Category: 1-Minute Strategy

Speed appointment rescheduling by suggesting a day and time, instead of asking when the person would like to start the new meeting. He or she can quickly check the one you offer, instead of searching the entire calendar for an opening.

Teach yourself a new skill. If you haven’t been able to obtain training due to a tight budget, pick up a book and start learning.

The aroma of jasmine, lemon, peppermint and cinnamon can relieve anxiety and cure drowsiness, say researchers at a Japanese cosmetics company. Lavender, sage and cypress can produce a calming effect.

When seeking a solution to an office problem, remember to call on the newest staff members. By being unrestrained by the “how we’ve always done it” mindset, they may point out an option you would have otherwise overlooked.

Want to keep a meeting brief? Don’t sit down to talk if you can complete the discussion in the time it would take to ride an elevator to the top of an office building. Standing for a “huddle” with colleagues helps keep the session brief.

Don’t be surprised if callers are too stunned or confused to respond when you spurt out your standard greeting when answering the phone. (“ThankyouforcallingXYZCompany.ThisisKathy.HowcanIhelpyou?”) Pause, take a breath and speak slowly so the caller can understand you.

When you complete a conversation, mention the other person’s name, which creates a bond and cements the name to memory. “I’ll reserve that conference room for your meeting right now, Tom.”

Always state your position in positive terms. Say, “I’ll have it to you by 8 a.m. tomorrow,” instead of “I can’t get to that until today.” Or say, “I will complete it in two hours,” not “I’ll get to that ASAP.”

Don’t accept “I need this right away” when taking on an assignment. Always ask the person to specify a date and time for you to complete the assignment, or you may be putting unnecessary pressure on yourself.

Make your memos, e-mails and announcements easier to read: Never capitalize entire words and phrases. Why? All-capped words are difficult–and annoying–to read for most people.