A Note from Shelley

NEW YORK, (October 8, 2021) –  Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is always time to reflect on my personal experience. 

In 2014, I was diagnosed with stage 3 b metastatic breast cancer.  And because of my experience with meditation, I was able to walk into that journey with a strong and stable mindset that this was not necessarily a bad thing. At times I felt almost like a “cancer fraud,” because I was getting so much joy out of learning how to handle it in the best possible way. I showed up every day and learned what it was like to accept this thing that I had no control over.

I am a skier, and my meditation teacher Kadam Morten Clausen of the Kadampa Meditation Center New York City, often uses skiing as an analogy for our practice, because for an experienced skier, a bump, a mogul, is something you are looking for, the challenge that you want. So I went into this cancer journey with that skier mentality: that feeling of — “Isn’t this what you’ve been training for?” It was like the boots-on-the-ground experience of the big things we talk about in Dharma.  Sickness. Possibly dying. It really upped the ante, and I had to accept moment by moment what was happening.

I began to realize that most of the things we worry about haven’t actually happened. They are just thoughts in our minds. It’s like Mark Twain said, “I’ve suffered a great many catastrophes in my life. Most of them never happened.” So where can you be peaceful? In the clarity of your own mind, in the freedom and flexibility of this moment. We talk about “living in the now,” but having cancer gave me this real opportunity — this knowledge that if you truly live in the now, you won’t experience the suffering of things that haven’t happened. And it worked. It totally worked.  Now I’ve had no evidence of recurrence of the disease for a number of years, and I also don’t spend any time at all worrying about it.

In a way, finding a positive approach to dealing with cancer was like learning to do a breathing meditation. It’s on the same continuum. When you do a breathing meditation, you begin to realize, if I can hold my mind on the sensation of the breath for one moment, I can do it for five, or ten. And that peace starts to come in, and you know that it’s possible to be better than you are now. You can recognize that potential and gain that confidence in your own experience. So I was able to go into something of a much higher intensity than whatever crappy mind I had this morning when I did my breathing meditation — having those thoughts of, “what’s going to happen in the hospital today?”  — and I began to have that confidence, that knowledge that I could bring my mind away from that, back to the peace, back to the peace, back to my heart. Back to the clarity of my own mind.

A special thank you to my incredible medical team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. That team includes oncologist Dr. Shari Goldfarb and the team in oncology, my surgeon Dr. Monica Morrow and the team in breast surgery, all the chemo nurses, the people in radiation, imaging, and hematology. I’m so grateful for the care you provided then and the care I continue to receive.

Be well,

Shelley

NEW YORK, (March 31, 2021) –  Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

Conflict is a part of daily life. Sometimes we wake in conflict. Our alarm goes off, we need coffee, our inbox is overflowing, and our boss, employee, or associate isn’t communicating quickly, clearly, or at all. Conflict arises, diffuses, or escalates, based on our individual approach to the situation. 

A leadership role often comprises dealing with conflict. Each situation is unique, however, it can indicate a larger issue in a company or organization. These are the things I’ve experienced in my career and my leadership role at SanovaWorks. 

In the past year, I’ve had the good fortune to meet Vickie Williams, a conflict resolution expert. I’ve enjoyed many conversations with Vickie about conflict resolution and how individuals and companies can respond appropriately. Vickie generously agreed to share her wisdom and insights on how to resolve conflict, and why conflict isn’t bad, it’s actually necessary. 

SHELLEY: What are your top tips or suggestions to mitigate the situation when conflict arises?

VICKIE: I have 8 steps that I suggest when conflict is present. 

1. 5-second rule: In 5 seconds if what you are about to say or do, is harmful to yourself, others or the world around you –do not do it.
2. Know the outcome that you seek. Why are you having this conversation? What do you seek to gain or learn from this conversation?
3.  Timing. Just because you want to have the conversation, be mindful that it may not be the right time to have it. Take a temperature check on your attitude. Are you angry? Are you emotional? Is the other party angry or emotional? Take a minute, gather your thoughts and let everyone cool out.
4. Tone. Manage your tone. Do not get loud or snarky. You have identified the outcome that you are seeking, tailor your conversation to that effect.
5. Patience. The difficult conversation may need to be revisited. Be patient. Know what you can live without to get to a solution that meets most of what is important to you.
6. Be open, flexible, and fluid; but know your limits.
7. No is a complete sentence. No explanation or permission is necessary to disengage with a conversation or person if the engagement causes you stress, pain, or trauma.
8. Lastly are you prepared for the other party’s action, inaction, or reaction?

