A professional is someone who possesses distinctive qualities in a particular profession. Everyday in the workplace our professionalism is tested, there are situations that will be unpleasant to deal with, people who are rude, bosses who are demanding, and work that may seem demeaning, but in today’s economy, keeping a job is like finding a pot of gold, you are fortunate to have it. In the office, the expectation is to constantly exhibit decorum, tact, composure, and display knowledge of your skills. So what do you do when your professionalism is tested? Below are examples of five tests you will encounter in your professional career, how will you score?
1. Dealing with rude co-workers, clients, or customers. 10 pts.
We have all had those people who we have to deal with on a daily basis who seem as though they have a disregard for others feelings or don’t care about listening to what they have to say. Let them have their words. Do not interrupt. Listen with empathy not sympathy and be assertive in your response. When they are finished, ask questions to clarify their feelings. Seek answers. Get to the root of their ill-behavior and offer solutions. If you are not the person who can assist them, refer them to someone who can.
2. Dealing with a boss who is a micromanager. 20 pts
Being able to handle an overly exertive, anxious, non-trusting boss is a challenge to any professional. The most important thing to remember when dealing with someone like this is to give them what they want before they ask! In other words, provide them frequent updates before they have to ask where you are on the project. Ask questions for clarification and provide them with feedback by restating what they told you so that they know that you understand. The biggest fear in a micromanager is that you don’t understand the task; therefore, it will not be done right. Keep a notepad handy at all times to take notes and get updates. Finally, give assurance that the project will be completed by the deadline (while giving updates until completion). If an extension is needed, give good, solid reasons why- maybe due to the constant micromanager interruptions.
3. A colleague claims your idea as his own. 30 pts.
How many times has this happened…you are sitting in a meeting and your boss asks for ideas, you want to raise your hand but you are fearful that you will be laughed at or rejected? So after the meeting you tell a co-worker your idea, who then at the next meeting voices the idea as his own and gets all the praise. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do at this point; however, this incident has educated you for the future.
If you become timid when it comes to speaking in a group meeting, provided you know what the agenda items are prior to the meeting, put them in writing in proposal form and give them to the Chair before the meeting or slide them to him during the meeting. Afterall, the worst that will happen is that your idea won’t be used, but the positive is that you voiced your suggestion and no one took it!
So, how do you maintain a cordial working relationship with this ‘thought thief?’ Being the professional that you are, you will continue to be cordial, you have been taught a valuable lesson, learn from it and move on.
4. Criticism and/or negative feedback during a performance review. 50 pts
It’s that time of year again---the dreaded performance review. We need to look at performance reviews from a different perspective. Performance reviews or evaluations are conducted for the sole purpose of letting us know what areas we need to improve or develop our skills. Just as you are prepared for meetings, events, etc. as professionals, we need to be prepared for the performance review. This means bringing a pad and pen and being ready to jot down notes. Is there a certain quality about your supervisor that you admire? For example, my supervisor is great at prioritizing, so I asked her about prioritizing skills. This shows that I am interested in improving and that I am watching her work ethic. Also, this is the perfect time to ask for some professional development training in the areas your supervisor has highlighted you may need improvement. So don’t leave the review mad or angry; leave enlightened.
5. A reprimand/write-up (verbal or written). 100 pts
Dealing with a reprimand is a very unpleasant event. A reprimand is an eye opener that says we need to change or modify behavior. This is going to be a big challenge to your professionalism because emotions tend to overcome our logic. Leave emotions outside of the room.
There is a three step process in dealing with a reprimand effectively. The best way to deal with a reprimand is to accept the notification. It doesn’t matter if you don’t sign it, you must acknowledge the fact that you made a mistake, for whatever reason, and then devise a strategy to not allow it to happen again. Then ask for suggestions or recommendations about how to avoid this situation in the future. Be open to suggestions. Finally, the third step is to provide feedback. Apologize for your actions and assure everyone involved that you will work on your behavior. This test has the most points because it may be the most difficult test of our professionalism.
There may be instances when the same test may be administered in one day, such as the test of the rude co-workers or customers. Take off ½ points if you have a negative reaction than what was suggested. For example, if you were angry at your supervisor for the feedback you received from the performance review (and it showed) you would score 25 points. Then for the next review you need to work on your emotions, so that you can score 50 points.
It is important to remember that any irrational moves or reactions to any of the tests could have a detrimental affect on your career and reputation. Think first, and then react.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
4 Ways to do a Midday Power Up
It’s 3 o’clock and your sitting at your computer with heavy eyes, slow fingers, and slightly blurred vision. You are ready to curl up under the desk, grab a pillow and take a much needed nap, but wait, you are at work and your boss would not approve of such behavior! This feeling usually occurs 1 to 2 hours after lunch. Here are four ways to give you an energy boost for the home stretch:
1. Take a short walk.
Nothing wakes you up quicker than a walk through the building or if you can, outside to get some air. Organize your visits to other offices or departments during the time of the day when you affected by the “power down” so that you can get the boost you need to finish the day.
2. Stand up and stretch.
If you can’t leave your desk, stand up and do a 30-second stretch to get the circulation flowing –if your boss doesn’t mind the wild arm motions (try not to make the noises though).
3. Listen to upbeat music.
Depending on what your office environment is like, listen to your favorite singer or band. If you can, pat your feet to the beat or bob your head to the music. Be tactful; don’t act like you are ready to be on Dancing with the Stars!
4. Have a midday snack.
Qualityhealth.com suggests the following snack foods to get you going for the remainder of the day.
