Alabama Power Chapter IAAP Newsletter

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March 29, 2013

Alabama Power Chapter

Alabama Power Chapter IAAP Newsletter Publisher: Antoinette M. Woodard, CAP-OM

President’s Message Reminders: Preferred deadline for next newsletter is April 15: monthly article assigned to previous year’s PDA recipient EFAM Early Bird registration—receipt by May 23 and earlier Division meeting in Mobile June 21-23

Inside this issue: ●

Futures Conference

2

Networking Event

2

Seasons of Change

3

Truth Is…………

3

Communication Tip

4

Seminar a Success

4

Seminar Sponsors

5

Save the Dates

6

Board Members

7

Reminders

7

Birthdays

7

What does ―professionalism‖ mean to you? I attended a program once entitled, Professionalism Is for Everyone – Five Keys to Being a True Professional. At the time I attended this program, I was at a point in my life where I felt like I was ―just a secretary‖ and that this program was not really geared to me. When I left the meeting that night, my feelings had changed. I felt as if I had been hiding behind a title that did not have anything in common with the word ―professional‖, and that I had been selling myself short. I think about that program a lot more now that I belong to IAAP. After all, I am not ―just a secretary‖ – I am now an Administrative Professional who belongs to an international organization for others just like me! I know that probably sounds corny to some of you, but that program ignited a spark in me to show others that I was a professional, that this is my chosen profession, and that I am proud of it. I would love to share all the points in this book, but due to copyright laws, I can only use brief quotations. To start with, there is an acronym to help us remember the benefits of being a PRO. Pride, Respect and Opportunities. When we are a PRO, we enjoy these benefits that others will not. The five keys distinguish us as

professionals. They are (1) Character, (2) Attitude, (3) Excellence, (4) Competency, and (5) Conduct. Character – includes such do’s as to hold yourself to the highest standard of performance, do what you say you are going to do when you say you are going to do it, accept responsibility, be accountable for your roles, do the right things, and many others. Don’ts include: don’t settle for mediocrity, don’t breach confidentiality, don’t hide from your mistakes, and don’t expect it to be easy. Attitude – DO be a self-starter, seek out a mentor, welcome responsibilities, reach for greater roles, volunteer, take initiative, encourage others, lead when you should lead and follow when you should follow. DON’T: be discouraging, avoid leadership roles, be afraid to stretch and grow, dwell on setbacks. Excellence – DO raise the bar, become a lifelong learner, encourage your knowledge and skills, focus on one thing at a time. DON’T: become complacent in your job, accept less of yourself, keep on doing what you have been doing. Competency – DO become an expert, acquire the training you need, know the value you provide, understand the results expected, record your output. DON’T: become satisfied with

Wanda N. Kincaid, CAP-OM

current results, accept less than your personal best, be afraid to make mistakes, spend time on unimportant activities. Conduct – DO be loyal, stand up for others, respect the authority of others, consider others’ views, keep confidences, respect others’ privacy. DON’T: fake sincerity, be judgmental, discuss confidential information, eavesdrop, embarrass others. These things only scratch the surface of what it means to be a professional. If you are interested in learning more about how to be a true professional, you can actually buy this little book! It is by James R. Ball and can be ordered through The Goals Institute (www.goalpower.com or www.goalsinstitute.com). It is well worth the $9.95 you will pay to get back on track in your profession, remind yourself that YOU are a professional and be proud that you are an Administrative Professional.

Alabama Power Chapter IAAP Newsletter

Futures Conference Article

“The goal for this event was to strategically plan and map out the blueprint of how the organization will move forward in the future. “

Submitted by

Patricia D. Johnson, CAP

The IAAP Futures Conference was held March 15-16, 2013. The goal for this event was to strategically plan and map out the blueprint of how the organization will move forward in the future. All information and ideas would then be looked at and voted on by IAAP Board of Directors. With worksheets, handouts, laptops, notebooks and of course plenty of coffee on deck we embarked on this adventure. To begin the process we looked at some current conditions and barriers for the administrative assistant world. We know that currently we offer points for continual education and activities. What if those points could be transitioned into points/CEU’s for future sessions and/or webinars? The need to make our certifications college standard could help to fulfill our

educational needs as well. Interesting discussion evolved around how can we revamp our thinking and pass the gavel to evolving leadership groups. We looked at ways we can change around how we put information out so that future members can gain a true understanding of the value of IAAP. What is a (BHAG )Big Hairy Audacious Goal? Sounds big and scary right? You can call this your number one organizational goal, your huge challenge with a big finish line or the light at the end of your glowing tunnel. How does IAAP get to this finish line? We looked at the overall picture of what ―today’s‖ administrative assistant really does. We worked to find out the educational needs and updates that are now required

to stay employed and relevant in our positions. Current conditions and barriers was just the tip of the iceberg and just the discussion for the Friday 8:30-10am session. Wow, what an intense t two days. To help strategically plan out the future for IAAP with such a diverse network of members and represent our IAAP Alabama Power Chapter was such an honor.

