Jobing.com: Jenna Papakalos' Blog

What we can learn from the CheeseCake Factory - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Fri, 23 May 2008 09:47:13 GMT

Anytime I mention that my husband works at the CheeseCake Factory, the immediate reaction is "Yum, I love that place"! The conversation inevitably leads to what our favorite dishes are, the overwhelming choices on the encyclopedia size menu, the quality, how big the portions and of course, what our favorite cheesecake is.

What impresses me the most about the CheeseCake Factory is their consistency. No matter which restaurant you go to, the experience is the same. From the food to the service to the atmosphere, the quality does not waiver.

How do they do it? In a word, the training. Being a professional in the learning and performance arena, I recognize the level of effort the CheeseCake Factory puts into in their training processes, professional development and career pathing methodologies. It is consistent across the board!

The CheeseCake Factory has talent management down to a science. Their hiring practices, developing their talent and ability to retain employees is astounding, especially in an industry that is known for a high employee turnover rate. Due to their consistency, the company inspires a sense of loyalty which is certainly hard to come by nowadays.

So what can we learn from the CheeseCake Factory? I think the real question is what can't we learn from them?

I do know that my husband will be with the CheeseCake Factory for a very long time. That certainly works for me! Not so much my waist line though!

What is your favorite professional experience? - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Mon, 19 May 2008 22:54:55 GMT

What is your favorite professional experience? Has anyone ever asked you that? That was a question I was asked during an interview not so long ago I had with Disney (I have an almost unhealthy love for Disney).

I was speaking with a lady named Tawny, for the first time today, who requested to connect via LinkedIn. I swear I'm becoming a LinkedIn commercial! But I digress....

Tawny and I were discussing ASTD (American Society for Training & Development) along with a mess of other "get to know you" conversation. We were discussing blogs, how to use them and other useful best practices for us blog newbies.

She asked how I got involved with CFC-ASTD here in Orlando and what I thought of my experience. I immediately thought back to that question I was asked during that interview: What is your favorite professional experience? My answer is quite simple. Nothing comes close to my volunteer work with CFC-ASTD.

My rationale for such a precise answer is also quite simple. It boils down to passion. People wouldn't volunteer for something if they didn't have a passion for it. Having that deep seeded desire to participate, even without getting paid, truly brings out the best in individuals. They don't have to be there. They want to be there.

The chapter's Executive Board is so strong. I don't think I've ever worked on a team that is this close knit. We wouldn't have the success as a chapter unless we had such a strong member base and our strategic partners. Again, all people who show unparalleled passion! This is why I keep coming back to my favorite professional experience over and over again.

Thanks to my discussion with Tawny, I now have my second real blog post! Let's hear about your about your favorite professional experience. Email me or post comments: jenna@astd-cf.org

As a chance to network with this great group, CFC-ASTD is hosting a networking event that all are welcome to. Here's the info:

Tuesday, May 27th, 5:30pm-8:30pm
Stoneybrook West Golf Club
15501 Towne Commons Blvd.
Winter Garden, FL 34787
Info: http://www.astd-cf.org/meetings.htm

How has networking helped you? - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Thu, 15 May 2008 11:22:28 GMT

A former mentor of mine once told me that being able to build and maintain relationships will be the difference from simply maintaining a career and propelling to top. In a word, networking.

I cannot tell you how right she was. I am so fortunate that I learned this valuable lesson early in my career and continue to development my networking skills to this day. The relationships I've developed and maintained over the years have served me and others quite well.

Here's a great example of how networking effectively has benefited numerous people:

A few months ago, I attended a professional development workshop, Building Facilitation Skills 101, hosted by the Central FL ASTD. Class participants gave a five minute facilitation on a chosen topic. One fellow chapter member chose to speak about social networking and more specifically LinkedIn.