Dried fruit. These high-energy, low-fat snacks are easy to pack and almost never go bad. Try a medley of apricots, figs, and raisins. However, be aware that some commercially packaged dried fruits contain sulfur dioxide, which has been shown to increase your risk of asthma.
Almonds. Ounce-for-ounce, this is the most nutrient-dense nut. Research has shown that adding two ounces of almonds to your daily diet increases your intake of vitamin-E and magnesium.
Yogurt. Quick, easy, and delicious, yogurt is available in a variety flavors. One cup of low-fat yogurt contains almost 13 grams of protein and 17 grams of carbohydrates-just what you need for great energy.
Coffee, energy drinks and bars, are not a very good source of energy because very soon you will come down from the “caffeine fix” and be more sluggish than you were. Eliminate the feeling of walking in mud and perform a midday “Power Up” - you will be more productive and more alert at the end of the workday.
1. Take a short walk.
Nothing wakes you up quicker than a walk through the building or if you can, outside to get some air. Organize your visits to other offices or departments during the time of the day when you affected by the “power down” so that you can get the boost you need to finish the day.
2. Stand up and stretch.
If you can’t leave your desk, stand up and do a 30-second stretch to get the circulation flowing –if your boss doesn’t mind the wild arm motions (try not to make the noises though).
3. Listen to upbeat music.
Depending on what your office environment is like, listen to your favorite singer or band. If you can, pat your feet to the beat or bob your head to the music. Be tactful; don’t act like you are ready to be on Dancing with the Stars!
4. Have a midday snack.
Qualityhealth.com suggests the following snack foods to get you going for the remainder of the day.
Dried fruit. These high-energy, low-fat snacks are easy to pack and almost never go bad. Try a medley of apricots, figs, and raisins. However, be aware that some commercially packaged dried fruits contain sulfur dioxide, which has been shown to increase your risk of asthma.
Almonds. Ounce-for-ounce, this is the most nutrient-dense nut. Research has shown that adding two ounces of almonds to your daily diet increases your intake of vitamin-E and magnesium.
Yogurt. Quick, easy, and delicious, yogurt is available in a variety flavors. One cup of low-fat yogurt contains almost 13 grams of protein and 17 grams of carbohydrates-just what you need for great energy.
Coffee, energy drinks and bars, are not a very good source of energy because very soon you will come down from the “caffeine fix” and be more sluggish than you were. Eliminate the feeling of walking in mud and perform a midday “Power Up” - you will be more productive and more alert at the end of the workday.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Tax Tip for the Office Professional
It’s that time of year again- tax season! This is the time of year that most people stress over because we are waiting for documents like W2’s, mortgage statements, 1099’s, and other information in order to file taxes.
Here is a tax tip for all office professionals that go above and beyond the call of duty during the year and spend their own money without getting reimbursed.
Tax Tip: Complete a Form 2106 – Employee Business Expenses
This form is used for expenses NOT reimbursed by your employer that you may have incurred throughout the year. Use for the following purchases:
- professional conferences/workshop registration fees
- items purchased for conferences/workshops
- food, hotel room stays, airfare (classified as ‘travel and entertainment)
- mileage used throughout the year traveling for professional purposes (EXCLUDE daily commute to/from work)
- professional subscriptions and dues to professional organizations
- employee union dues
- basically any out-of-pocket expenses related to the job or your profession
These are just a few expenses that can be listed on the Form 2106. Tax season doesn’t have to be a tear jerker. Ask your tax professional about other expenses that you may have incurred that were not reimbursed, you may be surprised and have a little more dough coming back to you.
Here is a tax tip for all office professionals that go above and beyond the call of duty during the year and spend their own money without getting reimbursed.
Tax Tip: Complete a Form 2106 – Employee Business Expenses
This form is used for expenses NOT reimbursed by your employer that you may have incurred throughout the year. Use for the following purchases:
- professional conferences/workshop registration fees
- items purchased for conferences/workshops
- food, hotel room stays, airfare (classified as ‘travel and entertainment)
- mileage used throughout the year traveling for professional purposes (EXCLUDE daily commute to/from work)
- professional subscriptions and dues to professional organizations
- employee union dues
- basically any out-of-pocket expenses related to the job or your profession
These are just a few expenses that can be listed on the Form 2106. Tax season doesn’t have to be a tear jerker. Ask your tax professional about other expenses that you may have incurred that were not reimbursed, you may be surprised and have a little more dough coming back to you.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Do Bad Bosses Breed Bad Bosses?
Have you ever wondered where bad bosses come from? Were they dropped out of a spaceship in the middle of the night or were they brainwashed and conditioned by other bad bosses to continue bad behavior? According to the Association for Psychological Science (2006), the unconscious transmission of actions or emotions from one individual to another is possible. In other words, if someone observes a certain behavior that person is susceptible to behave in the same manner.
Bad bosses come in all shapes and sizes. The following is a list of the top 5 characteristics that make up bad bosses and how you can deal with their behavior.
1. Non-Communicative
Being able to communicate is essential in any setting. Bad bosses like to withhold information from their employees or expect their employees to be mind readers and already know what they’re supposed to know.
How to deal with it: If you work with someone who does not like to share information or it seems as you are left in the dark, ask questions. Get the individual to talk to you by you talking to them. Don’t wait around the water cooler, listening to the rumor mill. Be proactive and get a dialogue established with your boss.
2. “Rules with an iron fist.”Some bad bosses believe that what they say goes and there is no room for negotiation. They are close-minded and do not believe in change or that there is a better way to do things.