SHELLEY: How do you build and maintain relationships?

VICKIE: Ask the question. If there is confusion seek clarity. Boundaries are important. Ensure that you understand that you control them. Communication is critical, say what you need and want and convey them by your actions. Trust is the most important part of any relationship. It is easy to break and hard to regain.

SHELLEY: Is relationship building different in the age of COVID-19?

VICKIE: Yes, it is different –but not difficult.

SHELLEY: When do you know it’s time to call in the experts regarding conflict resolution?

VICKIE: In a personal setting it is when the pain hits you deep and you feel lost. In a business setting, ask yourself the following question:  Are your employees exhibiting the following behaviors? Excessive absenteeism, excessive tardiness?

And are your employees, leaving, disengaged, gossiping, not cooperating, breaking rules, and/or disrespectful?

What is important to note is that at some time or another every workplace will experience some of these issues. It is not the issue in itself that determines when you should bring in an outside consultant, it is the degree and duration of these incidents that raise a red flag.

SHELLEY: What are your final thoughts about conflict?

VICKIE: Conflict is not bad. Conflict is not good. Conflict is necessary. Please do not be afraid of conflict, it can assist parties to identify issues that need to be resolved. Lastly, a mediator is a professional and adheres to the process. The mediator is neutral and not on anyone’s side. Therefore this can be a very equitable process.

Vickie is an entrepreneur. She created OPN-Door Communications; a mediation, conflict coaching and training firm. OPN-Door Communications was developed to help businesses and families resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, build relationships, retain relationships, maintain relationships, preserve relationships, and sever relationships with dignity and diplomacy.

Vickie believes that education is key to your success. She holds a B.S. in Business Administration from her beloved, Elizabeth City State University, Master’s in Public Administration from Old Dominion University, and four certifications in Mediation with the Virginia Supreme Court.

Connect with Vickie 

Phone: (757) 816-4478

[email protected]

www.opndoor.com

Twitter: @opndoorcom

Instagram: @opndoorcom

Linkedin

Facebook

NEW YORK, (July 22, 2020) –  Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

The effects of COVID-19 are still manifesting in US households, communities, and markets. The workforce is adjusting to furlough, dismissal, and/or remote worker life. These effects are likely to continue through 2020, and beyond. The long term effects of COVID-19 on the mental health of practitioners and support staff are now part of the conversation and discussion of how we move forward. 

WATCH SAFELY REOPENING SAFELY REOPENING DERM PRACTICES

Whether you are on furlough, updating your resume, or comfortable and confident in your current role, communication in the age of COVID-19 looks different than anytime in our history. We are writing the book on how to manage business during a pandemic. The age of COVID and guidelines about safe distancing certainly have changed work life for many people, not only in the US, but across the globe as well. With adjustments to how we “show-up” for work, many companies have now transitioned to operating remotely. New systems and processes are being created to accommodate remote work and establish safe distancing and protection guidelines. 

READ MENTAL HEALTH IN THE AGE OF COVID19

Effective communication during a global pandemic

Step one for effectively communicating during a global pandemic, make sure you have a good internet provider and a strong connection because you are going to need it. We rely on video conferencing and bandwidth for effective communication more than ever now. If you have connection problems, it’s time to fix them. 

Follow up is essential

Don’t forget to follow up after an interview, a meeting, or a chance encounter with someone in your network. Writing a personal note is essential to remind them of the conversation, to stay at the top of their mind and to stand out from the crowd. You can even go a step further than an email communication with a personal note on a unique one of a kind card. Who does that anymore? You will certainly get someone’s attention with something chosen especially for them. 

READ COMMUNICATING WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

When and how

If you are adapting to a remote work life during the pandemic, then you need to know the two most important aspects of communication. Working remotely requires clear communication and expectations. Setting up guidelines for when and how to communicate is important.

