How to Ask for More Paid Time Off
Although many employees are wary of requesting more paid time off, it’s a reasonable request for any hard-working person who has been in their position for a decent period of time. Several studies show that vacations are great for your physical and mental health, finding that both men and women who took annual vacations were …
The Discomfort Zone: An Interview with Dr. Marcia Reynolds
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Marcia Reynolds, author of the new book, The Discomfort Zone: How Leaders Turn Difficult Conversations Into Breakthroughs (Berrett-Koehler Publishers, October 2014). Dr. Reynolds works with clients around the world who seek to develop effective leaders, and understands organizational cultures, what blocks communication and innovation, and what …
How to Improve Your Career in Your Free Time
How do you get ahead in the workplace?
Some people over-deliver on projects they are assigned, hoping to be recognized with increased pay or a promotion. Others look for inefficiencies in the company that can serve as new leadership opportunities. Still, some employees favor becoming a voice of the brand, writing external-facing articles and speaking …
Tell People You’re Job Hunting Without Seeming Desperate
You’re on the search for a new job, and you know the best path to your next one is to reach out to your network to see if they can help. But how can you tell people you’re looking for a new job or a career change without seeming desperate? Here are a few do’s …
5 Lessons My Father Taught That Shape My Decisions!
My father took his role as a parent seriously and frequently reminded my siblings and me that certain values were important to him. He unabashedly told us at different times that if we wanted to make him happy, we too would abide by these five principles: And conversely, if we didn’t, well…he’d be deeply disappointed. …
What Mantra Do You Use As Your Guiding Voice?
I recently spoke with someone who inspired me with his mantra for how he lives his life. He said this: “The World was created for me and at the same time I am responsible for the world.” These two ideas at first glance seem to conflict but a closer look shows that they hold the …
Thinking About Changing Your Career? Consider Modifying Before Leaving
There are many good reasons for considering a career change but sometimes change doesn’t have to be as radical as you think to improve your situation. I met with a highly intelligent woman who had been selling real-estate for many years and was successful even when the market was down. The pressure of managing her …
Tell the Truth With the “Weakness” Interview Question
I’m surprised at the bad advice given when it comes to the “weakness” interview question — “what’s your biggest weakness?” — from career experts.
“Turn it into a strength,” they say. “Use examples like ‘I have to triple check everything before I send it out,’ or ‘I insist on being early for every meeting.'”
That’s …