Two powerful words
Don’t take it for granted that your team members know you appreciate their hard work. Simply saying “thank you” is the most cost-effective way to boost motivation.
Can you name your office ‘fruitcake’?
You’ve been talking about an idea for a new office procedure or policy, but no one seems to be listening. Maybe they don’t like the idea. Or maybe the idea isn’t catching on because you haven’t been using the right words for it. Semantics do matter.
Laugh it off
When the boss jokes about a blunder you made, smile or laugh and say, “I could have picked an easier way to learn that.”
Re-evaluating an extra 10 pounds
This should come as good news to anyone struggling to keep up with a demanding daily exercise schedule—and feeling guilty when schedule conflicts get in the way of gym time: A body of research suggests that there’s little risk to carrying a few extra pounds—and there may even be some benefit. Still, there’s a big difference between carrying a few extra pounds and being obese.
Repeat a name
Try to use a new acquaintance’s name as soon as possible to cement it to memory. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mike.” Say his name again when you part company to increase the odds of remembering it even more.
Afraid of failing at a new job?
Question: “Two weeks ago, I started a job with a new company. Although my manager initially seemed thrilled to have me on board, I now sense that I’m not living up to her expectations. However, I’m not sure exactly what those expectations are. My main problem is there isn’t much structure here. Random projects are thrown at me by my boss and others. Work is dumped on my desk without explanation. I have no background in this business, so I’m not sure how to approach these tasks. What can I do?” — Afraid of Failing
Getting MS Office help that helps
Ever sought help in Microsoft Office—only to feel like you needed more help? Melissa P. Esquibel, a Microsoft Certified Trainer who writes “The Office Tech Pro” blog, offers these tips for getting the right help fast, so you can get back to your task:
Turn down the volume
Speaking softly is sometimes the best way to get your message heard. By lowering your volume at a key point, you force the audience to listen.
Help create a more transparent workplace
When times get tough, tough organizations get transparent. The more connected employees are with the financial big picture, the better they can generate revenue-boosting ideas. Is your C-suite boss seeking new ways to engage front-line employees by keeping them informed? Here’s how you can support his efforts.
Assertive gatekeeping
Supervisors depend on you to protect their busy schedules, leaving you to deal with calls from sales representatives. You tell the reps you’ll pass the information to your supervisor, and someone will follow up should there be an interest. However, your words fall on deaf ears, and they continue to follow up. Some even stretch the truth in hopes of making a sale. So what do you do?