Our Bad Behavior at Work

Millions of people admit to committing these workplace no-nos every day.

by Maria Hanson, LiveCareer


When is falling asleep or knocking back a stiff drink just not OK? When you do it at the office (or behind the wheel). But each day millions of people commit these workplace taboos--and even more-scandalous ones.

But not all workplace no-nos are created equal, in terms of seriousness or consequences, says executive recruiter and career counselor Bruce Hurwitz: "Some taboos can be forgiven or raise concerns about your well-being. Others can result in immediate dismissal."

A Harris Interactive Poll of 5,700 U.S. workers found people confessing to all sorts of questionable behavior at the office. Here are some of the top workplace taboos they admitted to:


1. Falling asleep at work (45 percent)
Need a personal barista to help you stay awake at work? Snoozing on the job looks downright unprofessional and is generally not appreciated by employers.

If you find yourself drifting off on a regular basis, it may mean that you need a more stimulating and engaging career. Take a free career test to find your ideal job.


2. Kissing a coworker (39 percent)
This number shouldn't come as a big surprise to anyone who has spent time in an office setting. According to a Valentine's Day survey of more than 8,000 workers, 40 percent have dated a coworker--about the same number that have kissed.


3. Stealing from the office (22 percent)
Ever wonder where people get the office supplies they use at home? Chances are pretty good they pilfer at least some of them from work. While the Harris survey indicates that only about one-fifth of workers take office supplies, an OfficeMax Workplace Uncovered survey reveals what's probably closer to the truth: a whopping 56 percent of workers confessed to taking office supplies home. Top items were pens, pencils, and highlighters.


4. Taking credit for someone else's work (2 percent)
Stealing pencils from the office is one thing. Stealing ideas from a colleague and passing them off as your own is quite another. Only 2 percent of employees in the Harris survey admitted doing this. But in a survey by OfficeTeam, nearly 30 percent of workers say they've had their ideas stolen at work. (The huge gulf between the figures may be because this is a pretty hard taboo to admit; it's easier to talk about when you're the victim.) Keeping your supervisor informed of your ideas and your progress is good preventative medicine, say career experts.


5. Spreading a rumor about a coworker (22 percent)
While some office gossip is relatively harmless, spreading a rumor can be damaging not only to the subject but also to the rumor-monger. In addition to making you seem untrustworthy or downright devious, spreading rumors can even lead to a lawsuit. Whether you publish a falsehood verbally, in writing, or on the Internet, you could end up faceing a pricey defamation suit.


6. Consuming alcoholic beverages while on the job (21 percent)
There was a time when keeping a bottle in your desk drawer was almost de rigueur in some professions. (Just watch any episode of "Mad Men.") Now most companies have a zero-tolerance policy for tippling in the office.

Still, more than one-fifth of the Harris survey respondents said they'd enjoyed booze while on the job. A recent TV news investigation found that drinking on the job was all too common among some New York City construction workers. One worker they witnessed knocked back six cocktails in 30 minutes!


7. Snooping (18 percent)
While it's legal for many managers to access employees' company emails and instant messages, not all office snoopers go through legitimate channels. Nearly one-fifth of survey respondents said they'd snooped around the office after hours.

The best way to foil these snoops? Log off your computer when you're not there, change passwords frequently, have a clean-desk policy so there's nothing to find, and use a paper shredder for anything you'd like to keep from prying eyes.


8. Lying about an academic background (4 percent)
It seems every time you turn around there's another story in the news about a power player tumbling off the corporate or academic ladder because of lying about education on a resume. Just recently a top Texas A&M University official resigned after it was revealed that he didn't have the doctorate his resume listed and that he hadn't been a Navy Seal.

If you are concerned that you don't have enough education to meet your career goals, earning a real degree is a far better bet than lying about one on your resume. Take an education test to find out if more schooling could help you to advance your career.

And don't be tempted to lie on your resume. Experts say at some point it will probably catch up with you. Instead use a resume builder for help creating an accurate, impressive resume that gets results.

Job , Jobs , Employment

How to End a Job Interview

The right closing can seal the deal and land the job.

by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs



In preparing for a job interview, you've probably practiced a firm (but not too firm) handshake, rehearsed answers to tough questions about your background, and polished up your lucky interview shoes. But many job hunters overlook a crucial part of the interview process: the very end.

(Want tips on answering the trickiest interview questions? Read interview advice from career expert Liz Ryan.)

As you finish an interview, you have one last chance to sell the interviewer on your skills--and get the information you need in order to follow up. Experts offer these tips for successfully closing an interview:

Don't leave empty-handed. To be sure you can follow up later, don't leave the interview without getting the names, titles, and contact information of everyone you met. This includes people you may dismiss as unimportant. "You don't know who has pull," says Laura DeCarlo, president of Career Directors International, a global professional association of resume writers and career coaches.

Know the next steps. You should also ask what the next steps are in the process: Will the most-promising candidates be called back for another interview? Is the company about to make a hiring decision? How soon does the hiring manager expect to move to this next step?



"It's totally appropriate for a candidate to ask this," says Peggy McKee, founder of career-confidential.com.

Lay the groundwork for a follow-up. Once the interviewer explains how the process will unfold, DeCarlo explains, "you say, 'Thank you. Is it OK if I call you if I haven't heard from you?'" Although you don't need the interviewer's permission to follow up, having the interviewer say it's OK will likely make you less apprehensive if doing so becomes necessary.

Close the sale. After you thank the interviewer and briefly summarize why you think you're a good fit for the job, McKee suggests asking straight out, "Based on this interview, do you feel that I could be successful in this position? Will you move me forward in the interview process?"

A positive response doesn't mean you're guaranteed to get the job. But the interviewer will likely remember you as a stronger candidate. "When you answer yes, you cross a line mentally," McKee says.

What if the interviewer expresses reservations? "That's the big fear," McKee says. But even though it may be disappointing, it's better to know. "This is your only really strong opportunity to find out what her objections are, so you can overcome those objections."

For example, if the interviewer says you lack experience in a particular area, you may realize that didn't emphasize your relevant experience enough. You can now clarify, either on the spot or in a follow-up letter.

You may get a noncommittal answer--the interviewer may say simply that there are more candidates to interview, for example. If that happens, use this as an opportunity to ask for more information about how the hiring process will play out.

Remember the details. Your thank-you notes will be more effective if you can mention specifics about your interviews. The best way to do this, DeCarlo says, is to write down everything you remember--good and bad--as soon as you can after the interview.


Job , Jobs , Employment

Just Say No

by Eileen Habelow, for www.123Movers.com

Telling your boss that you can't take on a new responsibility or a new project can be tough. Most of us have a hard time saying no in these situations, even when we know that saying yes will mean we're stretched so thin that our work will suffer (not to mention our personal lives).

The simple fact is, there's a limit to how much one person can do. If you feel that you've reached your limit and your boss still wants to pile the work on, Eileen Habelow, senior vice president of career development at Randstad, has suggestions on how (and when) to say no.


