Power Suit

President of Child-Rearing

2012-02-23T22:12:00.000-05:00

Today a colleague stopped by my office to say her goodbyes as today was her last day at the company. She has resigned from her sales job after 5 years to be a stay-at-home mom. "How cool and how lucky you are" I beamed. I immediately thought of all the crazy reports I've heard on poor conditions and carelessness at day care providers and I can see why my colleague would not want to leave their newborn with strangers.

While I was a little jealous, (not sure why, I don't have any kids yet) I wondered how many stay-at-home moms are out there and what they do everyday. Well, I did find that the U.S. Census Bureau reported 5 million stay-at-home moms in 2010. That's quite a bit, but it didn't mention what exactly stay-at-home moms do all day. I don't have any close friends or family members who chose to give up working outside the home to stay at home with their kids; but when I hurriedly venture to Target on my lunch break, I always envy those mid-day shopping moms who get to leisurely peruse the aisles and comparison shop in peace. Is that what my "stay-at-home mom to be colleague" will do? But what else? Feed, change and play with the baby or toddler can only take up a couple hours; housework all day, every day, I don't think so. Well, maybe these SAHMs are using the time to start schooling their kids, so that they can be super-genius kids who are overly prepared for Pre-Kindergarten. Or, maybe the majority of that 5 million is really running some sort of home-based business. So technically they are working moms...

Whatever it is SAHMs do, good for you and more power to ya! Who knows, I one day may start a Power Apron blog and I will at least know for sure what a SAHM does then!

Getting your foot in the door

2012-02-22T20:54:00.000-05:00

Recently, I have been asked to assist with interviewing and selecting an HR intern to join our department for a couple months. I would have to say, I haven't interviewed someone since I replaced my old position last summer after my promotion, and then before that was back in my recruitment days as a full time recruiter. So, being asked to interrogate a hopeful job seeker put me back in my old stomping grounds. While I used to LOVE recruiting, I have acquired so many new skills, I can hardly stand the interview process anymore. Tell me about a time when you did this, elaborate on a time you did that...the art of getting to the bottom of someone's ability and potential now only leave me flustered. This coming from a previous die-hard recruiter is really disheartening, because I do believe that recruiting is a great skill to have personally and professionally.

What drove me to fluster is the dilemma my colleague and I have, experience or not - that is the question every time a recruiter or hiring manager has an opening and begins the interview process. If you ever hire someone for anything, housekeeper, nanny, administrative assistant for your own entrepreneur venture, or an HR intern, you will run into a crossroad - experience or none. Because candidates come in all experience levels, background of knowledge and personality, if you are lucky enough to narrow your pool down to 2 or 3 great people the dilemma begins. Luckily, our dilemma came to an end late this afternoon when one of the top two candidates decided to pull out of the selection pool, leaving us with our hire. Pheww....so glad it worked out like that! It was going to be a very hard decision otherwise.

If you are hiring keep in mind:

- Do you need this person to hit the ground running OR is the job easy to pick up with some training

- Will the job at hand be challenging enough for the experienced or will they get bored overtime

- Reflect on how did you get your experience - someone gave you a chance, right?

If you are trying to gain experience:

- Do research on the job skill, take classes, webinars, seminar to familiarize yourself with the discipline, so that while you don't have the practical experience you will have the familiarity with the concepts and subject matter

- Prepare for the interview, like you are preparing for an exam; research and study the company and the position. Also - be prepared to discuss experiences that are similar or comparable to the job or internship you are seeking to get

- Don't give up, you will find someone, some company who will want to and is eager to welcome a newbie, give them a chance and help them get their foot in the door

2011-09-14T20:24:00.000-04:00

As weird as it may sound, today, it dawned on me that the women's bathroom at my workplace periodically smells like fruity pebbles cereal. And... I have not had Fruity Pebbles since I was a kid! It really is a mood booster - I have to say. It makes me think of psychedelic colors and tie dye and daisies. It is really weird. Then I start to think - what is it - is it the automatic air freshener that mists out on its timed schedule or is it the cleaning supplies our janitor uses, someones lotion or hairspray, I truly don't know - its a mystery.

Now it doesn't smell like that always - I don't have to go there. But another smell I recognize is jheri curl activator. What is that??? Maybe someone has a jheri curl here at work that I have not noticed. I don't know - but these thoughts led me to give out some workplace restroom etiquette tips.

Why? You will most likely see the same people in the restroom, seeing that we are at work for anywhere from 8 to 10 hours a day. Working in a office setting where you see the same people all the time, it turns into your home away from home. Any woman who has lived with a male, remembers toilet seats being left up - I do thanks to my brother. So if you care about being a good customer of your office restroom keep reading:

Wash your hands. You would be surprised how many women I have witnessed leaving the stall and fleeing the bathroom. That is not only wrong, but a hygienic risk. Working in a area with LOTS of people = GERMS! So, having touched files, pens, shaking hands of people you just met and to then not wash your hands..... YUCK!
Leave the stall clean for others (you know what I mean) and not smelly. Someone in my department actually has an air freshener canister she takes to the bathroom with her. What class!
If its a co-ed bathroom, make it gender neutral - not too frilly not to masculine. Ladies keep your personal items placed in covered receptacles or in cabinets.
Don't use other people's products without permission. In our restroom we have a cabinet where people store toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairspray, lotion, etc. Me personally I have a problem with my personal items being out of my sight or personal space, but others don't. So, if you start to feel like you need brush your teeth or need a feminine product, stop by CVS or Walgreens and stock up on your own items. Now if the item belongs to your work bff and you have an understanding where you share things fine. Really, you shouldn't be using the stuff of people you don't really know anyway.

If everyone would just follow these couple of tips the world of work should be not only be hygienically sound, but also a good patron of work restrooms.

Jackpot - I quit!

2011-09-12T21:17:00.000-04:00

Most people fantasize about winning the lottery and then quitting their jobs. But, not just quitting, actually exiting the company in a fashion that includes flipping off your boss, turning desks, throwing files in the trash and pimp walking out of the building with your deuces in the air, like Chris Brown. Well, maybe that's not everybody, but I have ran across some people who say that is exactly what they would do if they hit the mega millions.

Now, what would I do...hmmm...I know for sure I would not quit my job immediately. I could see myself working for at least 6 more months after the win (and collection of funds of course) until I figure out what my next move would be. Invest in a franchise, purchase investment property, I don't know but a plan would have be to made! I probably wouldn't even want people to know I won, except for my mortgage company, because I would definitely be paying off my house!

One million dollars is not what it used to be and I've read that even millionaires are pinching their pennies. So if you hit the power ball think twice before you utter those two words - "I quit". Today I ran across an article on Money.msn.com which highlights a couple (who has decided to remain anonymous - smart, right)who won the lottery and kept their 9 to 5 jobs. Click on the link below and find out why they decided to keep working.

http://money.msn.com/saving-money/article.aspx?post=4173ee56-bbae-4e90-abae-79c9a2be2a60&gt1=33026

New Office Shorthand

2011-09-07T21:13:00.000-04:00

Is it me or is this text message language creeping into the work world? I find myself reading work emails in MS Outlook that contain LOL, OMG, LMAO or LMBO and even WTF. I have not seen SMH yet (which by the way, I just learned what this meant not too long ago).

Not sure if I am more disturbed that my 62 year old boss is using those acronyms OR that they are being used in the workplace all together. Talk about merging worlds. There used to be work clothes and after work or weekend clothes, work voice and the after 5 o' clock voice, and now here I thought there was such a thing as work communication and terminology (which I blogged about years ago) and outside work lingo, but it looks like the inside and outside worlds have collided. I must admit, I am guilty of no longer having work clothes, instead I have clothes I wear to work. I do draw the line with my minis, hot pants and skinny jeans - hey I do have ethics. But, I do sashay into the office in my 4 1/2 inch leopard print pumps or python sling backs here and there aiming for my Carrie Bradshaw Sex in the City look. (I still love her to this day and watch the reruns on E!)

I digress - WTF why have we accepted these abbreviations as work appropriate. I barely understand the abbreviations when my girls text them to me. When I see colleagues doing this it makes me LOL, but not in a good way, I then SMH! :o) Oh, but these smiley faces are used quite often. I personally think these are okay. :o) But hey, a smiley face is universal - right?!

If you are like me and need a little help - here you go.
LOL - Laugh out loud
OMG - Oh my gosh/God
WTF - What the...
SMH - Shaking my head/shake my head
LMBO/LMAO - laugh my butt or ...off

Post Holiday/Vacation Snooze

2011-09-06T21:19:00.000-04:00

Vacations and holidays are supposed to leave you feeling energized, refreshed and ready to get back to the grind of work. Some people vow to turn over a new leaf and stop bad habits after a trip or time off. And then other's have a renewed sense of patience and a calm zen about them aiding in their ability to work and cooperate more smoothly with their peers.

Well, I just returned not only from the Labor Day holiday weekend, but also a long overdue 10 day vacation ( yay me!) or "staycation" as they call it when you take off of work, but stay home or local instead of traveling. This vacation was overdue because I hadn't taken not one day of my vacation all year. When I realized that I had worked 8 months straight I knew I needed to take a break not only from work, but from the people I work with and the robotic routine I was stuck in. Not to mention, my vacation days do not roll over, so I better had taken some days! Don't be a victim of use it or lose it. Use your days people!

Anyway, hopefully like others returning from the holiday (and end of summer milestone) I did go back to work energized, refreshed and ready to get back to the grind. However, the new leaf I tried to turn over is still on one side as I snoozed my way from 6am to 7am this morning, but I still got to work on time and ready to rock and roll. My alarm is set to 6am again, so wish me luck!

You the boss!

2011-08-15T23:05:00.000-04:00

While I have not professionally held the title of a manager, supervisor or as I call it "a boss" as a subordinate I have observed the do's and don'ts to managing others through being managed.  On top of being intelligent, ethical and being good at what you do I believe the next ten things wouldn't hurt to be good at being "a boss".

1 - Open Communication
You have to have an open line of communication in all aspects so that there is no guessing in the work relationship. That goes from communicating performance to letting your employees know you aren't coming to work or are leaving early. Today, my boss left the office early, leaving our team confused at where she was, if she was coming back and if and how we could reach her if an emergency occurred. Literally, no one in my department knew where our boss went.
2 - Empowerment
If you don't motivate your employees and instill confidence in them to do a great job, 9 out of 10 times your employees won't produce their best work.
3 - Transparency
While managers can't always tell their employees everything, like future plans not yet approved, the fact that an executive is retiring, etc. However, if that is the nature of your job, as a boss, let your employees know that you will be as open and honest with them as their job allows. Honest enough to share what you can, and honest enough to say when you can't. When the economy was down back in 2008 my boss let me know early on, that there will not be any bonuses for me or anyone in the company and she was right. It sucked, but she was honest.
4 - Approachable
Some bosses think that being a boss means to be mean, unapproachable and to have your employees intimidated by you. This will cause resentment and actions driven by fear. They will hate you and talk about you behind your back. This one goes with number one, there will be no communication if you are unapproachable to begin with.
5 - Engaged/Presence
If you don't care, they won't care. Bosses who are detached or disengaged when it comes to the department they are managing run the risk of losing the focus of their employees.  A previous boss of mine seemed not to care if and when she came to work, when deadlines were approaching and if I was even doing my job. At first I thought she just really trusted me, I mean I am a stellar employee, but then I began to notice that she was just not that into the job.  Maybe this was temporary, maybe she was going through something, whatever the case it led me to become resentful and overworked. So, make sure as a manager, you stay tuned.
6 - Supportive
Employees need cheerleaders at work. Support on projects, support during conflict and support in the growth of their career.
7 - Respectful
Disrespect does not yield positive results.  Again, this will get your employees talking about you behind your back.
8 - Secure/Confident
If a manager is not secure in their abilities they tend to hoard work and not work towards developing their employees to be successful. Most times employees don't want to stay in their same position forever, they want to grow. If the manager thinks that their subordinate will outshine them or pass them up in some way, they will be hesitant in providing opportunity. If you feel like that, than you as a manager should take up a course to better your skill set instead of holding someone back.
9 - Lead by example
Do as I say, not as do, works best coming from a parent or guardian. Coming from "a boss" ummm, not so much. This will cause confusion and in my opinion lead to unethical behavior. You mean to tell me that if you are a boss you act one way and if you aren't you act another - not good. The reality is EVERYONE has a boss unless you own your business, so you will eventually have to answer to someone. How about you just do the right thing and use your best judgement when in doubt and showcase good professional behavior to your employees.
10 - Human
You did not start your job as "a boss". We all have to start somewhere, learn something and make a mistake along the way. We are all human and that includes our bosses!

My Casual Friday

2011-08-11T22:53:00.000-04:00

Every summer the company I work for allows a relaxed dress code on Fridays, which includes capri pants, sandals, sleeveless tops and other work appropriate summer attire. I do a good job keeping it polished and professional on casual Fridays - so much that colleagues has taken cracks at my creased jeans. Take it from me, you don't have to crease ALL your jeans but you should at least have 1 or 2 pairs of jeans that mimic a pair of slacks.

While I don't venture too far from the creased jeans paired with a blazer or nice blouse, some Fridays I would rather wear the most hated type of footwear. You know what I am talking about. Yes, flip flops.

I know Stacy London and Clinton Kelley from "TLC's What Not to Wear" believe that there is no occasion for flip flops,but I beg to differ. I love to just slip them on to run to the grocery store, to the mall, to that summer jazz festival downtown or to Outback Steakhouse to grab a last minute bite to eat.

I do have enough sense to not wear flip flops to work. But, you would be surprised that not everyone does.

So, if your feet hurt from wearing heels all week, or you love your heels Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays, but just want to give your feet a break on Fridays like me (only because my Physician Assistant friend has scared me straight mentioning to me that I am ruining my feet by wearing heels every single day) or you simply want to participate in casual or relaxed Fridays...

Wear something like my Kenneth Cole leopard flats!

Chic and comfy

and save these Old Navy Flip Flops for the weekend if you just have to wear them!

And yes, I do have to wear them.

Broken-in and convenient!

Tick Tock goes the clock

2011-08-09T22:28:00.000-04:00

Time is of the essence. Time is money. Time is precious. These are things I thought about when sitting in a meeting this afternoon that should have taken one hour but instead took close to two and a half hours. Initially transitioning from the classroom to the workplace proved very difficult for me as I learned that there is the potential for lots of meetings in the course of one day: planned meetings, impromptu meetings, meetings that run over the end time, meetings that did not have a purpose and so on.

However, in the last 6 years of my corporate work experience I have not only been broken into attending, facilitating and planning meetings, I have also grown to enjoy them, when they are a means to inform, summarize, clarify, and/or reiterate information, brainstorm and collect ideas, or implement, in other words productive. Oh, and facilitated in a timely manner.