Signe Philstrand explains, “It’s not productive to be bombarded with IMs and emails throughout the day, and radio silence can leave you wondering if anything is getting accomplished. Set up a clear plan for when you expect to hear from your staff, or colleagues – for instance, a 15-minute touch-base call every morning, emails returned within 24-hours, or maybe a daily end-of-day report from your staff. Pick the ways that your team will communicate and get everyone on the same tools. You don’t want to have to check numerous places for messages. Decide what is communicated by each. Short, occasional messages are best for IMs, while longer messages can be via email – while longer yet should be done in a conversation by video chat.

READ REMOTE WORK AND BENEFITS OF VIDEO CONFERENCE

As we all make the necessary adjustments to type, frequency, and tools, we should remember, that clear communication is the most effective communication. And don’t forget sincerity and a personal touch go a long way.

Be well,

Shelley

NEW YORK, (July 3, 2020) –  Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

Communicating with a personal handwritten note or letter is becoming a thing of the past. Fast paced, emoji packed, short text and acronym driven digital communications are the current trends in getting your message out. I’m all for staying current and riding the waves of progress; however, I believe that a personal touch goes a long way. 

Personal and handwritten or unique one of a kind cards 

Either a personal handwritten note with a thoughtful message or a one-of-a-kind card, conveys a wish to cultivate a deeper more meaningful relationship. There are certain types of communications we all know require a more personal touch. Invitations to special events, birthdays, anniversaries, graduation wishes, condolences and messages of sympathy, all require a personal message, from the giver to the receiver. The time and effort taken, in these particular types of communications are always self-evident. 

In my leadership role at SanovaWorks, I am consistently impressed with short meaningful communications from peers, team members, interviewees, and others that I interact with. When they follow up on a meeting, conversation, or interview, with a personal communication that recalls something we spoke of, a promise to reconnect, or just a simple note to check in and say” hi, how are things?”, I experience the value in cultivating that relationship. 

Meet Erika Burnett, CEO & Creative Designer A Single Suggestion

A Philadelphia entrepreneur, Erika is the CEO and Creative Designer at A Single Suggestion. Erika creates handcrafted cards for people who love to make others feel special. 

“A couple years into running the business, I found out that creating cards was relative to my passion for making others feel special and giving their heart something to remember. In other words, I want others to feel, like I feel when someone does something special for me.” – Erika Burnett

Erika’s mission “to rekindle person-to-person intimacy through handwritten notes, one card at a time” is a true inspiration, especially considering the current state of affairs, the need for social distancing and wearing masks. We may need to adjust our styles of communicating now and in the future, but one constant is that the impact of a personal message or note is immeasurable. It’s actually a gift that keeps on giving. Every time you write a sincere, personal communication, in whatever medium you choose, it’s guaranteed to have a positive impact on the receiver. 

Follow Erika and learn more about A Single Suggestion

TWITTER @ASingleSuggest

INSTAGRAM @a_single_suggestion

FACEBOOK.com/ASingleSuggestion

NEW YORK, (June 15, 2020) –  Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

In the wake of the recent murder of George Floyd, and the swell of the social justice movement Black Lives Matter, we are witnessing a watershed moment in time. Things are changing. People are, finally, paying attention. Statues are coming down and confederate flags are banned in the very environment they once flew proudly. Symbols of racism, oppression and hundreds of years of suffering; they are no longer welcome in the “land of the free.”

Many people agree that these actions are welcome — and long overdue. Other steps are being taken to properly acknowledge the history of Black Americans in this country. It’s the right direction, but still a long way to go. Reform and change are necessary, when progress is to be achieved. 

BLACK LIVES MATTER, A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

Juneteenth

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Cel-Liberation Day, is an American holiday celebrated annually on June 19, which is commemorated as African Americans’ Independence Day. This pivotal year marks the 155th anniversary of the end of slavery in the United States in 1865.

“June 19th is the anniversary of the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation to enslaved African Americans in Texas, the last Confederate State to have the proclamation announced. It commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union general Gordon Granger read federal orders in Galveston, Texas, that all previously enslaved people in Texas were free. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had formally freed them almost two and a half years earlier, and the American Civil War had largely ended with the defeat of the Confederate States in April, Texas was the most remote of the slave states, with a low presence of Union troops, so enforcement of the proclamation had been slow and inconsistent.” Wikipedia

Currently, forty-seven of fifty US states recognize 6/19 as Juneteenth, either in the form of a state holiday, ceremonial holiday, or a day of observance. As we have seen these past weeks, change is happening, so we can expect the other states to fall in line with this recognition that is long overdue.

