Keep your writing style clear and simple by pretending to write to a single person. Warren Buffett, whom a national writing commission recently lauded for his ability to clearly explain complex ideas, says that he imagines he’s writing to his sister when drafting his company’s annual report.
Listen for colleagues to make statements like “if only I had …” or “I could really use ….” Then try to offer them your help, even if they aren’t asking for it outright.
Bosses don’t like it when employees’ personal issues interfere with their work, yet some bosses bring in their own personal tasks for assistants to do … creating a problematic double standard. Executive Assistants are not also Personal Assistants, unless those responsibilities are spelled out in advance of hiring and are a part of their performance reviews. Still, lines can blur, especially if the boss is the owner and needs help with personal business in order to attend to company business. So how does one maintain a team-player attitude and avoid the role of “work spouse”? Many suggest handling repeated requests by suggesting the boss hire a good personal assistant. To avoid resentment, it’s best if personal business is kept out of the office.
A recent survey reveals unsurprising news: U.S. workers still aren’t getting a good night’s rest. But it’s not just how much sleep you get that matters. It’s the way you sleep.
Devote at least half your attention to your star team members, challenging them to exceed goals, gain new skills and take prudent risks. Hotshots deserve at least as much attention as poor performers.
One of your best weapons, when it comes to persuading others, is an adaptable communication style. Look out for these four styles of communicators, and adjust your approach when working with them.
What happened to colors in Outlook 2007 and Outlook 2010? If you’re confused about color, you’re not alone. If you went from 2003 to 2007 and 2010, you know they seem to keep moving the simple tools you used to use to color code emails and other Outlook items. Colors are a great tool to […]
Question: “I am a store manager in a fast-growing retail company. A few months ago, a new CEO was brought in to run our business. Since his arrival, the company seems to be headed in the wrong direction. However, the CEO apparently believes everything is fine and no mistakes are being made. I contacted our former president to discuss my concerns; he suggested I request a meeting with the CEO. But a colleague who works with the CEO said I’d better have a new job lined up if I plan to complain …”