Soon, everyone will be back from summer vacation, and the pace of work will pick up again. There are a few things to think about as you enter the last quarter of the year….. Continue reading
My Personal Addiction
Someone recently asked me about doing “pointless” things….and whether or not that was ok. And what did it mean if she really loved being busy? What I’ve realized about myself is that I was addicted to work. Continue reading
Why Aren’t They Hiring Me?!!
I read that more people are quitting their jobs than ever…(apparently there is a measure for this!). I’ve recently advised folks who are looking to change jobs, and while some were able to, some have hit a snag. It’s easy to take it personally and think it’s about you. Don’t. They liked you enough for an interview, for a few more interviews, to get to offer stage. That means you are qualified, you pass the litmus tests. However, if they don’t proceed it’s usually for the following reasons: Continue reading
Negotiating Comp
One of the biggest challenges I have had in my career is the subject of compensation. For most of my career, I accepted what was given to me, trusting my manager to fight for me. The reality is that while managers try to be fair, they also want to pay the amount that keeps you “satisfied” while not overpaying you compared to the market and your peer group. So a couple of lessons learned: Continue reading
Successfully Changing Lanes
Lately, a few people have reached out because they’re pursuing new roles…sometimes out of company, out of industry, out of functional expertise. Some of the things they’ve done which worked for them include:
When You Can’t Stand Someone At Work
It happens. You’re pretty happy with your work situation, and then someone gets hired…and you can’t stand them. Their tone is dismissive, they don’t do what they say, they hoard information, keep you out of key meetings. I know what you’d like to do…..but what should you do? Continue reading
Better: Permission or Forgiveness?
Has anyone noticed the new trend of what I call “apologetic” advertising? Wells Fargo, Facebook, Uber….all beautifully crafted, earnest, with a “we’re the good guys” narrative.
Here’s the problem…when widespread problems happen in a company, it’s because of culture. Yes, a leader can definitely promote a culture…but it also needs a lot of other forces at work. Here are the warning signs I’ve seen…. Continue reading
Leveraging Work Skills in Life
Unfortunately, I’ve had some experience in dealing with loved ones who face serious medical issues. It’s the worst combination of feeling completely helpless, ignorant (everyone is an expert but you), and having it be someone you love. So here’s what I’ve learned…. Continue reading
How Do You Make Others See Value?
Got a great question…someone asked me how you demonstrate value when you work in the softer functions?
In many companies, there’s an unspoken pecking order, usually with sales or anything revenue driven being first. Often at the bottom are the “support” functions…like communications. Having been a COO, I can definitely relate to how challenging that can be….a couple of suggestions should you find yourself in this type of role….
Happiness
New York Magazine recently had an interesting article called “Get Happier” focused on a class taught at Yale by Professor Santos. She designed a course that focuses on positive psychology. It’s a great article for so many reasons…. Continue reading