Weigh your decision (and pick your battles wisely).
Whether it's a project you're being asked to take on or a decision you're being asked to implement, make sure it's something you should say no to. Consider the potential impact or consequences of the decision or project. Make sure that you understand what happens if you say no--is it a project that someone else will have to take on? Does your boss have options? Step your boss through your decision-making process and bring him or her along the path that led to your no decision.

It's important to fully consider how you might get the project done before you respond to your boss. Think it through--what would prevent you from accomplishing what you need to do? What additional resources might make it possible for you to say yes to the request? Do you know where this project fits within the bigger picture or the strategy of your team or company? Is it an opportunity for you to contribute positively? Do you need support in shifting projects so you can work on the current request? Do you know why your boss picked you? It could be a great opportunity for you.


Do you disagree with a decision or plan of action?
What are the pros and cons of implementing the boss's plan of action? When you approach the boss with your decision, make sure to stay focused on the potential consequences, both positive and negative. For instance, are there legal risks? Would the decision put your reputation, or your boss's or your company's, at risk? Have you thought of a risk that is too big to ignore? Share it with your boss. Again, step him or her through the decision-making process--share your ideas openly. It might be tough to say no to your boss, but it would be worse to have a danger you considered become a reality.


Say no in the right way.
When saying no is appropriate, it's important to think about how to deliver that message to your boss. Stick to the decision-making process and factors you considered in deciding that no was the best answer. Present the facts, and allow your boss to consider your main points. If you've presented well-reasoned ideas, you might find that your boss comes to the same conclusion you did.

Avoid phrases like "I don't want to" and "I don't think" when saying no. If you feel strongly about the no, calmly explain what you perceive as the situation's pros and cons. Finally, don't make it about you, make it about the work.

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25 Hot Careers That Didn't Exist 10 Years Ago

by JoVon Sotak, FindtheRightSchool.com


What did you want to be when you grew up? Astronaut? Movie star? Superhero? Whatever made your list, green marketer probably wasn't on it--but that job may be on the lists of today's youngsters.

Here's a list of emerging careers that you (and your inner child) can get excited about. You couldn't have daydreamed about any of these jobs when you were a child--because they didn't exist then. In fact, they're so new that, although they're starting to be recognized, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't yet have data on them. If you've been looking for a new dream job or haven't decided what you want to be when you "grow up," these are 25 new options.


Business
A specialized business degree can help you obtain the skills you need to work in one of these professions.

1. Business continuity specialists plan and implement recovery solutions to keep businesses functioning during disasters and emergency situations.

2. Electronic commerce specialists analyze online buyers' preferences and handle online sales strategies, including marketing, advertising, and website design.

3. Social media managers/strategists use social technologies like Facebook to reach out to customers, and they build social networks within companies.

4. Virtual concierges provide professional concierge services--for business or personal needs--with the convenience of being just an email away.

5. User experience analysts collect data on website usage and provide insight about users' experiences by using psychological, computer-science, and industrial-design knowledge to test theories and draw conclusions.


Communications
Rising numbers of college communications programs are offering instruction that can lead to one of these cutting-edge jobs.

1. Bloggers research and write blog content for news websites, public and private corporations, government offices, and many other organizations with blogs.

2. Content managers develop strategies for creating, updating, and organizing Web content, typically with the goal of attracting new visitors.

3. Online political campaign managers develop and manage strategies for using Internet and social technologies to help politicians get elected.

4. Video journalists design and produce online videos that document information, news, and events.


Education
Start with an education degree program, and then take specialized classes to launch one of these careers.

1. Athletic compliance coordinators ensure that athletic programs receiving government funding meet government regulations.

2. Adaptive physical education specialists help people with disabilities participate in physical education programs and activities.

3. Distance learning coordinators schedule courses and coordinate distance learning programs.

4. Home-school liaisons establish and manage partnerships between parents and schools.

5. School diagnosticians assess and diagnose the learning problems of students.


Environment
Depending on your interest, you may need a degree in environmental science or business for one of these jobs.

1. Carbon credit traders handle the purchase and sale of carbon-emissions permits for companies.

2. Environmental economists measure the benefits and potential drawbacks of renewable energy and other environmental alternatives.

3. Environmental restoration planners work with scientific staff to implement plans that reverse environmental damage.

4. Green marketers promote green products and services.

5. Recycling coordinators administer drop-off and curbside recycling programs with government and waste-disposal agencies.


Energy
Requirements for one of these jobs may run the gamut from on-the-job training to a specialized engineering or business bachelor's or master's degree.

1. Biofuels/biodiesel product development managers plan and execute research programs that evaluate alternative biofuels/biodiesel technologies.

2. Biomass plant technicians monitor biomass plant activities (biomass is biological matter that can be turned into a renewable energy source).

3. Energy auditors inspect buildings and systems to maximize energy efficiency and cut energy costs.

4. Energy brokers buy and sell energy for customers.

5. Fuel cell engineers design and build fuel cell systems for all types of devices, including cars and phones.

6. Methane/landfill gas collection system operators run the day-to-day business of landfill gas projects, including compliance and reporting requirements.

The best part of dreaming about careers as a kid was the sense of wonder and excitement--the belief that you would have a job that was on the cutting edge of discovery. Your future career was going to be thrilling! With a bit of career training to prepare you for any of these 25 emerging careers, it still can be.

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How Technology Makes Work More Annoying

10 of the worst workplace tech trends

by Maria Hanson, LiveCareer


New technology has brought some great new workplace trends: telecommuting and free company iPhones, for instance. But new technology has also ushered in some annoying (and productivity-destroying) workplace trends--in all industries.

These are among the most aggravating:

Your boss asking you to be friends on Facebook
"It's a little awkward," says computer engineer Daphne Schaeffer. "You can't exactly ignore the boss, but you don't want them knowing what you did on Friday or who you did it with."


Having to "friend" every business you associate with
"It's gotten ridiculous," says attorney Shane Fischer.

Forgetting how to talk
Publicist Tajiana Ancora-Brown has seen a worsening of in-person and on-the-phone communication. "It's unbelievable when someone who sits two desks away from you sends you numerous emails about things that could be worked out in a two-minute conversation instead of an email exchange lasting the entire afternoon."

Sending an IM to say you're sending an email
"When did we decide that we needed one technology to announce another technology?" asks Kristin Pitarys, of the Arizona Cheesecake Company.

Not checking voicemail
Wonder why you haven't heard a peep after leaving that really detailed voicemail message? It may be because the recipient rarely picks up voicemail. "It's one of those 'out of sight, out of mind' things. Email and texts are a lot more in your face," says Internet consultant Mark Warren, who admits he is "totally one of those people."

Checking voice mail for all to hear
Many people who do still check voice messages are more prone to letting the world hear them, too. "I can't tell you how many times I've had to listen to people listening to their voicemail messages on speaker phone," says Eula Young, of Griot's Roll Film Production.

CC-ing the world on email messages
"Why am I being copied on this? Am I supposed to take action on this? Just be aware of it? Huh?" asks Ellen Daehnick, of b-spoke group, a management consulting business.

Tweeting the day away
Barry Maher, the author of "Filling the Glass," points to the trend of "people who constantly interrupt their work to tweet and be tweeted." He adds, "One client claimed it had cost his company thousands of dollars in lost productivity."

Texting during meetings
It's been going on for a while and doesn't show any sign of letting up. "And these are grownups, not just 20-somethings. And they get mad if you call them on their insanely rude behavior," says technology consultant Gabriel Goldberg.

Never really getting a vacation
Many supervisors and clients expect workers with time off to stay in touch via email, texting, and even social networking. "That pretty much defeats the entire purpose of leaving work behind while vacationing," says Steven Spenser, of Praxis Communication.

Publicist Marli McCleary feels his pain. "There's nothing like a client calling you when you're at the craps table in Vegas or in aisle 10 at the grocery store with your kids."

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The World's Dirtiest Jobs

They may be dirty jobs, but someone has to do them!

by Shannon Dauphin, FindtheRightSchool.com

Would you prefer a job in a clean, air-conditioned office, or would you like to jump into a job that requires heavy protective gear and working in downright filthy conditions? Most people would choose the former, but others have found great satisfaction and success in so-called dirty jobs (though, of course, not everyone who has a dirty job has one by choice--many dirty jobs are also dangerous and low-paying).

Here are some of the world's dirtiest jobs:

Wastewater-Treatment Technician
Do you ever wonder where all the water you use goes at the end of the day? Every time you flush a toilet or run the dishwasher, that water heads through a series of pipes and ends up at a wastewater-treatment plant. Wastewater-treatment technicians then work to remove pollutants from the water before it's released back into streams, rivers, and oceans. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), wastewater-treatment technicians earned a median annual wage of $39,850 in 2009.

Dung Curator
According to Popular Science magazine, the members of the Quarternary Paleontology team from Northern Arizona University have one of the ten worst jobs in science. These folks curate "the largest collection of excrement in the world." The job also entails collecting these special treasures from zoos and archaeological digs. The reason for doing this? To research DNA, plant matter in the dung, and climate.

Cave Biologist
Does the thought of crawling around in a dark, enclosed, and damp space sound like a good time? Maybe not, but when you throw in the wonders that can be found in underground caverns, from the interesting colonies of bats to the amazing eyeless fish in dark waters, you might start to see the appeal of working as a cave biologist. Biological scientists enjoy annual salaries of $66,510, according to BLS reports.

Crime-Scene Cleanup
Dealing with the aftermath of violent crimes and accidents is not something that most relatives and friends of lost loved ones can handle. That's where crime-scene cleanup crews come in. They sweep in after investigators are done with a crime scene and do their best to return it to its original condition.

Disaster Cleanup
Major disasters leave a lot of debris in their wake. From tornadoes that rip open homes and throw insulation everywhere, to floods that can leave several feet of brown mud when the water recedes, natural disasters can lead to messy and even dangerous cleanup jobs.

Garbage Collector
You know how you hate taking out the trash? Imagine doing it eight hours a day, week in and week out. This is the job of the garbage collector. These guys and gals must work in all sorts of weather (and in many municipalities, garbage collection happens year-round--even on major holidays). Wages vary greatly, but the median hourly pay for a garbage collector with five years of experience is around $20 in many states, according to PayScale.com's salary calculator.

Hospital Laundry Employee
Rotting food and bodily waste are the least of a hospital launderer's worries. Hospital linens often come straight to the laundry after being scooped up from the operating room or hospital beds. Hazardous fluids and even dangerous medical instruments and needles may be mixed in with the laundry.

Kitchen-Exhaust Cleaner
Commercial kitchens get cruddy and gunked up with grease. If the grease isn't cleaned, fires and unhappy health inspectors can result. Caustic chemicals, pressure washers, or sometimes a combination of both are used in cleaning, and gunk must sometimes be scraped off before washing begins. The stuff that comes off is so unpleasant that it can't be washed down a drain. It must be hauled away.

Poultry Processor
Gizzards and guts and offal, oh, my! While it's pretty easy to imagine that any job location where animals are being changed into food might not be the cleanest place in town, poultry processors have it worse than most. On top of being filthy, the work is achingly repetitive, and injuries are common.

Zookeeper
This is a job many kids have aspired to--and let's face it, zookeeping is pretty cool. Where there are animals, however, there's usually a mess. Exhibit and living areas must be kept clean of debris and waste. Mike Rowe, star of the reality TV show "Dirty Jobs," compares it to cleaning a cougar-sized cat-litter box. Animals must also be fed. If you work with aquatic animals, for example, you may end up knee-deep in fish guts. This job, which pays $19,550 per year, can be highly competitive, despite the low pay and dirty work.

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LinkedIn

By Tamara Dowling, CPRW


What is LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is a rapidly growing online system where you post a profile and establish an online network. Have your ever played the six degrees of separation game? The game often proves that two people are separated by a maximum of six connections. If it is true for Kevin Bacon, is it true for you? That's why online social networks are booming. People are proving it is true daily, and building a valuable network and personal brand along the way. A social network, such as LinkedIn, is not a silver bullet or a quick fix. Relationships require trust and time. So, have realistic expectations as you dive into LinkedIn.

As of 3/2008 and according to LinkedIn sources, "more than 20 million professionals are on LinkedIn, including executives from all five hundred of the Fortune 500 companies, as well as a wide range of household names in technology, financial services, media, consumer packaged goods, entertainment, and numerous other industries."


Why LinkedIn?

• Companies use LinkedIn to recruit passive candidates for employment.
• Recruiters use LinkedIn to uncover candidates with particular skills and work experience.
• Your peers and associates are on LinkedIn and sharing vital news that could impact your career.

If you are not on LinkedIn, you are missing opportunities! It is about increasing your visibility, expanding your network, and enhancing the quality of your network.


Getting Started

Visit LinkedIn.com. Explore the site to learn all it has to offer. There are so many resources and tools to enhance your experience. After you join, create a detailed profile, including many things you would find on a résumé: employment highlights, education, industry, associations, and websites. Spend time on your profile, as much as you would on your résumé. It is important to be comprehensive so you attract interest. You must also be truthful so you can build credibility.


Grow your Network

Cultivate a network of trusted associates. As you increase your connections, you will increase your chances of meeting a valuable contact. You have many options and based on your situation, you may determine how selective you want to be with your network. In networking, you must give to receive, so share your advice and resources. Submit recommendations and obtain recommendations. Don't forget to ask for endorsements from former managers.

Please don't wait to contact people when you require help. That can be a "turn off." Build a relationships before you ask for help. You will find people will be more likely to support someone with whom they have an established relationship.

Get creative with your network building. Identify target industries, associations, and companies. Determine if your contacts have a connection. If so, contact them asking for referrals. Soon you'll have a robust network.


Know the Etiquette

Be kind and use general netiquette regarding LinkedIn. The simple rules of givers gain, think long-term not quick score, be trustworthy, and respect the system. It is like traditional networking, only immensely more effective. As you promote, support, and connect with others, you too will gain.

Job Info , Jobs , Career

Are You a Professional?

Source : Tipsforsuccess. org

How you look, talk, write, act and work determines whether you are a professional or an amateur. Society does not emphasize the importance of professionalism, so people tend to believe that amateur work is normal. Many businesses accept less-than-good results.

