Tag Archives: work

Do You Have a Plan for Your Career?

Looking to The Future of Your CareerGetting a job is only the first step; you need to set career goals and continually improve in your craft if you want more meaningful responsibilities, higher salaries, or that big promotion.

According to the University of Kansas, people who have clear ideas about what they hope to accomplish have improved chances of achieving them.

Forming a career plan is important. Check out our video to get helpful insight on what steps to take to help you achieve your career goals, and to find out what happens when you throw out preparation and just wing it.

Making the Most of the First Two Hours in the Day

First Two Hours at WorkMaybe you’re a morning person, so being happy and productive earlier in the day comes naturally to you. Or maybe you are a night owl who has been lucky enough to find a job that fits more easily with your body’s internal clock. No matter what time your day begins, check out these tips to start the day happy and productive?

Do Something You Enjoy
Even if you can’t control when your day starts, you can do things to make it better. Having something to look forward too can make getting out of bed much easier. For example, maybe there is a talk show you enjoy that can play on your radio or TV. Or maybe you need to change up your breakfast routine, enticing yourself with an omelet or yogurt parfait. If you can, allow 20 minutes for a hobby like reading or exercising, it could be just the enjoyment you need to start your day with a smile. Consider a reward system. For example, reward yourself with a specialty coffee or a $5 contribution toward a “Fun Night Out” fund if you’re on time for four days in a row.

Do Something You Need to Get Done
Maybe you don’t want to get started with your day because you’re dreading a task. Try to turn this feeling around into an accomplishment by knocking out a task that has been hanging over your head. Maybe it’s getting caught up on bills or doing some much needed cleaning. You might want to take care of a conversation you’ve been meaning to have, or just simply need to schedule an appointment. Whatever it is, pick something small and dreaded on your to-do list and get it done. Once you do, you’ll feel like you’ve already had a great day and the rest of your day is icing on the cake.

Just Do Something
Not having a plan can be exhausting. If you don’t know where to start or don’t have a handle on your to-do list, it can all be overwhelming enough to put off starting your day. However, having a to-do list can let your day get started with less thought. When possible spend some time the day before preparing for the next day, giving yourself a clear plan to follow. When your day gets started you can simply dive into your list and before you know it, you’ve had some accomplishments from the start. Who can’t feel good about that?

How do you make sure your day starts right? Share your go-to ideas to making the most of your morning, whenever that is, in the comments section below.

Advance Your Career Without Being a Jerk

Climb the corporate Ladder without being a jerkWe’ve all heard the saying, “Nice guys finish last.” It’s a common phrase, but it seems to fly in the face of all proper etiquette when dealing with others. Being respectful, kind, and generous are usually key soft skills that employers look for when looking for job candidates or finding someone to promote into management.

Some of you might know what it’s like to be the nice guy. You respectfully do what you’re told, but that guy, who is being loud mouthed and demanding, gets all the attention and opportunities. The good news is that the office jerk doesn’t always get the prize. Here are some ways you can take comfort in knowing that nice guys can make it to the top.

It’s a Pain to Maintain
The office jerks often seem like they are always getting the opportunities because at first glance, they convey in a group setting that they have the most power. A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science suggests that the more discourteous someone acts, the more others believe that the offender has power. Naturally, this person’s status is elevated and becomes a prime candidate for promotion or leadership.

The problem is leadership with that kind of behavior is unsustainable. These people tend to focus more on their ego than their team members, which will hinder performance and cause employers to question their leadership. If given enough time, they might job hop at the drop of a hat to another employer that hasn’t seen through the self-promotion and noise to see the jerk as he really is. They may climb the corporate ladder quicker, but they don’t stay there very long.

Assertive Not Aggressive
The biggest problem that the workplace nice guys face is that they can be so courteous that they become passive. They are concerned that if they assert themselves others will think of their behavior as aggressive, but assertiveness is that happy medium between being passive and being aggressive.

