusion is super simple. First, create an on-going survey using an online internal or external tool to gather information about specific items that are pressing to employees. This survey can include fill-in-the-blank sections to allow for thorough feedback to be received. Once the survey is completed, organize the data and share the information with the entire organization. This is a fantastic way to ensure everyone has a say, and all are able to share and offer solutions. Keep in mind; there will be a mixed bag of feedback. All feedback is not going to positive. That is the whole point of finding out what employees are thinking, feeling, and suffering with. This action is of little to no cost to the organization.

Create signage stating “No Discrimination” to post on buildings and outside areas for all to have a visual that your organization will not tolerate discrimination. If we can post “No Smoking/Vaping” signage, a “No Discrimination” signage should be just as simple. Using a visual will provide those that feel the need to be inappropriate reminders of the organization’s new culture. This action is of little cost to the organization.

Assign human resource departments (or other qualified employees) the task of conducting individual as well as mass “No Discrimination” training and webinars. We have all been through the traditional diversity and inclusion training (normally completed in an online setting). This is too important of a topic for material to simply be sent out for employees to click through PowerPoint slides mindlessly. That is not effective enough anymore. We need human-to-human contact to grasp the full understanding for real change to happen. This action is of little to no cost to the organization.

Lastly, assign employees the responsibility of holding their peers accountable when inappropriate behavior is seen/heard. Employee evaluations should include any discrimination action taken by the employee to show the severity of the “No Discrimination” policy and standards of the organization. Most onboarding processes include a series of questions. Situational interview questions should also include discrimination for candidates better to understand the organizations culture of “No Discrimination”. This action is of little to no cost to the organization.

With the use of tools and technology, there are ways of quickly gaining an overview of the intrinsic disparities and cultural indifferences within an organization. For organizations to address discrimination in the workplace, real change is needed ASAP. There is no time like the present; this phrase is more than true right now.

If you don’t know where to start, you are welcome to start by utilizing my Prezi Presentation on “Diversity and Inclusion” as a first start.

Reference:  Dr. Jenice Armstead – Prezi Diversity and Inclusion

Just Saying …

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One Light in a Dark Place
Let’s start by saying, there is a lot is going on in the world, in society, and everywhere.  I have come to realize that regardless of whether you want to admit it, race is a factor of systematic discrimination. Period. I am sure you have stories, I have stories, and there are plenty of stories in the news to be outraged about.  There comes a time when talking just isn’t enough. Talking is an outstanding motivatng factor for initiating strategic change. But, real change comes with direct actions.  Action is the true synchronized mobility for change.

Too often as a black woman, I’ve been asked by people that don’t look like me how it is that I’m able to stay motivated, positive, and successful. Truth be told, it’s hard. It’s hard waking up and remembering that my natural hair has to be tailored to a customized fashion in order to appease people that don’t understand my hair texture. It’s hard to ensure that I find the right cosmetic foundation that matches my skin tone. It’s hard to ensure not to slip up and accidentally use an urban phrase or term in a meeting for fear of being labeled “ghetto.” It’s even harder to go to the grocery store and pick up a vegan or gluten-free item without receiving unsolicited and passive aggressive opinions about how “good it is” that eat well. Overall, it’s hard being black.

Although, I would not change my culture and my background for anything. What I would change is how people see it as a great divider. Statistically, I should not have college degree, be married, own a business, own home, speak “well” or be a vegan – just to name a few of my attibutes.  I often speak in motivational settings about success and staying focused.  As a segway several speaking topics, I talk about academic disparities I faced.  In tha same thought I speak about how I “blew it out of the water” and earned a Doctorate in my early 30’s.  I realized early on, that I had to mindfuly use approachablity tactics when speaking to predominantly non-black audiances to reduce my intimidation factor.  Yes, black women have to think about things like this – along with everything else.

Way too often, when I’m approached by peers and executive leadership to engage in “small talk” about myself.  I find myself having to explain my cultural background, academic career and how I was able to do it.  The conversation is almost always passive-aggressive. During a diversity meeting at one of the organizations I previously worked for, we had an open forum about “Race in the Classroom.” I knew how it was gonna go, I knew what was gonna be said, and I knew that there was gonna be no change put in place after the dawnting three-hour conversation was over.

