You’re proud of the work you put in while on the job. But one day you walk by the breakroom and hear a co-worker say you frequently miss deadlines, come into work late, or steal their ideas for presentations.
Office gossip can be incredibly demoralizing, especially if you’re new on the job. Someone is spreading lies about you, but it’s their word against yours; is there really anything you can do about it? (more…)
“We’re all pretty bizarre. Some of us are just better at hiding it, that’s all.” – Andrew Clark, The Breakfast Club
On February 15, 1985, a movie about a group of misfit teens in detention debuted. Many critics still consider it one of the greatest films of all time. The film explored our tendency to judge others based on appearances and who we think they are, as opposed to getting to know them.
You probably recognize that film as The Breakfast Club. But did you know the coming-of-age flick has plenty of lessons that apply to your adult working life? Here’s what the characters of The Breakfast Club can teach us about the workplace.
Do you know the difference?
Current work philosophy dictates the best possible team is one chock-full of varying viewpoints, personalities, and skills. Differences in opinion and beliefs result in more stimulating brainstorming sessions and a higher degree of innovation overall.
Many employers are starting to embrace “diverse” workplaces with employees coming from a wide range of walks of life.
But HR folks still say that this “diversity” is not enough. There needs to be inclusion as well, but this can be a difficult concept for employees to understand. What’s the difference anyway?
Here’s the difference between diversity and inclusion, and why both are important to have in any workplace. (more…)
If you have an office job, you probably spend a lot of time sitting at your desk. And with so much time spent in one place, it’s natural to want your space to reflect your style and make you feel comfortable. After all, your cubicle, office, or workspace is basically your home-away-from-home.
But when it comes to decorating a space you don’t technically own, there are some do’s and don’ts. In fact, if you’re decorating is too heavy on the “don’ts,” it may be costing you your reputation.
According to Barbara Pachter, author of New Rules at Work, “It’s hard to function in a messy office, and people assume your office chaos will spill over to their project and their files will be lost in your mess.”
To avoid this workspace blunder, take a look at these design tips and tricks.
Positive relationships in the workplace have never been more important than in today’s fast-paced and competitive marketplace. At the end of the day, your success often depends on your co-worker’s willingness to partner with you. So it’s essential that your colleagues feel you are thankful for all they do.
Three Ways To Say Thanks
It helps to pay attention to the type of thanks that best resonates with your teammates. Then, consider which of these would appeal most to them as individuals.
1. Verbal Attention
Most people love compliments, especially when they are genuine. Just saying “I really appreciate all you did for this project” can make someone’s day. It’s even better if you do so within earshot of the boss, such as a compliment passed along in a staff meeting.
2. Notes of Appreciation
Some people are embarrassed by any kind of public display of attention. It’s just the way they are built. For those co-workers, consider sending an email and copying the boss, if your team has access.
If a co-worker has really gone an extra mile so that your whole team can succeed, consider sending a greeting card or eCard to make them feel appreciated.
3. Small Acts of Kindness
Every workplace has days when one person on a team is deluged with tasks, works late, and feels under pressure. That’s when a random act of kindness is a perfect way to show how you value their efforts.
It can be as simple as offering them a hot cup of coffee, a cold bottle of water, or their favorite candy bar from the vending machine.
Thankfulness is Contagious
Don’t be surprised if your thankfulness comes back to you in unexpected ways. Thankfulness tends to be contagious, and your co-workers will likely be inspired to pass thanks along.
Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.