After the two and half hour meeting, I thought that although the objective was met and I was enlightened on the performance management system that I had not yet been trained on, I realized that there were numerous missteps by the meeting facilitator that led to our meeting being extremely long for no reason. So, I present to you the five missteps that took place in the meeting I attended today and how to avoid them. Read these carefully so when you facilitate a meeting you won't make the same mistakes and waste your employees or colleagues valuable time.

Test technical props (Lap tops, wireless connections, projector screens, phone lines, etc)
being used for the meeting prior to the start time. Things can and will go wrong, and most times it will be out of your control, however testing early allows more time to move on to a "Plan B" if you encounter issues. Trying to troubleshoot in front of your meeting attendees is unprofessional and gives them the impression who were not prepared and makes them feel as if you are wasting their time, which technically you will be if the meeting runs over.
Do not digress. While the topic may remind you of a funny joke, a recent scenario or previous experience, refrain from excessive side bar conversations, off topic comments and any other dialogue that will not add value and also prolong the meeting. Save your irrelevant chatter until the meeting concludes.
Provide materials in advance if possible. This may not always be possible or even necessary so use your best judgement here. If you are training the meeting attendees on new material, handouts and/or instructions would be fitting. This will save time down the line after the meeting, in that the attendees will have the information at their fingertips and not have to return to you for further explanation or search around for how-to's.
If the meeting time is up - set up a time to continue the meeting at a later date. Most people plan to be available for the meeting time communicated to them and that meeting time only.
BONUS - You are probably thinking, what if I am attending a meeting that is wasting my time? Take control politely. This will not work in all cases, but it is possibly to move the meeting along, by interjecting and getting the group back on task. Suggest a timekeeper if you see time is getting to be a problem and also bring the group back to the meeting topic if they get off track by using a line like this "Julie, I understand your explanation of step 1 of the process, what would step 2 entail?" This shows you are interested in the subject matter, but also want to cut out the unnecessary chit chat.

Here's to productive meetings in and out of the office!

Your mother doesn't work here - clean up after yourself!

2011-07-28T13:09:00.000-04:00

When I first started working at my current job 4 years ago, I was amazed to find real dishes in the breakrooms. No really; drinking glasses, coffee mugs, plates, bowls, silverware and get this - a dishwasher! I was quite puzzled, as my previous places of employment only had sinks, refrigerators and microwaves. So this was totally new to me.

Once explained to me, the efforts to cut down on waste and to go green, I warmed up to fact that these breakrooms were full fledge kitchens, just like at home! But as my tenure progressed, I began to observe that the employees were treating these "at work" kitchens like they were "at home" kitchens. Right now, at my house, my dishes are piled up in the sink (working girl = full sink until the weekend), but would I necessarily feel compelled to just dump my dirty dishes in the sink and leave for who knows who to clean up, at work? Yeah, not so much.

Why do people think this is ok? Now of course this is not everyone, you have people like me and then the people who create signs and tape them to the cupboard doors or even on the countertops printed in all caps "CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF!" Maybe we should remove the dishes? I don't know what the solution is, we are all adults, and sadly enough people bring their bad home habits to work. This is interesting to me, most times I would hate for someone to come to my house and see my dirty dishes piled up high or witness any other outside of work or behind closed door behaviors. I suppose the employees who do this have no shame in their game and like to keep it real no matter where they are???? Beats me.

There is a time and place for everything, so let's try to suppress our behaviors that are not appropriate for work (like being slobs) until we get home OR eat at restaurants where there are servers OR use disposible utensils!

Know your place

2011-07-25T22:21:00.000-04:00

Until today, I felt that it was completely annoying to provide all this special treatment to executives who work for the company. I mean, the overrides and extended deadlines, the calling the medical vendors for them, when they could simply call customer service themselves. Not to mention, the company cars (I'm talking high end, not your typical Ford Explorer), country club and gym memberships, executive compensation (so they can be rich forever), additional life insurance and the list goes on!

While I know 9 out of 10 executives deserve all the perks they are getting for leading companies, developing strategies, saving millions and making millions, it can get under your skin and irk you a little bit, the same way growing up, your parents irked you when they told you to get them a glass of water, or any other asinine task they could have done themselves, but instead, asked you to do it because you are their child and they are your parent! I digress....

Today, however, it appears that the Director of Human Resources (of all employees) grew irritated over yet another perk. The assigned covered parking, which is coveted by many (not me though, if I had my choice of perks, it would not be a parking spot) apparently was the straw that broke the camels back. Long story short, the Director of HR parked in the CFO's parking spot while he was at lunch, only for him to return and find someone in his parking spot. This is where it gets good - the CFO fights back by parking horizontally behind the Director of HR, blocking her in, retreating to his office and patiently awaiting her request to be unblocked when the workday concludes. But, that is not what happens. At 4:30pm, the Director of HR attempts to duck out early only to find her car is blocked in. What happened next? Well, the Director of HR asks another employee to go to the CFO, let him know she is trying to get out. This employee does that, but the CFO is not having it. He requests that the Director of HR come see him directly - but guess what, she poos poos that request and maneuvers her way out of the parking spot, leaving the CFO's car parked on the street and looking crazy!

The moral of the story is that:

1) I don't need to say that the Director of HR was out of line and while she may not think it was a big deal, it showed an overwhelming sense of immaturity and entitlement and blatant disrespect towards the CFO.

2) It's really not that serious. Please don't risk your credibility and reputation over a parking spot that is 10 steps closer than the one you are allowed to park in.

3) Don't mess with the hierarchy, totem pole, pecking order, whatever you want to call it, in the workplace. Know your place, if you want a covered parking spot (which is not all that if you ask me) work for it, and if that means you have to work until you are 50, than that's what you have to do. Hopefully, you can find more rewarding things in life to make you happy than a parking spot that really is probably detrimental to your health, because the closer you are to the door, the less exercise you are getting. I know this is a stretch...but you probably get my sarcasm.

Behind closed doors: Bye Bye cubicle HEL-LO OFFICE!

2011-07-01T21:01:00.000-04:00

After 4 years as a Benefits Administrator, I've gotten promoted into a HR Generalist role. I am very excited to learn my new job. My hard work has definitely paid off. I have created a very positive reputation among my colleagues and have also had several successes within the company. So, along with my promotion, I have gone from a cubicle to office! Yes, more work, more travel and more intense projects will come my way, but I will be doing all of that gladly in the privacy of my office. Now, I've worked in cubicles in most of my jobs, so I was not a stranger to them, but it gets loud, I get nervous leaving things at my desk, like my ipod, I had nowhere to hang my coat in the winter and frankly, I had to always be on the lookout and ready to protect my computer screen as at any minute someone would be sashaying around the corner and my computer screen with non-work related images (oh! not that - I mean shopping or celeb blogs) would be viewed.

As happy as I am about my upgrade (you have to walk into my office and then stand directly behind me to see what is on my screen, also my ipod and docking station is now safe because of my ability to lock my door when I leave and no one has to hear me cuss out Comcast about my high bill nor do I have to hear my neighbor cuss out their significant other), I do want to be the first to tell you that an office isn't a sign of making it or an indicator of great skill. Your talent is still king, whether you are sitting at a receptionist desk, a cubicle or working out of your car. Not all professions require an office and not all companies accommodate their employees with them. My mother has been on her job for 33 years, has had an office for 30 of them but recently the culture has changed and she is now packing up her office to go to a cubicle. If you don't have an office at work and you really just want one, create a space at your home.

Working in Human Resources confidentiality and privacy is extremely important. Having an office allows you to speak with employees related to performance issues, advancement opportunities or the dreadful reduction in workforce conversation. So really, me having an office benefits the employees I service throughout the company!

Either way, I am pleased with my career progression and ready to start decorating my new space. Should I call HGTV??? Hey, TV show idea, right...

All better!

2011-06-23T22:38:00.000-04:00

I am in my final days of antibiotics for the ear infection I had nearly two weeks ago! I tell ya, when it rains it pours. I am quite the healthy 30 year old, but that ear infection and a short bout with pink eye (yes, pink eye) that I suffered from simultaneously almost took me out!

What was funny to me, was when I spoke to two of my best friends this past Sunday on our ever informative 3-way call, after mentioning my sickly condition, and how I still was able to orientate a new employee, move into my new office, continue to work two roles and attend my own surprise promotion party, one said, "wait, you still went to work?" And I replied with no hesitation, "yeah!". "Why????", my inquisitive PhD'd friend shrieked....because I am a hard worker, I responded. But long after I hung up, I thought to myself again, "why did I go to work, despite my feeling completely under the weather, unable to hear out of my left ear and squinting my red hued right eye! Yeah, I looked and felt very crazy!

Was it because I was worried about my reputation around the office? Well, not really; because my only sick day in four years was when I sprang my foot, but I was back to work the next day. So, that's not it.

Am I trying to save my so called - "call off" day for something good. No, can't say that is it either. I plan my vacation time very wisely always have enough days to accommodate the activities I plan for myself.

Do I have very irrational and unreasonable bosses - no, not at all. While my old boss was "something else" she knew I put in waaaaay more than I get in my job and recognized that I had integrity, therefore she was okay when I had to come into work late because I had to take my sick cat to the vet.

So, what is it? My conclusion is that my internal self drive propelled me to work each day, with a smile on my face ready to handle my business. I realized that my actions are simply not to impress, but a reflection of my own beliefs and while I believe that somebody is always watching.....the most important eyes are your own!

No invite for you...it's ok if you don't invite your boss or coworkers to your wedding - no, really

2011-06-11T18:57:00.001-04:00

Well guys and gals - my attempt to blog everyday is quite the task and I am not succeeding here. I am just coming off of a busy weekend (last) both mentally and physically. Then I did the unthinkable earlier this week and washed my hair and went to bed with it damp so I had to battle what you might call a head cold - I guess.

Anyway - last Saturday I attended and worked as a host at my friend's wedding. which was soooo pretty and such a warm heartfelt event. I still feel very warm inside just thinking about it! Being a host was more than I thought - a friend of mine did warn me, but I thought how hard could it be....hello sir, this way; good day madam - your seat would be that way.....Uhhhh no - certainly more than that - but all incredibly worth it!

Moving on - with the bride being both my friend and coworker, I got to thinking is it customary to invite your boss and your colleagues who work in your department to your wedding? I mean.....I personally wouldn't feel obligated to invite anyone from my job unless I forged a personal relationship or bond with the person or persons and I wanted them there. Now, of course I was there, and then there were three people who were ex-coworkers from our job, but clearly that makes them friends now, because we no longer work with them. However, we work in a department of 16 and my friend was advised to not "not invite" a couple of key work personalities, but just as I would have done - she decided to go with those who she is most close with and that only included me and 1 other person (not the boss). I applauded her for not getting sucked into the office politics. I mean, where does it end and who made those rules? What if you were keeping your wedding small and quaint due to being on a strict budget and only wanted close friends and family? On the other hand even if you were going all out, why should you have to share your special day with a coworker or boss you are only associated with because you work with them?

Not that I am close to getting married anytime soon - but when I do - my invites to my wedding will include only those close to me and those whom I want there with me to share in a very important and memorable day of my life, not reluctant invitations to work people just to be politically correct (that goes for my hubby to be too!). Is that politically incorrect??? Maybe to some (like the person who advised my friend to invite her boss) but lots of wedding sites, like www.theknot.com, www.wednet.com and www.savvysugar.com agree with me!

Summer is here!

2011-05-30T12:52:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day folks!

While I know that Memorial Day is a day of remembrance those who died while in military service, which I totally respect and appreciate. At the same time Memorial Day is also a symbol of the start of summer!!!

So, with summer starting I wanted to share with you 5 tips to a great summer!

Vacation Time Off Requests - Make sure you put in your vacation time off requests to your supervisor or manager in a timely fashion, to ensure you can take that wonderful vacation to Disney World, the Bahamas or wherever else your heart desires. Managers have a very hard task in scheduling time off requests, making sure coverage is available and all staff is not granted time off at the same time. Avert your crisis of having purchased your plane tickets and having to cancel or postpone your trip by verbally requesting time off and following up with a written request. If your job does not have a timekeeping system for requests or a time off request form (I can't imagine that they wouldn't) send an email or make your own written request, submit to your manager for approval, and once approved - have fun!
Summer Dress Code - My company has a summer dress code policy as with the temperatures rising, wearing suits and button ups can make one very uncomfortable. The first week of June we usually receive a memo mapping out the do's and don'ts of summer attire. So, my advice to you is to basically "follow the rules"! You don't want to go overboard with your board shorts and flip flops and lose out on this option for good. My company's dress code includes capri pants and sandals for women and khakis and polo shirts for men. If your company's policy gives you more wiggle room, make sure it is still professional, clean and wrinkle free. Ladies wearing sandals? Pedicures are a must!
Summer Work Hours - While my company does not have summer work hours, the place I worked before did. It was soooo great, let me tell you. 7am to 3pm, 10am to 6pm and anything else in between. Summer hours allows you the flexibility to enjoy the sun, plain and simple. While I don't have summer hours where I work now, again, my advice to you who do, do not take advantage!
Company Picnic Etiquette - Companies like to show their appreciation to their employees normally on an annual basis. This could be during the Holidays or in the summer, so company picnics and cookouts are pretty common! Remember you are still at work, this is not your family's backyard boogie, so remain on your best behavior. If the food provided is not your typical cookout food, grab something you like and keep it moving, this was a kind gesture on behalf of the management, its not your wedding or birthday party so you were not the basis for the choices. Most times, your CEO and other company executives will partake in the festivities to show their support and prove they are not above their employees, so you never know who will be in front or behind you in the buffet line. Last year at my company cookout, the CEO brought his hamburger and chips to my table and we had a great conversation about our summer plans!
Summer Work Standards - Lastly, keep your work standards up and continue to work at the same level (hopefully, your best work :o)) you have during the other part of the year, just because the sun is out, don't let the humidity cloud your brain and get you too laxed. The summer is only 3 months - I am sure you want your job once September hits!

Here's to a great summer!!!

I believe I will see it!

2011-05-25T22:17:00.000-04:00

Nine times out of ten, I am a "Believe it when I see it" kind of gal, but I can't hold my excitement any longer. We have hired my replacement and I will be moving to my new job and office (hello door!) in three weeks!

Yes, all pending a negative drug test, fraud free background check and minus any second thoughts the candidate may have resulting in her rescinding her acceptance of the job offer. Dun DUN DUNNNNN!!!

But I am staying optimistic, that all goes well and I can successfully pick up my new cactus (yes, a cactus) for my desk from Lowe's in the next couple weeks.

Fingers Crossed!!!!

RSVP please...