At the end of the meeting, nothing was resolved, and nothing was written down toward strategic actions for ensuring the organization had more cultural sensitivity in the classroom. What did happen was myself and a co-worker we’re casually discussing the overall conversation.  I was asked specifically what it was like to be black? I gathered all of the strength from my black ancestors and started to regurgitate a default answer from memory, but instead stopped myself.  I decided to anwer honestly, instead of using my rehearshed template.  I specifically said “it’s hard being black, especially a black woman knowing that each and every day I have to prepare myself for the world mentally. The world does not see me as an educated woman. The world sees me as a black woman. The world does not see any of my accomplishments, accolades, dreams, or fears. The world does not see what I’ve done for my community, what I do for my students, or my motivational drive to ensure to be a good role model to little black girls and boys everywhere I go.”   I remember realizing that it was more than my co-worker could handle.  And decided to stop speaking.  She finally removed her hand from her mouth. I will never forget the look on her face. She simply replied with “That must be exhausting, I don’t see how you do it.” I replied, “I have no choice, it’s just the way it is – for now.”

Unfortunatly, the primitive factor of the color of your skin matters – it shouldn’t, but it does. But I’ve decided that the color of my skin is not a hindrance or a burden, it’s a gift.  I love being black, and I am a strong, educated, outspoken, sponky, lesbian, black woman.  Regardless of what the world throws at black folks, we always regroup, dust ourselves off and try again. It is literally in our DNA. We have a right to be happy, to be upset, to be angry, to be successful, to voice my opinion, to choose who to love, to do anything that brings happiness, positivity, and light to this world. That is where we stand, that is where we are coming from, and that is what we deserve.

Jenice

Knowledge Workers are Essential to Organizational Development

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Knowledge Workers

Knowledge workers are a significant part of organizational development. Knowledge workers obtain the knowledge-based information and along with human resources management in terms of managing invaluable assets of a company. Knowledge management requires information to be given from technology sources to gain organizational growth. Technology requires that knowledge is gained for the utilization of technological growth, and the organizational aspect of intellectual property.

“Knowledge management is not merely about the latest technology, but managing knowledge within the company and treating it as the most valued asset for its success (Nor & Rosline, 2005).” Knowledge-based management or a “White Collar” position(s) is a term that is used interchangeably with the knowledge-based worker. A knowledge-based worker could be an accountant, consultant, professor, or educator.

Namely, a knowledge-based worker works in various places to include: client’s offices or in their own office (Nor & Rosline, 2005). Knowledge-based management is a challenge in modern business since the majority of the employees in today’s fields are knowledge-based managers (Nor & Rosline, 2005). Knowledge-based management is mostly positions or jobs that require non-routine work, which requires a high level of cognitive activity. Knowledge-based management is the new way of operational functionality of the new knowledge-based worker.

Dr. Jenice Armstead

Resources:

Nor, M Norzanah & Rosline, K Abdul. (2005). Managing Knowledge Workers in a Knowledge based Economy. Cardiff University.

Why Teleworking is an Organizational Keeper

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Teleworking

Advancements in telecommunications, computerization, and transportation have had significant effects on how organizations are developing. In particular, these advancements have given rise to the “knowledge worker.” Imagine you are an organizational development professional who has been retained by a major corporation that employs knowledge workers. Changes in the economy have brought the need for organizational development and knowledge workers to the forefront of the business world.

The knowledge worker is defined as a person who uses their mind with the process of thinking and knowledge development to complete tasks in an unconventional way. The knowledge worker has been apart of organizational advancements by being coined as having the ability to work and solve problems by thinking creatively about a given solution for organizational development (Mládková, 2011). The knowledge worker formulates business strategies, plans processes, develops strategic competencies for business and human resources professionals, and organizes management implementation (Andrew Patrick, 2011).
Teleworking is a new method of working in business organizations. With teleworking, an organization can assign work, have meetings, and even check the status of the employee’s work process. This advancement in technology is one of the most effective changes in the federal government and civilians companies alike.

The advancements in organizational developments within telecommunications, technology, and transportation have had significant effects on business management with the ever-changing economy crisis and the influx of a new workforce. Business management telecommunications has gained a competitive edge for how organizational developments function, telecommunications such “Face Time, Skyping and Web Real-Time Videos” which allow for technology to increase strategy formulation (Patrick, 2011). Not all organizations utilize teleworking schedules, but for those who do the advantages are endless with “getting the job done at any cost,” without exhausting overhead expediters.

Dr. Jenice Armstead

References:
Andrew Patrick, H. (2011). Knowledge Workers Demography and Workplace Diversity. Journal
Of Marketing & Management, 2(2), 38-73.

