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Communication Challenges In Project Management (And How To Resolve Them)

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Communication is a critical factor in all aspects of life — work, school, business, and relationships, among others. It is especially important in project management where you need to empower teams to advance projects and reach goals. 

Effective communication is a powerful, yet undervalued tool when it comes to management. Project managers and the teams within their umbrella fail to achieve targets or become unsuccessful in meeting deadlines due to certain communication challenges. 

Here, we will discuss these challenges especially with regards to project management. We will enable you to become more productive and efficient in implementing projects through resolving these challenges. Once you learn how to face them, you and your team will accomplish milestones in a timely manner and develop successful projects to fruition. 

Common Project Management Communication Challenges

01. Distance

Overview:

Globalization has made working remotely possible. This can have its advantages and disadvantages. When team members are located far away from the office (or from each other), it can be a massive communication barrier. Project managers have difficulty handling teams from across the globe which results in misunderstanding and stalled projects. 

Resolution:  

It is best to implement regularly-scheduled meetings. In this way, your team members can schedule their time accordingly. Solicit feedback from all members of the team once the meeting is in place. 

Consider placing importance on live interactions as opposed to communicating through memos or emails alone. After the video conference call or meeting, you can give actionable steps for each team member to implement. In this way, the project’s progress can be advanced. 

02. Cultural Differences

Overview: 

Places of employment are filled with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Usually, individuals that have similar habits and cultures hang out together. Thus, groups are formed and project managers are faced with the challenges of the dynamics of small groups. Communication issues arise with these small “teams.” 

Resolution:

Individuals usually cling to other people who have “like” minds or cultures. It is best to mix these small cultural or like-minded groups together by breaking them up. Allow individuals from one group to mingle with people from another group. You can do this during meetings and even when forming teams for certain tasks. 

03. Substandard Written Communication

Overview: 

Communication doesn’t refer to verbal speech alone. It also refers to one’s body language and it can be done in written form. Most of the time, materials are written poorly with incorrect grammar and syntax. Sometimes, items are placed out of context.

Poor written communication can be found within office publications and these can lead to downright confusion. A message written by the supervisor, for instance, is poorly written and leads to misunderstandings among team members.

Resolution:

You have to ensure that the copy is proofread before it is sent for publication. One set of eyes is not enough. Have two or more people check and verify the message too. For changes or directives, you can have the best editor within the company check them before distribution. 

04. Inability To Listen Or Focus

Overview:

Due to the advancements in technology, more and more people are losing focus. Coupled with this is the inability to listen. Communication, as a means of connecting with others, is weakening. As a project manager, this is a challenge. 

Resolution:

When communicating with a person one-on-one, it is best to make eye contact. Don’t “dumb down” when the individual you’re talking to doesn’t get it. Use real-world analogies to help him or her understand difficult terms or principles. 

05. Hierarchy Or Authority

Overview: 

Employees might find it hard and even hesitate to talk to their immediate supervisor. There might be an issue somewhere and no one has the “guts” to tell it to authorized bodies. This can be a big issue especially when the problem directly impacts the project at hand. 

Resolution:

You can try to schedule face-to-face or one-on-one appointments with the employees. You have to ensure confidentiality of information and reassure this to the individual you’re meeting with. Before the problems go out-of-hand, you must take immediate action. 

Organizational Meeting; Image Credit

Other Tips For Effective Communication In Project Management

There are other issues you might face when it comes to communication. For instance, too little communication can happen. In this scenario, provision of the required information necessary to make the process smoother is not done. 

Another scenario would be too much communication. In this case, you provide too much information that your recipients are confused about it. They can’t sort the information properly for processing. 

Then, we also use the wrong style or type of communication. One example would be providing the wrong information format or providing information that isn’t a match for the actual requirements of the project. The worst case would be having no communication at all. This happens when information is not given mistakenly (or even deliberately).

To avoid these communication challenges, you can take a Project Management class and significantly improve the overall success of your projects. In addition, you must have a plan to make sure of the following: 

Who To Communicate With

You must determine the stakeholders within the project. It is best to set them up in categories. For instance, Category A may refer to the direct team members working on the project. Category B may include suppliers and vendors. Category C can be comprised of the top management, and so on. 

How To Communicate Your Message

You must define and create a system in place. This system will serve as an infrastructure allowing the smooth flow of communication among different stakeholders. 

What Message To Communicate

You must determine the information required by different stakeholders. This information will serve as an input to the processing stage of tasks. In this way, projects can advance in a timely manner and will not be stalled. 

When To Communicate Your Message

Assuming you have an execution plan for the project, you must know when to disperse necessary information that will be used as inputs for certain processes.  

To Wrap It All Up

Communication is an integral part of project management. And as members of a team, you must know how to communicate with other stakeholders. Remember that talking isn’t the only element of communication. Listening is also part of the deal. When efficient talking and deliberate listening is coupled, it can lead to a huge impact on project success. 