This year and every year going forward, SanovaWorks and its affiliates will acknowledge Juneteenth as a company wide holiday. SanovaWorks isn’t the first company or organization to commemorate Juneteenth, but we hope to inspire other businesses in Dermatology and other professional communities to follow suit.

Juneteenth Celebrations

Johnson House is holding a Virtual Juneteenth Celebration

Johnson House is of historical significance because it was a stop on the Underground Railroad that functioned to transport runaway slaves from the South to the North where they could be free. Harriett Tubman, an Abolitionist, is reported to have visited the Johnson House.

Food for the Body, Food for the Soul

Black Heritage Trail New Hampshire

Live Streamed Cooking Demonstration, African Drumming Live Streamed from the Portsmouth African Burying Ground, A Virtual Concert, & A Virtual Community Dialogue Featuring Special Guest Adrian Miller

I encourage you to do a search to find a Juneteenth Day celebration that inspires you to take part.

As I personally take a very long pause and acknowledge my own privilege and lack of awareness, in this age of radical and needed change, I encourage my Team, and anyone reading this, and anyone I encounter, to celebrate and acknowledge Juneteenth, a profound day, inspiring hope, and reflection.

Shelley Tanner
President/CEO

Resources

Juneteenth.com

Wikipedia

Emancipation Proclamation 

NEW YORK, (June 3, 2020) –  Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

The below was sent to the employees of SanovaWorks.

This is an issue we should all be aware of, we should all be engaged in, and we should all be actively fighting together against for a solution. Each company, as a collective of humans, has a responsibility to do everything we can to protect our fellow humans and ensure that we all have access to the things we hold dear. We cannot stand by knowing that our fellow Americans are being targeted unjustly from all angles.

On the heels of the global and national devastation of the coronavirus pandemic, we are witness to the glaring evidence of an epidemic that has existed for hundreds of years in the USA, and that is the systematic racism and injustice against black Americans. The devastation that results from this affects lives in literally every facet: education, careers, health, families, finances, safety, etc.

The pandemic unveiled in clear numbers the disparity between black and white communities in this country, where only 13% of the population are African American, yet represent 23% of the deaths. In some states, like Georgia, African Americans make up little more than 30% of the population, yet almost 50% of deaths are from within this group.

On May 25^th this year George Floyd, a black man from Minneapolis who is also a brother, a cousin, a nephew, a friend, a boyfriend, a son, and a fellow human, was murdered in a horrific incident that has reinvigorated people to stand up and say that this is not acceptable, spurring the nationwide protests that are not only just, but also necessary to demand change for a reality that has been accepted through complacency and inaction.

What can we do?

I, for one, have not done nearly enough and in this I am and have been the problem.

For our employees who are impacted by this, we need to support you. As a team and your friends we are here to back you up.

If you don’t already know how you can personally help, I hope you will take the time to learn what we can all be doing at this time to be a part of the solution. You might feel helpless or overwhelmed by this matter, and feel like there is nothing you can do, but this is part of the problem. Doing nothing is a choice and an action. The support we show for one another matters. One of my friends sent me this article on the weekend, for which I was extremely grateful, as it outlines many things we can all be doing for racial justice.

READ What White People Can do for Racial Justice

President Barack Obama

On June 1, President Obama published an article on how he believes we can use what is happening now as a turning point for real change that is definitely worth the read. In this article there is a link to a very detailed report and toolkit developed while he was in office by the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, along with a dedicated site of resources and organizations to learn about and get involved with.

READ How to Make this Moment The Turning Point for Real Change

Grassroots Organizations

Below is a list of grassroots organizations supporting this cause. I have personally donated, and I encourage you all to consider doing the same. There are many more that I have read about and perhaps that speak to you more personally. I encourage you to look up some of these groups and read about what they are doing.

https://minnesotafreedomfund.org/

https://www.blackvisionsmn.org/

https://www.reclaimtheblock.org/home

https://www.northstarhealthcollective.org/

On Wednesday June 3^rd

We as a company will take a moment of silence at 1:30pm ET to reflect on these injustices, and how we personally might help. I would like us all to pause together and show solidarity. For those who choose to sit on their own, know we are with you.