How to deal with it: These types of managers believe in facts and statistics. Show them the benefits to changing or revising a procedure and explain how the company and your department will be more productive. If possible submit the plan in writing.
3. Unorganized.
So your boss approaches you at 4:50 p.m. and tells you that he needs a report by 10 a.m. tomorrow for a meeting at 10:30 a.m. and you don’t arrive until 9 a.m. This is not a simple report and you will probably need to come in early to have it completed on time. This is frustrating because you have other projects you need to accomplish and you don’t like working last minute.
How to deal with it: If you keep your bosses calendar, you can ask him ahead of time if he needs anything in particular for the meeting or if you know the agenda you can suggest information your boss can take to the meeting and have it prepared. If this occurs frequently and you are unaware of your bosses calendar, then during your next staff meeting or performance review politely express your concern that you would prefer to receive tasks and projects ahead of time so that documents can be fully prepared and reviewed before being presented to a group, especially upper management. Again, explain the benefits to requesting projects ahead of time and put it in writing. Sometimes emergencies occur and can’t be helped so determine how frequently your boss makes these requests and make necessary suggestions on how you and he can be more productive and efficient.
4. Lack of trust.
These are the micromanagers; they don’t trust their employees to do the job or that the task will be done properly. These kinds of managers want proof that you will do the job effectively.
How to deal with it: In this situation you must prove that you are capable of completing the task and don’t need someone standing over your shoulder. As tasks or projects are assigned, give 110% attention, check and double check for accuracy. Remember micromanagers seek out “micromistakes,” so if there is a comma or number out of place or missing, you will have to start over in establishing trust.
5. Opposed/resistant to the professional development of their employees.
Have you ever asked your supervisor to pay for a training or workshop that would enhance your professional or personal development only to get rejected saying there just wasn’t enough money in the budget?
How to deal with it: Provide written materials and information about the training or workshop you wish to attend. Include how the company and your department will benefit by investing in you – their most valuable asset. If the manager insists that the budget is tight, suggest that you would pay half of the cost; this will show the manager that you are willing to invest in yourself. If that doesn’t work, think about paying for the training out of your own pocket and then show your boss how effective and productive you are afterwards by using what you learned. Then the next time you wish to attend a training, they may more open to paying the costs for you attend because they will know how beneficial the last training was for the you and the company.
We know that bad bosses don’t miraculously drop out of the sky and they weren’t born to be bad – they were made. Unfortunately, behavior can be contagious (good and bad) and most times we don’t realize we have “inherited” such behavior. The best philosophy to live by is, “treat others as you would like to be treated.”
Wang, S. (2006). Contagious behavior. Association for Psychological Science. Retrieved February 2, 2010 from http://www.psychologicalscience.org/observer/getArticle.cfm?id=1931
Bad bosses come in all shapes and sizes. The following is a list of the top 5 characteristics that make up bad bosses and how you can deal with their behavior.
1. Non-Communicative
Being able to communicate is essential in any setting. Bad bosses like to withhold information from their employees or expect their employees to be mind readers and already know what they’re supposed to know.
How to deal with it: If you work with someone who does not like to share information or it seems as you are left in the dark, ask questions. Get the individual to talk to you by you talking to them. Don’t wait around the water cooler, listening to the rumor mill. Be proactive and get a dialogue established with your boss.
2. “Rules with an iron fist.”Some bad bosses believe that what they say goes and there is no room for negotiation. They are close-minded and do not believe in change or that there is a better way to do things.
How to deal with it: These types of managers believe in facts and statistics. Show them the benefits to changing or revising a procedure and explain how the company and your department will be more productive. If possible submit the plan in writing.
3. Unorganized.
So your boss approaches you at 4:50 p.m. and tells you that he needs a report by 10 a.m. tomorrow for a meeting at 10:30 a.m. and you don’t arrive until 9 a.m. This is not a simple report and you will probably need to come in early to have it completed on time. This is frustrating because you have other projects you need to accomplish and you don’t like working last minute.
How to deal with it: If you keep your bosses calendar, you can ask him ahead of time if he needs anything in particular for the meeting or if you know the agenda you can suggest information your boss can take to the meeting and have it prepared. If this occurs frequently and you are unaware of your bosses calendar, then during your next staff meeting or performance review politely express your concern that you would prefer to receive tasks and projects ahead of time so that documents can be fully prepared and reviewed before being presented to a group, especially upper management. Again, explain the benefits to requesting projects ahead of time and put it in writing. Sometimes emergencies occur and can’t be helped so determine how frequently your boss makes these requests and make necessary suggestions on how you and he can be more productive and efficient.
4. Lack of trust.
These are the micromanagers; they don’t trust their employees to do the job or that the task will be done properly. These kinds of managers want proof that you will do the job effectively.
How to deal with it: In this situation you must prove that you are capable of completing the task and don’t need someone standing over your shoulder. As tasks or projects are assigned, give 110% attention, check and double check for accuracy. Remember micromanagers seek out “micromistakes,” so if there is a comma or number out of place or missing, you will have to start over in establishing trust.
5. Opposed/resistant to the professional development of their employees.
Have you ever asked your supervisor to pay for a training or workshop that would enhance your professional or personal development only to get rejected saying there just wasn’t enough money in the budget?