Mládková, L. (2011). Knowledge Management for Knowledge Workers. Proceedings Of The
European Conference On Intellectual Capital, 260-267.

Take Care of Yourself

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People often say as a closing or departing phrase, “Take care of yourself.” One smiles and replies with the same or adding an additional pleasantry. When you think of taking care of yourself, you may think of eating healthy, exercising, or keeping mentally upbeat. When in fact, “Take care of yourself” as a statement is one of the most beautiful phrases one can say to another. Bear with me, simple but true – “Take Care” implies that you should pay attention to how you are taking care of yourself. When you think negative thoughts, you are not taking care of yourself. When you decide on grabbing fast food for convenience, you are not taking care of yourself. Even negative mental “chatter” about how far off from a goal you are, is not taking care of yourself. Deciding not to live out your purpose, is not taking care of yourself. Can you think of ways you can honor the proclaimed statement, “Take care of yourself?”

Let’s start with our thoughts, whether we believe it or not, thoughts become things. They may become negative or positive things that affect our lives in different ways. Today, make it practice to focus on not only taking care of yourself but paying attention to ways that no longer serve you in positive ways. It can be something as simple as waking up and starting a new practice of saying aloud, “I am awake, and for that, I am grateful.” Those that start their day with an “attitude of gratitude,” tend to take better care of themselves and those around them.

Be well,

Jenice

Resources: Gratitude and Hope. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.winona.edu/resilience/Media/Gratitude-Journal-Worksheet.pdf


Don’t Get Mad … Get Motivated

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We all have talents. We have strengthens. Do not be afraid of your own motivation and success. We know we have accelerated knowledge in our skill-sets, even when others try to emulate our work. The infringing part of impersonation is, it is never as good as the original. The original is just that, one of a kind, not able to be duplicated with slight or extreme differences. The best part about “the original” is there is and will always be, only one – of a kind. You are one of a kind.

What You Do Matters

Photo: Luke Webb

In this uncertain time, it is not the time to get mad. Instead, get motivated. Get motivated to be the very best you, you can be. There is always a way to look at the brighter side of things, even when all seems far off. You can do this. What have you wanted to do that you didn’t have the time to do? Do you want to get healthier? Come up with a plan. You don’t need a gym to work out and feel great. Have you wanted to start a blog about your favorite hobby? Do it, and there are a ton of free resources for you to get started. You don’t need an elaborate fancy website to share your ideas. Is there a new career venture you have been putting off? Why? The only way to know is to go for it and truly put your whole self into it.

We all have the time to think and seriously ponder on what makes us intrinsically happy. I am sure you have chatted with friends and family about all the things you love to do, that you are currently not able to do. The great part is you will have a chance to do those things you love to do – just in different ways. What will emerge from this significant time in our history? Some of the best ideas came from great disasters (natural and human-made). It is time to get motivated and stay focused. We are all important and have greatness to contribute to this beautiful world. Don’t get mad; get motivated.

Be well,
Jenice

Resources:

Self-Motivation Explained 100 Ways to Motivate Yourself. (2020, April 22). Retrieved from https://positivepsychology.com/self-motivation/

Boosting Motivation Guide. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://thiswayup.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/This-Way-Up-Boosting-motivation-guide.pdf

How to Write a Business Plan

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Two Woman in Black Sits on Chair Near Table

Hey hey hey … it’s Dr. Jaye,

Are you in need of a business plan, yet don’t know where to start? Are you a business owner (large or small), and never needed a business plan and now find yourself having to gather all of your business information and put it in one place (i.e., a business plan)? Do you need a business plan to submit to the Small Business Administration for a loan? What to do? Well, I got you. Let’s jump into this super simple method for getting your business organized and set up for success!

Creating a business plan can be frustrating and confusing. Why do you need a business plan? What do you need to have in a business plan? What are some business plan options?  What can a business plan be used for? Well, I have answered all of these questions and more in my quick video “How to Write a Business Plan,” and I have also provided the template reviewed in the video. The best part about this transparent business plan template is it provides prompts and questions to better allow for successful completion of a clear and concise developed business plan.

Remember, writing a business plan does not have to be an overwhelming task. Take it one section at a time and do your research. There are tons of free resources to help you develop an amazing business plan. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have. As always, I am here for you and your success!

