Give digital aids a needed rest
As Dianne listens to her iPod, she taps out an e-mail on her iPhone and watches the TV screen—all while walking briskly on a treadmill. But Dianne might be clearer-headed if she went for a run without gadgets.
Category: Career
Pitch your big idea
Jonah’s boss always tells employees to “think outside the box.” But when they do, top executives always turn them down. How can you convince the boss to try your ideas? Start by not selling an innovative big idea. Follow these steps:
Ethics & Workplace Survey
An annual “Ethics & Workplace Survey” by Deloitte reveals that one-third of employed Americans plan to look for a new job once the economy recovers.
Look like a million on a tight budget
Anyone can look put-together and professional with a hefty wallet. But Sandy Dumont, of the Image Architect, knows how to achieve a million-dollar look, even on a shoestring budget. How to build a wardrobe that positively affects your career:
To your health: 3 fixes
Improve these three workplace habits for a healthier you: 1. Stop eating at your desk. 2. Improve your posture. 3. Request a flexible work arrangement.
Can I save my job?
Question: “After many years in the medical field, I suffered an injury that forced me to stop working with patients. I moved into an office job handling insurance claims. I was given three weeks of training and told that I would have time to “fit into the job comfortably.” However, at the end of my 90-day probationary period, I received a terrible evaluation. This has never happened to me before. My supervisor apparently has documented all the times that I required assistance. I viewed this as learning, but she views it as an inability to do the work. I now have two weeks to improve or be fired. This seems unreasonable, but I like this job and want to keep it. What do you suggest?” — Afraid of Failing
Transitioning to the next level: 6 tips
Moving on up can be thorny if you’re not prepared to make the transition from peer to supervisor. David Peck, aka “The Recovering Leader,” offers six points to consider during and after a promotion:
Training tops HR survey
Be ready to tell your manager how you’d like to grow professionally. In a recent survey, nearly half of all human resources managers say their No. 1 focus is continuing education for workers.
Is certification worth pursuing?
Administrative pros looking for a way to stretch their skills often turn toward certification. But do the Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) and Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) ratings help you advance your career? Or command a higher salary? Are they worth the work and cost?
Make worry WORK
“I’m worried the team won’t like my suggestions.” “I’m worried I didn’t give my boss enough time between flights.” “I’m worried they’ll eliminate my position.” Everybody worries sometimes, but too much worrying becomes a mental bad habit that costs time, money and personal sanity. What to do instead? Make worry WORK for you.