How to deal with it: Provide written materials and information about the training or workshop you wish to attend. Include how the company and your department will benefit by investing in you – their most valuable asset. If the manager insists that the budget is tight, suggest that you would pay half of the cost; this will show the manager that you are willing to invest in yourself. If that doesn’t work, think about paying for the training out of your own pocket and then show your boss how effective and productive you are afterwards by using what you learned. Then the next time you wish to attend a training, they may more open to paying the costs for you attend because they will know how beneficial the last training was for the you and the company.
We know that bad bosses don’t miraculously drop out of the sky and they weren’t born to be bad – they were made. Unfortunately, behavior can be contagious (good and bad) and most times we don’t realize we have “inherited” such behavior. The best philosophy to live by is, “treat others as you would like to be treated.”
Wang, S. (2006). Contagious behavior. Association for Psychological Science. Retrieved February 2, 2010 from http://www.psychologicalscience.org/observer/getArticle.cfm?id=1931
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Are you Ga Ga For Google?
Google is an office professional’s best friend. I remember the days when you could use Google as a search engine only. Now Google can help you do things like……
Google Docs – Create and share your online documents, presentations and spreadsheets
Google Voice- Don’t have time to listen to voicemails? Have them transcribed and delivered to your Google account and read them online. Yes, you can listen to voicemails as well. Note: you must receive an invitation from Google or someone who already has this FREE service. If you want more information, let me know by posting a comment to this article.
Google Maps – Go anywhere in the world from your office! View buildings in 3D, satellite imagery, maps, and terrain. I saw my house!
Google Desktop – Personalize your desktop with some fun and helpful widgets that get you through the day (ie. weather, jokes, news, etc.)
GOOG-411 –Find and get phone numbers, addresses, etc for businesses
iGoogle – personalize your homepage with things you can use (games, weather, horoscopes, tips for the day, to do lists, calendar, and for you sports fans get updates of scores from your favorite sports games).
Google Health – organize your medical records, prescriptions, etc. online
Don't have time to look at your computer, get Google on your cellphone! By the way, don’t forget to use Google as a search engine…these services are just the tip of the iceberg. Want more got to http://www.google.com/options/. Google has revolutionized the internet; I think that Google is going to be up there with Twitter, the term will be called "Googling." I even look forward to the different holiday themes that the word ‘Google’ will have on the search engine page. Are you Googling?
Google Docs – Create and share your online documents, presentations and spreadsheets
Google Voice- Don’t have time to listen to voicemails? Have them transcribed and delivered to your Google account and read them online. Yes, you can listen to voicemails as well. Note: you must receive an invitation from Google or someone who already has this FREE service. If you want more information, let me know by posting a comment to this article.
Google Maps – Go anywhere in the world from your office! View buildings in 3D, satellite imagery, maps, and terrain. I saw my house!
Google Desktop – Personalize your desktop with some fun and helpful widgets that get you through the day (ie. weather, jokes, news, etc.)
GOOG-411 –Find and get phone numbers, addresses, etc for businesses
iGoogle – personalize your homepage with things you can use (games, weather, horoscopes, tips for the day, to do lists, calendar, and for you sports fans get updates of scores from your favorite sports games).
Google Health – organize your medical records, prescriptions, etc. online
Don't have time to look at your computer, get Google on your cellphone! By the way, don’t forget to use Google as a search engine…these services are just the tip of the iceberg. Want more got to http://www.google.com/options/. Google has revolutionized the internet; I think that Google is going to be up there with Twitter, the term will be called "Googling." I even look forward to the different holiday themes that the word ‘Google’ will have on the search engine page. Are you Googling?
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
A New Resolution for the New Year
Each New Year’s Eve the same resolutions are made, “I will go on a diet.” “I will find a new job.” “I will save some money.” But what happens at the end of the year? We have gained more weight than we lost or didn’t loose any at all, we are still in the same job, or we are broke! According to Proactive Change, research shows that 46% of resolutions that are made at the beginning of the year are maintained after 6 months into the year. New Year’s resolutions should be regarded as goals. Below are some ways to set “goalsolutions” and how you will go about achieving them by December 31.
1. Start small.
If you want to loose 20 pounds, set small goals like change your eating habits, park farther from the store entrance, or reduce your serving portions. If you want to find a new job, first set the goal of updating your resume. Do you need to review interview techniques? Small building blocks will create large impacts on your goal setting.
2. Be consistent.
So many of us decide in February that since we haven’t accomplished the goal set on January 1, it is hopeless, be consistent and persistent and refer back to your goals often. If something isn’t working, decide what other options are available, does your goal need a sub-goal?
3. Set goals that are manageable and attainable.
Using the weight loss example because it is so popular, it is not realistic or healthy to drastically change eating habits and join a health club and workout like a vigilante and expect to loose 20 pounds in 2 months. This is where the goal needs a sub-goal…..respectfully 2 pounds per month is doable so you would be looking to loose weight in 10 months.
4. Re-evaluate your goals often.
Don’t wait until October and notice that your goals haven’t been met. Write your goals down and refer back to them often; you may have to change your focus or create a new sub-goal.
Need help in organizing your “goalsolutions” and ideas? Visit http://www.goalenforcer.com/ for a free planning software download that will electronically organize and map your goals.
Proactive Change. (2009). Research: Statistics on New Year’s resolutions. http://www.proactivechange.com/resolutions/statistics.htm
1. Start small.
If you want to loose 20 pounds, set small goals like change your eating habits, park farther from the store entrance, or reduce your serving portions. If you want to find a new job, first set the goal of updating your resume. Do you need to review interview techniques? Small building blocks will create large impacts on your goal setting.
2. Be consistent.
So many of us decide in February that since we haven’t accomplished the goal set on January 1, it is hopeless, be consistent and persistent and refer back to your goals often. If something isn’t working, decide what other options are available, does your goal need a sub-goal?
