FranklinCovey Blog | Emotional Bank Account
How to Build Emotional Bank Accounts
Below is another great question that has come in regarding Great Work, Great Career.
Q: I struggle to find ways to add value to my contacts/network/village. What are some other ways to build the Emotional Bank Account?
A: I see my village as three circles, each one a bit smaller than the other with different levels of EBA deposits required for each. The largest circle is the network to which I contribute in a largely electronic fashion. The middle-sized circle are colleagues or friends that I have met face-to-face and probably talk to occasionally or meet for lunch. The smallest circle are my most trusted friends, family, and colleagues. Each circle of the village requires different activities. I contribute to my large social network by posting and answering questions and passing on information that will be useful to an individual or group of people. Just today, on the Organizational Change Practitioners group on LinkedIn I responded to a request for a change activity for large groups. It started a conversation with Hanna, the woman who posted the question. I also contributed to a conversation on the Sales Executive Council Peer Roundtable regarding the Inside Sales function. By contributing to the small number of groups I belong to, I build relationships and build my reputation without investing more than 30 minutes/week. › Continue reading
Strengthening Families in Turbulent Times
This Spring I made a presentation on strengthening families in times of crisis. Gathered in the room were people who had recently lost their jobs and now find themselves looking for new work in a very tough environment. This gathering, of course, was a snapshot of millions of people all over the U.S. and in many parts of the world.
We know that being out of work can have a troubling impact on families. The stress, worry and pressure often impact a person’s ability to be the spouse or parent they want to be. Communication might break down. Quarrels might increase. Family members might feel neglected, scared or withdrawn.
In these kinds of situations, I have always counseled people to focus on those who are the most important in their lives and what matters most. Yes, being out of a job might have you in a crisis, but isn’t your family your most precious possession? So what can we do to strengthen our families in good times or in times of trouble? › Continue reading