Schools graduate students who cannot read. You can miss 15% of the driving-test answers and still get a driver license. "Just getting by" is an attitude many people accept. But it is the attitude of amateurs.

"Don't ever do anything as though you were an amateur.

"Anything you do, do it as a Professional to Professional standards.

"If you have the idea about anything you do that you just dabble in it, you will wind up with a dabble life. There'll be no satisfaction in it because there will be no real production you can be proud of.

"Develop the frame of mind that whatever you do, you are doing it as a professional and move up to professional standards in it.

"Never let it be said of you that you lived an amateur life.

"Professionals see situations and they handle what they see. They are not amateur dabblers.

"So learn this as a first lesson about life. The only successful beings in any field, including living itself, are those who have a professional viewpoint and make themselves and ARE professionals" — L. Ron Hubbard

A professional learns every aspect of the job. An amateur skips the learning process whenever possible.

A professional carefully discovers what is needed and wanted. An amateur assumes what others need and want.

A professional looks, speaks and dresses like a professional. An amateur is sloppy in appearance and speech.

A professional keeps his or her work area clean and orderly. An amateur has a messy, confused or dirty work area.

A professional is focused and clear-headed. An amateur is confused and distracted.

A professional does not let mistakes slide by. An amateur ignores or hides mistakes.

A professional jumps into difficult assignments. An amateur tries to get out of difficult work.

A professional completes projects as soon as possible. An amateur is surrounded by unfinished work piled on top of unfinished work.

A professional remains level-headed and optimistic. An amateur gets upset and assumes the worst.

A professional handles money and accounts very carefully. An amateur is sloppy with money or accounts.

A professional faces up to other people’s upsets and problems. An amateur avoids others’ problems.

A professional uses higher emotional tones: Enthusiasm, cheerfulness, interest, contentment. An amateur uses lower emotional tones: anger, hostility, resentment, fear, victim.

A professional persists until the objective is achieved. An amateur gives up at the first opportunity.

A professional produces more than expected. An amateur produces just enough to get by.

A professional produces a high-quality product or service. An amateur produces a medium-to-low quality product or service.

A professional earns high pay. An amateur earns low pay and feels it’s unfair.

A professional has a promising future. An amateur has an uncertain future.

The first step to making yourself a professional is to decide you ARE a professional.

Are you a professional?

Job Info , Jobs , Career

Employee Motivation

Source : Motivation123


The #1 Motivation Mistake
Managers around the world are committing a fatal error that is depriving their people and companies of improvement, progress, and success. While very few know of the dilemma, its solution is the most important and powerful principle that any coach or manager will ever learn.

Imagine stepping into an enormous kitchen overflowing with uncooked meals and desserts. All of the necessary ingredients for a countless assortment of dinners are there - you simply have to prepare them.

Now imagine preparing and cooking them in identically the same way. It doesn't matter what meal you are dealing with - you follow one set of instructions without fail.

Perhaps your favorite meal is a thick and juicy hamburger. If you're actually preparing and cooking a hamburger, you're right on track. But what if you're dealing with ice cream sandwiches. How well do you think throwing some ice cream onto a grill would work? Trying to flip it so both side get evenly cooked?


The Greatest Management Mistake
Preparing and cooking ice cream in the same manner as a hamburger would obviously result in failure. You can't treat all ingredients and meals as the same thing - they are all different, requiring different methods and techniques to achieve their particular result.

The greatest management mistake should be painfully clear: many managers treat all employees as the same assortment of ingredients trying to motivate them toward greater success using one cookie-cutter approach.

Just as failure results from throwing ice cream on a grill, so too will a manager fail in inspiring his people if he attempts to do so using a single method.

The people on your team are as different as baked beans and apple pie. They each work from a unique set of motivators, responding to some with excited action and others with boredom or even anger.

It's up to you to discover what drives each one of your team members. What elements excite them? What elements turn them off? It may take a little time and concerted effort on your part, but uncovering the powerful motivators that drive your people will be the best thing you can do for you and your team.

Remember, you may respond to financial rewards or incentives, but that doesn't mean everyone on your team will share your sentiments. Listen to your people. Recognize and utilize their motivators. You are dealing with a wide assortment of ingredients, and following this principle will allow you to prepare each one with amazing success.

Job Info , Jobs , Employment

The Real Killer of Motivation

Source : Motivation123

Routine is a murderer.


Years ago, before starting the Motivation123 Web site, I had pockets full of plans and ideas. My mind was in a constant state of activity.

As for my reality, nothing ever changed. Nothing in my life went in the directions I had hoped for. It got to the point that I began to doubt whether or not a better life was even possible. Could I change?

Then, while paging through a magazine at the doctor's office, I came across a question, just a short team of words that gripped my attention.

It was simple--as most powerful truths are--but it made an immediate impact. And from that day I possessed a key to progress that has served me ever since.

Before we get to that answer, however, we need to pin down the problem.



The Killer
In a word, it's routine.

It's the pattern of living that, like molten lava, slowly crawls into adulthood, covering and consuming our hopes, dreams, and ambitions.

It's doing the same thing every day because that's what you've always done. It's a vicious circle of repeating actions and events that leads to nowhere.

The reason nothing was changing in my life was because I was stuck in a routine. Every day I followed the same basic outline of living: wake, work, sleep, repeat.

I had new ideas, to be sure, but my actions were old.

Then I was hit with the truth while waiting - for what seemed like weeks - in my doctor's waiting room.



The Question I Took with Me
The sad reality is that most people never realize what is happening until it's too late. That is the skill and cunning of habit and routine.

It wraps its arms around the minutes and hours of your life, distracting and luring you into autopilot, into a dazed mode of living.

All the while, the little time you have to construct your ideal experiences is being sucked away, stolen.

Routine is a murderer. It kills hope and the chance for change. It blinds us to the truth and with a scalpel cuts away our goals and ideas. Routine puts a hand in the face of growth and improvement, leaving room for nothing but the same.

You need a way out of the routine. And for me, the way out came in the form of a question:

'If you continue to follow the same patterns, what are the chances you'll ever experience the things you want to do and ever become the person you hope to be?'

I read the sentence again. What would my chances be? Things hadn't worked out so far, so why would doing the same thing result in anything different?



My Realization
I had my answer. My chances were none.

I would never do the things I had always thought about, never grow into the character I hoped for. If I followed the same routines, the same patterns, I could expect pretty much what I had been getting.

For some, this is the perfect scenario. But for me, I wanted more. I knew how much life had to offer and I wanted to dive in head first. I wanted to experience it all and live a life worth living again.

I looked around the office, looked at the people next to me. None of us would reach that place without a change in pattern. We were all trapped in a circle of habit.

This brings us face to face with a truth that most men and women would rather avoid.

It's relieving to let our goals live in 'someday.' We don't have to worry about never attaining them. Instead, we can put them off and fool ourselves.

'It will happen someday.' No, it won't.

The truth is, if you don't change your routine now, you will never reach those goals. You will never wake up to a life that matches the one in your mind. Never.

Don't hide from this. Accept it. Embrace it. Use it to smash through the chains of routine and drive you into a new way of life, into a new pattern of progress.

