Set A, B & C goals
Set A, B and C goals for yourself, and have your boss buy in to the plan. The A, B, C strategy comes from Kevin Eikenberry, writer of the “Leadership & Learning” blog.
Frozen out by previously jovial co-worker
Question: “One of my co-workers seldom talks to me anymore. She used to joke and laugh all the time. When I ask, ‘What’s the matter?’ she says, ‘Nothing.’ What do I do? — Frozen Out
Better office spaces in 5 easy steps
Environmental psychologists know that sensory experiences impact the way we work. Here’s what they say: 1. Keep red to a minimum. 2. Grow a leafy green. 3. Face the entryway. 4. Make small adjustments for comfort. 5. Declutter but not too much.
Office politics: 4 tips
It pays to be a good politician, according to a new survey by Robert Half. Workers were asked, “In your opinion, what effect, if any, does involvement in office politics have on one’s career?” Their responses:
Avoid hit-and-run pleasantries
Too busy to chat? Don’t ask “How are you?” but then continue to talk without allowing any opportunity for an answer. Instead, you can be polite without inviting a long-winded reply. For example, try: “Hey, I hope you’re having a great day. Can we discuss that report…?”
Best alternatives to PowerPoint
PowerPoint isn’t the only game in town. Our favorite alternatives to PowerPoint: SlideRocket, Google Docs and Prezi.
Words to inspire
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” — New York Jets quarterback Tim Tebow, quoting Proverbs 27:17
You want it perfect … but does the boss?
Phil, an administrative assistant, recently lamented that his efforts to improve his boss’s communication were going unheeded. But perhaps it’s not what Phil’s boss wants from Phil. When someone hands you his work to look over, first determine what he wants in return.
Wife limits ‘job search’ to online applications
Question: “My wife seems to be trapped by her fear of looking for work. She used to do freelance projects, but she has never had to find a permanent position ‘from scratch.’ Her idea of conducting a job search is to stay home and complete online applications. Because of my job, we recently moved to a new city where she doesn’t know anyone. If I suggest making phone calls or visiting potential employers, she breaks down…”
Avoiding sweet rewards at work
With vendors bringing in sweet temptations, birthday cake-filled office celebrations, and a vending machine stocked with goodies, it’s hard to stay healthy. Some tips and strategies from admins: