In this age of political correctness, I often wonder whether attempts to maintain sensitivity to all things has taken us too far or not far enough. Have we gone too far in our attempts to be politically correct (pc) about just about everything? It has changed our language, our communication and our own sensitivity to…
There are certain kinds of people who suck the life out of your day. On an airplane, a screaming child can ruin a flight for even the most seasoned traveler. Surly passengers and transit operators with negative attitudes won’t help get your day off on the right foot. In the work place, a coworker or…
As I reminded everyone last time out, we have a national election coming up in less than two months. And as a result, we are seeing a lot of personal opinions and arguments expressed about the various referendums, ballot measures and candidates running for office. Many of the views are provided by reliable and knowledgeable…
Among the complaints I hear frequently from employees are comments like: “I’ve been busting my butt for this company for years, and not once has anyone actually said, ‘thanks for your efforts’.” And almost as frequently I hear employers say things like: “Why should I say ‘thank you’? It’s their job! What the heck am…
Regardless of the type of relationship you are trying to establish, the first days truly are the hardest. This is particularly true when you start a new job. Even if you are a veteran in your field and think you are prepared to do the work that is expected, you are thrust into a multitude…
It’s a rare thing to be working alone, solo. While you may have myriad responsibilities that are yours and for which you must take ownership, you will be working with others as part of a team. And even if you’re self-employed, you may be working for yourself, but maybe not by yourself. Whether directly or…
That IS The Question! Whether ‘tis nobler to exhibit discretion when it comes to sharing your thoughts and experiences via Twitter, Facebook or other online social medium, or to just let it roll out your brain and onto the screens of your network of friends, family, admirers, and complete strangers. Because once it goes out,…
Increasingly employers frown on fraternization between coworkers, and include specific references and the consequences to such behavior in their employee manuals. More and more employers just don’t want to deal with the potential sexual harassment issues that can erupt when relationships between coworkers don’t work out. Despite the good intentions of employees, sometimes what starts…
There’s no question that one’s skills, experience and qualifications should be the primary consideration by an employer when selecting a candidate for hiring. But one of the most important skill sets any applicant can bring to a job is far less recognizable from interviewing alone. The qualities one brings for being able to deal with…
You can take this title in a variety of ways, and likely you’d be right. But the issue of the moment lies in the details of what you have previously told your current employer. Picture this: You’ve been on the job for a few years, built effective relationships, trust and a good record of productivity…
Well, you can, but it’ll cost you! Possibly big time! That cell phone in your pocket or purse, excellent tool that it is, can cost you a job! Especially if it goes off at an inopportune time like an interview, or even while waiting for that all-important meeting. Do I really need to remind you…
Simply stated: the computer equipment in your office – the machines, network, etc – is the property of your employer. Therefore your employer can strictly enforce control over what you can do and can’t do with that equipment. Many employers tolerate employees checking personal email accounts, but still have formal policies in place against such…