2011-05-17T22:48:00.000-04:00

It's 10:36pm and I just finished putting together bridal shower favors for my coworker. Yes - we not only have work birthday parties, but also bridal parties! It really is important to support your colleagues and employees; acknowledging events like birthdays, weddings and birth of children is one simple way to show you care and have fun! Can't wait for my work birthday party...raising the bar right now! :o)

Take a look at the finished product. Hmmmm......side gig??

I'm coming out, I want the world to know....

2011-05-16T22:14:00.000-04:00

Last week after checking out my blog, a friend of mine suggested I be a little bit more open with my blogging and reveal more personal information about myself. I thought about it for a couple days and thought, why hadn't I started to blog with more of a personal touch? Initially, I believe it was because I didn't want to be reprimanded or even fired from my job for telling cyberspace how I really felt about my coworkers, how I felt what my boss said was stupid or how glad I was not to be at my previous job for one more minute! Being a former recruiter I know that a person's online lifestyle can certainly prevent or end employment - so that was a road I did not want to go down, I do have bills to pay and a cat to take care of. But aside from that, I wondered what else was holding me back from opening up?

Anyone who knows me, knows that I have a healthy appetite for reality TV. How selfish and hypocritical am I to salivate over the pitiful teen moms struggling to juggle a baby and get out of high school on 16 and Pregnant, eyeball the crumbling of marriages and financial states of the Real Housewives of Atlanta, New Jersey and Orange County and chuckle at the emotional breakdown of Meatloaf on The Celebrity Apprentice.

Because I do believe there is a tasteful and respectful way to convey my working experiences, have fun and share my point of view, not to mention create fictional character names along the way, I will take my friends advice. Thanks Karen*! :o)

*Names were changed to protect the identities of the parties depicted in this blog.

6 Go-to phrases for all business women

2011-05-14T12:06:00.000-04:00

As women we all have (or should have) our go-to phrases or rebuttals that roll off our tongues to deal with those sticky, awkward, or inconvenient situations in our every day social lives, i.e.

I'm in a relationship (whether you are or not) or, thanks for your interest, but I am not pursuing new relationships at the moment - to deflect unwanted male attention or advances OR
Thanks for the invite to ____________ however, I think you would have a better time with someone who has a genuine interest in __________________ - when a coworker, or even a family member or friend asks you to an event, concert, etc that you clearly don't want to attend.

But, the other day I ran across an article on aol.com that shared "Six Phrases Every Working Woman Should Know and Use" by Dr. Lois Frankel who has a book with tips for communicating with impact titled, "Nice Girls Just Don't Get It," (I will have to check it out).

As a woman working in corporate America I try to be professional, honest and considerate in my business dealings, but in all candor I can't say that I've have any go-to work phrases other than my elevator and break room talk, which I have down pat!!!

According to Dr. Lois Frankel here are 6 phrases working women need in their back pockets:

1. "Be that as it may, I still would like..."
Dr. Frankel elaborates by saying "Use this to hold your ground with someone who is giving you an excuse for why you can't have what you want. A variation would be, 'I hear what you're saying, and I still would like...'" I like this one alot!

2. "I would be happy to do that for you. Let me tell you __________ [how much it will cost, how much time it will take, how much help I will need, etc.]."
Dr. Frankel explains "Good customer/client service requires you to be willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done - but it doesn't mean you shouldn't ask for what you need to meet the needs of others. Often when you tell them the "cost" of their request, it soon becomes modified."

3. "Thank you. I'm glad you noticed and appreciate the feedback."
Dr. Frankel says "If you have a difficult time accepting a compliment, this is the one for you." Now, this is probably the only one I've used regularly - I do know how to take a compliment!

4. "Although I can't participate at this time, I appreciate your letting me know about it." Dr. Frankel says "This is a nice way to say buzz off, I'm not buying whatever you're selling." This too is a good one that I have to start using.

5. "I'm sure you didn't realize you just cut ahead of me in line."

Dr. Frankel says "You can say this one as you step in front of the offender - best said with a smile." Wow, I'm gonna use this one although not sure how I would use this at work. I can use this at a restaurant or retail store and hope that a physical altercation does not follow! Or at work, I could use this to counter those who cut me off in a discussion or if my opinion is discounted. Yeah - try it that way ladies.

6. "Although I can't do ________, I can do ____________."

I use this now, giving an alternative of what you can do makes your response of a decline or changing your participation less negative.

So add these to your mental rolodexes ladies!

My mother's work ethic revealed...

2011-05-08T20:18:00.000-04:00

As I spend my, at least, 10th Mother's Day away from my own mother, I can't help but reflect on what a great mother I have. She has taught me so many lessons in life, some intentional and others by default, but one lesson that is fitting for this blog is definitely my mother's work ethic. While she did not sit me down and tell me, "you go to work on time, you give 110%, if you have to work on the weekends to complete an important project you do it" she instead taught by example. I saw first hand what it was to follow through on your commitments, go above and beyond the call of duty and let's not forget dress for the job you want, not the one you have.

I have tried and am still trying to apply my mother's work ethic to all aspects of my life, whether its school, work, because as my mother prepares for her well deserved retirement, I know that it was her work ethic that includes resiliency, determination, independence, respect that has contributed to her being an OUTSTANDING mother! I know that she taught me oh so well!

So thank you Mommy, all of my accomplishments are as a result of you! Happy Mother's Day!

Bullies at work - really?

2011-05-07T12:15:00.000-04:00

Wow, I just finished reading an article from last Sunday's Detroit Free Press newspaper about workplace bullying. I was bullied in elementary school, for no other reason but for being smaller than others, or too quiet or just plain minding my own business. But those days are long gone for me, but unfortunately not for others. I couldn't imagine being bullied at work. I mean come on, I am there to enrich my life, make a difference and make money!

Ironically in the midst of the massive campaigns against child and teen bullying and cyber-bullying and violence - the exact same behaviors are occurring in workplaces. Who would have thought, working parents now have to deal with making sure their kids are not victims of bullying as well as themselves!

According to the article "Bullies at work all too common" a CareerBuilder survey revealed 27% of workers admit to being bullied at work. This bully behavior included:

Being harshly criticized
Being yelled at in front of other colleagues
Having belittling comments made towards them
Stealing credit for their work

After reading the article, I thought maybe I did know that these types of things are happening - I can say I have seen this type of behavior happen to others. I just didn't put it in the bullying category, instead I put it in the a-hole category. I then wonder are these so called adult bullys, the result of grown up bullies, or the victims of childhood bullies trying to seek retribution for having been bullied? Who knows. It's wrong either way.

If you feel that you are being bullied document all incidents in detail and if feel that you can address the person who is doing the bullying, do so they may not know they are bullying you. On the other hand, if you can clearly identify that the the person who is bullying you, knows it, doesn't care and dares you to tell someone; Still document the incidents in detail and run not walk to your Human Resources department to seek resolution.

Here are a couple resources available concerning how to handle bullying (child and adult):

Your boss is what?

2011-04-18T20:41:00.003-04:00

As you know I am currently recruiting for my replacement, which is not a hard task because prior to working in corporate HR job, I was a recruiter and loved it! Being that I am currently doing the job, and have done it for the last four years, it makes it easier to explain the job, give a realistic job view and day to day activities, I can convey what I like most about what I do and what I would change present a visual of the type of team environment exists and even express my growth. But, how does one communicate the most important detail, the type of boss they would have to work for and their management style, when the boss is a doozie. And when I say a doozie, I mean demanding, some say crazy, some may say lunatic, bossy, or maniac. Whatever you call it, to be politically correct, I'll leave it at demanding. I want to tell the truth and not sugarcoat it, but then again, I don't want to lose a great candidate either. So what's a girl, who is ready to take on her new job ASAP, to do?

Right, google....I had no choice but to find the right words to use during my interview to be somewhat honest (I know you question the somewhat part, but I can't tell my potential replacement that I want to flip over my boss's desk at least 3 times a week, or that sometimes, just sometimes I'm asked to work on personal assignments for my boss, when I should really be completing my work-work, I could go on and on, you get the picture).

What I found was a great article that gave "Five Tips for Making Working for a Demanding Boss Easier.

Tip #1: Get down to business when communicating with your high-maintenance high-performer boss.

Tip #2: Don’t take it personally!

Tip #3: Give your high-maintenance high-performer boss only essential details.

Tip #4: Always approach your high-maintenance high-performer boss with solutions.

Tip #5: Establish a timeline and priority for projects and requests.

Wallah! After reading over these tips, I realized this was the best way to not only give examples of what it's like to work for my "demanding" boss, but also how to put a positive spin on it and be motivating. Hopefully it worked ~ I even psyched myself out with these tips.

Check it out: http://www.imakenews.com/worldwit/e_article000546950.cfm?x=b702vQ6,b4Fj1W2V

Time to de-stress

2011-04-13T20:03:00.001-04:00

Hello PowerSuiters! Today, I felt like beating myself up in the ladies restroom, in efforts to get out of working a full day, like Jim Carey did in Liar, Liar - (which by the way has been coming on TV like 3 times a week these days!). Juggling my job duties (which there are many), training my colleague, recruiting and interviewing for my replacement all while under the thumb of a really demanding boss (tomorrow, I will share a great article I found on the Internet about handling demanding bosses).

Then, there's blogging(clearly you see, I am having issues staying focused on that), reading the latest book for my book club, volunteering with the American Cancer Society, and my swim class (this is a job in itself - whew!)

Last year, I briefly saw a psychotherapist to help me get a grip on all the stressors in my life. While she told me all the things I pretty much already knew could help me (in the first 2 minutes of my first meeting I told her, she would NOT be prescribing me any drugs) like doing yoga and/or meditation, prioritizing things in my life and not overstretching myself, different breathing techniques and also something that I forgot the technical term for, but it consisted of clinching my eyes shut or my fists for intervals of time and releasing until I am more relaxed. Does anyone know the term for that?? Anyway, all those things do work, when I have time to do it or remember to do it! Although, I have not tried yoga yet - so guess I need to sign up for that once my swim class ends!

I also know of another resource, and I am a little embarrassed saying I have not used it! EAP - most companies have an Employee Assistance Program that is FREE! Employees can call a toll-free number or log on to the vendor's website and request reading materials on various topics, or find a therapist, support group, etc.

I guess sometimes people (or me) know what to do, but won't make the time for themselves to get it together and take action. So, don't be like me, use your resources or just extracurricular activities to help you (me) de-stress - there are lots out there, the Internet has everything! I will look too and save myself a self-inflicted beat down!

So close, yet so far away...

2011-04-12T22:13:00.001-04:00

Anticipation - expectation or hope. This describes me today but times 100!

I mentioned that I received a promotion, but have not yet transitioned to my new role. Having formally accepted the offer about two months ago, I am beginning to feel as if I am on an episode of Punk'd and my boss will any day now let me know that there is no new job!

While I am helping recruit for my own backfill, I am taking on more projects and tasks in my old/current job, which leaves me to think that I will never get on to my new position. I am definitely taking it all in stride, staying positve and optimistic and training my colleague so she knows what to do when I finally leave.

Access Denied...

2011-04-06T22:11:00.000-04:00

Just a little rant....I am all for company security, information technology rules and regulations.

However, at work I like to listen to my playlist.com music site (that I so excitingly blogged about last February) read a little Hollywood gossip here and there - fashion police anyone! But guess what, I'm blocked now. One little Microsoft Upgrade, has sent all my favorite sites to upgrade exile.

I know people look for jobs on company time and on company equipment - which is very crazy, inappropriate and a huge risk and that kind of thing should be prevented.  Some people may blog at work (I may think of a topic and email it to myself), facebooking (yeah FB is blocked too - but I'm not a Facebooker anyway - face what?) Others may twit, tweet, chirp - whatever they do on Twitter - I'm not a Twitterer either (am I starting to sound lame?) People also shop on their company computers (I've done this - whoops) but hey, plane tickets and concert tickets are the most I do. You can't lallygag when buying those types of things.  And I can't forget about my new found love - Groupon!!!! Yes - I groupon at work! Those deals are on the clock....

But I suppose I'll get over it - I can still listen to CDs on my computer and I brought in my Ipod docking station for my listening pleasure. As for shopping - still gonna do that - I'm not blocked from groupon.com, ticketmaster.com and expedia.com ~ HA!

So, while I am both for and against personal Internet use on company property and time - here's my two cents - you, my FBers and Twitterers - there is always those apps on those oh so suped-up phones that you could use throughout the day, No, I don't have an Iphone or blackberry - so I really don't know how those apps work either! But, those TV commercials make it seem like its easy!

Money ~ Power ~ Respect

2011-04-06T21:53:00.000-04:00

Wow! I am really slipping here with the blogging. I've definitely got to do a better job at managing my time and making the time to blog on a consistent basis - phew! But I am determined to do just that. Vogue's March issue titled "The Power Issue" helped me put some pep in my step. With Lady GaGa on the cover I was compelled to read it, but once I opened it there were lots of articles about women famous and not so much who are making power moves. Those with hectic schedules, kids, demanding careers, etc. So I thought to myself - Get it together girl!

Soooo, what's been going on - Money, Power, Respect...

Money
Corporate America never ceases to amaze me. I've gotten a promotion, ummm about two months ago, but am still working in my current position. When will I transition?? Good question. Tell you more about that later. But very excited about the promotion - right on track with the goal I set for myself. A promotion with a side of raise.

Power
Lots of volunteering - here, there, and everywhere. Hey - trying to get my philanthropy on! The power of giving (time, money, advice, skills) is priceless, nothing compares.

Respect
Hmmmm - what else - joined a book club through www.meetup.com. Very cool, check it out. We just finished "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls. Very, very good book - check that out too. Next up - "Water for Elephants". Respecting myself by continuing to learn, grow and meet new people.

Help me to help you

2011-02-05T16:59:00.000-05:00

This week I confirmed that as a "right-hand man" you are required to watch the act of thinking. In my job, while I am not an assistant by title, I always end up assisting my boss with numerous tasks and projects, making copies, fetching files, and the most fairest of all - watching her think.

With some internal company restructuring we have a new leader with a different management style, and different needs and priorities. With this comes more complex projects requiring me to assist my boss on assignments I've never been exposed to before. This is great news for me, because I now have the opportunity to learn some new skills and interact with other colleagues. Yea Me!

However, I realized that its not enough to listen to my boss debrief the situation, get educated on the details, retype documents that our predecessors did not save electronically, analyze the next steps based on my perspective as a newcomer to the information, BUT I also must sit in my boss's office and watch her as she thinks of where additional documents may be, who could have possibly signed the missing document, what the calculation on the 19th page of the contract means and so on!!!!! How do I know that this to is a requirement - because when I position my body to leave her office to return to my desk, she snaps "Wait, give me a minute". A minute to do what, I ask myself. While it would be fantastic if my superhuman power was mind reading, I don't possess that skill set and watching someone think is a waste of time if it isn't an active brainstorming session.

