Problem: An administrative assistant works for several Johnny-come-lately bosses who think nothing of showing up late for meetings. What can she do to thwart the rude habit? Some of our readers had solutions:
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.
You’re expecting an afternoon meeting to be stressful and charged with emotion. Should you provide coffee for your boss and the other meeting attendees? Or is all that caffeine likely to do more harm than good?
Network by sharing online content, using the appropriate “share” buttons … Try this radical solution to unproductive meetings … Unhappy with what shows up when you google your name? Build your profile on business social-networking sites … Be explicit when asking for a favor …
Prior to gathering anyone around the conference table, ask yourself or the meeting organizer this important question: “Why are we meeting?” The best meetings let groups do one of three things: brainstorm, solve a problem or make a decision. People need a more tangible goal than simply to “discuss” an issue or listen to progress reports.
Having good manners today is less about using the right fork, and more about showing consideration toward others. Why? Most people won’t notice if you use the wrong fork. But they will notice if you show disrespect toward their time or talent. Ways to show respect for others:
Speaking up in meetings to ask for clarification can be intimidating. But it’s best to summon the courage, especially if you’re the one taking formal minutes or notes. Having a few useful phrases in hand can give you the confidence you need to speak up:
February 21, 2011
Categorized in: Travel
These days, you can be slapped with charges for everything from checked luggage to being on the standby list—services that used to be free. In 2009 alone, airlines collected $7.8 billion in fees. Advice for avoiding airline fees:
January 25, 2011
Categorized in: Meetings
Staffers at design firm Ideo spit out hundreds of new ideas every day—including the ideas for the Apple mouse and the stand-up toothpaste squeeze tube. So if anyone knows how to conduct a brainstorming session, it’s Ideo. One thing that’s evident from looking into one of their conference rooms: You’ve got to get the space right.
January 19, 2011
Categorized in: Travel
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.
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