Feedback is one of the most valuable tools for professional development—yet it's often misunderstood or underutilized. While praise is easy to accept, constructive criticism can feel uncomfortable. However, when approached with the right mindset, fe… Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader The power of feedback: turning criticism into career growth By Olamide Adedara on May 15, 2025 Feedback is one of the most valuable tools for professional development—yet it's often misunderstood or underutilized. While praise is easy to accept, constructive criticism can feel uncomfortable. However, when approached with the right mindset, feedback can become a powerful driver of career success. Why Feedback Matters: Feedback provides insight into how others perceive your work, behavior, and communication. It reveals blind spots, reinforces strengths, and highlights areas for improvement that you might not recognize on your own. Those who actively seek and apply feedback often experience faster growth and stronger workplace relationships. How to Leverage Feedback Effectively: Adopt a Growth Mindset: View feedback not as a personal attack but as a resource for learning. Embrace the idea that skills and performance can improve with effort and openness. Ask Proactively: Don't wait for annual reviews. Regularly ask colleagues, managers, or mentors for feedback after projects, meetings, or presentations. Listen Without Defensiveness: Even if the feedback is hard to hear, listen fully before responding. Resist the urge to justify or explain right away. Clarify and Reflect: If feedback is vague, ask for examples. Reflect on how the insights align with your experiences or goals. Act on It: Demonstrating that you take feedback seriously—by making changes or following up—builds trust and shows commitment to growth. Give Feedback Thoughtfully: Understanding how to deliver constructive feedback helps you receive it more gracefully and become a better team member and leader. Conclusion: Feedback is a mirror to your professional development. When you stop avoiding it and start embracing it, you unlock opportunities to grow, improve, and excel. The most successful professionals aren't perfect—they're just better at learning from their imperfections.

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Accessing capital remains a major challenge for minority entrepreneurs, but several targeted funding sources are helping bridge the gap. These institutions are designed to empower underserved communities and offer flexible loan options tailored to their… Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader Where minority-owned businesses can access business loans By Busola Bamidele on May 15, 2025 Accessing capital remains a major challenge for minority entrepreneurs, but several targeted funding sources are helping bridge the gap. These institutions are designed to empower underserved communities and offer flexible loan options tailored to their unique needs. SBA Lenders (CA SBLCs): Community Advantage Small Business Lending Companies, now operating under the CA SBLC license, are authorized to issue SBA 7(a) loans. Although the original Community Advantage program ended in October 2023, these lenders continue to prioritize minority-owned businesses in underserved markets, making them a key source of government-backed funding. Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs): MDIs are mission-focused banks where minorities own at least 51% of voting stock or govern the institution. They provide banking services and loans specifically for communities that are often excluded from traditional financial systems, making them a reliable source of culturally sensitive and community-driven financial support. Banks and Credit Unions: Some mainstream banks offer dedicated business loan programs for minority entrepreneurs. U.S. Bank, Huntington Bank, Fifth Third Bank, and Native American Bank, for instance, have special initiatives. While approval may require strong credit and financial history, these loans often come with lower interest rates and better terms than other options. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs): CDFIs are certified by the U.S. Treasury to provide affordable loans and financial services to low-income and minority communities. Many CDFIs offer SBA microloans and wraparound services such as business development support, mentoring, and networking opportunities. Read also: Where minority-owned businesses can access business loans Building career agility in a rapidly changing Job market Know your customer, grow Your business — expert warns Nigerian SMEs against generic marketing 37,000 Youth, women to be recruited in livestock sector boost UK backs Nigeria's economic reforms, sees big opportunities for small businesses Microlenders: For startups or businesses needing smaller amounts of capital (usually up to $50,000), nonprofit microlenders are an excellent option. These lenders tend to be more flexible in their requirements and frequently prioritize women, veterans, and minority-owned businesses. Online Lenders: Digital lending platforms often have more accessible criteria and faster application processes than traditional banks. While interest rates can be higher, they provide viable funding solutions for businesses with limited credit history or those seeking rapid capital. Final Note: Each of these lending options comes with its own set of pros and cons. It's crucial for minority business owners to evaluate loan terms, interest rates, and eligibility requirements before committing. With the right support and resources, minority entrepreneurs can overcome traditional barriers and scale their businesses successfully.

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In today's fast-paced world of work, career agility is becoming a critical skill for long-term success. Unlike traditional career paths that followed a linear trajectory, modern careers demand flexibility, quick adaptation, and a willingness to pivot … Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader Building career agility in a rapidly changing Job market By Olamide Adedara on May 15, 2025 In today's fast-paced world of work, career agility is becoming a critical skill for long-term success. Unlike traditional career paths that followed a linear trajectory, modern careers demand flexibility, quick adaptation, and a willingness to pivot when necessary. This is where career agility comes in. What is Career Agility? Career agility refers to the ability to adapt quickly to changes in the job market, embrace new roles or skills, and respond proactively to shifting opportunities. It means being open to learning, rethinking your career path when needed, and staying resilient in the face of change. Why It Matters: Industries are evolving faster than ever due to technology, globalization, and shifts in consumer behavior. Jobs that exist today may become obsolete tomorrow. Professionals who can spot trends, upskill regularly, and transition smoothly into new roles will be far better equipped to sustain their careers over time. How to Build Career Agility: Stay Curious and Keep Learning: Adopt a lifelong learning mindset. Take short courses, attend webinars, or pursue certifications to stay updated. Diversify Your Skill Set: Develop a mix of technical, soft, and digital skills. This allows you to pivot to different roles as opportunities arise. Stay Informed: Follow industry news, attend professional events, and engage with thought leaders. Awareness allows you to anticipate change rather than react to it. Embrace Change: View career shifts as opportunities rather than setbacks. Being comfortable with uncertainty is a hallmark of agility. Reflect and Reassess: Regularly evaluate your goals, strengths, and the direction of your industry. Make adjustments as needed rather than waiting for external forces to compel a change. Conclusion: In a world where the only constant is change, building career agility is no longer optional—it's essential. By staying flexible, proactive, and curious, you empower yourself to not just survive but thrive in any professional environment.

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