At the end of the day, don't ask someone to watch you think, help them to help you accomplish whatever outcome you are looking for by not wasting their time, but telling them what you are trying to achieve, uncover, or make a decision on. Next, write down the follow up items that need some additional thought and lastly, decide on a time to reconvene once you had the opportunity to actively think and discuss next steps.

Telecommuting or snow day?

2011-02-02T10:12:00.001-05:00

Like most of the Midwest and Northeast, this morning I awoke to lots of snow and a slow snow plower. After trying to power drive my way through 6 inches of snow, I backed my car back into the garage, called my boss to let her know I was stuck and logged onto our work system to telecommute until I am no longer being held hostage by the abominable snowman.

While my job does not support telecommuting unless we are subjected to situations like this one, I started thinking maybe I should revisit my proposal (about a year ago, I suggested our company move in this direction with no success) for flex schedules and telecommuting where possible.

With a quick google search I have already located 10 reasons it works!

Some include:

Conserving Energy - See I am using my own energy right now, not the company's
Improved Health - I feel great, positive attitude, ate a balanced breakfast all in my living room
Promotes Safety - Because the weather is bad, I am way safer at home than on the street
Allows employee freedom - Granted I am blogging right now, as soon as I publish it, I will be right back to work - because I am disciplined!

For the full list, check out the link below.

http://www.gilgordon.com/telecommutesafe/telebenefits.html

So, that means I have to work for 50 more years...

2011-02-01T21:55:00.000-05:00

Is what I said when I left my 1:30pm meeting today where the topic was "what to do about our current retiree medical plan". With the costs rising each year, leaving retirees unable to continue to afford the plan, in the same breath leaving those with preexisting conditions unable to find alternative plans - I wondered where does that leave me?

1 - Contemplating how I am going to fast forward my career plan to make the big bucks

2 - Finding me a rich husband who will be able to afford a stand alone retiree medical plan for the both of us

3 - Prying me out of my blogging slump - which is due to my busiest time of year at work: Open Enrollment, followed by Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years holidays.

Needless to say, picturing working until I am 80 has definitely got my creative juices flowing, my mind churning and my fingers typing.

2010-10-16T16:25:00.002-04:00

"Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all."

- Dale Carnegie

What I made happen this Monday

2010-09-20T22:07:00.000-04:00

So - since I coined the term "Make it happen Monday" just last week, I am proud to say, that although not as rested, wide eyed and bushy-tailed as I was last Monday I still managed to make it happen.

How?

1. I had a great breakfast - 2 packs of oatmeal and a banana!
2. I wore a fantastically chic outfit - black pencil skirt, leopard ruffle blouse and a tan blazer.
3. Managed to sit through a painful discussion about the fraudulent activity taking place when it comes to our employees covering ineligible dependents on health benefits. Hey - take your grand kids, your boyfriend and girlfriend's niece off of your medical insurance right now!

There - with a smile on my face and sling back heels on my feet - I made it happen this Monday!

Is professional attire in the eye of the beholder?

2010-09-14T22:21:00.001-04:00

Ironically on the night of "Fashion's Night Out 2010" I read a story about female sportscaster Ines Sainz and the controversial outfits she wears when performing her job covering sports events. While the story intends to discuss the sexual harassment she endured by a couple of the New York Jets players on Sunday, by the end of the article, the issue is clearly Ines' inappropriate choice of dress when she entered the office of football players - the locker room.

Check out the article which I found on lemondrop.com and see what readers have got to say. Whoa - and the opinions on this topic. http://www.lemondrop.com/2010/09/14/ines-sainz-sexual-harrassment-jets/?icid=main%7Cmain%7Cdl5%7Csec1_lnk3%7C170626

Now, I've been nicknamed Carrie Bradshaw around my office (stylish, quirky, and great shoes), but I do keep it work appropriate. While I choose to not place judgement on Ines' outfit selections from what I've seen and read, I'll just say that sometimes people just don't know what they don't know. It seems like common sense to know what professional work attire is, but those lines can get blurred depending on what industry you work in and also based on what is communicated to employees upon hire and through the working relationship.

At the end of the day, this article brings up lots of topics: Professional dress, sexual harassment, gender double standards, and freedom of expression or choice. Who would have thought an LBD (little black dress - for the guys who don't know this) could cause so much drama!

Make it Happen Monday

2010-09-13T22:48:00.001-04:00

Normally my Mondays are a drag. I struggle to get out of bed, try on 5 outfits before I find a winner, enter the building with a fake grin on my face, take the stairs instead of the elevator to avoid small talk and then fight my way through the day making a to do list for Tuesday when I know that I will have my act together.

But not today! I woke up from a very restful nights sleep. I haven't sleep that good since I was put under anesthesia to have a tube put down my throat and into my stomach for a endoscopic x-ray 2 years ago, and that procedure only took about 10 minutes! But I woke up a new person.

Anyway, this morning, I only snoozed once, and when I got up I had a new attitude. Not sure if it was the sleep, a subconscious new look on life, or some telepathic sibling connection since today is my big brother's birthday, but by the time I was headed out the door, I singing "Ain't nothing gonna break my stride, nobody gonna slow me down, OH NO - I got to keep on movin'!" (You know that song by "Men at Work" - OK I didn't know who sang it either, until I got to work and googled it.) I still don't know where that came from, but let me tell you - it felt good! I went into work hyped up and ready for anything. Ready for the irate employee who is pissed off that I added his 3 children to his medical benefits due to a court order, ready for a colleague to interrupt my in progress phone call to ask me how to load paper into the copier and ready to debate why our company does not acknowledge common law spouses - on an average Monday, I would put my phone on mute and say "Because we don't!". But today was different - I was making it happen - any and everything.

Mondays don't have to be the dreaded day that its become. So I am now making every Monday - Make it Happen Monday! We are the creators of our own destiny - we get back what we put out and all those other cliches and phrases that mean the same thing - pick one and do that.

What's your name again?

2010-08-29T15:11:00.001-04:00

Majority of us have them. It could be based on our appearance, the shortened version of our name, or even our last name, the city or neighborhood we are from, something a boyfriend or girlfriend has given us, or something we were given from childhood or in our adult life.

YES - a nickname! How prevalent are nicknames in the workplace I thought, I mean I use them for coworkers and other colleagues and they have been used in dun, dun, dun DUN, not the nicest fashion. You could say that they are more-so created so that you talk in code about them. I know its best to not talk about people, hence if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all, but it happens sometimes. We all have coworkers who get on our nerves and having to work in such close quarters, nicknames allow you to speak of and vent about them when they are possibly near.

A couple that I utilized over my work history range from the person's last name or initials like "The NAG", or a physical descriptor like "Belly", "Shorty" or even "Red Face". Now, of course, some may have some nicknames for me that are not that becoming, but I've never heard one yet.... I have been called "Precious" and I like that one!

If you would like to read more about "Nicknames in the Workplace" or if you want to confirm what nicknames you can use in the office or which ones to keep under wraps (inappropriate nicknames can spur lawsuits regarding discrimination!) give google a try. I found that although I like my office nickname of "Precious" it is inappropriate and shouldn't be used.

Saturday Shopping Tip: Seeking Stylish Work Clothes

2010-08-21T10:43:00.000-04:00

Banana Republic to the rescue...

Growing up, Saturdays meant hitting up the mall. Me, my mom and my two aunties. What fun we had - Macy's, Nordstrom Rack, Express, New York and Company, Ross, Marshalls, Old Navy and my then favorite Mervyns. Is there a Mervyns around anymore - I know they closed the ones in my town. Anyway - I am always on the quest for stylish work clothes, that can also double as going out weekend clothes. Gone are the days when you had - work clothes, church clothes and weekend clothes. If you do it right, you can pretty much mix and match for any occasion - within reason.

Right now, my favorite store and website has to be Banana Republic because they are catering to working professionals. Being the professional shopper that I am - I am signed up on most retail websites and get alerts literally every day! But Banana Republic comes through each time. Not only do they have great sales and discounts and but free shipping frequently too. Their clothes really can transform from day to night - weekday to weekend! Even if I don't buy anything new, their website gives me countless outfit ideas. This is not just for ladies either - MEN - they have great business casual ideas for you too.

So whether you are shopping your closet or actually spending the dollars - next time you seek out work attire ideas hit the Internet and hit up Banana Republic.com!

TGIF!

2010-08-13T20:30:00.000-04:00

Today was a great Friday. I got a couple things accomplished that were on my to do list, followed by an after lunch ice cream social organized by a couple HR Managers in my department for the entire corporate office.

Am I greedy or does food and treats just make everything so swell! Since my flexible work schedules idea didn't go over so well, I think I'll press my luck with suggesting weekly treat sessions! Hey you gotta give it to me for trying...

Have a great weekend!

What's the password....

2010-08-08T16:40:00.000-04:00

We have enough passwords in our personal lives, ATM/Debit cards, home alarm systems, email accounts, job boards, social networking site log ins, online shopping sites, and online banking - UGH! The need for passwords are endless. My brain is currently holding so many passwords, that I don't have room for other important numbers like my checking and savings account numbers and my license and license plate numbers! Who knew.

Just when you thought you reached your peak of creative yet easy to remember but hard to crack, you arrive at work to have to create even more alpha numeric and symbol passwords to enter your work station, get into a Human Resources Information Systems, payroll systems, POS system, job boards as an employer, administrator and vendor sites, maybe even the building!

Do we write these down, identity theft experts say no. They also say do not make all of your passwords the exact same or even similar - JEEZ!! I have all my passwords for work saved in my MicroSoft outlook notes section, but what happens when the computer crashes? Another idea is putting them all in an excel spreadsheet or word document, but then I read that unless the document or database is encrypted its still unsafe! So - what are we password protecting our password documents, creating yet another password? Or just print the documents and store in a safe place.

As I googled (one of my favorite things to do) "where to store passwords" I ironically found a free online password manager website that stores your password in an encrypted database. Let me say that I didn't look into this site in any detail, but it got me thinking - is it really safer to enter your passwords into an online database - really? I won't be doing that any time soon.

Good luck in your password generation and storage!

Bon Voyage... I think?

2010-07-31T10:26:00.001-04:00

There have been a number of voluntary resignations at my place of employment recently. Some off to other jobs - better in their eyes of course, some to take on their dream job completely opposite of what they were doing, others to retire and a couple to tend to their young offspring. In this economy I think its great, when someone can decide to leave their job, for whatever reason they choose. My question however leads to the good bye.

The department that I work for (Human Resources) has this very strict policy to not acknowledge the person's departure if they are leaving to go to another company. Not acknowledging is actually an understatement - sometimes I didn't even know the person was leaving until days before their last day. I will have to do some further research on this school of thought, because I've seen departments in the same building celebrate the progression of soon-to-be former employees. Unlike when someone retires, there of course is this great party, with decorations and a catered spread, or I even had a coworker resign because her husband received a great job offer out of state. I totally agree that in these situations - food, some cake and punch or even an after work dinner would be in order - especially if they were a valued employee who did a great job!

But - then a part of me says, although an elaborate send off is not necessary for the employee who is mentally screaming "deuces" from the top of their lungs, off to their bigger and better job - an acknowledgement and thank you for their work and skills they brought to the company would be a nice courteous and ethical gesture. No matter their choice - you can't deny their contributions to the company, you just can't.

This clearly is not a direct science as to how you part ways with your staff/colleague, because some employees may have not have been the best employee anyway, but a little thought and your best judgement can come in handy when their last day arrives. Even if it's just some bagels and coffee the manager can gather the team to say thank you for your services and best of luck to you in your endeavors! OR if the company would be better off without them, an email blast to your team to say thanks and encourage the staff to drop by and say good bye and good luck.

That's not hard to do - it's really not.

Sitting Pretty...

2010-07-19T21:31:00.001-04:00

Here are some pretty (cute huh?) interesting findings regarding good looks and securing a job. It's not enough to dress the part, this article says you must have an equally appealing face.

I started wearing make-up to work 5 years ago to look more mature and be taken more seriously (I've always looked young for my age), but must I keep up this charade to keep my job??!!

Check out this article about "How much beauty is worth at work".

http://www.newsweek.com/2010/07/19/poll-how-much-is-beauty-worth-at-work.html?GT1=43002

2010-06-29T20:24:00.000-04:00

10 Attitudes of Successful Workers
By Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Editor

I love careers section on msn.com. I can always count on them to publish some really good career advice. Here is one to check out:

http://msn.careerbuilder.com/custom/msn/careeradvice/viewarticle.aspx?articleid=666

2010-06-28T21:56:00.001-04:00

Not so happy Monday

So today was the first day of work without my colleague, who resigned and her last day was Friday. Although she left to go take on a great opportunity, I still wish she was right here beside me cracking jokes, lending me 25 cents for the vending machine and working with me to knock out implementation projects. We were freakin' rock stars with our team work!

If you've ever made a good friend at work, you would know exactly how my day went - tremendously sad. Last night I dreaded the fact that I would come into work and not find my BFF in the cubicle next to me. No one to reciprocate my good morning, no one to recap the weekend, no one to mock our boss with (and this was the most important daily ritual we shared).

I used to think that the friends I already had (a whopping) were all the friends I needed. My best friend since 7th grade and then my college girls who double as my sorority sisters. Yup, 3 that's it. But boy, was I surprised when 2 years ago, I encountered a new good friend in of all places - WORK.

Don't underestimate the genuine friendships and relationships that you can develop at work. You are spending 40 plus hours a week with them, which is more than I am spending currently with my family who all live out of state along with my 3 besties!

At the end of the day I spoke to my now former colleague, but even better my friend. She had a great first day and since her new job is less than 3 miles away, I will still get to see her through the week.

2010-06-22T22:34:00.000-04:00

Gracefully Unhelpful

When I sought out clarification on data provided to me in an excel spreadsheet at work today, I realized that sometimes you just aren't able to be helpful.

This applies to any situation: You may just not know the answer due to lack of knowledge on the subject, you may be familiar but it's not your expertise and you don't want to commit to an answer, or you may simply be new to a city, neighborhood, company and just clueless altogether. No one can fault you for not knowing.

BUT....there is a courteous way to be unhelpful.

Here are a couple of pointers:

Don't have an attitude and get irritated that someone had the audacity to ask you something you don't know. They may not have known you didn't know.
If you have a suggestion on who might be able to help - share it.
Don't tell a tall tale just to get the person off your back - it's OK if you don't know and you shouldn't send them down the wrong path trying to make yourself look good.

2010-06-21T21:32:00.000-04:00

401(k) Guys and Gals!

Happy Monday! This week my department is putting on 401(k) educational seminars as part of our financial education initiative for our employees. Although I've gotten pretty knowledgeable about 401(k) plans since my first job 6 years ago - you can never know too much about your plan.

So, after sitting through my 3rd meeting today (when this is complete I would have sat through 6 meetings total!), I thought to share my two cents on the subject.

