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Year: 2011

‘Personal portfolio’ or ‘proprietary information’?

Question: “When interviewing for a job, is it okay to bring copies of performance reviews, customer service ratings, or complimentary emails? I have some very favorable comments that might impress an interviewer, but I’m not sure how this would be viewed. Also, I don’t know what would be considered ‘proprietary information’.”  — Puzzled

Avoiding unwanted attention at work

Some of us have had that un­­comfortable moment with a co-worker—an unwelcome ad­­vance, an inappropriate joke, or a colleague who just doesn’t seem to accept your consistent “no’s” to lunch or happy hour invitations. Here are five tips to fend off unwelcome behavior.

Power of volunteerism

Volunteer, if you want to feel better about your life. Generally, people who say they volunteered in the past month–no matter what their age–experience a higher sense of personal well-being, according to a Gallup poll.

The power of just 3 words: “Let’s go see!”

From time to time, people who report to you will bring you problems created by a decision that you made. They may appear exasperated by the pickle you put them in. Your response, in all cases, should be a good-natured invitation for the two of you to go have a look. Use these exact words: β€œLet’s go see!”

The power of gratitude

Create a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re grateful for each day, suggests Jan Fraser, public speaker and author. Scientists who study happiness say that daily process can actually bring happiness into your life.

Losing it … again

Nearly six in 10 Americans (56%) say they have lost their temper due to poor service. Unfortunately, rudeness runs rampant in today’s society, which means it’s even more appreciated by others when you show courtesy, patience and problem-solving ability.

Building rapport

Give employees, customers or internal clients a positive feeling about engaging with you by saying, “I took your suggestion.” Telling them that you valued their ideas enough to use them makes a powerful impact.