Something Personal . . .
Hello to my readers. I’m very pleased to share a glimpse into the world behind the words, as I had the pleasure of answering a few questions from my Marketing Guru before my upcoming book signing. It’s an exciting journey, albeit filled with its ups and downs. So here is our version of a ‘sneak peek’ into those inspirations, challenges, intricacies of my creative process, and all the joys that have molded my career as an author.
I hope you’ll feel the excitement building for the upcoming author signing in Calgary, AB—a journey that promises literary delights and meaningful connections. So, let’s dive in. Thank you for being a part of this wonderful conversation!
Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background as an author?
Mary: I spent most of my career as a management consultant in operations management, predominantly assisting mid- and upper-level management in improving their business processes. The most enjoyable part of my career was seeing the “aha moment” when staff realized they could change their current processes to make them more efficient.
With over 30 years of experience in the business world and having spent several of those years writing guidelines, standards, and tips for those in business, I pivoted (like perhaps many) during the pandemic. I now focus on writing and editing.
Q: What inspired you to write “Lean Productivity and Efficiency” (and/or) your other books?
Mary: As a long-time management consultant, I already had a wealth of written information that could benefit business owners and staff, and I decided to write my book series. Of course, the books also contain new information, but I was lucky to have a good foundation already.
My inspiration for writing book three, Lean Productivity and Efficiency, was knowing that organizational staff, perhaps especially government workers, deal with bloated processes that hinder productivity and efficiency for staff and customers. Ultimately, my book shows readers there is a better way.
Q: Let’s talk about the books. What is the main message or theme of Lean Productivity and Efficiency?
Mary: The main message or theme of Lean Productivity and Efficiency is to focus on eliminating waste in every process to achieve efficiency and productivity. When you eliminate all sources of “waste,” the process can only become more efficient.
Q: How do your books address the challenges and considerations businesses face in today’s dynamic environment?
Mary: The business process is key regardless of the business environment. If the process is inefficient, the business will experience delays, rework, errors, duplication of work, unhappy or demoralized staff, and angry customers (which translates to lost business for the private sector and perhaps political turnover in government). Businesses are in the “business” of providing customers with value for money, whether government or private enterprise.
The key difference in today’s dynamic environment is that digital technology makes things faster. Also, with artificial intelligence in the mix, things will only get even faster; business processes must be efficient to stay competitive.
Q: Are there specific insights or strategies from your books that you find particularly valuable for entrepreneurs? or other businesses, such as ones that have been in business for a while but are in a rut?
Mary: If there is only one thing that individuals and businesses can take away from my books, it is this: Eliminate “DOWNTIME” to save time and money and create efficient processes. I speak more about DOWNTIME in my third book, but for simplicity, the acronym stands for defects, overproduction, waiting, non-utilized talent, transportation, inventory, motion, and extra-processing. Each category covers the eight wastes in organizations (and even at home!). Eliminate DOWNTIME, and you’re that much closer to having an efficient business.
Q: I’m intrigued by your writing process. Can you share about your process? Do you have any specific rituals or habits?
Mary: I didn’t start as a full-time writer and am still part-time, so I schedule my writing when I can and want to write.
I like to write when my mind is ready for the task, so I ensure I’ve got no other priorities on the go and block time in my calendar for writing. I speak at length about priorities and scheduling in my second book, Acquiring Time.
I write on my office computer at home. While writing, I turn off my email and cell phone (I do this anyway when focusing on a more intense task). Bottom line: for me, writing requires a quiet space without interruptions.
*Just a note: writing takes a lot of energy, so I take a break when I need one because it helps refresh my mind before resuming writing.
Q: How do you approach researching and gathering information for your books?
Mary: Much of my research is from my management consulting experience. I also taught at a university for several years, so I draw from that experience, too. Otherwise, I have books in my office that create inspiration. Of course, the Internet is useful for verifying material, but online information is not always correct, so I double- and triple-check (and credit!) sources. I occasionally visit the library because I love books. I also want to add that I love bookstores - I’m sure it’s like walking into heaven.
Q: Would you say you face challenges while writing your books?
Mary: My challenge in writing was not knowing how to publish my book. I talked to a couple of companies I found online to clarify how the book business works, but it was still unclear! Finally, I consulted with another author, who told me how he went about publishing. The process was easier from there, but I’m still learning, even after book three!
Q: Lastly, let’s turn the conversation to the readers. What do you hope readers will take away from your books?
Mary: After reading my books, I hope readers will recognize that there is a better way to work (and live!). Prioritizing your days, eliminating waste (especially, starting by decluttering your workspace), and streamlining processes will make your life much easier. However, to get to that “easier” life, you must “work” to declutter, learn to prioritize, break bad habits, and create a new space for yourself (mentally and physically) from which to embrace a new way of doing things. This way, you will create a new work–life balance that will give you more time, energy, and money.
Q: How do you engage with your readers and the business community outside your books?
Mary: I’m doing book launches for my books and podcasts. I have podcasts on February 24 (The 2.0 Grandma Podcast) and March 8 (A Life Well-Lived by Omobola Stephen), with more dates coming soon.
I have a fabulous social media person who manages my social media, which is also helpful to promote my books and talk to readers through my posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
Q: What can attendees expect at the upcoming book signing events at the Chapters-Indigo throughout Calgary?
Mary: I will have my three books on hand and sign them for my readers. If attendees want some advice, I’m happy to give that, too! I’ll be at the following locations:
Saturday, February 17: Indigo Southtrail from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Indigo Chinook from 3:00-6:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 18: Indigo Shawnessy from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Monday, February 19: Indigo Dalhousie from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
I look forward to seeing my readers at the events!
Q: Is there a particular subject or theme you would like to explore in future works?
Mary: I would love to write biographies and already have one subject in mind – more on that in the future.
I am also interested in how academia impacts Canada’s “trendier” things. When I have time, I intend to research education’s impact on graduates.
Reflecting on these questions, I’m even more excited about the upcoming book signing and the opportunity to connect with readers like you. Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to meeting many of you. Until then, happy reading, and thank you for being a cherished part of my literary adventure!
Mary Colak
www.marycolak.com