Starting out in your career retirement can seem like a very distant destination, but whether your company's 401(k) record keeper is Fidelity, New York Life, Vanguard, ADP or any other administrator here are 5 things you might want to consider now and throughout your career:

Contributing $$
Contributing to the company match max - so that you don't leave free money on the table. If your company does not match - still contribute your pre-tax dollars.
Staying educated. If you know how to pick your funds, or you set up a pre-selected fund based on your retirement goals, make sure you revisit and reassess your or selections as time passes to make sure you are staying on track.
Avoid taking a loan against your account if you can - it's possible you'll be subject to twice the tax implications as you repay it.
Rollover eligible 401(k) accounts from previous employers if your plan allows, to keep all your accounts in place.

Happy Saving, preparing for retirement, or whatever else you may want to call it!

2010-06-14T22:02:00.001-04:00

I have to admit, I don't watch the local news too often nor CNN or MSNBC. However, I will read www.cnn.com or even www.msn.com for world news to keep current as to what is going on around the globe.

For those of you who do make it point to watch Anderson Cooper, Diane Sawyer and your local newscasters - kudos to you. But don't stop there, it is also very important to stay in the loop of what is going on in the industry in which you work. I often read Human Resources themed periodicals and magazines. It is important for me to keep up with industry innovation, newsworthy leaders and benchmarking standards that are being set in my field.

As an HR professional I read:

HR Magazine
Staffing Management
Diversity Executive
Risk Management
Employee Benefit News

While I don't subscribe to all of these magazines, my employer does! Try to get your employer to subscribe to those magazines that are applicable to your job function as well. Assure them that their investment in you staying current in your field is a win-win. Depending on the industry these subscriptions can get pricey, so you can always check them out at your local library, or go online to get digital version or ezine versions of the publication within your career field, if subscribing is not an option.

With the click of my mouse (Google Queen Alert) I located resources for magazines in a couple other industries, take a look:

Marketing

Advertising Age - http://www.adage.com/

Medical

Advance - www.advanceweb.com - this is a good find as it caters to a wide array of medical professionals. Some of the magazine subscriptions are FREE for those licensed in the field. FREE is always good.

Engineering

Mechanical Engineering - www.memagazine.asme.org
Civil Engineering - www.asce.org

Business

Forbes - www.forbes.com
Business Week - www.businessweek.com

Science

Science - www.sciencemag.org

Information Technology

Computer World - www.computerworld.com
Information Week - www.informationweek.com

Next time you contemplate something to read, pick up or log on to some industry info and while you do that, I will put forth some effort to watch the news!

2010-06-12T21:39:00.001-04:00

Hobby = $$$

It's a good thing to have a side gig! Check out the article "Why 3 jobs are better than one" from CNN.com. Author Paula Caligiuri, says "...it's no longer smart to depend on one job or one source of income."

So it's simple:

You + like to cook = catering on the weekend $$

You + loves fashion = work at the Coach store (I'm sure the employee discount is grrreat!) $$

You + passionate about writing = write and self publish a book $$

You + great html skills = web designing for local start ups $$

This may be a way to start working on your entrepreneurial spirit while still holding down your main job, not wanting to fully dive in before knowing if that's what you really want to do. Or, you may just have a hobby that can bring in some dollars!

http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/worklife/06/02/cb.3jobs.better.than.one/index.html

2010-05-30T18:21:00.006-04:00

Ode to mute...

Oh do I love the mute button on my Cisco Systems telephone at work. The button is similar to the "no smoking" sign, except it's this little microphone being crossed out instead of a cigarette.

Now, why do I love this feature on my phone - well, in my line of work, I administer benefits for over 2,000 employees in the US and Canada. Benefits are important to people - hey, they're important to me....So it is to be expected that I receive numerous calls ranging from - where is my benefit card, why was my dental claim denied, I want to drop my ex-wife, I want to add my newborn baby, why am I getting a spousal surcharge taken out of my paycheck, where is my pension check, why did the retiree medical costs increase so much, and so on and on and on and on.....

So with that said, I use the mute button at least 3 times a day:

When my phone is on speaker so I can multitask - type an email, file documents, or even eat my lunch. I just read that the latter task is rude - but au contraire mon frere - I'm muting my smacking with the mute button!

When an employee, retiree or pensioner is talking out the side of their neck. Sometimes I can't understand why someone would go off on someone who can help them. That is my job - to solve problems. I am all for fighting for your rights, venting your frustrations - I do it all the time, you should hear me talking to my cell phone company - but really, sometimes you need to just listen.

When I have to laugh - as serious as I am, I am equally goofy and love to laugh. At times I find humor in difficult situations and to prevent upsetting or frustrating the caller on the other end, I use my trusty mute button to get out my chuckles.

Beware of checking that the button is pushed before saying something smart. One day, a medical vendor made my colleague very mad and irritated, while she was shouting over the cubicle to me to come over and assist her with this annoying customer service rep for a vendor, she uttered, "this lady is irritating me and I'm tired of talking to her" well, when I got over there, the rep responded to my hello with "although your colleague thinks that I am annoying and irritating...." Whoa - Not good - my colleague did not double check the mute!

So make sure you check and re-check that button. In a perfect world, we would not feel the need to say smart aleck things and not allow our buttons to be pushed - but at least until I reach my ultimate level of Zen - I will continue to use my mute button.

2010-05-22T14:37:00.002-04:00

Yea!!! Summer is near! This California girl, has waited oh so long for everlasting sunshine (ok at least 4 months). If you are anything like me, you already have your "fun in the sun" wardrobe lined up. But....What to wear to work?

Gals - Check out Banana Republic's idea of summer chic!

http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/division.do?cid=5002

Guys - Check out Ask.men.com's "6 summer combinations" that can be worn to work.
http://www.askmen.com/fashion/trends/14_fashion_men.html

2010-05-13T22:05:00.001-04:00

When the Cat's Away.....*

This mouse does not play. My boss is out of the office on business for the next 4 work days. And boy did I raise the roof, shout hallelujah and did any and everything else to celebrate my much needed break away from the "man". But the funny thing about me - is that I get my best work and the most work done when my boss is out of the office.

Unlike the idiom - I generally do my playing when my boss is in the office. It is better to maneuver the "play" aspect: shuffle papers, pick up the phone and pretend I am taking a business call, and take a long stroll to the vending machine when my boss is in. No one else is keeping their eye on me, because if I look like I am chilling and my boss is in, no one will think any of it. They think, would I dare play around with my boss in town?? However, beware, one false move when your boss is out, you will sure call attention to your schemes!

My boss's absence allows me to work without any interruptions, my to-do list actually serves its purpose and my talk breaks to my colleague are shorter, because I am so motivated to get the things on my agenda done!

Later in the day, a colleague invited me to a slack fest, but I declined; she was shocked that I had the audacity to actually get some work done during this so-called vacation! If you don't listen to nothing else I say, don't fall victim to this idiom. Handle your business with or without your boss or supervisor around. If you need a break to surf the net, talk to your friends, or try to leave early - do it when your boss is there. This leaves you free from unwanted speculation and it's easier to talk your way in or out of something when it comes straight from the horses mouth. How is that for another idiom!

*Idiom:

Without supervision, people will do as they please, especially in disregarding or breaking rules. For example, As soon as their parents left, the children invited all their friends over—when the cat's away, you know. This expression has been a proverb since about 1600 and is so well known it is often shortened, as in the example.

2010-05-11T20:11:00.000-04:00

XOXO Gossip Girl

So today I engaged in some workplace gossip, not trying to, but completely walked into it (which I normally do). I have a rule to not go seeking out gossip at work. Unless it is with people I completely trust - which are very few, but in that case we are just trying to stay in the loop of what's going on in the office.

Check out my 5 office gossip rules before you listen if you dare. (Everyone may have their own, but these work for me!)

There are people who just like to stir up the pot. I will not lie, I like to know what's going on with other people's business, I do. But you must recognize when someone is being plain hateful or manipulative and trying to add fuel to the fire. Once recognized - RUN.
Stay away from the trouble makers who may make the gossip session look like you started the whole rumor mill - when in fact you were just trying to find your missing fax!
Try to limit or refrain from questions. Take in the information that is volunteered to you and never inquire further. This makes you look bad and can work against you.
Stay away from it altogether if you can - stop the perpetrator in their tracks, so that the spewing doesn't even start.
If you can not stop it, take in the information, nod or shake your head in good timing and end the conversation telling the gossiper - "Well it'll all work itself out" or "that's too bad" or "maybe it's not as it seems". All of these responses are very good neutral and deflective responses that can keep you from getting sucked into nonsense.

2010-04-25T22:22:00.001-04:00

Office Space is my life!

I am sitting at home watching the movie "Office Space" for the umpteenth time and I still find it a direct parallel to my real office life experience.
- Sitting in those infamous cubicles
- Stupid copier/fax machine that never works no matter how many times the repair guy comes to fix it
- Clueless managers like Lumbergh
- Rewarding and promoting slackers like Peter - it was only when he didn't care about his job anymore, that he got a promotion. What's up with that?
Although I have many favorite parts, check out this one - the death of fax machine. Go ahead, get your laugh on!

Thanks BigAndy488 for the You Tube clip!

2010-04-23T21:35:00.003-04:00

FOOD LUGGAGE

So my plastic Target bag is not hip and stylish enough to carry my lunch to work in? No!

I remember having at least 3 lunch boxes growing up prior to graduating to a brown paper bag.

I had this huge purple box which resemble in a way, an igloo cooler that people take on picnics and to amusement parks like Great America! That was way too big for a little petite 5th grader like me.
There there was my red Mickey Mouse steel or tin lunch box. Looking back it could probably be considered some vintage type piece. I should have kept it, shoot!
Lastly, had this green polyester-ish material lunch bag, and since lunch bags weren't as sophisticated as they are now, this bag allowed seepage of condensation and things just soaked through the bag sometimes - yeah I don't know what that was about.

Now the brown paper bag, I liked. Not cost effective, but cool in my opinion. Once I was done, I threw it away, no extra baggage to carry around. Some lunch boxes/bags were so bulky that it was impossible to fit it into my backpack! I don't like to lug around too much stuff, I didn't then and I don't now. Now, if you ask my mom how cool it was to buy brown paper lunch bags each month, and she may tell disspell my cool theory.

What I do now - I always end up with a random plastic bag, or better yet, I just throw my food in my over sized purse! Which means I risk having a smashed sandwich.

Take a look at the latest styles in food luggage, thanks to MSN's feature titled "Happy Meals"!

http://glo.msn.com/living/happy-meals-2413.gallery?GT1=49001#stackState=0__%2Fliving%2Fhappy-meals-2413.gallery%3FphotoId%3D3009

2010-04-18T12:42:00.000-04:00

COBRA - Not the Commander from G.I. Joe!

Although it seems as if this slumping economy and job market has finally hit rock bottom, there still may be rounds lay offs and downsizing at your place of employment. I've known too many people who lost their medical benefits as a result of losing their jobs - months later to say I really need medical coverage right now. That is where COBRA comes in. The first response to the word COBRA is its expensive. I understand that being unemployed makes it hard to afford lots of things let alone COBRA, but before ruling it out, please weigh all of your options.

Who: You - if you recently lost your job that provided medical benefits. Whether you quit, were laid off or unfortunately fired (hopefully not for any type of gross misconduct - that's another story) you are entitled to the offering of COBRA.

What: COBRA - The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act gives workers and their families who lose their health benefits the right to choose to continue group health benefits provided by their group health plan for limited periods of time under certain circumstances such as voluntary or involuntary job loss, reduction in the hours worked, transition between jobs, death, divorce, and other life events.

When: Immediately following your termination/last day worked.

How: Complete the COBRA enrollment paperwork that is mailed to you post termination. It will be mailed from your former employer or from a third party COBRA administration company. If you want to continue your medical coverage and you don't receive it within 3 weeks of your last day worked, contact your former employers HR department. There is a deadline for enrollment and payment of premium. Once you miss the deadline - you won't be able to sign up.

Why: If you or your eligible dependents i.e. children, spouse have medical needs or maintenance prescriptions that you need to continue, you should sign up for COBRA until you secure another job with benefits or find an independent medical plan that is more cost effective.

Note: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) was implemented to provide a reduction in medical premium costs for individuals who experienced an involuntary termination; see if you qualify.

Review before you recycle that COBRA packet. You just might need it and it's possible it can be financially feasible.

For more detailed information click on: www.dol.gov or contact your former employer.

Game Time!

2010-04-03T21:36:00.001-04:00

In the final days of the Final Four, the conclusion of the March Madness festivities, and the championship game on Monday many of you may have taken part in your office NCAA tournament brackets with hopes to win big.

By the time I was old enough to participate I already knew the deal, as my grandfather used to be a football pool champ! I would watch him fill in his squares and turn in his money. But what I best remember is him collecting his winnings - which is the part I looked forward to when I began to participate.

I unfortunately missed the deadline for my company's brackets this year, I suppose because of its illegal nature I missed out on the silent announcement. I only came to find out about it when I ran across someone folding it inconspicuously and putting it their pocket. I was devastated that I was too late because I have to say, that I've won in the past (woo-hoo)!

Take a look at this article which actually proves the benefits of office pools. Although illegal in nature-yeah, the whole betting money at work-this article actually has survey results that say office pools whether, NCAA, Superbowl or a pregnant colleagues' due date, brings about positive morale around the office. So, with that said - let the games begin!

http://www.chicagobreakingbusiness.com/2010/03/study-sports-pools-can-lift-morale-at-work.html

Here comes the boss! How to stay out of trouble when surfing the internet at work.

2010-03-15T21:16:00.000-04:00

Lately, I've found numerous websites that want you to look at their websites at work and not get in trouble for it! Websites like, http://www.tnt.tv/ provides a "Boss Coming? Dramatic Pause" link to a bogus MS Excel spreadsheet, so while you are watching a show, if your boss walks by or into your office you have an immediate solution to your wrongdoing. Who is catching up on episodes of their favorite TNT show at work - I don't know, but I find this hilarious and diabolically clever!

How did I learn about this you ask, not at work! One weekend a while back, when I was trying to catch up on TNT's police drama "Dark Blue" (which I like and hope comes back this summer, hopefully I wasn't the only one watching it), I discovered this interesting marketing tool and job saver.

I work in a cubicle with my back and computer screen facing the walk way. This could cause lots of problems for me, if I'm too slow to turn my head, peep the intruders, and click on a work appropriate website or document and commence working. Working in a cubicle, for the past three years, I've fine-tuned my hearing so that I can effectively surf the web or online shop and stay on my toes!

There are some job boards that also have these faux documents that allow you to search for jobs and always escape the job hunt with one click, when the coast isn't clear. This particular job board I was on, actually took you to a document that was about developing management styles. Now listen very closely here - I would never suggest looking for a job at work, ever. Unless you know how to delete your internet cookies and files completely and without a trace - I suggest you leave those activities for your home computer. Companies already have internet guidelines, and to tell you the truth yahoo and hotmail sometimes are against the rules too. Please don't lose your job over facebook.

