Keep your comments professional, even during a disagreement by avoiding the phrase, “I couldn’t disagree more.” It makes the discussion a personal attack rather than an idea exchange. Instead, say, “I see your point. I also see another side.”
Many of us put on a “game face” when we arrive at the office. However, being superficially conservative has been linked to lower levels of job satisfaction, according to new research.
Do you need someone to watch your young kids while you and your spouse work? There are usually several options for double-income couples to consider. Don’t forget to factor in the dependent care credit (commonly referred to as the “child care credit”).
Google Docs’ Gadgets feature gives its spreadsheets an edge on Excel for some tasks. Users can create animated pie charts, produce QR codes and more. Helen Bradley of PCWorld explains how.
Question: After being promoted to human resources manager, I discovered that I have been assigned to the most toxic division in our agency. The employees here constantly gossip, backbite and complain. I’ve heard that this is why the last HR manager left. I would love to play a major role in “cleaning up” this group, but I have to move carefully. Some of these people have been here more than 15 years and are protected by civil service regulations. Any suggestions? HR Crusader
When times get tough, employers may need to dial back some of the extras. But how do you decide what to cut first—and what should be the last resort? Tip: When other perks are cut, keeping a good pot of coffee in the lunchroom is a way of letting employees know that things aren’t hopeless.
When an executive assistant gains the trust of employees, her desk becomes a “hot spot” of employee activity, where employees go to get answers on most topics related to the company, says Jasmine Freeman.
Employers say the grammar skills of people they hire are getting worse, The Wall Street Journal reports. The culprit: the informality of email, texting and Twitter.
Are you planning a big meeting with lots of moving pieces: catering, handout materials, AV. Wouldn’t it be great to not have to recreate the meeting attendance data from Outlook to do that? Well here’s how you can.
Question: Management keeps ignoring my request for a raise. During a performance review two years ago, I provided documentation of my expanded responsibilities and asked for a pay increase. Although my supervisor said she wasn’t sure if the job changes would justify a raise, she never clearly stated whether she supported my request or not. I sent her several follow-up emails, but got no response. Last year, I was transferred to another department. I sent my new supervisor an email requesting an increase, but he never replied. Recently, I sent another email expressing disappointment in the complete lack of feedback about my previous requests. Again, no answer. Apparently, management won’t even take the time to officially reject my request. This feels like a slap in the face. How should I react? Unacknowledged