Be a better networker
Do your homework on the people you’re about to meet. The more knowledge you have ahead of time, the easier it will be to connect with them.
Year: 2011
LOL! Text-speak now in the dictionary
OMG! The Oxford English Dictionary officially approves of the three-letter “word.” Among the entries in its latest edition are a number of expressions that first became popular online but then crossed over into everyday use.
What’s in a name?
Get your readers’ attention in e-mails by using their names. People love to hear or read their names. So, use it early and often in your message.
Perfectly qualified, but rejected anyway
Question: “When I was turned down for a job recently, I was told that another applicant was more qualified. I feel that I was perfect for the position and I don’t see how anyone could have better qualifications. Is it acceptable to ask why I was ‘not qualified’”? — Puzzled Applicant
Lead your peers by stepping back
Before administrative professional Ilja Kraag wrestles for too long with a difficult task at work, she checks in with her peers. “How do you do it?” she asks them. That trait—reaching out to others—is what makes Kraag a natural leader. The org chart may not show it, but Kraag leads her peers by setting the right example.
“Go public” with your career goals
Talk regularly with your boss about your work passions and how you’d like to spend your time. Example: “Here’s what I’d like to be. What sort of experience should I have? How can I prepare myself?”
Cautionary clothing tip
Consider whether you want to be remembered for the colors you wear vs. what you contribute at the office, says communications pro Barbara Pachter.
Build a better team
Identify good team players by looking for experience in sports, clubs and Scouts. Reason: Those activities attract people who are most likely to be courteous, optimistic and enthusiastic.
How can 1 admin keep track of 12 managers?
How can you keep your office organized when a dozen managers refuse to comply with your tracking system? While it may be tempting to punish managers who can’t be bothered to participate in the system you’ve devised—don’t! You’ll risk being seen as the opposite of a team player. Instead, look for a better system. Many admins say they have replaced sign-out sheets, out-of-office boards and meeting room reservation boards with shared electronic calendars such as Outlook’s. Your managers will appreciate it if you can more easily track them down for clients and improve scheduling. Since most managers now have smartphones and access to email 24/7, you can bring e-reminders right to their finger tips, even when they are on the road.
Overcome new-job jitters
Landing a new position at a company can be thrilling, but the opportunity often comes with new-job jitters. What to do when you’re the new kid on the block? Follow these strategies to build your confidence and maximize the moment: