Renew, Regroup, Reinvent

December 30, 2014February 11, 2018Leave a comment

“I was never surprised that they did not have a phoenix on display. There is only one phoenix at a time, of course, and while the Natural History Museum was filled with dead things, the phoenix is always alive.” ~ Neil Gaiman, Unnatural Creatures

“Fawkes is a phoenix, Harry. Phoenixes burst into flame when it is time for them to die and are reborn from the ashes.” ~ J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Just as the Phoenix of ancient mythology could be reborn, we humans love to reinvent ourselves -- in effect start over with a revised persona and fresh outlook -- whether rarely, occasionally or perpetually. Reinvention can either be desired or prompted because we are dissatisfied, bored or deeply concerned with a particular situation or our status in general.

How to Bond with Your Boss

October 7, 2014February 24, 2018Leave a comment

Andy: She hates me, Nigel.
Nigel: And that's my problem because... Oh, wait. No, it's not my problem

Nigel: But we're not expected until Tuesday. Did she say why?
Andy: Yes. She explained every detail of her decision-making.
And then we brushed each others' hair and gabbed about American Idol.
Nigel: I see your point.

~ The Devil Wears Prada

The key to a positive work experience is forging a great – or at least good -- relationship with your boss. That might be a challenge with some bosses (think Miranda in Devil); but when you're hired, this becomes your No. 1 Priority. For the time that you report to a particular manager, that person holds your career with the company in his or her hands. There are exceptions; but generally speaking, that’s the rule.

The Importance – And Politics – of Administrative Professionals Day

September 23, 2014February 23, 2018Leave a comment

“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make
a difference in our lives.” ~ John F. Kennedy

As a follow up to last week’s entry about the important role assistants fill across all industries, here’s an alert for the new employee to the significance of observing -- or not observing -- Administrative Professionals Day.

Don’t Put Off Those Pesky Complilance Issues

September 9, 2014February 21, 2018Leave a comment

“If it weren't for the last minute, nothing would get done.”
~ Rita Mae Brown

Last week’s entry addressed the importance of knowing your company, and how the company policy manual is the bedrock of an organization. This week I want to address the mirror image of the policy manual, which is compliance with those policies.

Job Search Series – Negotiating after the Job Offer – Part 1 – Don’t Leave Money on the Table

July 15, 2014February 21, 2018Leave a comment

Step Up to the Salary Negotiation

Don’t Leave Money on the Table

“Don’t leave money on the table,” is the advice of negotiators, and applies whether you're investing, navigating a business deal, applying for financial aid, making an offer on a house, wrangling over the sticker price on a new or used car, haggling with a market vendor, bartering over your allowance or negotiating your starting salary, benefits, perks and other fine points of your newly-minted job offer.

Your Internet Presence – Part 10: Mobile Etiquette

October 24, 2012March 12, 20181 Comment

THE KIND OF SHARING WE

DIDN’T LEARN IN KINDERGARTEN

The Intel Corporation, which manufactures the processors in today’s popular mobile devices, in association with The Emily Post Institute has conducted its first international survey on “Mobile Etiquette." Accordingly, it seems fitting to close (for now) this series on Your Internet Presence with an examination of how people are managing their mobile devices worldwide.

Jeanne Nelson

A degree will get your foot in the door. Your soft skills will open it.

Category: Workplace Strategy