Being assertive is a matter of finding that balance of speaking up when you have an idea or opinion while respecting others who are already talking, disagreeing with requests if they are unreasonable, offering suggestions to compromise, and asking for favors and help without demanding it.

If you’re unsure where that line is, ask your manager or mentor to observe your behavior and alert you when you do things too passively or aggressively. You’re demonstrating a desire to improve your leadership and soft skills, which will already place you in a promotable position.

Integrity is Key
Generally, the most common thing the workplace nice guys have going for them is their integrity – they will do what they promised. The common trait most employers look for, other than the specific skills needed for the job, is integrity. Listening, understanding, and recognizing others are all traits that fall under that reliability. It builds trust with your management, and when you’re a little more assertive when letting your boss know about all that you’ve done, you’ll be a prime candidate when opportunity knocks.

How do you feel about the Workplace Nice Guy? Do you think it’s true that only jerks get ahead in the workplace? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

The Workplace Holiday Party: Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Should I go the Company Christmas Holiday PartyYou know it’s coming. You see the flier in the break room, you get the email, or maybe you find the announcement in your paycheck. Either way, the workplace holiday party is quickly approaching. For some employees, that internal struggle builds inside while stressed with the same question that plagues them every year – “Do I want to go or not?”

It’s a good question. Different organizations have different expectations on attendance, participation, and etiquette at a holiday party. Depending on how personal you are with your co-workers, the holiday party could feel like one of the most awkward two hours of your life trapped inside a room.

If you have to ask yourself this question, you may not want to go. If you’ve been with a company for several years, you may know what is acceptable; but if you’re new to the job, expectations may not be so apparent. Here are some things to consider before deciding whether or not to attend the workplace holiday party.

Your Employer is Saying “Thank You”
Your managers, leaders, and executives know you work hard, but they can’t always express that gratitude in more ways than just saying, “Great job, and thank you.” For many employers, this is their big chance to let employees know how much they appreciate them. If you have a company holiday get-together, feel fortunate. According to the Huffington Post, only 44% of senior managers said that their company was planning an office holiday party this year.

Now is Your Chance!
So you think your co-workers are boring, annoying, or just unpleasant? Is the company party a drag? Change it! They won’t get any more fun if you avoid them. Maybe all you have to do is make your own fun. Still, keep in mind your company culture and workplace etiquette, but these types of events are only as much fun as you put into them.

This also might be a chance for you to develop or learn new skills. Consider asking your HR department about who plans and organizes the holiday party and volunteer your time if possible. If you can plan and prepare a holiday party that you would want to attend, you and your co-workers are much more likely to come. It can also give you a chance to demonstrate your involvement and passion to leadership and senior executives, which could lead to future career opportunities.
 
Real Life Has Real Responsibilities
We all have personal lives outside of work, with some of us having family responsibilities. While some employers see their workers as a family, they may fail to remember that employees all have duties and obligations after closing time. Remember what is important to you, and keep them first on your list of priorities. They might conflict with the company holiday gathering or they might not. Just be true to what means the most to you.

Having a good, fair, and balanced judgment will help you make the decision to attend or skip the office holiday festivities. There’s a lot to consider, but it should be more than just not feeling like it. Don’t forget to tell us your favorite workplace party moments in the comments section below.

Choosing the Right Attire for Your First Day

People in UniformIf you’re about to start your first day at a new job you’ve probably given a lot of thought to what you’re going to wear, but have you figured it out yet? Check with your employer to make sure you know what the company dress code is. Do you know what they mean by professional or casual dress? Do you wear something like what you wore to your interview, or should you dress more casual? Does the attire you have in mind fit into the dress code? Knowing exactly what to wear can be confusing, but it’s important to dress to impress from day one to reassure your employer that you’re the right person for the job. Here are some guidelines for five common dress codes to help you figure it out.

Professional
This is the most formal dress code, and it’s usually reserved for business environments. It includes suits, button-down shirts, ties, and dress shoes for men. For women, this attire includes blouses and pant suits or skirt suits with nylons and high-heeled dress shoes. Some professions require this type of dress on a daily basis, while others require it only on certain occasions, such as business meetings, presentations, or sales calls. Suit jackets are typically a must for the professional dress code, so don’t leave home on your first day without one.

Business Casual
The business casual environment is professional yet relaxed. Men wear dress slacks and button-down shirts but often leave their ties at home, and women wear skirts or dress slacks with blouses. Jackets are optional, but are an easy way to dress-up your attire, so it might be a good idea to keep one handy just in case. Wearing khakis and a polo shirt embroidered with the company logo is also usually appropriate for this dress code for both men and women. For men, casual loafers and dress shoes are acceptable, but sneakers and sandals need to be left at home. Women can wear high-heeled shoes or flats, but sneakers, flip-flops, and beach sandals are not appropriate.

Casual
For some offices, a casual dress code is only allowed on Fridays. For workplaces with an every day casual attire, khakis, jeans, polo shirts, casual shoes, and clean sneakers are generally appropriate. Make sure to leave jogging suits, worn-out attire, sandals, and revealing clothing at home. If your new workplace allows casual attire but you’re not sure how much to dress up or down for your first day, khakis and a polo shirt are a safe bet to start off with until you learn what’s acceptable.

Industrial
There is no set standard for an industrial dress code because jobs within the industry require different attire for safety and necessity. For example, construction sites may require steel-toed boots while other businesses simply require closed-toed shoes. Jewelry or baggy clothing may be prohibited for safety precautions. Shorts may even be acceptable for some positions, while others might require long pants. So, check with your employer to ask for specific details about the dress code to show your professionalism and safety awareness.

Uniform
If your new position requires a uniform or special attire, make sure you know the guidelines for how to wear it. Depending on the company and type of position, you might be required to iron your uniform or wear additional accessories such as a belt. You might also be limited to what you can wear in addition to your wardrobe, so ask about whether or not it’s OK to wear jewelry or hats. Check with your employer to see if you’ll be provided with a uniform or if you’re required to purchase all or part of it yourself, and whether you’ll need to pick it up prior to your start date or during your first day on the job.

With these guidelines you can choose the right dress code for your first day. Whatever type of dress code your new work environment requires, you can demonstrate your respect for the employer and your professionalism in the workplace by following these guidelines.

The 10 Commandments of Networking

the 10 commandments of networkingWe can’t escape networking. It’s an important part of the job search and career development. It’s a great way to open doors of opportunity and to have different people in which to bounce ideas off. But to a lot of us, networking is a dirty word and is easier just to avoid. It’s so foreign to us, we might not even know where to start networking if we tried.

So, sometimes we have to go back to the basics. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran who needs a refresher course or a wallflower newbie who wants to learn the ropes, here are 10 important aspects of networking to best meet people and build lasting relationships.

Thou Shalt Have a Strong Introduction
You never get a second chance to make a first impression, so make it count. Confidently introduce yourself with your name, eye contact, and a sturdy handshake to individuals or small groups of two or three. It can be surprising to see how open people are to talking if you show a little confidence.

Thou Shalt Not Talk More Than Listen
You should be spending more time understanding and getting to know the people you’re talking to than talking about yourself. You have two ears and one mouth, so use them respectively. Your natural reaction to feeling nervous can be to continue talking, but instead take a breath and listen.

Thou Shalt be Relevant
Stick to the point. If asked to tell a bit about yourself, keep it less than a minute and leave out gritty details that are specific to your job or industry. You could be talking to people outside of your field and you want them to stay engaged, so avoid work jargon. Follow the conversation, so you can add relevancy to the topic.

Thou Shalt Not be Awkward
It’s easy to become too personal. Details about a recent surgery, spousal or family argument, political rant, or other personal subjects should be avoided until a stronger relationship with someone is built. Also, be aware of your body language. Good eye contact and staying an arm’s length from others are generally good social constructs.