NETWORKING EVENT

It has been awhile since our chapter has had a networking event. An after work get together has been planned for April 5th at Rogue Tavern on 2nd Ave North, Birmingham. www.roguetavern.com Come out and enjoy some food and fellowship with your IAAP members. Please email Lynnell Frazier, at [email protected] if you plan to attend or have any questions. Hope to see you there!

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Alabama Power Chapter IAAP Newsletter

Seasons of Change

Another adage states that “this too shall pass”…

Submitted by

Patsy Brasher, CAP-OM

Awe…March…in like a lion, out like a lamb! So the saying goes! This has been the craziest weather season that I can remember! I just returned from being in Virginia for three weeks sitting with my mother while my sister and her husband were out of the country. I packed my clothes for the temperatures that I expected, however, I was unprepared for the weather that I encountered while there. Within a 4 hour period of time, the sun was shining then there was rain and then sleet and snow! Just totally out of the blue… Needless to say, I had to make some adjustments to my wardrobe. Just as the case above, our lives encounter storms of many kinds. Just when you think you are prepared for what is ahead, life changes. ―Stuff‖ happens that causes us to have to make some adjustments in order to deal with the situations. A demanding boss, a rude co-worker, family issues….all are tough to deal

TRUTH IS, THANK YOU…………..

with. But we must make the necessary changes in order to handle these new challenges. A change in jobs may not always be possible and maybe that rude co-worker is having his/her own set of issues and takes it out on others unfairly. Family issues are the most difficult, at best, to try to leave outside of the workplace. Stop and smell the roses, you say? Another adage states that ―this too shall pass‖… yes, it will pass, maybe not as quickly as you would hope, but it will pass nonetheless. Thinking outside of the box will help. Find someone who could mentor you with that demanding boss. Try to reach out to the rude co-worker. Talk to someone about family issues that may have had similar issues or find a good family counselor to help. Seek out knowledge for whatever the situation is because there are other

people who have walked those pathways in order to help others. The IAAP Mentor Program will provide working knowledge of applications you may find helpful when it comes to looking for a new job. Take advantage of seminars, monthly meetings, and conferences to gain networking opportunities. My IAAP family has been my salvation many times when I faced uncomfortable situations at work and oftentimes, at home. Remember, April showers bring May flowers! A sign of new life, new growth, new perspectives! Let the roaring winds of March blow you to a new and different level to become the person you were planted here to become! Make sure your wardrobe is ready for the changes. I can’t wait to see the beautiful flowers unfold…

Submitted by: Antoinette M. Woodard, CAP-OM

1. It costs nothing. Unlike many bonus programs, which can have a huge price tag (and of course are highly valued too), the cost of verbal praise is always the same: zero dollars and zero cents. 2. It requires little effort. ―Thank you,‖ ―Great job,‖ ―I really appreciated your work on that project…‖ takes less than 10 seconds to say. Maybe at most a couple minutes when you include some related follow-up conversation. (Again, my assumption of course is that the praise is deserved or you wouldn’t be giving it.) In any event, a most modest investment of managerial time and energy. 3. It makes employees feel good. Always preferable from a productivity standpoint to have employees feeling good, and not underappreciated and resentful. 4. Helps employees feel good, and when they feel good, they work harder. Feeling valued is an effective motivator – positive morale raises energy levels right away. Page 3

Alabama Power Chapter IAAP Newsletter

When In Pain, Hang on Tight Marion's Communication Tips “You might not realize you need them, but they do. So hang on tight and, with their help, you'll get through.”

Marion Grobb Finkelstein (Marion Speaks) Niagara Falls, Ontario 289-969-7691

I remember my mom telling me

When in pain, hang on to those

a story that I think of during difficult times. It happened years

who mean the most to you. It's a common story. Someone hits

moments. When things are tough, it's a

ago when we were just infants. My father was holding my sister,

a rough patch, things aren't going well, and that person pulls away.

chance for you to reach out and respond to those reaching out to

a baby, in his arms. She was grasping a carrot and, as many

Even though others may reach out, the person suffering pushes them

you. Pull away and you lose your support system. Instead of

kids do, she was flailing about, arms going in every direction.

away. "I want to be alone", he says. Or she becomes so miser-

being a prickly thorn and pulling away, move toward the people

With no warning at all, it hit. The carrot poked my father right

able, no one wants to go near hear. When you feel great pain in the

who mean the most to you. Doing so will build their support of

in the eye, scratching his cornea. The burning pain was unbeliev-

workplace (or your private life), how do you react? Do you isolate

you and keep your relationships. And those people will be there

able and in spite of the temptation to grab his eye, he instead

yourself and pull away from your support system at the very time

when you need them the most ... like when you're in pain. You

held the baby even tighter. There's a lesson in that story and

you need it the most? Do you deny the hands extended to you in kind-

might not realize you need them, but they do. So hang on tight

here it is:

ness? Do you sabotage any assistance offered?

and, with their help, you'll get through.