Dr. Jaye

YouTube Video:  How to Write a Business Plan by Dr. Jaye

Reference: Writing a Business Plan. (n.d.). Retrieved April 29, 2020, from https://www.va.gov/osdbu/docs/vepBusinessPlanOutline.pdf

Step-by-Step = Goal Achieved

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When we think of a goal, we are often in a state of motivation. A conversation sparked an idea, a movie prompted an inspiring thought, or perhaps a song brought forth a vision to embark. No matter the prompt, there are a few things that need to happen before you get to “happy slappy” about how great it is going to be once you accomplish “that” goal. The idea, vision, and thought are the easy part … the hard part is the work put into achieving the goal. I once heard a motto that I will never forget, “The work between an idea and a goal is the arduous steps that are required toward completion.” That statement has driven each and every goal I have set out to accomplish. You have to remember, there will be hard work involved to attain any goal that is worth your while.

It is in the middle, the hard part, the work, the sweat, and tears … that is where the goals start to come to fruition. That is where you discover who you are and what you are made of. Too often, when things get hard, we simply stop. But, it is in the “step-by-step” brainstorming and mulling over the tasks over and over where the motivation kicks us into high gear. Motivation is not something that you get from a PodCast, YouTube Video, or phone call from a supporter. Motivation is the still and small voice that reminds you of why you started on your “Goal Journey” in the first place. You are welcome to use that phrase to remind you of the hard work you will put in.

I have worked in the private, public, and federal sections. It was in the midst of one of the greatest opportunities that I found my passion for education. I recently found an old photo of myself. I was sitting at a Play School desk, and if you are a Gen-Xer you know the one I am talking about, heck you probably had one too. I actually remember the moment when I fell in love with learning … it was that moment. Fast forward a few years, I was in one of the darkest places in my professional career and reconnected with my love of learning. But, I had to allow something new to emerge. It was from a candid conversation with my supervisor that I realized my life purpose was to work in education. I researched and found the perfect Doctoral Business Management program for my needs, and started out on my goal toward earning a terminal degree in business management, with the goal of working in higher education.

Was the goal hard and far off? Yes. Did it take longer than I thought it would? Of course. But the point is I started. Just start. Start now, you cannot worry about the details if you have not made a decision to start. Start where you are and start now. Stop comparing yourself, your situation or your life to others. Truth be told, there are probably others comparing their lives to yours. Instead of all of the reincarnations of iterations of what we think we should be doing, let’s break the cycle and set an example for “Doing It Your Way” … oh … I think I feel a book birthing out of that last statement. Be the best you, you can be … unapologetically.

Patel, Deep. “16 Actions to Take to Achieve Any Goal.” Entrepreneur, 27 Aug. 2018, www.entrepreneur.com/article/318347.

Getting Positive, Purposeful and Productive …

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Let’s keep this good, highly positive energy going. I have to say; it has been a while since I have written two articles in a row. Normally, I try to post at least 1 article a month. I found my time slipping through my fingers minute by minute. People always say, “We all have 24hours in a day – it is up to you to make the most of it.” Let’s digest the “24 hours” we all have:

  • 6 – 8 Hours – People normally spend sleeping
  • 2 Hours – Getting ready for work, school, date or other events, which can take up to (start to finish – bathing, dressing, make-up, getting kids up and ready, etc.)
  • 3 Hours – We seem to take up several hours to eat (in totality)
  • 2 – 3 Hours – Then there is the “Waiting” on something or someone, all together (depending on how fast traffic takes, public transportation, elevators, walking dogs, etc.)

What are we up to now? 16 hours

Okay, 24 Hours – 16 Hours = 8 hours (Purposeful Time Left)

And you guessed it, most of us work at a minimum of 8 hours a day – that is the rest of it. That is what most people’s 24 hours may look like, give or take some adjustments in tasks and responsibilities. That is how one can find time slipping through one’s fingers.

How is this positive, purposeful, or productive information, Jenice?!? You may be asking with learning this frustration realization. I am glad you asked. The key to taking back your time is realizing that you have more than enough of it … simple, but true. Now that most of us are finding ourselves teleworking, on a compressed or flex-schedule, we literally are being the gift of time. Each and every day, you get to choose (hopefully), how you spend your time now. 

Getting positive – if you still are employed in a safe working environment, be thankful. Getting purposeful – If you are working, then what you are doing is purposeful, and thank you for all you do, every day that you do it. Focused on Production – Production is not everything; poor quality is worst than producing nothing. Production is nothing without quality time spent ensuring the product is of good value. Instead of listening to all of the negative jargon all the time, do yourself a favor and find something to be positive, purposeful, and productive about. You will find you have more time than you could have ever scheduled on your calendar. 

Be well,

Jenice

Daum, K. (2014, November 3). 9 Ways to Save More Time. Retrieved from https://www.inc.com/kevin-daum/9-ways-to-save-more-time.html

Getting to Know Yourself Better with MBTI Test

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How often have you wondered why you respond to situations or events as you do? Have you tried to change your behaviors for the better? How successful have you been? The link may be in your intrinsic personality traits.

I have often implemented real-life assignments into my class lectures for students to grow both academically and personally. The Myers and Briggs Personality (MBTI) Test is a consistent tool that is used by several academics for student success. This is a fantastic way to get to know your students and for you to better gauge your behaviors and personality traits. There are plenty of ways to utilize this for everyday situations. I have used the MBTI Test as a for-credit assignment on several topics to include: accounting, business management, organizational behavior, human resources, financial management, and many others.

I often have found that peers enjoy completing the MBTI Test as a way of expressing their strengths. It has been used in leadership training across organizations looking for employees to gain a better understanding of their professional relationships for collaborations.  I find it to be incredibly insightful. Since you have all of this time on your hands, you may want to dive in and get to know yourself a little better.
Be well,
Jenice

Reference: Friedman. (n.d.). MBTI Personality Test. Retrieved 2020, from https://d3jc3ahdjad7x7.cloudfront.net/spokaLTFBEADL9JnMd7njgJd96nyp7YNgICG2tlJWifcI7GP.pdf

COVID 19 Personal Reflection – Thanks and Appreciation

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We are all doing what we can to stay safe and stay healthy. There are those whose career it is to be on the frontline in this arduous time in our history. It makes me think of my own family and friends, those who are currently working in hospitals, mortuaries, grocery stores, restaurants, security, groundskeepers, janitorial services and etc. While there is plenty of negative chatter and sights, there are just as many positive sights in view.

Grandma Charlene

Grandma Charlene at ABC Market in Los Angeles, Ca

My Grandmother, Charlene Armstead, worked for ABC Food and Market in Los Angeles, CA for over 30 years. It was a grocery store that was community-based. Everyone knew everyone and always lent a helping hand when a member was in need. I can recall being as young as 2 years old, my mother bringing me to see my Grandmother (who often worked overtime), and everyone in her line knowing that I was her firstborn grandbaby, “There goes my grandbaby, yall are going to have to just wait a few minutes! This is MY GRANDBABY.” Grandma Charlene would yell, at least I know where I get my “loud whisper” from … but do you think those customers minded? No, because they had great respect for my Grandma Charlene, as she also had them as well.

We need to show one another more respect than some of us have displayed.  They say you find out who someone really is during hard times, it is easy to be nice and thankful when all is well – but, what about when it really matters?  Thank you to all of you who go out each and every day during this treacherous time in our history of COVID-19. Thank you for putting your lives on the line, so all of us are able to stay as safe and healthy as possible. I appreciate you going to work while I stay home – you are very much appreciated.

Be well,
Jenice

Career and Success Tips: How to Use O*Net

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It is true; we are living in unprecedented times. The unemployment rate has sky rocked beyond anything any of us could have imagined … but wait – maybe this is just the opportunity we needed to pursue the careers we are meant to be in. Stick with me for a second … I promise I will get there. Life has a way of making us believe that we need to settle for whatever job/career we need to pay the bills. Paying down and getting out debt is essential, but your professional happiness is just as important.

Like many, I have been detoured from doing many of the professional items that provided substantial motivation to “keep going” – and maintaining my professional happiness. The other day, I received a message from a LinkedIn networker. She mentioned she viewed one of my Youtube videos I published at the height of my “Job Classification” research. This contact mentioned that she was looking to learn more about the topic and was open to any advice I could provide. “That’s right! I am a subject matter expert in job classification,” I thought as I pondered my response to her.
I remembered that I purchased a “pop-up” backdrop for future videos. After figuring out how to the contraption up, adjusting the stand, and sitting down at my kitchen table … I began to record a video to better show her, instead of merely telling her about job classification. And why not take it a step further, there were several websites I could include which would also assist her with updating her resume and gaining information about job classification. At the end of the short video, I realized I had forgotten that I thoroughly enjoyed creating videos about business topics to assist others with their professional goals. That being said, I decided and made a promise that I would write up a quick blurb about the entire experience and share it with you as well.

