by jill on April 25, 2012
Cocktail parties, client receptions, and networking hours can be wonderful career-developing opportunities for you. You get to know others – and they get to know you – all while in a relaxed environment. But don’t make the mistake of “letting your hair down” simply because you have a drink in your hand! These functions are [...]
Success is all about who you know, right? And, about who knows you! So it’s vital that you take initiative, stick out your hand, and introduce yourself to others. Here are four settings you should always take advantage of: When you recognize someone, but you’re not sure if he or she recognizes you Never assume [...]
by jill on March 16, 2012
Conducting meetings via videoconference is becoming more and more popular in business today. It can be a very cost-effective way to bring far-flung employees and teams together – without the costs associated with travel. In order to use it effectively, here are some tips to keep in mind: Arrive early enough to learn how to [...]
The concept of “small talk” makes many people nervous. Their biggest fear about going to an event is often that they won’t have anything to talk about. I’ve always felt one of the best things you can do at a networking function, cocktail party, or reception is to LISTEN. You can learn so much about [...]
by jill on February 3, 2012
Managers often need to have challenging conversations with those they manage. Dress code infractions, absenteeism, and poor performance are just a few of the topics they might need to address. No one likes to conducts those meetings, but it’s always better to deal with the issues sooner rather than later. It’s also good to have [...]
by jill on December 29, 2010
Let’s be honest – we all do it. Pass along a gift we don’t like or have no use for to an unsuspecting friend or relative. So how can we do it gracefully and without tipping anyone off? Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind – Make sure the new recipient can actually [...]
by jill on December 8, 2010
Holiday parties at the office can be great fun and a nice way to celebrate the year with your co-workers, but they can also be a career minefield if not handled well. Remember – you’re still “on” and being observed by others. Look at these events as opportunities to put your best food forward and [...]
by jill on November 8, 2010
A just-released study by the Center for Professional Excellence finds that, for the second year in a row, students aren’t making the grade as professionals in the workplace. Who was surveyed? Not only business leaders and HR professionals nationwide, but also current college students and recent graduates from around the country. Survey-takers said that less [...]
by jill on September 21, 2010
Are you doing more selling over the phone – instead of face-to-face? Here are some tips for making those phone pitches more effective! Let me know if you have any great ideas to add. How to Make Effective Phone Pitches
by jill on August 24, 2010
Have you ever encountered a filthy microwave, dirty dishes in the sink, leftovers that have become science experiments, or an empty spot in the frig where your food used to be? Break rooms are one of those common areas, along with bathrooms, cafeterias, and hallways, where we comingle with each other at work. Here are [...]