Difficult moments are defining

Submitted by:

Antoinette M. Woodard, CAP-OM

March 13, 2013 Seminar Sponsors THANK YOU FROM ALL THE IAAP ALABAMA POWER CHAPTER SEMINAR ATTENDEES !!!!!

Many thanks to the Seminar sponsors (see next page). Also, thanks to Wall Street Deli for providing our breakfast . And Echelon for providing our treats for our breaks.

THANK YOU!!

Page 4

THANK YOU!!

We would also like to thank the following for providing door prizes: Ruth Chris Honey Baked Hams California Pizza Kitchen Olexa’s Prissy Daly

Many thanks to Happy Catering for providing our delicious lunch for our annual seminar.

Alabama Power Chapter IAAP Newsletter

Fresh Ingredients, Vibrant Flavor Savor a blend of locally-found produce, global influences & a gourmet twist on traditional items like boxed lunches garnished with sundried tomato mayo, layers of gourmet cheeses, chipotle & more. Other options include hot lunch buffets & pasta dishes with rich sauces, salad & bread. www.ConnectToCatering.com/viewMenu/387.php

Fast, Easy, Convenient View, order online & arrange delivery from 20+ of Birmingham’s best catering menus. Free online ordering, copy/view previous orders & more. One click away from a variety of cuisines: breakfast & boxed lunches to buffets & all-inclusive meals. www.ConnectToCatering.com

Premium Sandwiches, Not Premium Prices Enjoy freshly prepared gourmet sandwiches made of baked daily breads & Boar’s Head deli meats starting at $7.50/pp. Wall Street Deli offers a delicious selection of specialty boxed lunches, wraps, roll-ups, salads, party trays, breakfast & dessert. www.ConnectToCatering.com/viewMenu/359.php

Innovative Thinking, Exceptional Food Whatever your budget or guest list, California Pizza Kitchen’s all-inclusive combos & lunch boxes are the perfect blend of innovative recipes & quality ingredients, made-to-order for you. Choose from a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, appetizers, sandwiches, salads & more. www.ConnectToCatering.com/viewMenu/381.php

Surpassing Your Expectations Expect the best in catering, delivered with a smile in a beautiful presentation. Enjoy all-inclusive meals with gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, dessert & more. Think outside the box with hot Panini boxed lunches, boxed entrée salads, delicious entrees, soups, breakfast & more. www.ConnectToCatering.com/viewMenu/278.php

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Save the Date Administrative Professional’s Day Luncheon April 24, 2013 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Vestavia Country Club

Guest Speaker: Pete Blank Leadership Trainer Jefferson County Personnel Board

Help Us Help Center Point Elementary School

Our contest ends April 30, 2013! Don’t forget to bring save your Box Tops and bring them to our chapter meetings to help us win an education grant for our chapter…every Box Top helps!

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Alabama Power Chapter IAAP Newsletter

2012-2013 Board President—Wanda N. Kincaid, CAP-OM President-Elect — Debra Billingsley, CAP-OM 1st VP — Lynnell Frazier 2nd VP — Latonya King 3rd VP — Antoinette M. Woodard, CAP-OM Administrative Secretary — Patsy Brasher, CAP-OM Membership Secretary — Tabetha Lemonds, CAP-OM Treasurer I— Janice Martin Immediate Past President — Prissy Daly, CAP-OM

Advisory Directors (Past Presidents)/Executive Sponsor President 2005-06 Kathy Wilkey, CAP-OM, [email protected] President 2006-07 Prissy Daly, CAP-OM, [email protected] President 2007-08 Dianne Hargrove, CAP, [email protected] President 2009-10 Liz McGill, CAP, [email protected] President 2010-2011 Gina Chesser, CAP-OM, [email protected] President 2011-2012 Prissy Daly, CAP-OM, [email protected] Executive Sponsor 2012-2013 Earl B. Parsons III, [email protected]

Firehouse Subs Catering Offering NEW menu options Call Terri 533-2713

If you need your picture or information updated or added to the Directory, please notify Tabetha Lemonds, CAP-OM Membership Secretary.

CONGRATULATIONS TO: Ann Davis Littleton, CAP-OM on her recertification When you register for EFAM, you become a member of the new e-group for EFAM.

Contact Latonya King or Prissy Daly, CAP-OM for CATS program information.

Birthday party at the YWCA— Friday, April 5 (3-4:30) Join Prissy Daly, CAP-OM and others, or send Prissy items for goodie bags for the children. Refreshments are taken care of for the remainder of the year.

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We’re on Face book, Twitter and Yammer

Complete your Professional Development Form. NEW AND IMPROVED! Complete your Member of Excellence for 2012-2013 . Need 7% of our members to achieve MOE in order to meet the criteria for Chapter of Excellence.

April Name

Day of Month

Tameka Pearson

4

Devida Moore

10

Juanita Bailey

11

Stephanie Adkins

11

Patricia Mathews

12

Wanda Brown

19

Beth Overstreet

19

Kathy Shirley

19

Maxine Moore

26