Long story, longer – we should take this time to reevaluate what truly makes us happy. If this entire experience has taught me anything (thus far), it’s that we need to be grateful for our health, our friends and family and our lives. We are social beings, always have been and always will be. Instead of spreading fear and anguish to one another, let’s spread love, life, and encouragement.  I am encouraging you to revamp your job skills, take a hard look at your resume, or start working on or revisit that degree you never finished up. I hope the video I created on “Career Success” assists you with getting the clarification needed to pursue your dreams. If you have any questions – I am here. Believe me … I am here, and you are there … and we might be where we are for a while.

Be well,
Jenice

Dr. Jaye YouTube Link:  How to Use O*Net – Career Success

Dr. Jaye YouTube Link:  Understanding USAJOBs – Career Success

Online Development Success Tools and Advice

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Online Learning

We all need to do our part during this difficult time in world history. COVID-19 has organizations rethinking strategic plans and innovative initiative plans that may have been stagnant in implementation or development. In education, millions of students/faculty are finding it imperative to convert courses to online modalities. I want to offer my knowledge, skills, and abilities to those who are finding it difficult to start/convert courses to online modalities. If you need assistance, advice or direction on how to utilize/convert to online – please contact me directly. I do not claim to know everything about every discipline, but I am willing to lend a helping “digital” hand to anyone that may be feeling overwhelmed with tackling the arduous tasks associated with converting a course to online. I have provided my credentials as a reference in the disciplines I have successfully created and implemented into online modalities. 

Be safe and healthy,

Jenice aka Dr. Jaye

 

Curriculum Program/Course Development Experience

Hillsborough Community College – 2019

Researched, Developed and implemented 1 open educational resource course for Hillsborough Community College

  • AS Program Student On-Boarding (Recruitment/Retention) course

Valencia College – Jan 2018 – Feb 2019

Researched, developed and implemented 13 Core Courses for Valencia College Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Business and Organizational Leadership

  • GEB 3213    Business Writing & Communications
  • MAR 3023    Marketing Management
  • MAN 3240    Principles of Organizational Behavior
  • AGG 3024    Accounting for non-Finance Majors
  • MAN 3343    Management Theory and Practices
  • MAN 4301    Human Resources Management
  • FIN 3402    Financial Analysis and Planning
  • MAN 4120    Leadership Challenges and Supervision
  • MAN 4165    Customer Relations for Managers
  • CIS 4304C Management Information Systems
  • MAN 4504    Operational Decision Making
  • GEB 4891    Strategic Planning and Decision Planning
  • MAN 4720    Strategic Management Capstone

Saint Petersburg College – Jul 2015 – Mar 2017

Researched, development, collaborated and implemented 2 open educational resources courses for Business Program, for Saint Petersburg College

  • GEB 1011 Introduction to Business
  • GEB 2490 Business Management Internship

Saint Leo University – Jul 2015 – Feb 2017

Researched, development, collaborated and implemented 7 courses, for MBA Program, for Saint Leo University

  • HRA 330 Basic Occupational Safety
  • HRA 335 Recruitment Selection & Placement
  • HRA 340 Organizational Training & Development
  • HRA 360 Total Compensation
  • HRA 425 Human Resource Internship
  • HRA 498 Human Resource Capstone for Graduation
  • MGT 331 Management of Human Resource

 OER References & Speaking Engagements

Saint Leo University, Leaders in Industry Presents: New Year, New Career Webinar with Dr. Jenice Armstead

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Thank you to Laura Cheek, Associate Director of Career Services for Saint Leo University for inviting me to be the January 2020 “Leaders in Industry” speaker for Saint Leo University Career Services Department. The webinar featured vital information on “Tips and Tricks” to prepare for job interviews. I am honored to give back to my alma mater “Lion Pride.”

Interview “Pep Talk” Featuring: Dr. Jenice Armstead, ’06 ’09

Click here to watch/listen to the entire webinar session

Establishing and Exercising Boundaries

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Establishing Boundaries are Important for Everyone

Happy New Year, it is time to “Marie Kondo” a few things.  We all have a few things we need to clean up, throw out or condense.  The New Year means setting new goals, removing old goals and reflecting on accomplishments.  Let’s start off small, boundaries.  Don’t click off of the page just yet … boundaries are good.  They help us to conduct a self “check-in” and ensure things are as they should be for our mental health.  Establishing boundaries assist with stress management, self-value, and creativity.  Whether we want to admit it or not, boundaries are healthy. 

