What your pet says about your career
Do you prefer cockatoos over cocker spaniels? According to a recent CareerBuilder survey, bird owners are more likely to be admin pros. The survey also revealed:
Year: 2011
Declutter your workstation
Keep your workstation from resembling your family’s refrigerator door (lost behind photos, artwork and silly magnets). If you want to display a picture or a certificate in your work area, frame it. Items not worth displaying don’t deserve the space in your work area.
Fire the liar?
Question: My husband listed a four-year degree on his resume, even though he only has a two-year degree. When he was truthful about his education, he was not getting any interviews, despite having 20 years’ experience. Three weeks ago, he started a new job, but today the HR manager sent him an email saying that the college could not verify his degree. He did attend this school, but left before graduating. My husband is not a liar. He was close to receiving his B.S. degree…
Escape paying for checked bags
These days, tacked-on fees for airline travel can cost more than the actual ticket. But with planning, it’s possible to escape paying for checked bags. Here are a few strategies to consider.
Foster patience
People muster more patience when you explain in advance how long something will take. Example: “Since this is the first time I’m making travel arrangements for you, I’ll need to ask five questions to create your profile.”
Is it first? Or is it 1st?
Which of these is correct? 1. Please book my reservation for Saturday, June 1st. 2. Please book my reservation for Saturday, June first. 3. Please book my reservation for Saturday, June 1.
Watch your back
Reduce back strain when standing in one spot for a long time, such as at the copier, by resting one foot on a slightly higher support.
Perilous pitfalls of texting for business
Do you often text to communicate with colleagues or the boss? If so, keep your professionalism intact. Business communications trainer Barbara Pachter offers these suggestions for making texting suitable for business:
Keep the workplace safe and secure
Develop a code your receptionist can use to alert co-workers and security when a visitor acts suspiciously. Example: “Mr. Flagg called to cancel his appointment, but he wants to reschedule it ASAP.”
Admin top resolutions for 2011
Readers’ top resolutions: 1) Hold fewer, shorter meetings. 2) Get organized. 3) Be more positive: A complaining, negative attitude is so contagious it can be caught over the phone or email.