Tina Turner may belt out, “What’s love got to do with it?” but my own rendition is “What’s age got to do with it?” Too often, I come across individuals who say they’d like to apply for such and such position but their age is a hindrance … Your age can work in your favor if you let it. Decide to go for it no matter how many times you’ve circled the sun.
Blogs are spreading faster than kudzu in the business world, and for a reason: They help build relationships with customers, something every business and boss want to see. Here’s how to write blog posts for your company, without spending too much time, according to Stephanie Lloyd, founder and CEO of Radiant Veracity.
Whom do your co-workers look up to more, you or your boss? According to a recent Randstad survey, employees said that besides their parents, their co-workers were the most influential people in their lives.
Question: “I work for a manager who thinks I can read her mind. She will come rushing up to my desk and say something like, “Did he come pick it up?” Because I have no idea what she’s talking about, I ask what she means. Then she looks at me like I’m an idiot for not understanding. This happens all the time, and I’m starting to get really irritated. How do I deal with her weird communication pattern?” — Not a Mind Reader
Three blind mice, the three little pigs, three wishes—there’s a reason childhood stories revolve around the magic number “3.” Our brains tend to think in threes. How can you take advantage of this simple truth?
Question: “My manager wants to have an employee appreciation event. The problem is half the staff would be unable to attend during the workday due to the nature of the business. I suggested that we select who attends based on performance indicators. HR says we ‘can’t do that because employee appreciation is not the same as rewards and recognition.’ The HR department suggested that we draw names so everyone has a chance to attend. I disagree. Why should poor performers be rewarded?” — Nancy
Question: “My company advisor has asked me to write a book on company morale and ways to improve it, because I have implemented a team game that has been very successful over the years. I have no idea where to start or what traps to avoid. I’m an office girl, not a writer. Are there classes I should take or companies to approach?” — Jocelyn K. Mylott
Question: My department recently moved to a new building. Initially, everyone received a printout showing where our offices would be located. However, our boss decided to reconfigure the office assignments based on job responsibilities. I was given an office that was originally designated for “Judy.” Judy seems offended by this change. I think she blames me for the decision, even though I had nothing to do with it. Now I’m starting to feel guilty. How can I fix this? — Not My Fault
Question: “We have had monthly admin meetings for the past six months. The senior admin is now asking for our input about how and what should be discussed during those meetings. I’m curious as to what other admins do in their meetings. What do you discuss?” — Barb