Thou Shalt Provide Value
The best way to provide value is to find out what they actually need. Use those listening skills to learn the person’s immediate need, and devise how you can solve their problem or introduce them to someone who can.

Thou Shalt Not Be Phony
Don’t try to fake your interest in other people. Networking is about making mutual connections, and sometimes you simply can’t click with some people. If a conversation isn’t going well, excuse yourself, thank them for their time, and move on. You could be spending your time more wisely with someone else.

Thou Shalt be Positive
You should strive to maintain a positive attitude, even if you are having a tough time with the job market. People don’t like doing business with grumpy people. They are attracted to individuals who have can-do attitudes and are eager to accomplish and serve.

Thou Shalt Not Take Too Much Time
Overstaying your welcome is just as bad as ignoring someone. If you notice arms crossing, eyes wandering, or the word “anyway” being said frequently, that means it’s time to gracefully exit and start a new conversation.

Thou Shalt Give Opportunities to Stay in Contact
If a conversation is going well or there are potential job opportunities with someone, give them the opportunity to stay in contact. A business card is a great way to keep the conversation going. Don’t forget to politely ask for theirs, too.

Thou Shalt Follow Up
Any relationship needs to be maintained. Try to contact people of interest within 24 hours of meeting them to say you enjoyed meeting them. Be thankful even if they don’t have any immediate leads. They took their time to talk with you, and they can be a valuable resource later.

If you could add a Networking Commandment, what would it be?

Make a Blazing Hot Cold Introduction

Making a great cold introductionHave you ever sat down to enjoy a good warm meal, only to be abruptly interrupted by a telemarketer trying to sell you something? Having your time wasted by someone trying to sell you something, donate to their cause, or support a political candidate can be annoying at best. Intruding on someone’s busy day to get a sale or even sell your personal brand is a very tricky art to master.

However, it’s also effective. If approached properly, cold introductions can be a great way to generate leads and develop networks that can help you find a job. Here are ways you can make effective cold introductions without coming across as a pushy salesman.

It’s About Them
The most important thing to remember when introducing yourself is to remember – it’s about them, not you. You have a short amount of time to get your point across, so don’t use it to talk about your past work experiences, achievements, or any other reasons why you are a remarkable worker. Instead, focus on their company goals and culture, and showing how you can meet their needs.
One of the first things a sales associate does when selling a product is to find the challenges the customer is facing and explain how his company’s product can help solve that problem. If you can’t quickly communicate why those you are addressing should be interested in what you have to say, and how you can further their organization, you’ll lose their attention.

It’s Personal
Assuming you are actively seeking these connections, you should have already researched them and their employer before trying to meet. If you meet with people you already know some information about, you will separate yourself as someone who is prepared and eager to meet you. They will be more open to talk and give you useful advice since you took the time to learn more about them than just asking general interview questions.

It’s also important to be sincere. When researching the people or employer, find aspects that really interest you and give you reason to ask for clarity. Questions or statements shouldn’t be made for the sake of asking questions. The more sincere you are about something, the more likely the other person will see your passion, which will lead to deeper conversations and stronger relationships.

It’s Not Always Direct
Some people are hard to reach. They have a strict schedule and sometimes they stick to it without interruption. That’s why you might have to warm up a cold introduction before you meet. If a potential contact has an assistant, receptionist, or office manager, build a relationship with them first. Asking them for help, remembering their name, and always thanking them, even after you meet with the potential contact will go a long way.

If you would like a less direct approach, social media can be a useful tool to slowly build a rapport before meeting someone. First, find people of interest on Twitter and follow them. Then when they tweet, comment on their posts and compliment them on their references. You can also follow their company pages on LinkedIn and Facebook and comment on and compliment the posts.

Cold introductions don’t have to be as scary or annoying as most people make them out to be. With a little research and confidence, you can introduce yourself to anyone and build a strong, reliable network. What are some of your stories of how a cold introduction led to career success?