Question: “An employee placed a recorder in a meeting but none of the participants were aware that she was recording the session. She later confessed to me that she recorded it. What should I do?” — Amanda
Question: “The Gregg Reference Manual says to use a comma to set off abbreviations that follow a person’s name, such as “Jane Doe, CPS.” I recently proofed a newsletter where some names did not have commas. When I brought this to the attention of the person submitting the information, she said that other newsletters didn’t use commas. Has this grammar rule changed or are people just getting it wrong. Should you still use the comma?” — Diana
What should you do about a co-worker who takes advantage of a boss-less office? How do you bring this to your boss’s attention without appearing like a troublemaker? Here are some ideas for addressing a co-worker’s slacker behavior:
Your morning is completely planned, with top priorities penned on your to-do list, when a boss derails everything with two additional, hefty tasks that he needs “ASAP.” Doesn’t he realize there’s only so much you can do? Here’s a calendar-planning tactic that will let the boss know where you spend your time and help you better manage your schedule.
Once you’ve found the ideal mentor—someone with the skills or career you admire—hang on to him or her. Whatever you do: 1. Don’t ignore your mentor’s advice. 2. Don’t forget to follow up …
Just because you don’t feel confident doesn’t mean you can’t play the part. It pays off: Confident people get the plum assignments, the raises, the recognition, Trent Hamm says on the blog The Simple Dollar. Follow Hamm’s tricks for appearing confident:
Learn what’s key to your organization’s success by asking your boss, “What keeps you up at night?” … Devote 18 minutes a day to time management … Snag a cheap, last-minute air fare by turning to Twitter … Confront an awkward situation without having to say anything … Help a lost smartphone find its way home.
How well can you capture the attention of someone receiving your memo? Your memo will capture readers if it includes one of the three R’s in its opening line: It should recommend something, reveal information or request that someone act. Test your skill by picking the best opening sentence in this example:
At an administrative assistant gathering recently, one admin pro talked about how uncomfortable she felt drawing attention to herself. It’s not unusual among women: Girls are taught to sit up straight, mind their manners and not to brag. But these are the habits that can hold you back professionally.