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.
If you’re not on a first-name basis with the movers and shakers who can make a difference in your career, make a point to introduce yourself. The right people first need to know who you are.
Signal that you plan to keep it brief. Set up the appointment for a time such as 9:20 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. The irregular time communicates that you don’t plan to take longer than 10 or 15 minutes.
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