Work dress code is one of those imperfect sciences that will always be a bit wonky. I can't be the only one frustrated from trying to figure out the difference between business casual and semi-formal, right?You already know that I hate wearing a suit to work. So what happened when Tailor4Less, a custom tailoring company stepped in and offered to customize a shirt for me? First, let's back up a second. Years ago when I was working for VH1, I had a brief conversation with Peter Garrett, frontman of Midnight oil (You might recall the 80's at hit "Beds Are Burning"). I don't remember how the conversation came up, but I recall him telling me that the only difference between "famous" people and "regular" folks is that the stars get all of their clothing tailored. (And the frugal ones get it tailored from Asia).That's why they look so fabulous, eh?!If you visualize your own closet of clothes and identify your favorite outfit, I'm willing to bet that … [Read more...] about Work Dress Code – Try Tailored Clothes
How to Say 'No' to the Office Collection
The office is supposed to be a place where we make money, not spend it! But between Girl Scout cookies, holiday wrapping paper, office birthdays and charity races, it seems that I am constantly being asked to crack open my wallet...my very thin wallet!Sometimes I have the money, sometimes I don't; sometimes I want to give, sometimes I don't.And keep in mind that sometimes the collector might have a secret motive and not be as charitable as he or she seems. Even if their motives are 100% pure, I believe that the office is NOT a place for money collections.Here are a few ways to handle office donations and money contributions if you feel like opting out. Read more of my post How to Say 'No' to the Office Collection at US News and World Report. … [Read more...] about How to Say 'No' to the Office Collection
Is Temp the New “Permanent” Job?
It seems that lately, quite a few people I know are working in temp or part-time jobs. In a recent Wall Street Journal article, “Employers Increasingly Rely on Temps, Part-timers,” Sudeep Reddy examines how usage of temps has grown, citing that “temporary-help payrolls have risen for 11 of the past 12 months, with the sector adding 16,900 jobs in September.” In this uncertain economy, maybe these positions are as good as it gets?If you really need a job, temping might be your only option until something full-time comes along. Quite awhile ago, I temped for a large company for almost three years with the promise of being hired as soon as the department budget expanded. I was finally hired, but I noticed my co-workers had a hard time adjusting to me being a new permanent hire and not “The Temp.” And yes, back then there was a definite status difference.Not having benefits with a job is difficult. Fortunately, my husband had insurance for us through his … [Read more...] about Is Temp the New “Permanent” Job?
Creating Awareness for Diversity Awareness
October is typically recognized as the month for goblins and scary images in celebration of Halloween, however few recognize it as a time for confronting “real life fears” as Diversity Awareness Month. Diversity Awareness brings to the forefront the issues that make us different but equal. The things that make our nation great as a global force.Oftentimes stigmas, stereotypes and fears are byproducts of being “in the dark” about various religions, races, and regions. So this post on diversity awareness seeks to highlight some relevant themes and thoughts to increase your level of consciousness, shed some “light” and broaden your horizons!Let's face it. We all feel more comfortable in the company of those with whom we share commonalities. Right? It's why you'll often find athletes scoring time with other athletes, creative artists hanging out with other cool kats, nerds pondering the complexities of life with one another, or P.T.A. Parents … [Read more...] about Creating Awareness for Diversity Awareness
Thinking Like Your Boss to Get a Promotion
There are quite a few articles out there on ‘interviewing technique’ that suggest you should put yourself in the employer’s shoes and think about what they want from a candidate, thus allowing you to provide much more attractive question responses. This article takes that concept one step further and looks at how to adopt the same principle when seeking a promotion at work.What employers want...SecurityIf you think about it, most of us desire security in our lives. We desire to own a home, have a stable relationship, and have a steady income. Employers are no different, and the more secure they can make their workforce, the more content they will be with the ‘work’ element of their lives. Employers will frequently look to promote those who demonstrate stability and don’t look like they up-sticks in search of a better opportunity once they have been given a better job title. Being at a company for a number of years obviously implies a level of … [Read more...] about Thinking Like Your Boss to Get a Promotion
10 Tips for Outstanding Customer Service