3. Set goals that are manageable and attainable.
Using the weight loss example because it is so popular, it is not realistic or healthy to drastically change eating habits and join a health club and workout like a vigilante and expect to loose 20 pounds in 2 months. This is where the goal needs a sub-goal…..respectfully 2 pounds per month is doable so you would be looking to loose weight in 10 months.
4. Re-evaluate your goals often.
Don’t wait until October and notice that your goals haven’t been met. Write your goals down and refer back to them often; you may have to change your focus or create a new sub-goal.
Need help in organizing your “goalsolutions” and ideas? Visit http://www.goalenforcer.com/ for a free planning software download that will electronically organize and map your goals.
Proactive Change. (2009). Research: Statistics on New Year’s resolutions. http://www.proactivechange.com/resolutions/statistics.htm
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Take the “Jingle” out of Holiday Stress
Are you planning the holiday party in your office? Don’t know what to get your boss or co-workers for the staff grab bag? Or are you stressed just thinking about the holidays? These events can cause undue stress because the pressure is on for the event to be as successful, the gift to be appreciated, or even for you to have some quality relaxation time. Here are a few ways to ‘deck the halls’ and have a worry free holiday.
1. Don’t go it alone.
Form a committee, then within the committee form subcommittees for activities throughout the event. If you are planning the holiday party, there will be food, entertainment, gift giveaways, and possible employee awards and recognition. Have a sub-committee for the catering/venue (if the event is not going to be held at the company), another sub-committee would be for entertainment. I know a company that has each department come up with a holiday routine as entertainment. So, sub-committees would be helpful to ease some of the stress and incorporate organization and proper planning for the holiday party.
2. Have FUN!
Yes, this is a party for the company and possibly clients and/or customers will be invited so your goal is for it to be successful, remember to have FUN; have a good time in preparing and planning the event! This is a chance for you and your committee to be creative. Brainstorm ideas and get the creative juices flowing!
3. Use your days off during the holidays to relax.
Use your off to your advantage. Take a min-vacation or have a “stay-cation.” If you can’t travel, stay home and rest, relax, and rejuvenate. Make time for yourself! Spend an hour or two during the day doing what you like. Do you like to shop for bargains? Read a good book. Catch up on episodes of soap operas. Whatever relaxes you - go for it! So that means refrain from checking email, or other tasks that are work related, it the holidays...enjoy!
4. Keep gift giving simple.
Many companies have grab bags or an exchange of gifts during the holiday season. Some will even put a limit on how much to spend. Depending on the amount, gift cards are a great choice. They are easy, no lengthy shopping is involved like what does this person like, what is his or her favorite color, or what size is this person. If the dollar limit if $5, a gift card to the local coffee shop is appropriate. Even if the recipient doesn’t drink coffee, there are other items that can be purchased such as smoothies, sweet snacks, or teas.
These are just a few ways to save yourself some holiday anguish! Be thankful, be safe, and have a happy holiday season!
1. Don’t go it alone.
Form a committee, then within the committee form subcommittees for activities throughout the event. If you are planning the holiday party, there will be food, entertainment, gift giveaways, and possible employee awards and recognition. Have a sub-committee for the catering/venue (if the event is not going to be held at the company), another sub-committee would be for entertainment. I know a company that has each department come up with a holiday routine as entertainment. So, sub-committees would be helpful to ease some of the stress and incorporate organization and proper planning for the holiday party.
2. Have FUN!
Yes, this is a party for the company and possibly clients and/or customers will be invited so your goal is for it to be successful, remember to have FUN; have a good time in preparing and planning the event! This is a chance for you and your committee to be creative. Brainstorm ideas and get the creative juices flowing!
3. Use your days off during the holidays to relax.
Use your off to your advantage. Take a min-vacation or have a “stay-cation.” If you can’t travel, stay home and rest, relax, and rejuvenate. Make time for yourself! Spend an hour or two during the day doing what you like. Do you like to shop for bargains? Read a good book. Catch up on episodes of soap operas. Whatever relaxes you - go for it! So that means refrain from checking email, or other tasks that are work related, it the holidays...enjoy!
4. Keep gift giving simple.
Many companies have grab bags or an exchange of gifts during the holiday season. Some will even put a limit on how much to spend. Depending on the amount, gift cards are a great choice. They are easy, no lengthy shopping is involved like what does this person like, what is his or her favorite color, or what size is this person. If the dollar limit if $5, a gift card to the local coffee shop is appropriate. Even if the recipient doesn’t drink coffee, there are other items that can be purchased such as smoothies, sweet snacks, or teas.
These are just a few ways to save yourself some holiday anguish! Be thankful, be safe, and have a happy holiday season!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
What Are You Thankful For?
The holidays are quickly approaching and this is the time of year when we reflect on our successes and goals and also begin thinking about what we can do to reach the next level the following year. Admittedly, this year has been challenging- economically and environmentally. Some have lost jobs, didn’t get promotions or pay raises, or lost funding due to employer budget cuts. If you have been a victim to any
or all of the above, you’re wondering, ‘what do I have to be thankful for?’
Here are a few things to think about, can you relate?
1. I am thankful that I have my “workplace mental health”.
We all know how difficult it can be to maintain a realm of sanity in the workplace when the phone is constantly ringing, clients are popping in and out of the office, a project is due, and you have a supervisor who is behaving like a ‘helicopter mom.’ In order to maintain workplace mental health(yes, workplace mental health- home mental health is a totally different subject) Some ways to maintain workplace
mental health are: take breaks, meditate, and get organized in order to stay productive. Your day will go smoother, you will be more focused, and your boss will hover away (hopefully)!