Going forward

I am committed to ensuring that this is not the end of the conversation for SanovaWorks. We are committed to increasing our network and recruiting to include a bigger pool of qualified candidates of color and expanding leadership roles to Black candidates. Stay tuned for more information and please get in touch with me directly if you have thoughts on this. I welcome all ideas and feedback.

And finally. To ALL of our friends of color: know that we see you, we appreciate you, and we will do everything we can to support you.

Shelley N. Tanner
President/CEO

@NAACP on Instagram

Letter to State & Local Representatives – Share by SanovaWorks Team Member, Lindsay O’Connor.

NEW YORK, (May 12, 2020) – Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

FROM ALL US AT TEAM SANOVA

It’s always difficult to say goodbye to a coworker and friend. Janel Doyle, you will be greatly missed, and we wish you much happiness in your new venture. Janel embodies the ability to balance professionalism with fun. These two traits are evident in all that Janel does. She is a wonderful advocate for clients, representing their needs and wishes across our entire organization, and has been a pillar of strength for the brands she represents. 

Janel was so good at her job she was hired twice for it! 

Janel is a rare individual who takes every goal and challenge head-on. She is a skilled sales professional and has shown the dermatology client community all the things that ODAC, SOCU and SanovaWorks accomplishes or plans to accomplish. 

Over the years, Janel has developed and maintained close relationships with our clients. Each year, growing those relationships stronger and deeper. She is very engaging and talented. We have watched her deal with some very difficult situations. Throughout all, she was able to maintain the highest level of industry trust, evident through repeat and increased business.  

[Janel] the passion and enthusiasm you bring to every project is palpable! Wishing you lots of luck and happiness in your new adventure! 

The thing that stands out about Janel Doyle the most is her strong professional demeanor – her ability to stay smooth, level-headed, and polished at all times, even in the stressful setting of a conference. Her sales ability and how well she connects with clients is really her claim to fame, and her new team is lucky to get her! 

Janel will be missed at SanovaWorks.

Shelley Tanner, CEO / President, SanovaWorks

NEW YORK, (May 7, 2020) –  – Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

COVID-19 continues to be a major pandemic which is changing they way we live and work. Our company, SanovaWorks, is responding by hosting webinars and sharing what a working at remote company is like from an employee’s point of view.

Additionally, companies in the dermatology industry are playing a role in the fight against COVID-19. From researching possible treatments and vaccines to modifying production lines for essential products, the following is a listing of dermatology companies and their COVID-19 efforts. Read more about each individual companies efforts at Dermatology Industry Joins Fight Against COVID-19 on Next Steps in Derm.

As we continue to fight the pandemic together by social distancing, washing our hands, and staying home, we can all  be grateful for the front line workers who we can all agree, are doing the hardest and most compassionate jobs in the world right now. Thank you for your selfless and tireless work to care for the sick and dying.

Best wishes to everyone. Stay safe and healthy.

Shelley Tanner

NEW YORK, (Apr. 21, 2020) – Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

For most people, their entire world has changed overnight. We are in around week 5 of the global pandemic since its impact started rocking the inhabitants of the US. Almost all of the nations citizens are under some kind of “shelter in place” order to minimize risk of disease spread, and ultimately the toll that the impending wave of sickness, suffering and death that the COVID-19 virus would bring. Kids aren’t in school. Parents are now home-schooling while working. The degree of separation between each one of us and a COVID-19 death or critical illness is rapidly decreasing. Millions of people have lost their jobs, and for those who still have jobs, there is certainly some kind of anxiety attached to the conditions under which they are now working. Among the many professions and jobs that are considered “essential services”, are all healthcare workers. Whether they are on the frontlines or not, they are stepping into daily risk simply because of the nature of their work. 

And what is the result of all of this? Anxiety. Fear. Depression. Anger. Emotions are high and many people do not know either how to deal with these new intensified feelings, nor do they have a clear understanding of the ripple effect left on the other side of them acting out of any of these particular feelings. 

JAMA recently reported:

“The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, and efforts to contain it, represent a unique threat, and we must recognize the pandemic that will quickly follow it—that of mental and behavioral illness—and implement the steps needed to mitigate it.”