Boundaries do not have to be long and drawn out.  If you have never thought about boundaries, they are pretty simple to implement – be swift and simple, i.e. “I will not accept friend requests from people I do not know on social media.”  Simple and moderate.  It is necessary to be specific, “I will not accept a position for a lower salary than my asking baseline.” Super simple, yet specific.  Make sure your boundaries are also positive and represent your values, “If I am approached by a random person who has little respect for my person, I will choose to remove myself from the situation – I deserve to be respected at all times because I respect others.”  Consequences are a must if a boundary is crossed – give yourself permission to speak up and say something.  Address it, and make sure to state how and when the boundary was crossed.  Consistency and communication are keys to boundaries.  Communicate your boundaries clearly and ensure you are understood by the person(s) involved.  Ensure you inform the person(s) how their lack of respect for your boundaries have caused you to invoke consequences.  This assures there is no negotiations for your boundaries and your expectations are clear.  Make sure to be open if they would like to discuss their boundaries.  You may learn something about their character.  Remember, you have a right to establish and exercise your healthy, positive and affirmative boundaries.  Have a great year, and remember – you have a right to happiness, health, and wholeness.

Reflect and keep these simple boundary indicators as a reference to establish and exercise your own boundaries in your professional and personal endeavors.  Happy New Year.    

1. Be Moderate

2. Be specific

3. Be positive – Virtues-based

4. Have specific, relevant consequences

5. Make consequences educative

6. Be consistent

7. Communicate rules clearly

8. Be sure consequences are understood 

9. Make bottom line rules non-negotiable 1

10. Make expectations clear

Reference: Guidelines for Establishing Clear Boundaries. (2007). Retrieved from https://www.virtuesproject.com/Pdf/ClearBoundaries.pdf

Dr. Jenice Armstead

She Leads Podcast Ft. Dr. Jenice Armstead

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Hey Hey Hey … It’s Dr. Jaye,

I want to extend a huge thanks to Nicole Walker, Host of “She Leads” PodCast.  Recently I met Nicole at an academic event in my local area.  I was able to collaborate on her fantastic PodCast “She Leads” as one of her many insightful professional guests.  Nicole grabs her audiences attention with professional advice and insight to better prepare the listener for a wide range of business situations.  It was with honor to accept the professional invitation from Nicole to answer a series of wonderful professional and personal questions related to business success, failure, leadership, motivation, and many other questions.  Nicole is a vibrant young woman that is doing “Big Thangs” and I mean it.  Thank you again and make sure to listen and subscribe to Nicole Walk’s many social media platforms.

To listen to the entire interview, check out Nicole Walk, “She Leads” PodCast Ft. Dr. Jenice Armstead

All the best to you in all of your endeavors,

Dr. Jaye

She Leads ft Jenice Armstead.jpg

How to Answer Key Interview Questions: Future Plans

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When you are interviewing you will be asked about your future and what your plans are. This is a tool that selecting officials use to see where you plan on “being” in a determined amount of time.

You may be asked: What are your long-term goals? What are your long-term career objectives? This is not an opportunity for you to “spill your guts” keep it professional and stay focused. Think about this question before you interview, you shouldn’t take more than 5 – 7 minutes. Talk about your professional goals and what educational aspirations you have. DON’T talk about your personal life or what personal projects you are working on.
Selecting officials want to know: How you plan to achieve your career goals? They don’t want details, this question is meant for them to see if you know how to lay out and achieve goals. This is also a tactic to see how well you focus on objectives and how you plan to achieve objectives. Again, keep it professional not personal – stay focused.

You may be asked: What do you see yourself doing in five years from now? What plans do you have for continuing your education? These questions help selecting officials to determine what kind of professional “drive” and motivation you actually have. It is my personal advice to answer all appropriate interview questions, keep in mind you can “respectfully” decline to answer any interview questions that you don’t feel comfortable answering. If you don’t plan on continuing your education or haven’t thought about what your goals are for the next five years, it’s okay – use your imagination and stay focused on the professional conversation.

Reference:  Armstead, J. (2013). Pep Talks: Answering Training Questions. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Pep-Talks-Answering-Training-Questions/dp/1492834203/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1546981419&sr=8-5&keywords=jenice armstead pep talks

Practice Makes Perfect,
Dr. Jaye