While you should stick to more safe websites like msn.com and cnn.com, you can always make your own "boss is coming - getaway vehicle" by opening up actual work documents you are working on or have a standing new email message template from outlook and there you go. After that, you must, I repeat must, master the mouse click or the ALT - TAB combo to get you out of the inappropriate screen in enough time!

Good Luck!

What's on your desk?

2010-03-09T20:59:00.000-05:00

I watch a lot of HGTV and one of my favorite shows is "Designed to Sell". Homeowners who are having trouble selling their homes get help from design pros who reposition and stage their homes. This staging gives off a perception of a lived in home, if the house is empty or a less personalized decor feel, leaving the potential buyers feeling like that they could see themselves living there.

Ironically, I have been staging my desk at work long before I had even known what HGTV was. I have incorporated what I call desk staging into my daily work routine and you should too.

Every morning when I come into work, I turn on my computer, open up my MS Outlook, unlock all my drawers and then I begin the staging process. I pull out my notebook with my to do list on it, some file folders, a couple of HR forms, pension forms that need processing, perhaps a benefit survey that needs to be completed and any other items that I may possibly work on throughout the day and neatly and strategically place these items on my desk.

Now, I initially started staging my desk to give the impression that I was busy. So you could say the items were more like props, so while I was catching up on the shows I watched the night before with coworkers, I could always easily pop back in my seat and get straight to work or appear to be working.

But more recently, I find that staging my desk, helps me prioritize my tasks for the day. Because I am a visual learner, putting the things I have to do out in the open where I can see them allows me to stop the chitter chatter sooner with my coworkers, and get to work.

So, I say - try it, whether you are trying to find a better way to effectively complete your tasks each day, or to to present the illusion that you are super busy, when actually you are checking your hotmail account, paying your bills or talking about what Ellen said on American Idol.

2010-03-04T22:46:00.001-05:00

Thank Goodness it's Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday...

It is so funny to me how the attitudes of office workers progress throughout the week. I have memorized the responses to my over the top "Goooood Morrrning" during my 3 floor ride on the elevator each day.

Monday - Ugh - It's Monday...

Tuesday - Is it Friday yet?

Wednesday - It's hump day - we are almost there!

Thursday -Isn't this week going by slow?

Friday -Happy Friday!

I am proposing that those of you who take on this weekly transformation from down in the dumps to on cloud nine, try something different next week. When you enter the elevator, pass someone in the hall, or hold the door for those entering with you, greet them with a Good Morning and a smile. It's really not that hard to do.

No need to share the dark cloud of negativity that hangs over your head with someone else, just because you don't want to be at work. Fake the funk people - Fake - the - funk! Here's why:

A) It's not professional.

B) You don't want anyone going around telling people that you seem like you don't want to be at work - what if that gets back to you manager or the CEO?

C) It's just not healthy. Think of the self fulling prophecy, I think therefore I am. You don't want that attitude to carry through your entire day, better yet the entire week until Friday?

jhjhhlhlh

Remember moods and attitudes can be contagious, so make sure your are passing on the right one.

Let's Get Ready to Rumble...

2010-03-01T22:38:00.000-05:00

I wanted to put on boxing gloves today and phantom punch an irrational and immature colleague of mine like Ali did Liston.

When I entered into the work world, to my surprise, I found it to eerily resemble high school. There were cliques, unbelievable bad attitudes and the infamous wishy washy behavior, i.e. I'm not talking to you today so we will ride this elevator in silence and I will pass you in the hall numerous times, because I don't like you. Naive me, thought that if you worked in an office, you acted like you had common sense and decency. Boy was I wrong!

Although, I would love to knock out some of my annoying coworkers, www.boston.com offers eight tips to help deal with difficult coworkers. You should probably try those tips and not a TKO.

1. Approach conflict with an open mind
2. Consider what might have caused the conflict
3. Be respectful of differences
4. Try to cut the conflict off in its early stages
5. Listen carefully
6. Be mindful of your language
7. Ask for help
8. Be sure the problem is resolved

At the end of the day.....while ideal, you don't have to like anyone you work with, but you do have to respect them and act in a professional manner.

Click here for the full article: http://www.boston.com/bostonworks/galleries/workplaceconflict?pg=9

The School of P. Diddy

2010-03-01T22:00:00.000-05:00

I read recently that P. Diddy has plans to open a business school in Harlem, NY, where he would embark on "building leaders" as he mentioned in a CNN interview. I'm not sure if he needs a whole school or academy, but I would find it interesting if different business moguls and leaders taught specialized courses or seminars at colleges and universities to help students explore some unconventional methods of achieving success, skill application and other real life business case studies.

In my experiences my most meaningful learning came from a mix of literature and from people who have been in the trenches, having worked in my field of study and who were able to apply all the lessons they learned from the textbook.

So, go for it Diddy! I am sure you'd teach an interesting course.

2010-02-28T20:40:00.000-05:00

Fun career site to check out...

In my quest to find all things work related and fun, today I ran across "Karen Burns' - Working Girl" website, which offers career advice. Very cute site; take a look at the 59 jobs she's held over the last 48 years of her life. Whew....
One question: Where are the "Working Guys"? I know you're out there - somewhere...

http://www.karenburnsworkinggirl.com

2010-02-24T19:39:00.000-05:00

Here is an interesting statement, my boss heard on a radio show yesterday and shared with me today. Add this to the career growth section of your mental notes file. I am paraphrasing a bit, but the message still speaks loud and clear...

"Your talent can take you places, but your character can keep you from getting in."

2010-02-23T19:58:00.000-05:00

The job is the perk...

In the past 6 months to a year, my colleagues and myself have noticed our premium coffee and hot chocolate supply vanish, the disappearance of business lunches and holiday parties and the our company trinkets (shirts, coffee mugs, and just because items from corporate express) leave our king fu grips. Looking on the bright side we should have seen this coming after the 1st rounds of company-wide lay-offs (which left us thankfully with our jobs), the halting of the 401k company match and tuition reimbursement, the introduction of mandatory furloughs and disappointingly the freezing of bonuses and pay increases.

While we are thinking that this sucks and how are they gonna keep taking these things from us, it is important to keep in mind at all times, that companies are doing these things to try to prevent the lay offs and save money which will be used to pay your salary!

At the end of the day, I can bring in my own beverages, have a holiday party among my own family and friends, use the unpaid vacation days I am required to take to relax or run errands, and dust off my old company trinkets (because in reality we really don't use that stuff anyway) and crack a smile every 1st and 15th when I get the ultimate perk - my paycheck!

We are all customers

2010-02-21T16:07:00.000-05:00

Customer service matters. We all have or will be on the giving or receiving end of customer service at some point in our daily lives or careers. By day, as a Human Resources professional administering benefits to a company with over 2,000 active employees, retirees and COBRA participants and their dependents, I choose to perform exceptional customer service for the following reasons:

Benefits (Medical and Dental to be exact) are sensitive subjects for all, including me. No one wants to arrive at the doctor only to find that they're not covered. Respect what is important to the customer.

I never know who is on the other end of the phone. Great customer service should be blind to status, title, gender, race, etc. One day I may talk to the mail guy and on another day it might be a former CEO, either way they would have received remarkable customer service.

Do unto to others as you would have them do unto you. I recently had the worst experience with an airline whose name I will not mention. I have written a very detailed letter and have made numerous calls to their corporate customer service office and am awaiting a response. Its well-known that one tells more people of an unpleasant experience than a positive one. Don't put your reputation on the line - just think about your reaction to unacceptable customer service.

Check out the 2010 Customer Service Champs listed on BusinessWeek.com and see what they did to make the list. http://images.businessweek.com/ss/10/02/0218_customer_service_champs/index.htm

Music at work

2010-02-18T21:07:00.001-05:00

According to wikipedia, a score is written specifically to be used in an actual film and a soundtrack is the music inspired by the movie. I've gotten burned by running out to buy a movie soundtrack only to find that my favorite song from the movie score, is not on the soundtrack! So that's how I learned the difference between the two.

I love music and I can truly say that music gets me through my work day. I start off with a little Frou Frou to ease me into work mode, mid day I have gospel with Mary Mary to keep me from losing my religion, after lunch my instrumental or classic pieces like Gunnar Madsen helps me concentrate and towards the end of the day - Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal" pick ups my momentum and carries me to 5 or 6pm (6 is when I've lost track of time, because I was jamming)!

What's your work day score or soundtrack?

If your job was a movie, what music would it contain? Or better yet, create your own signature soundtrack of music that is inspired by your work tasks, mood, etc. It is easy, fun and helps you get through your work day. Bring in your Ipod or MP3 and docking station and plug in at your desk - after creating your work playlist music at home. If you are not that tech savvy, there are numerous websites that allow you to listen to free music and create your own personal playlist that won't require you to lug around equipment or tote your Ipod back and forth each day. Just open up a web browser and type in the URL.

Here's to your sanity at work. Create your playlist now!

http://www.playlist.com/

http://www.imeem.com/ http://www.hypster.com/

http://www.123playlist.com/

http://www.bollymusicsearch.com/

I didn't get the job because of what?

2010-02-17T20:07:00.000-05:00

Degree - check!

Experience - check!

Great references - check!

Just when you thought nothing could get in the way of you acing your interview and securing the job... Click on this link and check out an article from AOL.com, which describes 9 interesting but true interview showstoppers.

http://jobs.aol.com/articles/2010/02/15/job-seeker-discrimination

2010-02-09T20:42:00.000-05:00

Accept that "Happy Hour" Invite!

You may not be a drinker, but "Happy Hour" is not only for drinking. Next time your coworkers or boss (if you can stand him or her) invite you out for an after work social session, take them up on their offer. You never know how much you have in common or how much fun you can have interacting with them outside of your office environment.

Exchanging information about upcoming leads or promotion opportunities or collaborating on ideas for future projects is one way to spend the evening. But, if you are lucky like me, you will have bonded with one or two of your colleagues and can spend the evening catching up on the latest movies, fashion and of course MEN! They don't have to turn into your "bestie" but it doesn't hurt to add to your circle of friends or network.

Reality TV - a double edged sword, the gift and the curse, my yin and my yang

2010-02-08T21:42:00.000-05:00

Where have I been - is probably the best question for me right now! I have been away from my blog for almost 1 whole year - pitiful - I know. Why, you ask? Well...

It isn't because I have truly been living up to my name "Workerbee" - no its not...yes I have been putting in 10 hour days and Saturdays here and there, trying to survive doing more with less in this shaky economy - but that's not it. No, its not.

I can't say its because I've been travelling extensively over the last couple months - I mean I did go out of town about every month last fall - yeah, I did. But, you know with this darn technology every place I ventured to there was a computer or lap top available to me. However, I chose only to check my hotmail, my work email and peruse celebrity gossip sites here and there - I never thought so much as to blog - hmm mmm, no I didn't.

Oh wait - been in my new condo for over a year now and perhaps its due to my obsessive compulsive need to HGTV my place - yeah, yeah - that was time consuming. It was....but no, I can't really say that was the reason either - as that kept me confined to a space in which was my usual blogging spot - "in my home". Hmmm... Okay...

Oh right, I got it - I have been in a reality TV trance. I have literally found a new reality show to watch each week over the past 6 months to a year. I'd put in my time at work and once I left my reality - I catapulted myself into someone else's reality (well, I come to find its not really that real, but whatever, its not scripted, OK maybe it is - but you know what I mean!). I am ridiculed more times than not when someone calls me and I tell them "I'll call you back, I gotta finish this episode of 'The Jersey Shore'" or while in the break room I'm asked to weigh in on how bitchy those "Gossip Girls" are, and I only can contribute to conversations about how bitchy those "For the Love of Ray J" girls are, or better yet those "Bridezilla" crazies!

Now there are some good ones out there, like TLC's "The Little Couple" which chronicles the lives of the cutest and most resilient couple who happen to be little people and another favorite also on TLC includes "What Not to Wear". What you wear definitely plays a part in your self image and giving you the courage to seek out your dreams: HINT HINT Power Suit. So... not all trash.

But just when I thought it was safe to ween myself off a couple reality shows I've grown accustomed to (I can't let it all go) I stumble across my newest find and inspiration to get back on the blogs. "Undercover Boss" that's right, just what I needed to bring me back! Looks like I've come full circle, what took me away from Power Suit - has since guided me back home...

Watch the first full episode by clicking here: http://www.cbs.com/primetime/undercover_boss/

Worker Bee's Book Club - Freakanomics

2009-03-28T16:17:00.001-04:00

I have recently gotten back into checking books out of the library - not only because I live across the street from the public library but also there is no need to buy a book unless I am really drawn to the book or am collecting a particular genre. In trying to stay sharp and well read I checked out the book "Freakanomics - A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner at the suggestion of a friend and the obsessive urging of the librarian, when I asked her if she could help me find it. She said "it was a must read - all while a hard read" - and boy was she right!

Being that I barely passed my economics class when I was in grad school, this would certainly be a freakish topic for me to consider reading leisurely. Admittedly, I've had this book checked out since November 2008 and have already paid late fees twice, I am in my final check out according to the library check out lady, as I checked it out for the third time. I was like yeah yeah yeah - just scan the book lady! Oh and can you believe I owe a third round of late fees right now as we speak. Some recession proof activity I've succumbed to - I could have bought the book by now!

Anyway - I just finished and yes today is March 20th but it really a was a hard read. However, in the process of reading it, I found that the concept of the book was aligned with my "what if", question way of thinking. Technically, if you ask me this should be called "The Book of Questions" with chapter titles like "What do Schoolteachers and Sumo wrestlers have in common?" and "What makes a perfect parent" this critically acclaimed book forces you to question your opinions, perceptions and thought processes.

Although after five months and five chapters I finally made it to the sixth chapter (this book is structured more like a book of case studies so it was light on chapters and heavy on text) which happened to be my favorite "Perfect Parenting, Part II; or Would a Roshanda by Any Other Name Smell as Sweet?" Chapter six explored the importance of choosing a name for your offspring by comparing and contrasting the trends among name choices of those from both African-American and Caucasian descent. I've always been interested in what brings parents to their final name selection for their child whether the name was chosen at seven months along in the pregnancy or seven hours after delivery. The authors brought up great points that revolved around the futures parents may or may not create for their child when they give them creative names or traditional names. Names that will cause a future employer to throw their resume to the side or to eagerly contact them for an interview regardless of their credentials or experience. Obviously the chapter morphs into a deeper discussion of ethnic names versus non-ethnic names and higher income names versus lower income names and lastly lower educated names versus higher educated names.

The entire book just takes you in a dizzying circle of what if this, what if that, if all factors are constant its possible results yield this and studies concur and show that. But as confusing as that last sentence was, I can appreciate the fact that the authors do admit in their epilogue that this book just raises lots of questions with no unifying theme, at the same time setting out to challenge the reader to "think sensibly about how people behave in the real world." Mission Accomplished!

Everyday I'm Hustlin'...

2009-03-17T20:35:00.000-04:00

When I was growing up I used to think you go to college, get your degree and get that one great job that will be the start of your career that you'd work at for years to come and then retire. That was it - your one skill set, industry and so on. But what a distorted thought I had.

Once I got settled into my career path and began to get out and network with other professionals I started to encounter not one but two business cards at our departure, often times hearing "I work in Finance by day and I am an interior designer on the side" or "I am an Account Manager and I teach English at a junior college". On the side! What are you talking about, when do you have time, could I do that and many other questions crossed my mind. I then realized that we can indeed do any job or as many jobs as we good and well pleased. I mean, when I was in college I can remember holding down 2 or three jobs at a time - but that was things like working in a deli at the supermarket, tutoring football players or telemarketing, all part-time. But these were adults - trained professionals in some skill or trade or many in fact.

I began to question my thinking all along. I realized that my view of holding down multiple jobs or "hustlin'" meant you needed to earn more money to supplement your main income versus the fact that one has many talents and passions that don't have to be given up just because you've secured a full time job! So, of course I got to thinking - I have things I love to do that I am good at, if I say so myself, and there is nothing wrong with earning extra money!

According to merriam-webster dictionary online search, hustle means "to make strenuous efforts to obtain - especially money or business" (as applicable to this entry). If working forty plus hours a week and then putting in another 20-30 hours into your own side gig isn't strenuous efforts - I don't know what is. People are expanding their work scope to include additional passions and added income potential. Often times your career although you like it - does not satisfy all of your interest. I once read that if you have a hobby or interest something that you enjoy doing, why not make money doing it. Whether it be card making, a cleaning business that is done on the weekends, real estate sales, or investments, freelance writers, web developers, secret shoppers, personal shoppers, teachers and professors, event planning, making jewelry or selling Avon or MaryKay, etc. I would imagine if you are good at it - go for it!

Staying busy will keep you sharp and keep you from becoming stagnant or status quo. Keeping busy with meaningful and enjoyable work and tasks also increases a happier disposition. All while remaining financially sound, increasing your wealth, and preparing for the future.

So I say - get your "Hustle" on! Wish me luck on my state real estate exam!

Courses they should have offered in college! ~ Just a thought...

2009-03-11T21:16:00.000-04:00

Often times I think about the skills I learned in school and how I am utilizing them to do my job everyday. All the case studies, group work, term papers and that very long, yet very informative thesis I wrote for my masters degree and think I missed out on a couple of valuable lessons that would help me right about now!

I'm sure that many of you could think of classes or subjects that should have been offered to you in preparation for the "real world". Take a look at my top 3 classes that I think should have been offered in undergrad or graduate school and their descriptions.

1 - How to successfully hone your "Acting" skills for the workplace
Introduces to corporate practitioners to the theatrics needed to achieve the highest level of "fake". Lecture, discussion and performance.

2 - Brown-nosing / Kissing up 101
Defining what a "brown-noser and/or kiss up" actually is. The introduction of types and tactics and fundamental concepts needed for application.

3 - Strategies to remain sane in an ever changing office environment
The integration of concepts, theories and framework that will explain in detail the "how to" in keeping your sanity, moral character and ethics when thrust into an office environment where you will encounter multiple personalities and difficult situations.

Week - in - Review...

2009-03-01T20:05:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a good week last week!

Monday - Feb 23

A coworker came into work sick today. I made sure I steered clear of them all day! Don't you hate when people come into work sickly. I mean I love my perfect attendance record so if I happen to feel slightly under the weather with a minor cold or sinus headache, I generally medicate myself prior to coming into work. I make sure to quarantine myself at my desk with all my tools - tissue, cough drops and medicine. However, I totally draw the line when someone comes into work with some sort of stomach virus, or stomach flu (I have a severe phobia of vomit) stay at home!! When I am sick, I mentioned that I stay put, but I have encountered those who wonder around the office like a social butterfly fly at a cocktail party spreading their germs like Johnny Appleseed. I just remembered that I need to take a can of Lysol to my desk!

Tuesday - Feb 24

Today I went into work a little late, as I had to take my cat to the vet. I found that he had a urinary tract infection. He's fine, no need to worry. But it made me think of the luxuries that parents have in the workplace. I recently read an article on msn.com that questioned the treatment of childless employees. As a childless worker I am expected to stay at work late, and take very limited personal time. I have no school functions to attend, there is no late fee to try to avoid because I am late picking up the little one from day care, can't stay home for little Billy who has an ear infection, and can't come in late because little Tiffany missed the school bus and I had to take her to school. I often joke with my childless friends, "we gotta get some kids!"

Wednesday - Feb 25

In order to remain sane among my hectic work schedule and rat race lifestyle, I try to get involved in community service efforts, read books (I am reading "Freakonomics" by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner, stay tuned for my review and discussion), and meet up with friends. Hey are we living to work, or working to live?? Anyway, I went to a meeting to discuss my next community activity and also vowed to myself in front of my enabling coworkers to end all viewing of reality tv. Its taking over my life! How are they enabling you ask - watercooler chatter anyone??? Who wants to be the one to say, "what show is that?"

Thursday - Feb 26

Business lunches - to eat or to talk...that is the question? I had a business lunch this day and I tell ya - how hard is it to successfully eat and talk when you are at a meeting to accomplish an objective? Oh, the pressure - you have to make sure you order something that is not overly expensive (comparable to the buyer who is treating), also something that is not going to make you look foolish while eating and talking, etc. I always end up taking small bites in between conversation and having to get a carry out box and finishing my lunch back at the office. I know that there some business eating etiquette guidelines, wonder what they are technically - I am definitely gonna have to look that up!

Friday - Feb 27

As I ended my week, I had committed to finishing all the tasks on my to do list. I am a list writer - even with my access to streamlined computer programs like Microsoft Outlook - I still like to use the good old fashioned written list. I like to check my list, and check it twice and then actually check off that I completed all that was on it! This was a great way to end my week - having accomplished what I had set out to do! I didn't even lolly gag - as I am oh-so tempted to do on a Friday afternoon, but I stayed my course.

I'd have to say this was a good week! My fingers are crossed that I may have a repeat this upcoming week!

~ Week In Review ~

2009-02-21T18:44:00.000-05:00

Hello everybody! Yes - another week under my belt!

Monday - 2/16

Taking my own advice, I hyped myself up on Sunday night instead of Monday morning, so that I might waltz into work the next day, bubbly and ready to take on the week. Not only did I vow that I would go into work with a positive attitude and demeanor, I also made sure that I completed two out of the three mandatory preparation tasks that I created for myself. I know, a little OCD, but it works. In order for me to be on time to work, looking like I have sense, because believe me, you can get places on time, but depending on your prep - you could arrive looking crazy, I must follow my rules. You know I am talking from experience! Anyway, back to the regimen - I've charged myself with completing 2 out 3 tasks each work night: 1) Make Lunch, 2) Take Shower 3) Pick Clothes and Bonus 4) Iron the clothes (As long as the clothes are picked out - which takes the most time, ironing can be done in the morning. I may iron at night, if nothing is on tv).

So - with the hype and the 2 out of 3 - I MADE a great Monday for myself!

Tuesday - 2/17

Meetings, meetings and more meetings! Today, I spent approximately 6 hours in meetings and 2 hours debriefing about them. Soooo..... when I am suppose to do my work - was the question of the day. I actually need to create a separate post to discuss the ongoings of meetings. Do we need them, ok, we do need meetings, but do we need them to last all day. How about we put a daily or even better, a weekly cap on the number of meetings allowed! We can only talk about something for so long, and I urge everyone to pay attention to exactly how much time is actually spent on the topic the meeting was called for? I can recall meetings beginning with talks of recent vacations, the darnedest things one's kid is doing to the mega sale Target is having. When you look up 15 minutes has passed...I tell ya!

Wednesday - 2/18

Conference calls, conference calls and more conference calls!!!!!!!! Same as the day before, only over the phone. Hey - I got a great idea, let's have text and IM meetings, at least I can stay at my desk and multi-task on other projects. Oh - you don't think that will work. Ok!

Thursday - 2/19

Perks Anyone! Don't you just love a job with perks. Well - I do. And...actually, I've only had 3 jobs with perks - including the job I have now. Outlet Clothing store as a teen - can you say 75% employee discount! As a recruiter we always got free trinkets from job fairs - hey some companies really know how to spend dollars to attract applicants and fellow job fair attendants who just want free stuff - like myself and my coworker at the time! However, in my job now vendors like to spoil their clients with fine dining, delivered candy and fruit baskets and my personal favorite invites to sporting events where we enjoy the luxury of the "suite life"! So, to my indulgence, today was the day my coworker and myself - hob nobbed, networked and rooted for our favorite basketball player!

Friday - 2/20

All I got to say: Hallelujah, thank you Jesus!

Valentine's Day Follow Up

2009-02-15T18:49:00.000-05:00

Hopefully everyone had a wonderful Valentine's Day. Whether you spent it with friends, significant others or family, at work or at home. Its all about love - so as long as you felt loved I would deem it a great one!

You probably didn’t think I would have a valentine’s entry – but I do! With Valentine's day having fell a on Saturday this year, I totally missed out on seeing women receive flowers at the office this year. Husbands and boyfriends showing them how much they care with red roses in pretty vases. Last year, the receptionist stayed busy signing for deliveries pretty much all day. I wonder however, why can't we continue on the same tradition as we did in elementary school in the office. Our grocery store bought cartoon character valentine cards and pink and red decorated cupcakes our parents either baked or bought for our classes. We would then exchange our cards at a designated time and partake in the goodies that we all brought in. That was sooo fun!! Could this simply be my way to add more time fraternizing and less time working. Nooo - couldn't be.

Remember the kids who only made cards for the other kids that they liked? If you were mean or weird, sorry for ya - no "Tiny Toons" or "My Little Pony" valentine's card for you! Just think about those annoying people in your department that you would want to pass on writing up a card for. Over the years I've had great coworkers and bosses and some not so great ones - and now that I think about it, maybe this is a reason why we shouldn't translate this childhood activity to the office - you don't want your boss to remember the time you didn't give them a valentines card when its review and raise time! Nahhh - let's leave this for the kids!

Week in Review

2009-02-07T10:20:00.001-05:00

Monday - February 2, 2009

Here we go again – you know how Mondays are. Everyone has their game face on “Good Morning”, "How are you", "How was your weekend", etc. These questions come out of our mouths effortlessly. We are all hyping ourselves up, not to get through the week but the day. It appears that the weekends fly by, but workdays drag on. Maybe we should try hyping ourselves up on Sunday nights, I'm gonna try that and let you know how it works out next week.

Tuesday - February 3, 2009

Dude – its only Tuesday. There are actually people who wish it was Friday already. How about you humor yourself until at least Wednesday - jeez.

Wednesday - February 4, 2009

Today was my nephew's birthday. This had nothing to do with work, but I did feel bad that I wasn't in town to help him celebrate his 10th! Anyway, just like in my undergrad days, I always dreaded group work. I mean, I am a team player but there was always someone who never listened to or cooperated with the group, didn't pull their weight, or just was clueless altogether. Needless to say these feelings also exist in the corporate world. My day was filled with multiple debates, whining teammates and the start of another wrinkle in my forehead. Ok - now altogether "Is it Friday, yet??"

Thursday - February 5, 2009

Today was my co-worker's birthday! To be quite honest not much work got done today – starting the day celebrating my coworker’s birthday with breakfast bagels and donuts, random birthday questions - what are your plans, how old are you, did you get that sweater for your birthday?? A couple hours later taking them to lunch and 1 hour after returning from lunch was cake-time! What a great break within the week! Whose birthday is next??

Friday - February 6, 2009

Get me outta here. Got no plans, just don't want to be here 1 minute past 5 o'clock. Fridays are days when I start packing up my desk at ummm say 4pm. I am working at a spotless desk, no papers, no folders, as soon as 5 hit, I was gone.

As you can see the highlight of this week was a birthday - and I'm hoping for another next week!

The Next Chapter...

2009-01-30T23:38:00.001-05:00

In all candor - I probably should not be up to my sarcastic antics during this time of lay-offs and economic recessions - we all should be happy we even have jobs - whether we like them or not, right?!

As I personally witness massive reorganizations and job-restructuring as those viewing from the top like to call it - my feelings are bittersweet. From those who can finally leave their unfulfilling jobs with severance packages and buy-outs allowing them to reconnect with their childhood dreams and goals of opening up that bakery or custom auto shop or finally being able to release all that pent up literary frustration and becoming that romance novelist that you've always wanted to do, or simply just traveling the world or spending time with the grand kids - I cheer them on with excitement eagerly awaiting the roll out of their life's ACT 2 or even 3 or 4 - who knows.

Then there are those who lived to work, giving numerous years or maybe numerous months or hours, manual or mental labor, ideas and loyalty to a company all to find themselves without warning being asked to leave, with only a couple minutes to pack up their belongings and no time to inquire about COBRA benefits or unemployment.

I can remember being laid off from my first job out of graduate school - I was a victim of last one in - first one out. I was disappointed and caught off guard, but I can remember my mother telling me, as I was then a very green workforce novice, "this is what happens in the real world. You are experiencing this sooner than most in their working careers, you'll be fine." Fine - I thought, I just graduated grad school, I didn't defer my student loans, I don't have any income - Hel-lo!! I'm broke!

Just like a book is filled with many chapters - so are our experiences. So although hard to hear, embrace and try turning the page to the next chapter with optimism that these next pages will hold even bigger and brighter contents than the chapters before.

Welcome Back!

2009-01-30T23:10:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

It's been a long time! I must admit, I got lost in the infamous 'RAT RACE' during the latter part of 2008. But I have emerged in 2009 like a phoenix from ashes, a result of the flames it ignites itself. All done so that it might be reborn to live a new life yet again. In my case to face another year of corporate america, with new goals, new experiences and of course new blog entries.

Well, I start the new year with a new blogspot name ~ Power Suit. I can remember as a little girl watching my mother go to work in this "Power Suit", that had "power" shoulder pads and "power" lapels. The suit itself gave her power in my mind. The power to wake up at 5am each morning, commute 45 miles to the office and to work hard rising up the ladder in the information technology industry. I was in awe!

As suits evolved, from the 1980's boxy and basic black to sassy skirts and delictible colors I was drawn to this styling, opting to change my career aspirations from being a pediatrician, to psychologist, to finally a corporate phenom, only so I could don this transformational "power suit".