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Frustrated at Company Meetings?

By : Dr. Simon Gibson

I'm frustrated with meetings at my company! I chair a monthly staff meeting in our office but people often attend sporadically, arrive late and participation is nominal. I find this situation quite frustrating - what, if anything, can I do to improve these meetings?

Your lament is a common one: employees are required to attend various meetings and, in many cases, they register their lack of interest or motivation through the kinds of behavior you have observed.

There are really two dimensions to your query. On one hand, there is the problem of the meeting structure - which may include accountability and discipline - but, on the other hand, it may be productive to consider whether these meetings are needed at all.

As chair, you are responsible for setting the agenda, the tone of the meeting, minutes, notification and follow up on any action items.

I would suspect that many of the meetings flounder because there is no vision and attendees don't see any value in being present: few decisions are made and items drag on from month to month without resolution.

At the earliest possible opportunity, review the minutes from the last three or four meetings. You may be shocked to realize that little has been accomplished.

You can take some immediate steps to address the situation. First, you should consult with staff to determine if the current day and time for the meetings are the most convenient.

Second, you should distribute the agenda in plenty of time and allow suggestions: be careful not to censor and encourage an open dialogue, where appropriate.

Third, the meetings should be welcoming. Consider serving light refreshments or holding the occasional meeting at a nearby restaurant over breakfast or lunch, if there is the budget available.

As chair, announce at the start of the meeting when it will end and allocate times for each agenda item. Solicit comments from attendees by addressing them by name and avoid giving your views until the discussion seems to have concluded: seek to build consensus.

You may also wish to address the more foundational question of whether these meetings are required in the first place. Speak with your supervisor and be candid with your concerns.

Unproductive meetings can destroy morale and stifle productivity. As chair you need to address the matter as soon as possible and you must be willing to take leadership by improving the culture of the meetings or making a case for their elimination.

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Assertiveness Skills for Women

By Tamara Dowling, CPRW

Are you comfortable stating your opinion, even if the rest of your work team disagrees? When you leave the team meeting, do you regret that you did not share more of your ideas?

Asserting yourself is not easy. One reason is that some people see assertiveness as a negative behavior. Perhaps they confuse assertiveness with aggressiveness. Assertiveness is especially difficult for women. Many of us are taught to be agreeable, be polite, and make those around us at ease.

Putting those thoughts together you can see why assertive behavior is difficult for many women. Let's take a closer look, and I'll show you how to be assertive and be comfortable with yourself.


By Definition

Even though people interchange the terms assertiveness and aggressiveness, there is a difference. Here are the definitions from Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary.

assertive \As*sert"ive\, a. Positive; affirming confidently; affirmative; peremptory. In a confident and assertive form. --Glanvill. As*sert"ive*ly, adv. -- As*sert"ive*ness, n. Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, (c) 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.

aggressive \Ag*gres"sive\, a. [Cf. F. agressif.] Tending or disposed to aggress; characterized by aggression; making assaults; unjustly attacking; as, an aggressive policy, war, person, nation. -- Ag*gres"sive*ly, adv. -- Ag*gres"sive*ness, n. Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, (c) 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.


The Continuum

Passiveness -- Assertiveness -- Aggressiveness

If you see things as a continuum, place aggressiveness on the far right, assertiveness in the middle, and passiveness on the far left.

Passiveness:
We don't feel that we have the right to be heard. We are uncomfortable expressing ourselves. We may not like the response we will get. We willing back down easily to avoid conflict.

Assertiveness:
We are comfortable to express what we think, feel and want. We can express our view and needs without stepping on others, and without anger or attack. We aim for a solution that is a win for all.

Aggressiveness:
We stand up for ourselves, even at the expense of others. We use tactics such as loud talking, sarcasm, desk pounding and forcefulness to get our way.


Real Life

Step back, and think of where you fall on the continuum in most situations. Are you the timid child (passive), rational adult (assertive), or the aggressor (aggressive)?

If you want to feel good about yourself, gain respect or others, and achieve high productivity in your life, aim to be in the middle of the continuum.

Assertive individuals try to understand others, and acknowledge the value others bring. In a conflict, assertive people actively listen, explain themselves clearly, and invite the others to work together toward a solution.

Assertive people realize they want to have a long-term relationship with people. In order to do so, they do not create barriers with anger or humiliation. Instead they use constructive feedback.


Here is an example of constructive feedback.

Mike, when you say that my idea is ludicrous, I feel frustrated because I do not think you have fully reviewed my team's proposal.

Pause, wait for feedback.

I would like the opportunity for my team to present it to you, so you can express your objections and we can address your concerns, because we think the plan benefits both our teams by reducing paperwork, and staffing expenses.

What do you think?


Analysis

By responding to Mike in an assertive way, there is a good chance he will mirror your behavior. You were able to get your points across without anger or humiliation. You stayed focused on the team benefits.

Had you used passive behavior, Mike would have shot your proposal down, without a comment from you. If you matched his aggressive behavior and name calling, you may still be arguing now.

Using Assertiveness for Success

• Think Win-Win. What is best for you and the team?
• When speaking, include statements that illustrate the benefits to the team.
• Respect your team members.
• Share your knowledge and ideas with the team.
• Point out potential problems in a constructive way.
• Enable processes that move the team toward its goals.

The Result

True, sometimes women find it more difficult to be assertive. Don't allow this to be an issue for you. Practice positive self-talk, and assertive behavior; leave those old habits behind. Ask a trusted associate to role-play with you, if that helps.

At first, it may be tough, but you can do it. Remember, you'll feel better about yourself and those around you when you practice assertive behavior.

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How to Give and Take Criticism

By Tamara Dowling, CPRW

Perhaps the two toughest things we do are to give criticism and to receive criticism. We should examine both sides of this dynamic exchange because if we are committed to our careers and those of our staff, we will find ourselves on each side of the conversation. These pointers will make the conversation more effective.

Select a Good Time

Always conduct a feedback session in private. Never conduct it when the person is too stressed to really hear what you are saying. If it is urgent, ask the person to 'take five' and come back to meet with you.

Remain Calm

If you are upset about an error, don't have the meeting while you are upset. Take a walk and have the discussion when you are calm. During the meeting, no matter what is thrown at you, remain calm. If it gets out of control, stop the meeting and set a time to continue.

Send a Clear Message

Don't beat around the bush. Be precise; let them know exactly what is not working and your suggestion for improvement. Have notes handy with specific details. Always criticize the behavior, not the person. Make sure the receiver understands completely by asking them to paraphrase or soliciting questions or comments from them. Once the other person participates in the conversation, you'll be able to tell if they understand the issue and your motivation for the meeting.

Start and Finish

Some people say to start and finish with positive comments. However, if your positive comment is about good work, your critical message may get lost in the midst of the positive notes. Instead, start with a positive comment such as, "I care about your success, and the success about our department. That is why I wanted to meet with you." End with, "I am hoping we can work together to improve XXX and XXX will be much better because we addressed this together today."

Check with Human Resources

If you are unsure if your criticism is appropriate or legal, consult your Human Resources Manager. In general, stick to job performance issues -- duties and tasks the employee has the ability to improve.