Me being an avid LinkedIn fan and user, this certainly caught my full attention. At the close of the workshop, this individual and I engaged in conversation about how much we love LinkedIn and how so many people do not realize how powerful this tool is as part of a networking strategy. She informed me about a book called "I'm On LinkedIn, Now What?" by Jason Alba, the networking strategy guru. I immediately looked up the book and ordered it as soon as I got home!

By mere coincidence, I got an email a few days later from my fellow chapter member that Jason Alba was going to be here in Orlando presenting to her company on this very topic. Of course, I was not going to let this opportunity slip away from me! Using LinkedIn, I sent Jason a message. We exchanged a few emails and the next thing I know, I'm on the phone with this rock start!

Jason was certainly happy to meet with me and my other colleagues. I quickly sent out an email to the rest of the CFC-ASTD Board Members (I'm the VP of Marketing) to share my fantastic fortune with them and the chance to meet with this great mind.

My buddy from the Board, Randall, was available to join Jason and I for dinner. We ate at Seasons 52 (love this place) and had such a wonderful time. Jason talked about how important personal branding is, best practices on blogging and how effective it is, and a whole host of other pearls for networking strategy.

Jason invited us to see him speak at a conference he was one of the keynote for, which was the next day. I could not be more impressed! What a genius he is.

Jason and I have kept in close contact since his visit to Orlando. The very exciting news he will be back in November to facilitate a workshop hosted by CFC-ASTD on personal branding and networking strategy! We are nailing down the details and will have the registration open soon! I could not be more stoked!

So that's my story! I am so happy that I helped secure Jason and can share his brilliance with Central FL! Please share your stories about how networking helped you. I would love to hear about your experiences. Email me or post comments: jenna@astd-cf.org

As a chance to continue developing networking skills and pick up some best practices, CFC-ASTD is hosting a networking event that all are welcome to. Here's the info:

Tuesday, May 27th, 5:30pm-8:30pm
Stoneybrook West Golf Club
15501 Towne Commons Blvd.
Winter Garden, FL 34787
Info: http://www.astd-cf.org/meetings.htm

Invest in building relationships; the returns are exponential! - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Fri, 9 May 2008 09:55:30 GMT

Come join us as the Central Florida Chapter of the American Society for Training & Development (CFC-ASTD) proudly hosts Build Your Network, designed exclusively for CFC-ASTD members and guests to network with fellow professionals. This will be an activity-based program with YOU doing all the activity!

The event will be a great opportunity to:

- Connect with new people
- Build alliances
- Learn about others
- Introduce yourself and your expertise to others

Invest in building relationships; the returns are exponential.

Register today!

Tuesday, May 27th, 5:30pm-8:30pm
Stoneybrook West Golf Club
15501 Towne Commons Blvd.
Winter Garden, FL 34787
(407) 877-8533

Costs- $15 CFC-ASTD member/ $15 student/ $20 non-member
Appetizers provided and Cash Bar available

5:30 – 6:15 pm – Registration
6:15 – 6:30 pm – Appetizers and chapter business
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Program Networking Activity

Hope to see you there!

Jenna Papakalos
VP of Marketing
CFC-ASTD

Learn How to Put Your Best Foot Forward! - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:54:22 GMT

Have you ever been at a business luncheon or dinner and wondered about who should order first? Should you wait for everyone to get their food first before you eat? What about the conversation? What topics are appropriate?

If you have ever found yourself in this position, wondering if your business etiquette is at its peak, you are not alone. In the today’s business world, it’s critical to recognize the need and importance of following protocol and dining etiquette when “being at the table” and partnering with internal and external clients.

The Central Florida Chapter of the American Society for Training and Development (CFC-ASTD) is proud to host Business Dining Etiquette with Julie Dern, the Academy of Etiquette & Protocol, Orlando, FL! Join us for a fun, informative, engaging, and enjoyable lunch session.

Whether you are an employee or independent consultant, make a positive impact by following proper dining etiquette, being in tune with the situation and eliminating obstacles and deal breakers
Also, experience practical strategies to move with ease and confidence on any level in the business and social arenas
Make yourself noticeable by utilizing the ultimate of business etiquette

Date: April 22, 2008
Time: 11:30am – 2:00pm
Location: Disney Boardwalk Resort
More info: http://www.astd-cf.org/proDevoEvent.html

We hope to see you there!

