It’s better to take your car to the mechanic before the engine is leaking…or get that EKG before a real health problem starts. Preventative maintenance is key, and that’s how I think about what I do for non-profits, universities, small companies, foundations, and associations.

Taking a PROACTIVE approach at work is the best way to ward off future problems, whether it’s 

• coaching a manager who is having an issue getting along with co-workers

• helping an employee define and best utilize their skills and talents

• helping a team member to remember to prioritize their own needs so they can help others. (Remember the oxygen mask on the plane!)

Hi, I’m Elissa, and I help non-profits and small businesses who either don’t have an HR or have an HR, but they only have the capacity to focus on benefits. I am in these work spaces helping to make sure leaders are leading in a way that makes everyone feel appreciated.

How do I do that? l come into your workplace and either work 1:1 with managers, or lead group workshops that strengthen leadership and managerial skills. If that sounds dry, it’s not! My speciality is to focus on the fun, healthy, and productive side of things.

My approach is two-fold. 

• In a best-case world, I work with companies to use fun team building exercises in workshops and on retreats to strengthen bonds and improve workplace culture. Think of it like eating leafy, green vegetables or enjoying that glass of cabernet to keep your heart healthy and functioning properly. 

• I also work directly with managers to help improve the workplace environment when it’s clear that something is just a bit out of whack. That’s when you just need a new carburetor to make the car hum again. In these situations where the problems already exist; I work with leaders on everything from trust issues to growth struggles to FIX what’s wrong so employees feel supported and connected and happy to show up for work.  

I have a Master’s Degree in Multicultural Education and a certification in Positive Psychology, but it’s the practical experience I received working for over 20 years with people at the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation, and the Anti-Defamation League that allows me to help managers create more inclusive environments that are able to tap into their employees strengths. 

At these organizations and agencies, I worked  in team building, helping to diagnose workplace problems, and finding creative solutions to build morale and, most importantly, build a workplace where people want to show up. 

Because no one wants to work in a place that doesn’t support them. Doesn’t get them. With the Work Wise Labs resources, you can help your managers create an environment that is fun and supportive, without ever losing sight of your workplace’s mission.

Work Wise Labs  grew organically out of the lessons I learned along the way. Bottom line: everyone should be happy to go to work, and I can provide the tools to make that happen.

To see my full professional bio, see my LinkedIn profile.