2. I am thankful for the relationships I have created through my membership with professional organizations.
I have had the pleasure of meeting some dynamic individuals who have made an influence on my life personally and professionally. Do you need someone to talk to during the day when you are stressed? Or do you have a question, call a member! Believe me, it is the best form of release therapy! My advice is to grab a member and
become a mentor or get mentored! Tap into each others brains.
3. I am thankful for the new skills I have received and the old skills I have improved.
I have attended many seminars and workshops which have given me new insights. So you can’t attend every workshop or seminar, surf the internet, there are many FREE programs available online at sites like HP Learning Center and Microsoft. Not only are you improving your skills and adding to your resume, you are making
yourself more indispensable and an asset to your company or the next one. The other alternative to the internet is - pick up a book! My favorites are the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, Messages: The Communications Skills Book by Dr. Matthew McKay, and Become an Inner Circle Assistant by Joan Burge.
4. I am thankful for the honors and acknowledgments I have received this year.
This was a very busy year for me. Finally, after 16 years, I received a Bachelors Degree in Psychology. Shortly thereafter, I received the IAAP Member of Excellence and the CAP certification. My philosophy is better late than never! If you’re like me, once you reach a goal there is a sense of fulfillment and completion (or at least until the next goal is reached). So, set a goal for an achievement, the feeling of accomplishment is as blissful as receiving the award.
So what are you thankful for? Post your comment.
or all of the above, you’re wondering, ‘what do I have to be thankful for?’
Here are a few things to think about, can you relate?
1. I am thankful that I have my “workplace mental health”.
We all know how difficult it can be to maintain a realm of sanity in the workplace when the phone is constantly ringing, clients are popping in and out of the office, a project is due, and you have a supervisor who is behaving like a ‘helicopter mom.’ In order to maintain workplace mental health(yes, workplace mental health- home mental health is a totally different subject) Some ways to maintain workplace
mental health are: take breaks, meditate, and get organized in order to stay productive. Your day will go smoother, you will be more focused, and your boss will hover away (hopefully)!
2. I am thankful for the relationships I have created through my membership with professional organizations.
I have had the pleasure of meeting some dynamic individuals who have made an influence on my life personally and professionally. Do you need someone to talk to during the day when you are stressed? Or do you have a question, call a member! Believe me, it is the best form of release therapy! My advice is to grab a member and
become a mentor or get mentored! Tap into each others brains.
3. I am thankful for the new skills I have received and the old skills I have improved.
I have attended many seminars and workshops which have given me new insights. So you can’t attend every workshop or seminar, surf the internet, there are many FREE programs available online at sites like HP Learning Center and Microsoft. Not only are you improving your skills and adding to your resume, you are making
yourself more indispensable and an asset to your company or the next one. The other alternative to the internet is - pick up a book! My favorites are the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, Messages: The Communications Skills Book by Dr. Matthew McKay, and Become an Inner Circle Assistant by Joan Burge.
4. I am thankful for the honors and acknowledgments I have received this year.
This was a very busy year for me. Finally, after 16 years, I received a Bachelors Degree in Psychology. Shortly thereafter, I received the IAAP Member of Excellence and the CAP certification. My philosophy is better late than never! If you’re like me, once you reach a goal there is a sense of fulfillment and completion (or at least until the next goal is reached). So, set a goal for an achievement, the feeling of accomplishment is as blissful as receiving the award.
So what are you thankful for? Post your comment.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Elevate Your Elevator Speech
Imagine being in an elevator with someone you would really like to get to know and whom you would like to know about you. Depending on what floor you are traveling to, your journey will be short so your introduction should be the same- short and too the point.
The term elevator speech is used when giving someone information about you because just as if you were in elevator, you would only have a minute to give pertinent information about yourself- the length of time you would be in an elevator.
Good elevator speeches contain the following:
Your name and job title
The company you work for
What your company does
Your latest achievement or accolade whether personal or professional.
An exchange of business cards
Here’s an example from someone who is employed as a sales representative from a company that sells crystal products.
Hi, my name is Kim Harwood. I work for Crystal Palace a company that sells prime crystal products. Here is my business card. I would be more than happy to assist you in your needs to make purchases. We recently were awarded Business of the Year by Businessweek.
Short, sweet, and to the point! Try to exchange business cards so that you can follow-up with the person you met at a later date. This is a great way to build your network, improve your communication skills, and even build relationships that would later produce sales for your company.
The term elevator speech is used when giving someone information about you because just as if you were in elevator, you would only have a minute to give pertinent information about yourself- the length of time you would be in an elevator.
Good elevator speeches contain the following:
Your name and job title
The company you work for
What your company does
Your latest achievement or accolade whether personal or professional.
An exchange of business cards
Here’s an example from someone who is employed as a sales representative from a company that sells crystal products.
Hi, my name is Kim Harwood. I work for Crystal Palace a company that sells prime crystal products. Here is my business card. I would be more than happy to assist you in your needs to make purchases. We recently were awarded Business of the Year by Businessweek.
Short, sweet, and to the point! Try to exchange business cards so that you can follow-up with the person you met at a later date. This is a great way to build your network, improve your communication skills, and even build relationships that would later produce sales for your company.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Guest Blogger: David B. Wright, Author
So You've Got the Job Interview - Now What?