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Top 5 In-Demand Helicopter Pilot Jobs in 2023

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Are you seeking a new and exciting career path with plenty of opportunities? Consider helicopter piloting. With the rapid expansion of helicopter services in many industries, pilots are needed worldwide to take advantage of this expanding field. From emergency medical transport to oilfield operations, there’s sure to be something that suits your skills and interests. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the top five in-demand jobs for helicopter pilots in 2023, so you can find out if a career as an airborne professional is right for you.

Breaking down the Demand for Helicopter Pilots Across Different Industries

With helicopter pilot training set to top the list of in-demand jobs in 2023, it is important to understand the different industries for helicopter pilots. According to research, the arms forces typically employ helicopter pilots for surveillance and combat missions. The medical industry frequently hires helicopter pilots for emergency transportation and search-and-rescue operations. 

Commercial helicopter pilots are used to transporting cargo or people from distant locations that can’t be accessible by land. Forestry helicopter pilots monitor forestry conditions while crop scouting helicopter pilots observe agricultural fields from above. Finally, law enforcement agencies sometimes hire helicopter pilots to provide additional security or support in daring operations. There is an increased demand for helicopter pilots across various industries ready to be filled with trained professionals with specialized aviation degrees.

Exploring Job Opportunities in Agriculture, Construction, and Firefighting

With the projected job growth for helicopter pilots expected to be strong in 2023, many job opportunities in agriculture, construction, and firefighting beckon those looking for a challenge. Helicopter pilots may gain valuable experience operating a range of equipment to help farmers, firms engaged in building projects, and firefighters battle climate change. Farming operations use helicopters to transport produce over long distances and often hire pilots with experience flying cargo lifts or crop dusters. 

Construction firms use helicopters as aerial cranes when moving large loads such as beams and heating and cooling units. Firefighting requires skillful navigation of helicopter flight operations while carrying heavy water buckets and large crews on board. It is a highly demanding position but can also be extremely rewarding. Those interested in this field should remember that a career in aviation demands strong interpersonal skills, good technical aptitude, and top-notch airmanship.

Examining Opportunities within the Military and Transportation Sector

Working as a helicopter pilot offers exciting opportunities in the military and transportation sectors. With advancements in aircraft technologies, increased demand for aviation safety, and the continued growth of new employment opportunities, 2023 promises to be a great year for those seeking a career in this field. Pilots can expect many jobs in the military and transportation industry, such as search and rescue, executive transport services, fire suppression patrols, aerial photography work, and surveillance operations. 

Private companies might also hire them to assist with construction projects or oil rig support missions conducted from an offshore platform. With the emergence of new technologies, these job possibilities look set to become even more diverse, allowing helicopter pilots to use their unique technical skills and training fully.

Discussing Qualifications and Requirements for Helicopter Pilot Jobs

To be successful in the highly competitive helicopter pilot job market of 2023, one must demonstrate a number of qualifications and requirements. Most jobs will require extensive expertise in aviation navigation, meteorology, aeronautics, safety operations, and the proficient use of helicopters. At least 500 hours of flight experience is usually required for employment eligibility. 

Certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also necessary for all positions since it signals operational capabilities to employers. Additional qualifications may include a college degree relevant to aviation and specialized knowledge such as tactical training or instrument flying skills. Therefore, those pursuing this rewarding career should prepare academically and log plenty of flight hours before entering the industry.

Providing Strategies to Get Started on Your Career Path as a Helicopter Pilot

When embarking on a career as a helicopter pilot, it is essential to create an actionable and well-thought-out plan that covers the requirements. This includes researching which qualifications are needed in various fields, attending flight school to achieve certifications and licensure, and gaining applicable experience. It also means being aware of shifts in the job market. For example, the top five in-demand helicopter pilots are search and rescue pilots, law enforcement pilots, emergency medical service pilots, tour pilots, and aerial photography operators – all roles requiring specialized knowledge. 

An effective strategy to get set up with a successful career path in this field is to look into related organizations or businesses that offer rotations among these job types. Additionally, aspiring pilots should consider actively networking with professionals already employed in desirable companies as they provide invaluable information about positions available. With dedication and time put into research and cultivating relationships with experienced professionals in the industry, getting started as a helicopter pilot can be achievable.

Becoming a helicopter pilot can be a fulfilling and adventurous profession, offering the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places while also making a difference in people’s lives. With five different categories of options across sectors, there is no shortage of demand for experienced pilots with the right qualifications. 

Even if you don’t qualify yet, by following our strategies and getting started early with your career as a helicopter pilot, such as enrolling in flight campuses or getting licensed through Part-61 courses, you will be well on your way to one of the most desirable professions.



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Maximize Your Money: 6 Simple Ways to Get Your Money Working for You

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When you want to build wealth and strive toward financial freedom, it’s not just about earning more money. It’s also about putting that money to work. Whether it’s investing in a mutual fund or working with tax accountants to find the best deductions, below are six ways to maximize your money:

1. Invest in a mutual fund 

Mutual funds are a great option for those who may not have the time, knowledge, or resources to manage their own investments. By pooling money together with other investors, mutual funds provide access to a more diversified portfolio than what an individual investor could achieve on their own. This reduces risk while at the same time providing opportunities for growth.

