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Category: 1-Minute Strategy

When training, context is key

When training someone on a new task, remember to take a step back and explain exactly why it needs to be performed, everything it accomplishes and everything it affects. This will go a long way in helping memory retention and embedding the importance of the skill in the trainee’s consciousness.

Make things patently obvious with a visual

When describing even a simple process, never assume that the recipient of your email or presentation will know exactly what you mean. Adding screen shots (press Ctl + Print Screen in Windows to grab one, then paste it where you wish) is the most effective way to remove all doubt.

Get to know the real them

Having trouble getting along with someone at work? Ask yourself one question: What does this person do for fun outside the office? If you don’t know this one little fact, maybe you need to make more of an effort to see the whole person, not just the part you don’t care for.

Use a personal touch to gain peace of mind

Always take advantage of the Comments field when placing an online order. Add a personal note about the order’s specific importance, and let the vendor know you appreciate their personal attention. Example: “It’s critical that this arrives at our top client’s address by Dec. 15. Thanks so much!”

Beware of overshare

Be mindful of what you tell folks at work, says Alexandra Levit on her blog “Water Cooler Wisdom.” If your medical condition or lifestyle choice truly doesn’t impact your job, then people at work shouldn’t need to know about it. If you must share, “keep your circle of informants small and limited to people you […]

Make a mistake?

When you wrong someone–a colleague, a subordinate, a customer–apologize by doing three things: (1) Without qualifiers, say you’re sorry. (2) Make amends if you can. (3) Explain what you’ll do to make sure the error doesn’t happen again.