You've sent out dozens, or maybe even hundreds, of resumes and cover letters. You've posted your resume on all the top job boards plus the various industry-focused and niche job sites related to your type of work. You've been networking your little tail off. And you've been following all the best career advice and job search tips you've read, heard, learned, and developed. This morning the phone rang - you've got an interview! And better yet, it's for a dream job in an exciting company!
Now what? Obviously you really want the job, and to get this job, you've got to really shine in the interview. Your resume & cover letter have done their jobs, and have piqued the employer's interest - now your job is to make it as easy as possible for them to decide to offer you the job. And you know, deep inside, that the plain old boring Question & Answer interview just isn't going to work well enough - this is a great opportunity for you, and you've got to really stand out.
Part of the good news is that a lot of the other candidates for the job will probably use the same old boring approach to the job interview that they've read about in the same old books, and they're fully prepared to answer such esoteric but oh-so-crucial questions as, "if you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?" Of course, you're going to take a different approach. Though you'll be prepared to answer questions, you'll have plenty of your own questions to ask, based on the research you've already done about that particular company, their competitors, and industry trends.
Here are some ideas that can really make your first interview different and stand out from the typical interview. They take a bit of extra work and preparation, but then again doesn’t exceptional performance require a little something extra? If you should choose to use one of these methods, and use it regularly in interviews, you may find portions that you can ‘recycle’ with different companies, but of course some degree of customization will be required. Then again, using this method may result in you not having to use it very many times as it has been known to lead to job offers in a very short time.
Treat the interview as your first day on the job – come in prepared to show what you can do. If you are interviewing for a sales position, prepare a sales presentation targeting one of their clients or prospects; for marketing come up with a marketing plan for them. If it is a project management position, prepare a project status review presentation or the like…you get the idea.
Solve a real problem that you would be expected to face on the job – Ask the hiring manager to spell out a real problem that she would want you to handle if you were hired, then show how you would solve the problem. Even if the solution you give isn’t perfect, it really helps you stand out because you’re going out on a limb to prove your abilities, not just saying what you can do without backing it up.
Give a presentation on what benefits you bring to the company - Especially in a group interview setting, this can be a good way to showcase your presentation skills – something often difficult to really do in a traditional interview. To prepare this, think in detail about how you can really contribute to the organization. Can you bring in new business, improve operating efficiency, reduce costs, help build the strategy that will form the company’s future? Help them better leverage partners and suppliers? More effectively analyze information that can be used to develop new product or service offerings? Help them attract and retain top talent? Protect their investment in physical or data assets? A large part of this depends on the role you are looking for, but don’t limit your thinking to a job description. Of course you can use the job description as a framework. Most of the benefits you offer to bring to the company should be focused on the requirements of the job for which you’re applying.
Structure: This is like an elaborate version of your résumé, perhaps most easily done in
PowerPoint. It, like many other presentations, is used for 2 main purposes – to inform and to sell. You are informing the company about yourself, your background, your skills, and so while proving to them that you can give a presentation or conduct a business meeting. The selling part is where you are selling yourself – you need to show them why they should invest in you and what sort of return they can expect on that investment. In it, you can highlight key accomplishments, high-profile clients or projects, significant results, pretty much anything you like that would help you stand out to the hiring committee.
Come in with an action plan for the first few months on the job. Even if it doesn’t match up exactly with the company’s plans for this position, it makes an impact and can really showcase the value you can bring to an organization. Frankly, most candidates for a job don’t do this, so it can really set you apart by showing that you’ve really put thought and effort into planning for your meeting with this company. This method is particularly effective for leadership / management positions.
With any of these techniques, of course you want to prepare the interviewer at the beginning of the meeting. And make sure it fits the time schedule you have. You don’t want to have to rush through it too much – just a few high-impact slides should do the trick. And of course you don’t want to completely control the meeting, or otherwise disregard the other person’s agenda.
At the beginning of the interview, you could say something like, “I’d like to cover a few things in our discussion today. After going through any initial questions we have for each other, I’ve put together an action plan for what I feel I can contribute during my first few months. I understand this may not be 100% reflective of all of the requirements of this position but wanted to give you an idea of what I can offer ABC Company should we reach an agreement for me to join your team.”
Using an approach like this can be very effective and will certainly set you apart from other candidates that are using the same old boring approach they’ve always used.
To your success,
David B. Wright
Author, Get A Job! Your Guide to Making Successful Career Moves
David B. Wright
Author, Get A Job! Your Guide to Making Successful Career Moves
http://www.GetAJobBook.com
Chief Marketing Officer, W3 Group
SEO (Search Engine Optimization), Local Search, Internet Marketing
"We Help You WIN on the Web."
208-545-1241 voice mail / efax
The Job Search Strategist blog
Get A Job! Job Board
You've sent out dozens, or maybe even hundreds, of resumes and cover letters. You've posted your resume on all the top job boards plus the various industry-focused and niche job sites related to your type of work. You've been networking your little tail off. And you've been following all the best career advice and job search tips you've read, heard, learned, and developed. This morning the phone rang - you've got an interview! And better yet, it's for a dream job in an exciting company!
Now what? Obviously you really want the job, and to get this job, you've got to really shine in the interview. Your resume & cover letter have done their jobs, and have piqued the employer's interest - now your job is to make it as easy as possible for them to decide to offer you the job. And you know, deep inside, that the plain old boring Question & Answer interview just isn't going to work well enough - this is a great opportunity for you, and you've got to really stand out.
