Question: “A few months after I became a supervisor, my manager “wrote me up” because of conflicts with my employees. These people used to be my peers, and they were upset when I was promoted. Since then, my boss and I have bumped heads over several other issues. She says I can’t take feedback, which is true. I’m currently working on that, because I really want to succeed in this job. Before my promotion, I was regarded as an outstanding performer. I still have the same strong work ethic, and I’m always looking for new ways to be the best. However, I feel that management now doubts my abilities. I would like to be considered for future opportunities, but I don’t know if anyone will trust me to handle more responsibility. How do I recover from these recent setbacks?” Former Superstar
When you, or your boss, have to give a presentation with a strict time limit, you need to have every word down pat to ensure you hit all the key points. The only way to do that is to practice—a lot.
Whether it’s deciding what to eat or what to wear, making decisions drains mental energy, writes Robert C. Pozen. Assistants who free their bosses from having to constantly decide on things can easily become indispensable.
The negativity that flows from workplace whiners can spread “kind of like a cancer,” says Jim Harter. If you’re struggling to remain an optimist in the midst of workplace whiners, try these tactics.
When you start your first job as a manager, don’t rush in and begin changing everything. Instead, get in learning mode, writes Dorothy Tannahill-Moran.
Sharpen your pencils and put on your thinking caps. Here’s a list of “adverse employment actions.” Or maybe not. See if your definition of “adverse” jibes with that of our court system.
Speaking in public can be a nerve-wracking experience for many people. But you can learn to manage your nerves, says Darlene Price, speaking coach and author of Well Said! Presentations and Conversations That Get Results. “Fear is what drives nervousness,” she says.
Winning over your boss and co-workers to “see things your way” is a key component of success. Here are three ways to raise the odds that you’ll get what you want.
Question: Although “Bonnie” is supposed to be my trainer, she will not communicate with me. She works in another location, so I never see her. When I email questions, Bonnie either ignores them or sends back one-word answers. I refuse to talk to her by phone because she is arrogant and rude. After four months in this job, I am not as far along as I should be, because I’m constantly struggling to figure things out on my own. What do you suggest? Abandoned