Reduce interruptions
Suffer fewer interruptions by letting co-workers and team members know when they can “go for it” without checking in with you first. Have people come to you only when they truly require your advice or go-ahead.
Year: 2011
If you had 3 wishes, what would they be?
If you could wave a wand and change things about your job, what would they be? In honor of Administrative Professionals’ Week, April 25-29, we’re sharing a list of the top three wishes that could make a difference in your workplace—and how to take the first steps toward change.
Keep it simple
Help readers grasp your ideas by writing at an eighth-grade level. That’s the level at which most people prefer to read. Read each sentence with this in mind: “How can I say this simpler?”
What’s the best gift you ever received for administrative professionals’ week?
Note to bosses: Thinking of sending flowers or chocolates? Think again. It seems admins would prefer a longer-lasting gift for Administrative Professionals Week (April 25-29 this year), even a plant. But what they really like are the thoughtful, personal thank-you notes that accompany the gifts. Favorite gifts include: “me time” and the money or gift cards to fund it. They appreciate: lunches, dinners, spa visits, theatre tickets, even trips to far-flung places. One reader, a government supervisor of nine admins, has to fund any gifts with his own money. He answered our query with a plea for less expensive ideas. Many admins say that sincere appreciation and recognition throughout the year—not just during Administrative Professionals Week—is what they really want. Even so, they also love: extra time off, cash bonuses and gift cards!
BFF until your BF gets the promotion
When a friend becomes the boss, the power shift can bring on strong emotions and conflict. To avert problems—and to save your friendship—keep emotions out of the way and focus on strengthening your new professional relationship:
Always leave your number
When using voice mail, include your name and phone number, even if you don’t expect a return call. One man left important, lengthy instructions for work to be done during his vacation, but the recipient at the wrong number he had dialed had no way to inform him of his error.
Employees gripe, but they don’t quit
While many people gripe about their jobs from time to time, few are converting words into action. When it comes to hunting for a better position elsewhere, most of us don’t bother, according to a survey by Accenture.
Close down the help desk
If excessive requests to help your former department or a new colleague interfere with your work, politely explain that you need to focus on your duties and suggest other resources.
Boss’s wife wonders: ‘Hey! Who made you the boss of me?’
Question: “At work, my husband is the boss. Everyone in his office thinks he is The Man. He also coaches a softball team, and his players think he’s the greatest. The problem is that when he comes home, he continues to act like a boss. How do I get him to stop this?” —A Wife, Not a Worker
5 simple ways to tune your inbox
Administrative professional Debbie is in search of the magic bullet that will make it easier to archive e-mail—and later find what she needs. While e-mail is a source of productivity, it can also become an out-of-control monster. Tune up your inbox with these tips: