The workplace is crawling with a menagerie of characters. The quiet one in the corner who only comes alive at the office Christmas party. The “Good Morning!” guy, the dude who is way too loud and boisterous for 8 o’clock in the morning. And the one with a chip on their shoulder and a persecution complex, always itching for an argument. That erratic behavior may seem irrational, but it can sometimes be an actual strategy, developed over years to keep people at bay. Angry outbursts and aggressive behavior can provide a substantial defense shield for the insecure. That is generally what you are up against when faced with a contentious colleague. Here are some strategies for dealing with that type of headache. Embrace the Inane Small talk may be the last thing you want to engage in with anyone, be it your morning coffee connection or your co-worker. But embracing and getting better at the art of talking about nothing can keep you in a decent relationship with even the most backstabby … [Read more...] about 5 Ways to Stay out of the Hair of a Combative Coworker
Archives for May 2014
Mind All Over the Map? Here Is How I Focus
Focus is an elusive attainment. When you notice that you are concentrating, that very thought will take you away from task you are supposed to be concentrating on. “Wow, I haven’t wanted to check my RSS feed in a long time. Almost 15 minutes!” you think as your mind wanders away from the Excel sheet on your monitor. Bringing your attention back to your work is essential, whether you want to get ahead or just get everything done so work thoughts don’t creep into your head after-hours. But there are ways to control your mind, at least to some extent. Breathe deep and dive in with me: No, really. Breathe deep! Think that yoga is just for suburban housewives? Think again. Learning to control your breath can bring you a certain amount of control over all your systems. It can clear your mind and allow you to focus on the task at hand. Don’t trust me? Then listen to the yogis: proper breathing is key. … [Read more...] about Mind All Over the Map? Here Is How I Focus
The Worst and Best Things to Say to Your Boss
Your boss holds enormous power over you. A lot of sway when it comes to your salary, your daily duties and your future prospects. All of which means you really need to manage that relationship. Every word you say has the potential to launch you into upper middle management or sink you to the depths of the unemployed. So, no pressure, right? Now that you’re nice and relaxed, let’s go over what are the worst and best things to say to your immediate supervisor: Worst “You are an undermining character with no scruples and I am convinced that you want me to get you coffee for the rest of my working life.” Best “I have learned a lot from you, but I want to try to transfer to another department. I think it is the best choice for both of us.” Sometimes moving on is the best option for both you and your overlord. You get to breathe again and they get to suck the youthful energy out of another unsuspecting, eager entry-level analyst. It may be tough to pull it off, but best for your sanity and, … [Read more...] about The Worst and Best Things to Say to Your Boss
Using Technology to Create a Fun Business Meeting
Business and staff meetings are not something that many members of the workforce look forward too. While these meetings are important in order to keep a company running smoothly, they are not always fun for those who have to participate in them. However, business owners and managers can now integrate technology based solutions into these traditional gatherings. Blue Jeans allows clients to purchase the technology to create a fun meeting through video conferencing and cloud based solutions. Owners can also invest in mobile technology that allows the meetings to take place no matter where the owner or staff members are located. Benefits of a Fun Meeting The benefits of a fun meeting are numerous both for those involved in the meeting and the person or group of people running it. Fun meetings can result in happier workers. Happier workers are known to be more productive then workers who may not be pleased. The meeting will seem to go faster. Remember the class in school that always … [Read more...] about Using Technology to Create a Fun Business Meeting
6 Signs You Are in the Wrong Career
You wake up dreading each day at the office (or in the classroom, or behind the wheel of the bus, or behind the bar). That dread can be a clue that you are doing exactly what you shouldn’t be doing. No matter how you obtain that much-needed paycheck, being in the wrong job can have deleterious effects on your psyche, relationships and physical health. Here are 6 signals you might be in the wrong profession. The alarm clock induces a miserable feeling. If you can’t open your eyes at 6 am without being bombarded with anxiety about website performance and your sysadmin duties, it is probably time to explore your passion for pottery. On that note… Midnight musings are centered on your professional purgatory. Waking up in the middle of the night sucks, but it’s worse if that time is filled with visions of interdepartmental monthly meetings filled with droning speakerphones and sanctimonious colleagues, it should send you right home to sell all of your used goods and start that rainy day … [Read more...] about 6 Signs You Are in the Wrong Career