Take Control of Your Career! - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 13:11:02 GMT

Learning Professionals have typically been the most vulnerable to layoffs and budget cuts. Why? The results we deliver are often less tangible and challenging to quantify.

* Whether you are an employee or independent consultant, make your value to the organization unquestionable by doing high-impact projects, branding, and self-marketing.
* Also, learn why risk-taking is the safe thing to do to insure a long-term relationship with your employer.

Don't wait for others to make decisions about your career! Learn how to take charge of your future by joining us for Strategic Career Management: Take Charge and Make Your Value Undeniable Featured with Linda Davis O’Connell.

Event Name: Strategic Career Management: Take Charge and Make Your Value Undeniable
Featured Facilitator: Linda Davis O’Connell
Hosted by: Central Florida Chapter of American Society for Training & Development
Date: March 25, 2008
Time: 5:30-8:00pm
Location: Orlando Marriott Downtown, Orlando, FL
Cost: $30 members, $40 non-members
More info: http://astd-cf.org/meetings.htm

Manage Your Career! - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Wed, 5 Mar 2008 08:59:18 GMT

Let the GOOD times roll! - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 09:32:52 GMT

On September 25, 2007 we celebrated 25 years of workplace learning and performance at The Crystal Ball with 82 professionals in the industry. Now, let the GOOD times continue to roll!

CFC-ASTD is proud to bring you the annual Human Performance Improvement Roundtable Discussions with our partner the GOOD (Greater Orlando Organization Development) Network.

Date: October 12, 2007
Time: 8:30am-12:30pm
Venue: Nova Southeastern University, Orlando Campus

More events you don't want to miss...

November 13, 2007 - Guess who is turning 50?

The Space Coast Chapter of ASTD and the Kennedy Space Center are both turning 50! Check out our partner's page for more details.

December 4, 2007 - End of Year Celebration

Work hard, play hard! Let's end the year with a bang as CFC-ASTD is proud to bring you Sharon Fisher from Play with a Purpose. This evening promises to be an eventful and interactive experience you'll be talking about well into the New Year!

Don't forget the Silent Auction! We are collecting items for the auction now! If you or your company would like to contribute a tax-deductible item to this very worthwhile event, please contact C. Fitz Ward, Silent Auction Committee Member, by calling 407-304-3088 or e-mailing fward@hteinc.com.

Hope to see you there!

Jenna Papakalos
VP of Marketing
CFC-ASTD

The Crystal Ball is tomorrow! Register today! - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 10:14:56 GMT

Over 90 of your fellow Workplace Learning and Performance professionals in Central Florida have already registered to attend the Crystal Ball: The Past, Present and Future of the Learning Profession. Have you?

With so many of practitioners attending, this is an excellent opportunity to build your network and share resources that contribute to professional development! In fact, there will be a table set up at the event for individuals, companies and service-providers to display their marketing collateral!

Date: September 25, 2007
Time: 5-9pm EST
Venue: Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Register today!

This special program will feature keynote speaker, Mr. Kimo Kippen, Chair, ASTD Executive Board of Directors, and a panel discussion featuring several members of the Chapter's President's Circle (former chapter Presidents).

Hope to see you there!

Jenna Papakalos
VP of Marketing
CFC-ASTD

Almost 80 people have registered - only 4 days left! - Jenna Papakalos - American Society of Training and Development-Central Florida Chapter

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:00:26 GMT

Almost 80 of your fellow Workplace Learning and Performance professionals in Central Florida have already registered to attend the Crystal Ball: The Past, Present and Future of the Learning Profession.

Date: September 25, 2007
Time: 5-9pm EST
Venue: Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Register today!

Hope to see you there!

Jenna Papakalos
VP of Marketing
CFC-ASTD