10 must-haves for your personal network
Ten people to include in your network: 1. The Mentor 2. The Coach 3. The Industry Insider 4. The Trendsetter 5. The Connector 6. The Idealist 7. The Realist 8. The Visionary 9. The Partner 10. The Wannabe.
Handle those ‘rush’ requests
Next time someone asks “When could you have it ready?” resist the temptation to blurt out the earliest–and possibly unrealistic–date just to please the client and show your efficiency. Instead, ask, “Is time a factor for you?” The answer will tell you the real time frame. You may find that time isn’t a major factor, […]
Desk switcheroo kindles fresh ideas
Could co-workers benefit from a little more interaction? At public relations firm Conover Tuttle Pace, employees swap desks for a few weeks to spark cross-company chats and fresh ideas. Here’s how they do it:
Return the praise
“Catch them doing something right” is a classic management tool that works both ways. So, give the boss an occasional pat on the back. Tell the boss that he or she delivered a dynamite presentation or that you appreciate the latest office perk.
Reclaim your calendar … and your life
Stever Robbins, who dispenses advice on maximizing your creativity and whipping your e-mail into submission, now is integrating time management and innovation into a coherent system for getting things done. Here are tips from his new guide to working less and accomplishing more:
Protect your secrets
When a colleague asks you about sensitive information you’re privy to, don’t deny or lie about what you know. Say, “Yes, I’m aware of the situation, but I can’t share the details.”
5 tips for making the transition to Office 2007 and 2010
With the release of a stable new operating system, Windows 7, many organizations are making the leap to the newer versions of Microsoft® Office. There are five “must have” tips that will get you over the hurdles of the revolutionary new interface and back to work.
My dream job has become a nightmare
Question: “For the past two years, the law firm where I work as a paralegal has had many problems. Going in every day is depressing, because the hang-dog atmosphere radiates everywhere. My immediate boss is under tremendous pressure and treats his staff badly. His temper creates a great deal of stress. I think it may be time to move on. However, if you have any suggestions for surviving here, I will try them. This was my dream job, and I would deeply regret leaving.” — Stressed & Depressed
5 personal touches that tech just can’t emulate
In our tech-crazed times, now may be a good time to go back to basics. Use these quaint practices to reach out to people.
Stay positive
Extract yourself from unproductive conversations with naysayers, people who only aim to shoot down your ideas. When they launch into a diatribe about what won’t work, respond by saying, “Until we’ve tried everything, I have faith that a great solution is out there.”