Don't Be Repetitive

Don't hammer them over the head again and again. Make your point and move on. Conversely, if you feel your critic or manager is becoming repetitive. Maybe it is because they are nervous, or maybe they are not sure they're getting through to you. Try saying, "I am glad you came to me and I understand."

When You are Receiving Criticism

If your critic is not tactful, focus on the issue. If you are faced with an angry manager, be strong and cut through the noise for the underlying message.

Don't argue with the criticism. Accept it for the information submitted. Think about it after the meeting. If you feel it was untrue, schedule a follow up meeting. Often the shock of the message can evoke an emotional response. It is better to collect your thoughts and schedule a second meeting.

Be sure to tell the critic that you appreciate his interest. Letting down your guard invites a relationship of mutual trust and sharing. Candid feedback helps us grow. We may be off track a bit and a little criticism can steer us in the right direction.

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Feeling Entrepreneurial? (Part II)

If you decide you want to follow your dream, here are tasks to accomplish in the early days of your new company.

1. Establish an accounting process, and pick a year end date.
One approach is to purchase a desktop accounting software package. Another option is to hire or contract an accountant.

2. Select your company name.
This involves verifying that the name is available, and registering it in your state. If you would like a Web presence, check if your desired domain name is available through a service such as Network Solutions. If you plan to protect your name and/or logo with a trademark, you can check the ability to use your desired name by visiting uspto.gov.

3. Obtain the necessary business licenses and permits.
This will vary by your location and type of business.

4. Obtain an Employer Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service.

5. Set up a Dun and Bradstreet DUNS number by visiting dnb.com.

6. Discuss your business plan with your insurance agent.
Together, determine your needs for business insurance.

7. Loans, if you need them.
Don't assume that you can easily get a loan. Take time and discuss your options with a professional financial advisor or your banker.

A. Personal Loans
Banks, credit unions and life insurance policies are avenues to explore when seeking a loan. Be prepared to have your credit history scrutinized and in many cases you'll need collateral or a sponsor.

B. Business Loans
There are three types of business loans that you may qualify for. Have all of your documents ready, including your business plan and pro forma, and speak to your banker about all available options.

If you have steady accounts receivable (AR) that are not delinquent, you may seek a loan secured by your AR. You also may seek a loan to be secured by your inventory or equipment.

If your business holds real estate, you could apply for a loan secured with real estate.

If none of the above is right for you, visit the Small Business Administration at sbaonline.org.


8. Is venture capital for your business?
Venture capital firms (VC) are an option if you are planning a high and rapid growth business in which your investors have potential to make five to ten times their initial investment. VCs usually invest between $250,000 to $2,000,000 in a company. In return they take considerable ownership of the company. They generally make their decision on the strength of the management team and the viability of the business model in the current market.

If your company does not fit this profile, that is OK. It may be better to spend your time seeking funds in other ways.

If you are interested in venture capital or recruiting angel investors, visit garage.com. You'll find some great resources online, and in addition, they conduct a seminars several times a year called Boot Camp for Start Ups.

The book, "Financing the New Venture" by Mark Long is a good primer if you're new to raising funds.

9. Select a bank and establish banking accounts.

10. If you have decided to incorporate,
you may need to set up an Operating Agreement, create Bylaws, establish a Board of Directors, distribute share or unit certificates, and many other tasks related to the establishment of a corporation. Your legal advisor can help you determine what you need to do.

11. Create templates
for vendor contracts, client contracts and other legal documents such as a Non Disclosure Agreement or Transfer of Rights.

12. Set up accounts
with a printer, office supply vendor, and other special vendors your business requires. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to check out vistaprint.com for their low cost and free business card offers.

13. A lawyer would be helpful in the following areas:

• Establishment of your business
• Client and vendor contracts
• Partnership agreements and negotiations
• Corporate set-up, if so desired
• Leases
• Employment and labor issues
• Trademarks, copyrights and patent issues
• Tax planning

How to Select a Lawyer:

• Contact your local Chamber of Commerce or professional associations for a referral
• Check out lawyer candidates at MartindaleHubbell.com
• Check status of your lawyer candidate with the local chapter of the American Bar Association, or the national office at (312) 988-5522.

14. An accounting professional would be valuable in the following ways:

• Understanding of the consequences and benefits of each business form (i.e., C Corp, S Corp, LLC, etc.)
• Set up of an accounting system and procedure
• Tax planning
• Preparation of tax documents
• Payroll issues
• IRS audits

We've listed some of the tasks you may address when you decide to work as an independent contract, or form your own business. We urge you to find professional advisors to guide you through this new territory successfully.

Job Info , Jobs , Employment

Feeling Entrepreneurial? (Part I)

By Peter Dowling, JD, CPRW, ARM, CPCU

Jan had lunch with Margo for the first time since Margo left the firm to work freelance. Now Jan is considering making the move to freelance. Before she does she wants to know what to expect and how to prepare.

What are the principle differences between working for yourself and for an employer?

Here is some of what you can expect 'on your own.'

• Potential for higher earning
• Make your own hours
• Make decisions about the direction of your company and your career
• More responsibility
• Potential for favorable tax benefits
• No unemployment insurance or worker's compensation, as an independent
• Income may be erratic or difficult to collect
• Cost of doing business may be more than you anticipate
• If you're working at home it may be a challenge to define your work hours and manage interruptions and distractions

Initial Steps -- Before You Decide to Quit Your Day Job

1. Create a business plan.

How will you do business? How will you attract clients? How much will you charge for your services or product? Who are your vendors? How long will it take to establish yourself? How long before you break even?

2. Construct a practical budget.

Do you have the necessary funds to get your business started and to keep it running through your break-even point? Are you prepared to seek outside funds in the form of a loan or investment? How long can you survive without an income?

3. Will you set up office in your home initially, or rent space?

Working at home can save money. You may qualify for tax deductions. However, will it harm your professional image, and is your home space appropriate for your business?

4. Select the legal form for your business. (Corporation, Limited Liability Company, etc.)

This decision is crucial as it may affect your tax liability and method, your Social Security tax responsibilities, your privacy, and your personal liability for debts.

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New Skills Lead to a New Job

By Tamara Dowling, CPRW


Do you want to get ahead in your career? It is important to develop new skills and expand your knowledge. That may be what distinguishes you from your peers when up for a promotion.

What types of training and educational courses are available to me?

1. Self study courses offered through an industry association. Many of these lead to a certificate or designation and are recognized within the industry.
2. Continuing education courses offered at a Community College or University. The courses may count toward a degree. If you currently hold a special designation in your industry, check to see if the course counts as Continuing Education Units (CEU). You may obtain a course catalog online, or by calling the adult education or continuing education admissions office.
3. Videotape or audiotape courses. These courses are very convenient and affordable and can be good for building soft skills.
4. Online courses/distance learning.A wide variety of courses are now offered online, at a wide variety of expense. Courses leading toward a certification or Continuing Education Units (CEU) have more weight than those without course end evaluation.
5. One day seminars or workshops. These can be good for refreshing management or organization skills.

How do I choose the right subject to study?

If you're going to make a time and financial commitment, you want to be sure you choose a course that will give your career the biggest boost. If you are not sure, talk to your manager. Ask in which areas you need development. Use that as a guide. You may even ask her for a recommendation to a workshop or course.


What if I can't afford to pay for a course?

Check with the institution to see if they have any discount programs or scholarships. Your next step is to ask your manager if your company would sponsor you for all or a portion of the cost.


How do I ask my company to pay for my course?

1. Gather information about the course. Make copies of the course description, professor biography, and description of the program or institution.
2. Write a short 1-2 paragraph summary about how this course will improve your performance at work.
3. If possible, include a very brief endorsement from someone who took the course.
4. Offer to present a summary of the course to your fellow team members, after you've completed the course.
5. If your company has a standard procedure for such requests, follow those instructions.
6. Most companies will pay for materials upfront, and will reimburse you for course fees upon successful completion of the course. Make sure you collect all documentation they require.
7. If the company agrees to pay, don't forget to send a memo to your manager when you complete the course. Explain what you learned and how it has helped you in your position. Remember to thank your manager for sponsoring you.

Getting the most out of the course

1. Attend the classes, and do the required assignments.
2. Take notes. Read your notes from the last class before the next class. Hearing the discussion, writing the notes, and reading the notes reinforces the information in your mind.
3. Take advantage of any resources offered such as articles, books, field trips or Web sites.
4. Get to know your professor. They may be able to help you on a more personal level, and suggest additional study methods and resources.
5. Participate in the class. The more involved in the discussion, the more stimulated and inspired you'll be.
6. Meet your classmates. This is an excellent networking opportunity.

Ongoing education shows your current and prospective employers that you are serious about your career. You'll have new knowledge, skills, and insight into your career. You'll never be bored if you are continuing to grow and try new things.

Job Info , Jobs , Employment

What I Didn't Expect When I Entered the Workforce:

Comments from New Workers and a Career Advisor


By Tamara Dowling, CPRW

Here are comments from workers (W) in various positions and industries. These workers tell us what surprised them, frustrated them and what nobody told them to expect when they entered the working world for the first time.

Our career advisor (CA) responds to each of the comments with suggestions for overcoming these issues, or playing the situation to your advantage.


Office Politics

W: I knew office politics existed in every type of company. However, I thought I could avoid it. I planned not to get involved and not let it affect me. Even though I am nice to everyone, it seems like someone has negative things to say about me. And, there is always someone trying to drag me into an issue they have with someone else.

CA: Try your best to stay neutral. If conversations with a co-worker head into a bad direction, make an excuse to exit the conversation.

If you feel you are the target, try politely confronting the person in private. Say something like, "I get the feeling you are upset with me. Have I done something? I value our working relationship and want us to get past this." Many times it is a misunderstanding that you can get past. If it is not, you'll learn a little more about what you are up against so you can avoid it.


Time

W: Nobody explained to me that my hours were calculated on quarter hour segments. If I am three minutes late, I lose 15 minutes. Why are they tracking my time anyway? Can’t I just get my job done?

CA: When you start your job, ask exactly how your time is recorded and what your pay is based upon. Also ask about time away from work for personal appointments, and any other instances in which you may not receive a full day's pay. If a relaxed environment is more important to you, be sure to learn the company’s policy before you start.


Dress Code

W: I did not expect my manager to take my dress style so seriously. I think I look good, and my friends do too. My manager can't seem to get over it.

CA: Before you take a job, find out about the dress code. Take a tour of the facility and pay attention to the way others are dressed. Companies take their image seriously. If you don't think you conform to their image, you might be happier in another company. If you can't find a company that tolerates your dress style, you may need to alter your dress style while at work.


New Job Brought New Expenses

W: I was surprised at the expenses associated with the job. New clothing, dry cleaning, parking fees, professional association fees, group lunches, and other expenses take a big chunk out of my budget.

CA: When you are considering a new job, add up expenses like the ones mentioned above. If you are unsure what expenses you'll have, ask the hiring company about dress code, parking fees and association memberships before you accept the job.

Many companies will pay for some or all of your parking expenses. Some even subsidize your commuting expenses, or offer incentives for ride sharing. Some employers have discount arrangements with local dry cleaners and the cleaners will even pick up your garments at the office.

If you are interested in a professional association, when you are negotiating your salary ask about the company sponsoring your annual fees.

Many companies have specific policies about continuing education and what exactly the company will pay for, and what you are required to do to qualify. Learn about the policy up front.

It also helps to know how much it will cost to finance a new wardrobe if this is your first time to work in a conservative office environment.


Routine

W: I had so much variety in school. Now that I am working, I am bored with the daily 8:00 to 5:00 routine.

CA: Spend time exploring career options. There are many careers that have a lot of variety and excitement. Even while in your current job, you can plan a new career. You probably already have a list of things you like and don't like. Consult a career counselor for help, or check out the free Discovery Tools by SeekingSuccess.

Also, you may be able to find new challenges and more variety in your current job. Talk to your manager. If you are doing well with your current responsibility, she may be willing to assign you special projects that will give you the lift that you need.


Rules, Rules, Rules

W: It seems like the company is so rigid about rules. For example, no personal calls, no eating at my work station and lunches are only 60 minutes. I think I could perform better without so many restrictions.

CA: Not everyone can work better without rules. In fact, most employees need guidelines. If the rules seem arbitrary, ask a senior person or manager why they exist. There is a reason. Perhaps personal calls were excessive and goals were not met. Maybe lunches were extending late into the afternoon and customers' needs were not met.

Before you take a job ask if you can "sit in" the work area for a couple hours to see what it is really like. In two hours you'll get a taste of the culture. You'll know if it is right for you.

All companies have rules to keep things running smoothly. It also promotes fairness because all employees are treated in a similar manner. Rules may be something you'll need to conform to meet, especially in an entry-level position. As you move up in the company, you'll accept new responsibility and freedom.


How am I Doing?

W: I miss being graded and always knowing how I am doing. In school I knew how I stood and what I needed to do to bring up my grade. At work, I worry about my performance.

CA: If you feel you're not getting enough feedback from your manager, talk to your manager. Say something like, "I like my job. I really want to do well. Please let me know if I am meeting your expectations and what I can do to improve."

It is not a good idea to keep asking again and again. But checking in every 3 months or so is all right if you are not getting reviews, praise, or criticism from your manager.

At school the institution exists to help the student body succeed. At work, the focus is on the company's success. You may need to reorient yourself to this new environment.


Time Management

W: I always thought I was an effective time manager. I was never late with my school assignments. Now I struggle to keep my desk current, and to answer all my voicemails in one day.

CA: Time management can be challenging, but you can master it. In school your workload is structured, and it is fairly easy to plan and manage. Work can be unpredictable, especially if you deal with the public. You may feel out of control.

The key is planning and prioritizing your work. Since each job is different, talk to a senior person in your department for specific advice.


Fitting in with Older Workers

W: I started my job and everyone is 15-20 years older than me. I feel really left out and alone.

CA: Even if your co-workers are different from you, you have your employer in common. Use that as a starting point to open up communication. They probably feel just as awkward with you.

