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Year: 2011

Money in your pocket

Save money right away with this advice from Jean Chatzky, author of Make Money, Not Excuses: Pause before you buy anything you didn’t intend to buy when entering the store or visiting the web site. Put the item on hold for 24 hours before going back to buy. Money you’ll save by not making one […]

Refuse to be bullied

Question:  “For two years, I have been verbally abused and mistreated by a co-worker.  Her words and actions are more painful than being slapped in the face. This has lowered my self-esteem and left me emotionally scarred. I confronted this woman to find out why she hates me, but she won’t even discuss it. My supervisor says the problem will go away if I ignore it, but that hasn’t helped. I have also spoken to human resources, my pastor, and a therapist. Everyone says I should just leave, but this is the best job I’ve had in 25 years, and I don’t want to give her the satisfaction of pushing me out.  Do you have any suggestions?”  —Down & Depressed

Say what?

When she won the Oscar this year, actress Melissa Leo made the mistake of dropping the F-bomb as part of her speech on live television. Tip: Prior to walking into a room or onto a stage, practice your spiel.

Snag your boss’s ear

Executives have limited time, so be prepared to convey your information quickly and concisely. Before delving into details, ask: “Would you like to hear more?” If the exec says “Yes,” you know you’ll have her undivided attention.

What makes you stand out at work?

Many women struggle to answer the question: What makes you stand out at work? That’s what consultant and author Marcia Reynolds found as she was conducting 360-degree interviews for her executive clients. Tips to help you articulate your worth to your organization:

Adopt a no-gossip policy

Here’s a surefire way from author and trainer Jan Fraser to stop office gossip in its tracks: Post an office-gossip policy that reads: “Is it true?” “Is it kind?” “Is it important?” “If it’s not, then we don’t listen.”

What’s right vs. who’s right

Wanting to be “right” can often take your career in the wrong direction. You become unlikeable. There’s a clear distinction between being an informative and engaging individual (very likeable qualities) and someone who always expresses her opinions as fact and needs to have the last word.

Carving out time for a mindful lunch

We heard a story recently about a woman who transformed her lunch hour. Tired of seeing miserable-looking co-workers during lunchtime, she started a “lunch club” with colleagues. Craft your own “mindful lunch” that involves being with others, walking, being outdoors and eating healthful food.