Your customers will reward you with more sales if you provide them with great customer service. Outstanding customer service combines the golden rule with simplicity. Give your customers the easiest route to what they want. Here are some ways to provide stellar customer service. 1. Provide solutions - Your customers are genuinely more interested in their own problems rather than your store's sales. When they come to your store, they are single minded. If you give your customers exactly the products for which they are looking, they will keep coming to your store. When you give them great information on their initial visit, you will become their first call for related items. 2. Don't take it for granted - Customers choose to come to your store and use your services. With the level of local and global competition, there are other vendors from where your customers can get widgets. Show your appreciation for your customer's business. When you thank the customers for their patronage, be … [Read more...] about 10 Tips for Outstanding Customer Service
Sun Tzu and the Art of Getting a Job
Though I now work in a great office at Airsplat, the nation's largest retailer of Airsoft guns, it took a strategic search to find this position and I am often dismayed at the struggles of my friends who are on the hunt. Seeing their constant disdain, I reflected on the primary differences between my search and theirs and came to the realization that I instinctively approached the process using war tactics. I have a favorite book, The Art of War in which Sun Tzu said "If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt" and my strategy was relying on this concept. I know you are probably thinking that the employer is not the enemy and you are right – but unemployment is! The reality is that if you face unemployment as an enemy to be vanquished, then employers are your allies and you must strategically create those alliances. I teach some military training courses with airsoft on weekends as a side gig. Recently I decided to hold an airsoft seminar that … [Read more...] about Sun Tzu and the Art of Getting a Job
Quality Sites for a Better Quality of (Work) Life
Whether you're trying to manage the madness at the office, muster more motivation, devise ways to work smarter not harder, “win friends and influence people”, or simply make better career related decisions, these quality sites featured today are the ticket!As they say, “knowledge is power.” So, sit back, relax and get ready as I serve as your virtual tour guide... Blue collar or white, butcher, baker, or candlestick maker, you'll wanna bookmark these hot spots designed to prevent you from getting “burned” and avoid burn-out, regardless if you're “working for the man” or managing your own joint..Here's what I uncovered in my recent “talent search.”1. The Middle Finger ProjectOf course the name drew me in; the content kept me rooted and reading! The motto for this site is “rejecting the status quo and rebelling against mediocrity”. Written by a woman named “Ash”, you'll … [Read more...] about Quality Sites for a Better Quality of (Work) Life
Mad Men Finale: How to Mad "Men-ize" Your Office
I didn’t start watching Mad Men until the 2nd season, so I’m glad I've been able to recently catch the show from the beginning. I was all prepared to not to like the show, mainly because the 60’s portrayal of women in subservient secretary roles offends my feminist side. But, if you haven’t seen it, give it a try. I think it’s one of the best-written shows on TV.In honor of the Mad men finale, you should “Mad Men-ize” your office. Now this will be risky, as your boss and colleagues might not be amused. Here’re some tips to get you started...* Bring at least a fifth of scotch and some rocks glasses to work. Place these in your bottom desk drawer or file cabinet. Wait at least until 10:00 a.m. to have your first drink. Remember, ice is for sissies. Leave the bottle and glasses out in case a co-worker stops by.* Buy a carton of Marlboros or even better, something unfiltered. Light up and offer the pack around to your cube mates.* Try … [Read more...] about Mad Men Finale: How to Mad "Men-ize" Your Office
What if Your Parents Had a “Teacher” Conference With Your Boss?
Remember when your parents had to go to a parent/teacher conference with mean Mrs. Snyder? You just knew she was going to say terrible things about you and you’d be in SO much trouble. It was worse if your parents had worked all day, were dead tired and would rather do anything than go to the school.Jeffrey Zaslow’s Wall Street Journal article, “Acing Parent Teacher Conferences” addresses how to prepare for and approach conferences with your kid’s teachers. It made me wonder what would happen if your parents regularly met with your boss to assess how you’re doing at work. (Okay, I’m making this up and I already have a creepy feeling of dread.)It would start with a texted memo from your boss to your folks - “Please select an hour slot on my schedule to meet with me to discuss your son’s job performance.”Then the meeting might go like this. “Mr. and Mrs. Smith, I wanted to talk to you today because I’m concerned … [Read more...] about What if Your Parents Had a “Teacher” Conference With Your Boss?