Category: 1-Minute Strategy

When attending a large group meeting, don’t sit with the people from your department or office. If familiar faces surround you, you’re less likely to reach out and make new connections.

Adopt the same strategy at the office that professional organizers advocate to keep homes clutter-free: For every new item you bring in, toss one out. Example: Take a moment to discard old directories and software manuals when the new ones arrive.

If what you’re typing in a Word document doesn’t quite convey your intended meaning, right-click on the word to check for synonyms.

When a co-worker mentions one of your mistakes from the distant past, reply with a simple: “That was then; this is now,” advises business relationships trainer Marlene Chism.

If someone calls to reschedule an appointment, suggest the same day and time one week later. You’ve probably already identified a time when neither party has a recurring meeting, so you can avoid another open-ended round of “When would be good for you.”

When someone hands you a file and begins telling you what he or she wants, maintain eye contact with the person rather than staring at the file. You’ll forge a connection, pick up cues that might not appear on paper (such as urgency) and encourage the person to explain the assignment more thoroughly.

Keep your workstation from resembling your family’s refrigerator door (lost behind photos, artwork and silly magnets). If you want to display a picture or a certificate in your work area, frame it. Items not worth displaying don’t deserve the space in your work area.

People muster more patience when you explain in advance how long something will take. Example: “Since this is the first time I’m making travel arrangements for you, I’ll need to ask five questions to create your profile.”

Reduce back strain when standing in one spot for a long time, such as at the copier, by resting one foot on a slightly higher support.

Develop a code your receptionist can use to alert co-workers and security when a visitor acts suspiciously. Example: “Mr. Flagg called to cancel his appointment, but he wants to reschedule it ASAP.”