Part of the good news is that a lot of the other candidates for the job will probably use the same old boring approach to the job interview that they've read about in the same old books, and they're fully prepared to answer such esoteric but oh-so-crucial questions as, "if you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?" Of course, you're going to take a different approach. Though you'll be prepared to answer questions, you'll have plenty of your own questions to ask, based on the research you've already done about that particular company, their competitors, and industry trends.
Here are some ideas that can really make your first interview different and stand out from the typical interview. They take a bit of extra work and preparation, but then again doesn’t exceptional performance require a little something extra? If you should choose to use one of these methods, and use it regularly in interviews, you may find portions that you can ‘recycle’ with different companies, but of course some degree of customization will be required. Then again, using this method may result in you not having to use it very many times as it has been known to lead to job offers in a very short time.
Treat the interview as your first day on the job – come in prepared to show what you can do. If you are interviewing for a sales position, prepare a sales presentation targeting one of their clients or prospects; for marketing come up with a marketing plan for them. If it is a project management position, prepare a project status review presentation or the like…you get the idea.
Solve a real problem that you would be expected to face on the job – Ask the hiring manager to spell out a real problem that she would want you to handle if you were hired, then show how you would solve the problem. Even if the solution you give isn’t perfect, it really helps you stand out because you’re going out on a limb to prove your abilities, not just saying what you can do without backing it up.
Give a presentation on what benefits you bring to the company - Especially in a group interview setting, this can be a good way to showcase your presentation skills – something often difficult to really do in a traditional interview. To prepare this, think in detail about how you can really contribute to the organization. Can you bring in new business, improve operating efficiency, reduce costs, help build the strategy that will form the company’s future? Help them better leverage partners and suppliers? More effectively analyze information that can be used to develop new product or service offerings? Help them attract and retain top talent? Protect their investment in physical or data assets? A large part of this depends on the role you are looking for, but don’t limit your thinking to a job description. Of course you can use the job description as a framework. Most of the benefits you offer to bring to the company should be focused on the requirements of the job for which you’re applying.
Structure: This is like an elaborate version of your résumé, perhaps most easily done in
PowerPoint. It, like many other presentations, is used for 2 main purposes – to inform and to sell. You are informing the company about yourself, your background, your skills, and so while proving to them that you can give a presentation or conduct a business meeting. The selling part is where you are selling yourself – you need to show them why they should invest in you and what sort of return they can expect on that investment. In it, you can highlight key accomplishments, high-profile clients or projects, significant results, pretty much anything you like that would help you stand out to the hiring committee.
Come in with an action plan for the first few months on the job. Even if it doesn’t match up exactly with the company’s plans for this position, it makes an impact and can really showcase the value you can bring to an organization. Frankly, most candidates for a job don’t do this, so it can really set you apart by showing that you’ve really put thought and effort into planning for your meeting with this company. This method is particularly effective for leadership / management positions.
With any of these techniques, of course you want to prepare the interviewer at the beginning of the meeting. And make sure it fits the time schedule you have. You don’t want to have to rush through it too much – just a few high-impact slides should do the trick. And of course you don’t want to completely control the meeting, or otherwise disregard the other person’s agenda.
At the beginning of the interview, you could say something like, “I’d like to cover a few things in our discussion today. After going through any initial questions we have for each other, I’ve put together an action plan for what I feel I can contribute during my first few months. I understand this may not be 100% reflective of all of the requirements of this position but wanted to give you an idea of what I can offer ABC Company should we reach an agreement for me to join your team.”
Using an approach like this can be very effective and will certainly set you apart from other candidates that are using the same old boring approach they’ve always used.
To your success,
David B. Wright
Author, Get A Job! Your Guide to Making Successful Career Moves
David B. Wright
Author, Get A Job! Your Guide to Making Successful Career Moves
http://www.GetAJobBook.com
Chief Marketing Officer, W3 Group
SEO (Search Engine Optimization), Local Search, Internet Marketing
"We Help You WIN on the Web."
208-545-1241 voice mail / efax
The Job Search Strategist blog
Get A Job! Job Board
Monday, October 26, 2009
10 Scariest Excuses to tell your supervisor when you call off work
In honor of Halloween, here are the top 10 scariest excuses to call off work this week……
1. “In order for me to not go postal on anyone today, I would rather not come in.”
2. “I am looking for a new job.”
3. “I didn’t order food for today’s meeting and I don’t want to be around to see the repercussions.”
4. “I forgot to reserve the meeting space for today’s meeting.”
5. “An urgent message was left for you by your boss yesterday; I am giving it to you now as I am leaving this voice message saying that I won’t be in today.”
6. “My dog ate the report.”
7. “I don’t like Mondays. I realize today is Wednesday.”
8. “I got a new job and the orientation is today.”
9. “I work better from home.”
10. “Today’s episode of All My Children is supposed to be really good.”
Got anymore? Post them in the ‘comments’ section of this post.
1. “In order for me to not go postal on anyone today, I would rather not come in.”
2. “I am looking for a new job.”
3. “I didn’t order food for today’s meeting and I don’t want to be around to see the repercussions.”
4. “I forgot to reserve the meeting space for today’s meeting.”
5. “An urgent message was left for you by your boss yesterday; I am giving it to you now as I am leaving this voice message saying that I won’t be in today.”
6. “My dog ate the report.”
7. “I don’t like Mondays. I realize today is Wednesday.”
8. “I got a new job and the orientation is today.”
9. “I work better from home.”
10. “Today’s episode of All My Children is supposed to be really good.”
Got anymore? Post them in the ‘comments’ section of this post.
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