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1-Minute Strategies: January ’21

Completing a task sent to you via email? Don’t be too quick to say “Done!” … Fun via Zoom isn’t always easy  … Tell your supplies manager you have a special request … What is Kaprekar’s constant? … Getting together during the COVID winter takes creativity … Lock, stock and barrel

Don’t be a 10-minute deceiver

What’s the most common lie we accidentally tell each other every day? That we’ll be home in 10 minutes, or a phone call will just make us five minutes late, or it’ll only be a half hour before a project is done. When we speak to others, we chronically underestimate the amount of time things […]

Ask smart questions when negotiating

A negotiation isn’t an argument—or it shouldn’t be. Whether you’re trying to hammer out a deal with a job candidate, a customer, or your own boss, try using these simple strategies to clarify what you both want so you can come to a mutually satisfying agreement.

Look beyond your department’s walls

For job security, make sure to spend some time on tasks that cut across departmental lines—and even if you can’t adopt many tasks, make yourself known by getting on a conversational basis with everyone in the office, not just your group. Merely talking about the weekend can someday lead to talking about your involvement in […]

Turn spats into constructive dialogues

Office conflicts don’t have to be destructive. For example, imagine that two employees disagree over the best way to complete a task or solve a problem, can’t resolve their quarrel, and dump it in your lap. To help these two get back to work quickly, try this approach.

The warning signs of poor teamwork

Most leaders and managers would say they have a team. But having a team and operating as a team are two different things. Some would say they have a team because they have multiple people on their staff.