Try breaking the ice by bringing in muffins for your work team. Ask about their families. It can be fun getting to know people with whom you wouldn't normally socialize.


Job Search Time

W: I was surprised at how long it took me to get my first job. It took me three months. I wished I had started looking sooner. I also wished I had gained more volunteer experience, internships, or actual work experience while in school. None of my professors or counselors expressed how important it is to have experience.

CA: It is a great idea to start planning in your junior year. Begin researching careers and employers. Meet with workers in jobs that you think you'd like. Learn as much as you can about the opportunities out there.

If you have a general idea of what you'd like to do, test it out by taking a temporary assignment or ask an employer to bring you aboard as an intern. Many charities are struggling and would welcome a motivated, intelligent student to volunteer part time. You can gain sales, fund-raising, marketing, management, accounting and many other skills as a volunteer.

Allow six months to search for your job. If you are seeking a higher-level position, it may take longer to land your ideal job.

Job Info , Jobs , Employment

Avoid Unexpected Wardrobe Problems

By Tamara Dowling, CPRW

You have pressed the suit, coordinated matching accessories, and polished your shoes. You are sure to walk in the door looking like a winner. With 30 minutes to spare, you sit down for your breakfast. Right on cue, you dribble juice down the white shirt and slide your sleeve in the butter. That is just one of many mishaps that can add stress to the big interview day.

Here are some quick tips to save you. Have breakfast in your dressing robe. Don't dress until you are ready to head out the door. Pack these items for wardrobe emergencies:

• Safety pins and a mini stapler for torn hemlines.
• "Tide to Go" stain remover.
• White cloth and a bottle of water works well to remove soil from shoes.
• Ladies, an extra pair of hosiery is a must.
• Mini sewing kit for popped buttons.
• Grooming essentials (mints, comb, tissues, lipstick)

There are many important things to pack, rehearse, and remember for your interview. However, you are judged by your appearance in those early seconds, so make sure you look your best!

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10 Effective Employee Benefit Ideas from Google Headquarters

Google’s founders often state that the company is not serious about anything but search. They built a company around the idea that work should be challenging and the challenge should be fun.


To that end, Google’s culture is unlike any in corporate America, and it’s not because of the whimsical lava lamps and large rubber balls, or the fact that one of the company’s chefs used to cook for the Grateful Dead. In the same way Google puts users first when it comes to online services, Google puts employees first when it comes to daily life in its offices.


“The goal is to strip away everything that gets in our employees’ way. We provide a standard package of fringe benefits, but on top of that are first-class dining facilities, gyms, laundry rooms, massage rooms, haircuts, carwashes, dry cleaning, commuting buses – just about anything a hardworking employee might want. Let’s face it: programmers want to program, they don’t want to do their laundry. So we make it easy for them to do both.” Eric Schmidt, CEO Google


Benefits Philosophy: We strive to be innovative and unique in all services we provide both to customers and employees, including our benefits and perks offerings. We realize and celebrate that our employees have diverse needs, and that this diversity requires flexible and individually directed support. Our priority is to offer a customizable program that can be tailored to the specific needs of each individual, whether they enjoy ice climbing in Alaska, want to retire by age 40, or plan to adopt 3 children (Google Jobs).


When you take a close look at these employee benefits Google provides, you will see a common thread that indicates how much Google sees their employees as a close-knit family. The thought, consideration and assistance they offer, with their employees' needs being the focus, is the glue that keeps their workers happy, healthy and financially taken care of.



10 Simple and Effective and Effective Employee Benefits You Can Learn from Google:

Here are some of the benefits, other than the standard good health care and retirement plans, that people who work at Google love. Maybe you can incorporate some of these ideas into your Employee Benefits Package:

1. 529 College Savings Plan. Now, this is an incredible benefit that provides a way for employees to save part of their paychecks for post-secondary education for themselves or their children.

This plan is another offering besides Google's Flex Spending Account and their matching 401(k) Plan options.

2. Maternity Leave. Google offers up to 18 weeks off at about 100% of an employee's regular pay. That's especially generous because many large corporations only give up to four weeks' paid.

Check this out: on top of the fantastic paid leave, new moms and dads are able to have take-out meals covered up to $500 during the first 3 months they are home with the new baby.

3. Parental Leave. This is a special benefit for non-primary caregivers. For example, if your sister wound up in the hospital and needed you to fly out to care for your nieces and nephews, you get up to 7 weeks off, paid at approximately 100%.

4. Employee Referral Program. Google's motto is, "Good people know other good people," and encourages recommendations of candidates for openings. If they hire your referral and remains employed at Google for at least two months, the referrer (you) gets a nice bonus.

5. Back-Up Child Care. If your babysitter doesn't show or your daycare suddenly closed its doors one morning, Google will provide five days of free childcare through Children's Creative Learning Center (CCLC), for ages 6 weeks to 12 years of age.

6. Gift-Matching Program. Let it never be said that Google doesn't contribute to charity and go the extra mile to encourage their employees to get more mileage out of their charitable dollars.

Google matches contribution of up to $3000 per year from eligible employees to non-profit organizations, says the Google site. "Bolstering employees contributions to worthy causes with matching gifts doesn't just mean helping hundreds of organizations, both locally and globally, it's also a tangible expression."

7. Adoption assistance. Google assists their employees by offering financial help in the adoption of a child.

Google will reimburse the adoptive parents up to $5,000 for legal expenses, adoption agencies, or any other professional adoption fees. On top of this, parental leave and take-out benefits also apply here.

8. Financial Planning Classes. Google provides their employees with objective and conflict-free financial education courses that are comprehensive and cover a wide variety of financial topics---free.

In addition to these courses, Google offers EAP, an Employee Assistance Program that provides services for employees and their dependents that include free short-term counseling, legal consultations, child care referrals, and even pet care referrals.

9. Great On-Site Services. Google headquarters in Mountain View, California provides their employees with an on-site oil change, car wash, massage therapy, dry cleaning, hair stylist, gym, fitness classes and bicycle repair.

In addition to these services, gourmet chefs create a wide variety of healthy and delicious---and free---lunches and dinners for Google's employees. Google also offers satisfying snacks in between meals.

10. On-Site Doctor. Also at Google's Mountain View headquarters, employees have the convenience of seeing a doctor for medical attention right on-site.

This perk could save having an employee leave the workplace in order to be seen by a medical professional.

Important Points to Remember when Adding Employee Benefits to your Business:

• Make sure your benefits and rewards match the accomplishments. In other words, a reward does not need to cost a lot of money; what matters is that the benefits is of value to the employee.
• Center your company benefits around your employees' needs.
• Be fair with reward systems. Make sure that whatever benefit or reward system you set up can never be construed into “playing favorites.”
• Don’t let your mood(s) dictate when to offer benefits or rewards to employees for jobs well-done. Employees can detect when an employer is sincere when showing appreciation.
• Never use benefits or rewards as leverage to get what you want. Don’t put a reward in place for everyone and then use it against everyone---for lack of performance by one or two people---by taking it away. Again, be fair to all.
• Learn to incorporate and give rewards to the right employees for the right reasons.

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