Spread the word about office relocation
When the office address changes, ask staff members to include the new information after their signatures on e-mails to their outside contacts: “We’ve moved! Our new location is …”
Year: 2011
Top 8 apps for your BlackBerry
According to New York Times technology writer Bob Tedeschi, these are the top eight apps for making your BlackBerry much more handy—and fun—and they’re all free:
Ask questions in batches
As you move through a workday, note questions as they occur. When you have three or more to discuss with a boss or co-worker, ask for a meeting. You’ll save time and make a great impression.
New Job Disappoints?
Question: “My new job has been very disappointing. I was hired to write communication materials and help support the department, but I seem to have become my boss’s personal assistant…”
Is management right for you?
Question: “I decided to apply for a management job. I expected to receive the same salary as my friend, who has a similar position with another team. When I got the promotion, my new boss didn’t say how much my raise would be. It turns out that I not only make less than my friend, but I also work about 50% more hours. I want to transfer to a different department, but I am not sure how to go about it.”
Beware of interjections
If you’ve worked with someone who greets new assignments with “Oh boy!” or who sighs or mutters, you know those habits undermine image. Don’t be guilty, too. Listen and catch yourself. Ask a friend whether any habits are working against you.
Good news for optimists
Some findings about folks who look on the sunny side, adapted from “Why It’s Smart to Be Optimistic”:
Measure support for ideas before acting
Don’t pursue and idea without strong backing. If only one person favors it, don’t agree to study it or work on it.
How to handle boss’s personal demands without burning bridges
It is stressful when a boss’s demands get out of control, but it does not have to result in burn-out. And you should never be forced to lie for your boss. (Try a simple, “I’m sorry, she is not available.” No need for details.) Keep in mind that extra duties can mean greater learning opportunities and experience for you. Even being given repetitive, low-level tasks can teach you lessons in: attention-to-detail, focus, organization and time management. No doubt, you’re also learning managerial-level skills in prioritizing and setting limits. (For after-hours personal requests, try “I’m sorry, I have plans tonight.”) Doing things beyond the scope of our jobs is how we learn. And remember, it is your job to make your boss look good. Stick to that concept but also make a personal plan to further your own career by building on your new skills—either in your present position or in a new job. For more on regaining control, see Control the Chaos: Become a Hero on the Job While Working Fewer Hours
5 ways to keep track of business cards
“My boss is inundated with business cards,” writes an admin reader. “Some are in Rolodexes, others are loose. But he doesn’t want to weed through and toss old ones. Any ideas on how to organize them?”