The Mental Health Consequences of COVID-19 and Physical Distancing The Need for Prevention and Early Intervention

SanovaWorks Initial Response to COVID-19

During the initial wave of uncertainty that hit my network of friends, colleagues and peers, SanovaWorks decided to bring together panels of various healthcare practitioners to help aid the anxiety that was boiling up through opening conversations that would help guide people. To date, we have completed four panels on various important topics in which no-one received compensation. Each is given and received as an offering to the community it served.

During promotion of our webinars, our choice of topics and panelists have come under scrutiny in a private, closed social media group.  Emails and messages were sent to our staff that included emotionally charged language.

How Do You Respond to Negative Feedback?

I would say that the number one response in this kind of situation is to listen and inspire dialogue. By email, we have requested dialogue with every single person who has reached out. Although many have not responded, we continue to appreciate those that have.

In addition to listening, it is important to acknowledge the other party’s opinion and feelings. Acknowledging does not mean agreeing, but it does say “I hear you, and I respect that you have this opinion and these feelings”.

You do not have to apologize for doing things you believe in, but you can apologize for any issues that have been experienced by the other party as a result. Of course we did not intend that any action would result in suffering for the other party, and an apology is appropriate for unknown ripple effects like this. Any apology you give should be one hundred percent authentic or it isn’t worth saying at all.

Above all you must be respectful and kind. This should be “table-stakes”.

How Can You Learn from Feedback?

When marketers ask their target market research questions, while tantalizing to the ego, they are not looking for glowing recommendations. They are looking for the truth. Even if you do not agree with a person’s opinion, one piece of feedback can represent the opinion of more than just that one person. I would expect that leaders are grateful that some people are willing to stand up and verbalize their thoughts, giving insight to the market that would otherwise stay hidden. When someone in your market complains to you about something, as mentioned above, listening is the best course of action. 

I live my life by the following advice that was shared by a very wise person I know:

If someone insults you and it is false, you should ignore them.

If someone insults you and it is true, you should thank them.

We should always be open to hearing what the market has to say. Their insight will prove valuable to navigate some of the complex business challenges you face. 

How Can You Protect Your Teams

Many of SanovaWorks employees; have spouses who have lost jobs, are isolated in other parts of the country, have suddenly become full time carers for young children and have home-school responsibilities. While they all still have their jobs, they have uncertainty in general because we cannot make promises given the uncertain nature of things, are working on all the programs we were working on before the pandemic, but now to survive as a company, we are all working on additional programs. Our previous brick and mortar office location was in New York City, so many of our employees are located in that area–the global epicenter of the pandemic.

Add the recent feedback calling into question our decisions to facilitate a webinar for a group of heath care practitioners, that we had agreed to support, it makes an already bad day, week, or month, into an even more overwhelming situation.

What you can do is keep everyone informed. Do not let the rumor-mill increase any feelings of tension. You should state your position with regards to the matter by giving them basic facts, and an open line of communication to discuss the matter further. And you should reiterate the most important facets with points such as:

• We always listen to others
• We do not tolerate bullying and disrespect
• We should let people experience us by example and our integrity
• We believe all healthcare practitioners need and are entitled to appropriate education 

As I reflect on the past weeks, and months, I can say that there has never been a moment that I did not feel hopeful– and ultimately that hope is that this global crisis gives each of us the opportunity to grow as human beings, citizens, leaders, and employees.  

Shelley Tanner, 

CEO/President SanovaWorks

NEW YORK (Mar. 13, 2020) – A Note from Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

First and foremost, in light of the rapidly evolving global COVID-19 situation, we hope that you and your family are safe and healthy. We send companywide thoughts and prayers to the individuals, families, and other groups who have been impacted by this situation, and hope that things will improve very soon.

While many things are uncertain surrounding this virus, as an organization, SanovaWorks believes in taking action early. We are dedicated to providing the best care and support we can to all our employees and business partners.

We have the extremely good fortune to be functioning already as a virtual company and because of this we hope to be able to provide support and resources to our entire network who might not have the experience we have. Please check our blog for our tips and recommendations for transitioning to and being successful in a remote work environment:https://sanovaworks.com/2020/03/11/top-immediate-needs-of-remote-employees/

In addition to this, in order to protect our teams and others, until further notice, we have issued a complete restriction on all business-related travel. While the CDC has not placed restrictions on domestic travel, they have recently posted travel warnings on their website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-in-the-us.html?mod=article_inline

The CDC also provide general recommendations that we should all be following to prevent the spread of this disease:https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention.html

We will be working diligently as teams to connect with many of you so that we can share some very interesting ways to accomplish our results in this new, virtual environment. We have many years of experience transitioning traditional programs to digital programs, and launching successful virtual programs. Because we are already positioned as a remote company that produces virtual programs, we hope that we are able to support your own initiatives and bridge the gap this global situation has caused.

And last but not least, with a shout out to Jim Collins who introduced me to the Stockdale Paradox in his book Good To Great, we all need to look squarely at the facts, but have confidence that together we will prevail, as we balance realism with optimism.

Together.

Shelley and the entire SanovaWorks Team

NEW YORK (Nov. 25, 2019) – A Note from Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

Are listening, empathy and compassion the strong skills needed in leadership today? I think so.

Listening may be hard if you really like to talk!  

Of these strong skills, listening can be a challenge for some leadership. For example, listening may be hard for those who really like to talk. Listening is difficult for habitual interrupters. And listening is practically impossible for the digitally (or otherwise) distracted. However, I’ve found listening is a vital skill that I’ve personally worked hard to perfect. Listening is one of the greatest tools we can employ in business. We are so veiled by our perceptions that it is hard to truly open our ears and minds to what others are saying. For example, “ready to listen” is what Chris Voss says is the most effective way to go into negotiations. Never Split the Difference, Voss’ book, enlightens the readers to listening as the key component in mastering a negotiation.

Here’s a twelve minute video of Chris’ Tedx Talk Never Split the Difference

Empathy and listening go hand in hand. 

How can you be a truly good listener without having an appreciation for the other person’s point of view? Many people (and leaders) bucket empathy in with “soft skills” and mistakenly think of it as “being nice” or trying to “make people happy”. This is far from the truth. In this Forbes article the following quote says it all: 

“Empathy enables you to know if the people you’re trying to reach are actually reached.  It allows you to predict the effect your decisions and actions will have on core audiences and strategize accordingly.  Without empathy, you can’t build a team or nurture a new generation of leaders. You will not inspire followers or elicit loyalty. Empathy is essential in negotiations and sales:  it allows you to know your target’s desires and what risks they are or aren’t willing to take.”

Compassionate Empathy the strongest leadership skill.

Compassionate empathy is leadership strength in action. Recently, New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern remarked that ‘It takes strength to be an empathetic leader’. Moreover, Ardern’s leadership style is an example to follow. Of the three types of empathy, cognitive, emotional, and compassionate; Ardern clearly has employed compassionate empathy in her response to her constituents needs. 

The Cornerstones: Leadership, Listening, Empathy, and Compassion 

SanovaWorks is a company built on the principles of listening, empathy, and compassion. As a remote company, these cornerstones are imperatives in our daily operations. Without first fully listening and tapping into the needs of our teams, we would not be able to provide the highest level of service and products for our clients. Our leadership style ensures job satisfaction, and peak performance for our clients. Win, Win, Win!

Shelley Tanner, President and CEO SanovaWorks

Articles for Reference:  

How Can You Be Sure Someone Is Fit to Be a Leader? It Comes Down to 1 Word

Empathy Is An Essential Leadership Skill — And There’s Nothing Soft About It

Empathy: The Most Important Leadership Skill Needed Today

NEW YORK (Nov. 11, 2019) – A Note from Shelley Tanner, SanovaWorks CEO/President

Results Matter in Every Situation

As milestones in life and career approach, I pause to reflect on my past experience. My journey brought me from Australia to New York, with many stops along the way. My story is one of tenacity and a willingness to fight “hard won” battles.  The personal and professional results that ultimately matter the most are the rewards. Results matter is a philosophy that I have adopted across the board. In every situation. Results matter is why SanovaWorks is the leader is our field.

Life and Work: It’s All Experience

My career trajectory is one with a variety of experience and structure. My career turned out to be great training for all that life has thrown at me. Long story short, I’m a cancer survivor. I recently celebrated five years since my diagnosis with friends, family, my SanovaWorks family, and our clients. It was a special evening celebrating life. 

At this surprise party, I’m once again reminded of why I do what I do. My work as President and CEO of SanovaWorks, impacts my employees, their families, as well as our clients, the physicians and healthcare providers. The list is long. I’m truly humbled that I am able to do work that is meaningful.

Recently, I had the honor of attending the Champions for Change Gala held by the Skin Cancer Foundation as a Committee Member and representative of SanovaWorks. This was a great honor for me. Positively impacting the lives of people who are battling cancer is something I strive to do everyday. 

Growing Up Down Under

Born and raised in Australia, my life began Down Under. A certain Warner Brothers cartoon character seems to be our claim to fame in Tasmania; however, my childhood home is where my love of nature, animals, and endless adventure was born. While I never could, or would, deny my Aussie roots, I do currently consider myself a New Yorker, because honestly, I do heart NY. 

Healthcare Got Me into This

As a Registered Nurse in Australia and London, I developed deep compassion for patients. It was also hands on experience in the complex systems that run hospitals. I completed postgraduate studies in Nursing, Health Promotion, and Public Health including a Masters of Health Science. I worked on large-scale government health and wellness programs from the needs analysis stage to implementation and evaluation. Little did I know then that my career would take me in the direction of leading SanovaWorks. 

How Sanova Works 

Seventeen years ago, I was presented with the opportunity to join a start-up healthcare communications provider. The company’s vision and potential were truly compelling, so I accepted and never looked back. Physicians Continuing Education eventually gave birth to SanovaWorks. We are successfully producing materials, web based tools, live, online, and print, CME programs, and podcasts through Sanova Learning, Sanova Publishing and Sanova Live. The SanovaWorks Team is a group of brilliant minds that have a strong work ethic with mutual appreciation and respect. I could not be more proud to be a part of this company.

Did I say that I love being at work and I love our company? A company culture that inspires and gives staff a sense of professional fulfillment and belonging, is one of my most significant and fundamental goals in leading our team. 

The CEO role was a natural fit. As an RN, I approached every nursing role as if I owned the hospital – always looking for ways to do things better. The results I accomplished included, reducing the disposable waste in operating rooms, and implementing patient assistance programs with the hospital research department. I am passionate about improving products and systems, creating win-win situations, and resolving persistent challenges.

Today, I bring that same commitment to SanovaWorks. We believe that finally, results are what matter and this is at the core of what we do.

Our Results Matter Philosophy

Results matter to us because they matter to our clients and end-users. This philosophy is reflected not only in the work we produce, but in our internal culture as well.  SanovaWorks home office is located in New York, however we have a remote work structure. Our results-oriented work environment maintains flexibility as part of our cultural DNA. Employees are encouraged to work in the way that lets them deliver the best outcome to our clients and the healthcare practitioners we serve. 

We bridge the gaps (and straddle communications channels) in the field of medical education. Our clients are Healthcare professionals that include boomers and millennials. We are experts to speaking effectively to both generations and everyone in between.

SanovaWorks was an early adopter in social and digital marketing to reach millennial and Gen Z healthcare practitioners. We also understand that we reach our more mature audience with print. We are engaging every generation and segment of physicians from residents through retirement preparation. The new and rapidly growing segment of healthcare being managed by Nurse Practitioners and Physicians Assistants are not ignored.

Being a healthcare practitioner means a lifetime of learning. This translates into actively seeking advances in medicine in order to give patients the best care possible. Because the results of healthcare matter, we strive to provide only the highest level of education. We use the power of our communication channels to distribute credible science. 

I welcome the incumbent challenges that will arise as our company adopts new products and services and advanced digital marketing strategies. This is how SanovaWorks maintains and expands its client base.

Work Life Balance

Leading a company isn’t easy. It’s hectic and my schedule is packed. The only way I can make it all happen is by finding time to relax. Writing, travel, and meditation are the activities that I credit with giving me personal clarity, concentration, and a balanced view. This is critical when it comes time for decision making. Results matter is not only my professional philosophy, it’s a philosophy that has carried me through my entire career and personal life. 

Shelley Tanner, President and CEO SanovaWorks