What’s the right thing to do when you’re asked to do something that doesn’t play to your strengths, or that was never mentioned as part of your job description, or that you flat-out don’t want to do? Admin Pro Forumreaders weigh in:
Want to brush up on your schmoozing skills? Stand by the food at an office function. Why? Because people will come to you, and you have an automatic conversation-starter: food. You also have a place to set down your drink, freeing your hand for handshakes.
When attending a large group meeting, don’t sit with people from your department or office. If familiar faces surround you, you’re less likely to reach out and make new connections.
QUESTION: As we enter the back-to-school season, office supplies have begun to disappear. Does anyone have any policy or procedure in place to thwart this type of behavior? In your experience, will a firm but diplomatic e-mail help? It’s getting expensive and embarrassing as large quantities walk away.— K. in FL
iPhones, e-mail, Twitter … the electronic distractions in today’s society have us moving at a faster pace … and have all but eliminated “silent time” in our day. Researchers say this fast pace of society can hurt your health. Are you leading a “hurried” life? Do your habits show that you need to reserve more “think time” in your day? Take this simple quiz to find out …
September brings with it a “back to school” feeling that can be sated only with a seminar or course. And there’s no easier, more affordable source for online learning than iTunes. Check out iTunes U to find free courses or talks from major universities.
If you keep saying, “It’s nothing” when your boss or someone else thanks you for a great job, he or she will start to believe you. Try, “I’m thrilled that I could help.”
Following a speaking engagement for administrative professionals, I found myself listening to familiar comments. “My supervisor is so busy I never get a chance to have more than a two-minute conversation, and she never gives me feedback, so I never know what she is thinking.” In these circumstances you need to ask for what you need to be successful.
Strip formatting from a Word document … Work toward a big health goal one text at a time … Make clutter disappear by turning each piece of paper into an action item in your planner … Avoid information overload—and save time—by asking a specific, “micro” question … Connect with people who want your cast-offs …
Use Hallmark admin Kay Enlow’s method: She e-mails higher-ups after their presentations to thank them and ask related questions. Result: She knows the business better, and even the CEO knows her.