Individuals

Look here for tips from my blog for individuals in the work place and those running their own business.

Time is Precious

When I’m engaged in something I love to do or I’m completely focused on a task at hand, time seems to slip away at the speed of sound.  As I grow older, days, weeks and months seem to go very fast.

Whenever I’m waiting for something to happen, a call back from a potential client, the bus to take me home or, when I was little, Santa to come – time seems to stand still.

Time is one of the few things in life that we can’t have a “do over”.  Theoretically you spend your time according… Continue reading

Time Management 102

Time Management 102This is a continuation of the last blog.  Here are some more great tips to find those extra minutes.

3. Deadlines.  Be the first to offer a deadline and always add extra time to it.  This may be familiar to many of you – under promise and over deliver.  This will give you more time to get things done and also allow you to be a star – by always delivering what you promise on time – or perhaps early.

In promising when you’re going to complete something, whether it is for yourself or for others, get real… Continue reading

Time Management 101

Time Management 101Who couldn’t use a few more minutes?  The next couple of blogs will talk about giving you a little extra time in your day.

1. Be completely present at every meeting – one on one and in a group.  Any time I attend a meeting or speak to someone individually I make it a point to be completely present at the meeting or with the person.  This means that I turn off my cell phone, don’t check email, don’t look at my watch and put away all distractions.  I give the person and meeting my full and… Continue reading

Interviews

interviewRecently a client hired me to screen applicants for an Office Manager position she was looking for.  I interviewed a handful over the phone.  If you get the interview, keep the following in mind.  You only have one chance to make a first impression.

Tip 1:  When you receive an email back requesting a time for an interview, be gracious and offer to call the interviewer.  Assuming the interviewer will call you can come across as arrogant.

Tip 2:  Do your homework.  If possible, find out specifically what the organization stands for.  Research the website and keep in mind… Continue reading

Negotiation – a dirty word?

Negotiation1Just the word – negotiation – can bring up that nervous feeling.  The next couple of blogs will give you some tips that might settle those feelings.

Let’s look at why you might be nervous when it comes to negotiation.

1. Confrontation.  Some people think negotiation is an argument.  It doesn’t have to be confrontational.  In fact, effective negotiation is characterized by the parties working together to find a solution, rather than each party trying to WIN the contest of wills.

Keep in mind an attitude of cooperation, that will set the tone for the interaction.

2. Win at… Continue reading