Category: 1-Minute Strategy

Solve problems easier by replacing “why” with “how.” That shifts your perspective from the problem to the solution. Example: “Why won’t anyone listen to me?” becomes “How can I persuade people to listen to me?”

According to studies, people who are lighthearted and having fun do better work. Why? Postitive feelings increase oxygen, endorphins and blood flow, which start creative juices flowing and allow for clearer thinking. Some suggestions: Keep fun supplies in the break room, such as Legos, dominoes, Silly Putty and Slinkys. Toss around a beach ball before […]

If you’ve broken the bonds of email slavery and check messages only a couple of times a day, let others know your schedule. Set an automatic response in your email program that tells people, for example, that you will answer all messages by 4:30 p.m.

Send a handwritten card of admiration when your boss wins a promotion. Then when she thanks you, suggest ways you can lend a helping hand for her new position, like tackling stray responsibilities. Focus on how you can help the boss, not your own advancement. That will follow.

Help staff members bond by including photos and short biographies, including hobbies and other personal information, in a team book.

Cluster items on your to-do list by time of day. Identify those you want to finish before 10 a.m., between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and after 2 p.m. These minigoals will help you prioritize your workload and complete key jobs within certain time frames.

If you’re tempted to use humor in your next presentation, make sure it helps illustrate a problem or encourages the audience to embrace your position. If you’re just telling a joke to get a laugh, skip it.

Take the sting out of negative feedback by speaking diplomatically. Instead of saying, “You’re wrong,” say, “Let’s make sure we’re on the right track.” You’ll avoid triggering defensiveness.

If something doesn’t make sense to you, don’t try to fake it. Ask, “What am I missing here?” to prompt the other person to clarify.

Pose a question that requires a response. It softens the approach and involves people in the topic. Then, make eye contact to build trust.