Mutual funds often have low minimum investment requirements, making them accessible to a wider range of investors. Before choosing a fund, ensure that it’s a good fit by reflecting on your risk tolerance and investment goals.

2. Methodically save for retirement

Prioritize saving for retirement when considering how to maximize your money. One way to do this is through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a superannuation fund in Australia or a 401(k) in the US. 

Both plans allow you to contribute towards retirement savings in a way that helps you save more and reduce your taxable income. Ideally, you contribute as much as you can on a monthly basis to ensure a comfortable retirement. If you want to boost your retirement planning strategy, you can go for something like a self-managed superannuation fund or Roth IRA. 

3. Buy rental property

Rental properties can be great investments because they generate passive income month after month, year after year. The key to success with rental properties is understanding what types of properties will be most profitable in your area and finding good tenants who will take care of the property and pay their rent on time. 

4. Open a high-yield savings account

By putting your extra money into a high-yield savings account, you can potentially earn more interest over time, helping your money grow without any additional work on your part. High-yield savings accounts tend to offer better interest rates than traditional savings accounts, which means your money can work harder for you. 

This can be especially beneficial for long-term savings goals or emergency funds. Just be sure to compare account options and fees before selecting a high-yield savings account to ensure that it’s the right fit for your financial needs.

5. Start a side hustle (or two)

A side hustle is a great way to generate some extra income without having to put too much effort into it once it’s up and running. A great side hustle depends on what interests you have. Some popular options include freelance writing, selling handmade items online, and creating webinars or courses. You could even become an Uber driver or Airbnb host if you have the right vehicle or home space available.

6. Work with a tax accountant

Finally, working with a tax agent can be a smart move if you want to maximize your savings and minimize your tax bill. A tax agent can help you identify any relevant deductions and credits so you can take advantage of all available tax breaks. They can also help you develop a tax-efficient investment strategy that can help you save money over the long term.

Making your money work for you requires a bit of effort and planning. Start today with the simple tips above. Like compound interest, these simple changes can lead to big rewards over time.



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What Is the ERC Tax Credit?

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The Employee Retention Credit (ERTC) helps businesses recover financially from COVID-19 restrictions in 2020.

What Is the ERC Tax Credit?

The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) is a tax credit that was introduced in 2020 as part of the CARES Act to help businesses retain their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. The credit was extended and expanded in 2021 through the Consolidated Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan Act, making it a valuable resource for businesses struggling to keep their doors open during this difficult time.

If you are eligible for the ERC tax credit, it is best to complete the application with the help of ERC specialists who have had experience getting businesses in line with the IRS.

Who Is Eligible?

 The ERC is available to eligible employers who have experienced a significant decline in gross receipts or have been subject to a full or partial suspension of operations due to government orders related to COVID-19. The credit is calculated based on eligible wages paid to employees during the period of the credit and is capped at $28,000 per employee for 2021. The credit can be used to offset payroll taxes, and any excess can be refunded to the employer.

 To qualify for the ERC, businesses must meet certain eligibility requirements. First, they must have experienced a significant decline in gross receipts during the 2020 or 2021 calendar year. In 2020, a business must have experienced a decline of 50% or more compared to the same quarter in 2019. In 2021, the threshold was lowered to a decline of 20% or more. Alternatively, businesses can qualify if they were subject to a full or partial suspension of operations due to a government order related to COVID-19.

 ERC vs. PPP

 One of the most significant changes to the ERC in 2021 is that it is now available to businesses that received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. This was a major obstacle for many businesses in 2020, as they had to choose between receiving a PPP loan or the ERC. With the changes to the program, businesses can now take advantage of both, which can provide a significant boost to their cash flow.

Calculating ERC

 Another important consideration for businesses is the calculation of eligible wages. In 2020, the credit was based on eligible wages paid from March 13, 2020, through December 31, 2020. In 2021, the credit is based on eligible wages paid from January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2021. Eligible wages include wages paid to employees who were retained during the period of the credit, and they are capped at $10,000 per quarter per employee in 2020 and $10,000 per quarter per employee in 2021.

 The ERC can provide significant benefits to businesses that qualify. For example, a business that retained 100 employees during the period of the credit and paid them an average wage of $20 per hour could receive a credit of up to $1.12 million in 2021. This credit can be used to offset payroll taxes, which can provide a significant boost to the business’s cash flow. In addition, any excess credit can be refunded to the business, which can provide even more financial relief.

Is the ERC Tax Credit Right for Me?

 The Employee Retention Credit can be a valuable resource for businesses struggling to retain their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. The credit provides a significant financial incentive for businesses to keep their doors open and retain their employees, which can help to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. However, businesses must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify for the credit, and they must carefully calculate their eligible wages to ensure that they maximize their benefit. As the pandemic continues to impact businesses, the ERC can be a valuable tool for those looking to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

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