I acquired numerous so-called "power suits" over the years, as I interviewed for internships, sorority membership and of course jobs. But it wasn't until I thrusted myself into corporate america in my many versions of an updated "power suit" that I realized that - as long as your power item = confidence whether it is a "power blouse", a "power tie", "power pair of shoes" or even a "power smile" you will always make it to the next level.

So welcome to "Power Suit" ~ enjoy!

Delinquent Notice #2

2008-05-04T18:26:00.000-04:00

Last we talked, we discussed the topic of paying your dues in the workplace. Putting in hard work, busting your tail or even waiting your turn to get to the top. As mentioned, today's millenials find it odd to be following the same directions as those of the baby boomers, Gen X'ers and Y'ers - especially when 2 important things are present: Observation #1 was discussed in the first half. 1 -We are innate job hoppers. We aren't really trying to put in 25 to 30 years at a employer. To be honest, we aren't trying to be anywhere for 5 years - so technically our dues should be much cheaper!

It is time to move on to observation # 2- its hard to follow the same principals when we so often find managers and bosses who are in their high power positions not because of talent but simply because a) they know someone, b) paid the due of 'time' or c) not only do they know how to kiss butt but more importantly...whose butt to kiss - it does make a difference!

So I got to thinking... the older workforce is appalled at the younger workforce's idea of promotion, career growth and how to rise to the top, and want us to follow these dated rules and politics. But if we have non-talented leaders, how confident can one feel about paying dues, putting in time and sucking up?

I've worked in a place where not only was my direct boss incompetent, but her boss possessed the same lackluster qualities. This made me mad and I consistently wondered "how did you get this job?" every time I encountered either one of them. To make matters worse, there was nothing that could be done about that situation, as they were in their positions and had been for a couple years, which was weird, because I don't know how they were able to keep getting by???

So, what can we do to break the cycle, sorry to say, nothing. Just do what you have to do, learn everything you can, and you will because with a stupid boss, who usually winds up doing their work and coming up with fantastic ideas and suggestions -YOU. By the time you move on, and you will move on, you will be so on top of your industry game! (Question: So, should we be grateful to our bosses who know nothing, yet challenge us to complete their high level projects? - that's another entry...)

I am no longer naive to think that all executives and managers are super smart, savvy and strategic. Some people will get ahead by sucking up, knowing people or simply by default. But one tip: When you get there you better learn something and fast - you will be asked to prove your ability sooner or later! For the sake of the business and mostly your own reputation, because to this day, my former coworkers and I often indulge in uncontrollable laughter when we reminiscence about our stupid bosses!

Get out of work free!

2008-04-26T20:11:00.000-04:00

For those who have trouble committing to a 9 to 5, ideas of how to get out of work or cut the time you are actually there are always coming to mind. My friends and coworkers all agree that as much as we need our jobs to live, eat and survive there simply are days we just don’t want to go to work and would rather endure some pretty interesting situations than go to work!

Here are the Top 10 scenarios that my friends or myself have actually thought of and wished would happen to cause either our tardiness to work or to miss it altogether!

1. Hoping for a tornado or some natural disaster. Ok, maybe at least a warning!
2. Getting into a minor car accident - nothing serious people, just a little tap that would warrant stopping and getting out to talk to the other driver.
3. Fire in the bldg – of course no one gets hurt! Ok – maybe just someone burnt their pop tart in the toaster. Enough for the alarm to sound and an evacuation to occur.
4. Electricity out in your home, or in the company’s building - either one would work for me.
5. My cat gets sick on the carpet right as I was walking out the door – so, I have to clean it up which makes me a little tardy.
6. Pregnant coworker to go into labor right there at work – “breathe!”
7. Building is taken hostage by a disgruntled former employee with a fake weapon, of course – no one is trying to get hurt people!
8. Fire drill/tornado drill/earthquake drill, etc – any kind of drill - this will benefit everyone
9. Catch a cold from someone, grabbing babies who are sick all to get a quick virus, strong enough to keep you at home, weak enough for Airborne to kill in 2 days.
10. Simple sprang of the ankle not broke, sprang or fracture - something that would allow me to work an altered work schedule hobbling along on crutches for a couple of weeks!

Working to the top ~ Delinquent Notice #1

2008-04-05T12:52:00.000-04:00

"I should be getting a raise soon!" ~ "I better get a bonus this quarter." ~ "Where is my promotion, I've been here 9 months!"

I spoke to a 21-year-old recent college graduate a couple months back and she indicated to me that she thought upon graduation that she would have gotten an On-Air Radio Personality job because she had gotten her degree in Broadcast journalism. I looked puzzled, wondering why did she think that she would have started immediately upon graduation at the top when her experience clearly rested at the bottom!

In today’s society is anyone really working their way to the top? Does "Generation X" (mid 20's-40's) and the newly titled "Millennials" (newest workers) know how to pay their dues? Or "are we even still in an era of owing them in the first place"?

With reality TV phenomenons like “The Apprentice”, "American Idol" and "America’s Next Top Model" in addition to "who you know and networking circles", hard work and experience are appearing obsolete. There has been a shift from working 60 hours a week and devoting 20 or more years to an employer to graduating college, wanting to be the boss and reaping all the perks that come along with it your first week out of school.

There was a time when interning for free (starting at the very bottom) was the all time success story of working your way up. Remember the inspiring story of young Sean “Puffy” Combs starting as an intern at Uptown Records who is now a “Music Mogul" and "Fashion Icon".

According to the article "Generational Teach Back: What Older Workers and Younger Workers Can Learn from Each Other" on Monster.com younger workers are functioning in the work world with the following ideals:

New Technology: I totally agree with this one, lots of young people are excited by new and futuristic trends - no one has patience anymore, including me. We just want things done, now!

Diversity: Born and raised in San Francisco and going away to college did expose me to different ways of life, theories and work ethic.

Job-Hopping: I know sooo many job hoppers! Younger workers do not share the value of company loyalty with older workers, jumping ship whenever a better opportunity presents itself. Instead of putting in the time, they just look elsewhere.

Risk Taking: Just call us rebels - me normally with a cause, occasionally without one! Younger workers take bigger risks, whether its quitting your job to start your own business - (then you will be the boss), or travelling the world and seeing where you land but always being optimistic. Whoo -today people are a little more gutsier and savvy.

Balancing Work/Life Issues: I love to travel and do things in my spare time. But how much time do we really get to devote to our own agendas. Can you believe the article called young workers "not career driven". Perhaps not - but more so "success-drive".

Fulfilling Dreams: I'm all for fulfilling my dreams! Younger workers want to fulfill their own dreams, and not necessarily those of the company! Often times they are only using the company to further their own objectives.

I still believe there will always be dues to be paid, but they may get cheaper!

Next time, we will examine those who made it to the top, yet know nothing! Be careful what you wish for...

There's cake in the breakroom!

2008-01-06T02:46:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

Each year people make New Year's resolutions to get fit and eat healthier. While I'm not setting a resolution to work out more or stop eating red meat, I am going to make a conscience effort to stay away from "workplace birthday cake"!

One must learn that when you enter Corporate America your sweet tooth will be tempted almost everyday. Only the strongest will power will stop you from falling victim to the "newbie nine" (the number of pounds you will gain when you start your first corporate job), similar to the infamous "freshman fifteen" (number of pounds one might gain as a freshman in college).

It seems that there is always a birthday cake with lots of sugary frosting, to celebrate a colleague's birthday, double fudge brownies and macadamia nut chocolate chip cookies to bid one "Farewell or Bon Voyage" as they resign, a cupcake tower to congratulate a retirement, some creative apple fritter and/or caramel coconut bar made by that employee who just likes to bake and wants to show off their skills by bringing in their so-called "overflow" because they made too much, or lastly the decadent Harry and David chocolate truffles a vendor sent to say thanks for the business.

I have to admit - I've been caught up in this free for all munchfest: eating these goodies for breakfast and helping myself to another serving around 3:00pm to help me make it through the rest of the day.

So, instead of resolving that I join a gym that I will end up not going to and wasting my money or cutting out carbs (I love bread and potatoes too much) , I figure I should really resolve to not fall prey to the celebration peer pressures of the office and say "NO" to workplace birthday cake in 08!"

2007-11-13T19:33:00.000-05:00

"What does a "boss" really do? I mean really, my boss really doesn't do anything. He comes in late, goes to the hospital, hob-nobbing, and gives me all of his things to do...even his mail...so my new goal...should it be to become..........a boss?" A quote from my dear friend who is a Physician's Assistant. She has is a legitimate concern and she got me thinking. What does a boss really do?

Well...... from my experiences they:

Come in late (some) and turn around and leave early. They even lie about staying late, "working all hours of the night" yeah right. Failed attempts to trick you into believing it, as they make sure they are still there when you leave but in reality are seconds behind you out the door.
Ask you to do useless tasks unrelated to your career goals such as "preparing an overnight envelope for their personal use" or "going to the soda machine to get them a Pepsi".
Speak aggressively in a meeting about what actions they are going to take with a project only to impress the VP. You are even impressed at how your boss is going to develop and launch that wonderful idea and then when you least expect it, their exciting idea and the work involved gets dumped on you with a very limiting deadline to deliver; All the while never letting you forget that this is a deliverable of theirs. "Then you should make sure it gets delivered!" is what I want to say!
Bring in lunch for the department - we're not stupid, we know we are now on a "working lunch". We end up not getting a break at all, while they take 2 hour "business" lunches.
Lastly, ride your back to meet goals that affect their bonus. Going as far as to make you stop meaningful work that affects your performance review, to have you work on labeling a drawer (something they could do themselves) so that they can pass the office audit and get upwards of tens of thousands of bonus dollars, while we suffer for low pay and get nothing but another paid for lunch that we end up working through.

So to answer April's question - "Should her new goal be to become a boss"?

I say noooooo, don't sell your soul to the devil, don't turn to the dark side, save your character and good will. We shall overcome!

"Siesta, Siesta"

2007-11-03T11:30:00.000-04:00

My recent work week schedule includes, working late, staying up even later once I get home to complete my errands and chores, and rising early to start the cycle all over again. I began to think that all who experience the same pain of sleep deprivation and unsightly dark circles and bags beneath their eyes as I, should ban together and demand "Nap rooms" be built for employees to take mid day naps to catch their second wind thus being more productive and better decision makers.

Those in the medical field have the privilege to take naps when working their long, most of the time around the clock hours - understandable. It's only people's lives and health that they are responsible for - which is the reason they need sleep. Medical professionals need to make sure they are in their right minds when making life altering decisions. But what about those who work in a manufacturing environment, running gigantic machines, cutting materials, welding metals, and assembling parts - can you say "Worker's Comp". In my corporate career path, I had to make sure I wasn't hiring thieves to work in banks, allowing benefits to be offered to ineligible dependents or negotiating inconsistent pay rates and benefits that could drive the company into bankruptcy affecting the financial health of the company. No matter what job you have being sleepy ~ is being sleepy and being too sleepy is a risk to the company and those it serves.

The Blueprint:

I imagine rooms designed at job sites similar to smoking areas mixed with the private phone booths at the airport with choices of windows/no windows lite or darkened to your liking. If you are like me, you are concerned about the sanitary aspect of this "Nap Room" endeavor, but to participate in this benefit, employees would need to bring their own bedding, sheets and pillows. Disinfecting of the rooms will take place between use by a mechanism that sprays disinfectants from the ceilings and walls. A locker room will be available to store bedding to prevent the inconvenience of lugging items to and from work. There will be timers that serve as alarm clocks only allowing one to sleep 15 to 30 (maximum) minutes a day. Once time is up - a loud buzzer sounds and the room illuminates with bright lights indicating your siesta is over and its back to work. Thirty minutes a day is the maximum allowed. Each employee needs to have a card with a code in which their time spent in the "Nap Room" is documented. It can work similar to a debit card- where you only spend what is on the card. Employees must charge up their cards in order to use it. Restrictions include: charging will take place once a week and there is no rollover time allowed. You must use it or lose it. Lastly, this would require a "Nap Time Coordinator" position to be created and added to ensure no one abuses this benefit, and is present to trouble shoot any glitches, malfunctions and discrepancies.

Ahhh - I'm getting sleepy thinking about it. I think I am going to take a nap.

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Crazy in Work!

2007-10-27T11:08:00.000-04:00

I often joke that working makes me "crazy" or "insane", but a recent USA Today article reports on particular jobs that actually are a threat to one's mental health. I would have to say that I am not surprised as there are many professions and fields of work that requires its incumbents to engage in one's personal dilemmas and situations, take responsibility for the health and well being of others and make crucial and critical decisions that affect a company's bottom line.

During my senior year of undergrad, the last requirement of the psychology program was to intern at a Mental Health clinic for a period of 6 weeks. It was in my fourth week that I realized that a career filled of patients with bipolar disorder, hallucinogen-induced disorders and depression would in turn cause me to develop an anxiety disorder. That experience led me to choose a career in Corporate America which ironically still resulted in the development of anxiety!

The article states "People who tend to the elderly, change diapers and serve up food and drinks have the highest rates of depression among U.S. workers." I was surprised by the latter professions - food and drink servers, as their jobs rely on them being very social, friendly and customer focused, but I suppose it could be a ficade. Having a depressing job not only affects the employee but the company as the article points out that "Depression leads to $30 billion to $44 billion in lost productivity annually."

Check out the article!

http://www.usatoday.com/money/workplace/2007-10-13-depressing-jobs_N.htm

2007-10-12T17:53:00.001-04:00

Long time - No see.... No Talk.... No Write...., etc. I've been either voicing or hearing some rendition of that phrase since signing my name to the corporate dotted line - all while subjecting myself to the development of bags under my eyes, working through lunch or skipping it all together. This is what you get when you step into the real world and start on your many years towards seniority.

In the midst of our busy season at my job - as each industry has one ~ it's times like these I think back to my senior year in college when I was finished with my psychology major coursework and only taking electives, eagerly awaiting graduation, getting out of school and starting an adult life. My two best friends and I would sit up late at night ( as seniors we were smart enough to schedule late morning classes) in deep discussions about how "over" college we were, tired of stupid freshman and how much better life would be when we started our careers. We partied frequently, maintaining our academic scholarships all four years, shopped with our parent's money each weekend, and travelled during breaks - summer, Christmas, spring, Thanksgiving ~ there were so many.

Ironically all 3 of us - progressed on to achieve masters degrees in the 2 years following undergrad - while one is currently pursuing a doctorate degree, so much for entering the real world immediately. But, for 2 of us - 3 years after graduate school, 3 years of work experience under our belts when we finally get to talk once or twice a month (on the weekends of course) we like to reminisce about the best times of our lives - back in undergrad. We find it hilarious how naive we were. After 45 minutes to an hour of discussing what's new in our lives and all the details of our careers, the 2 of us who aren't in school find joy in ending our call with the PhD candidate saying- "stay in school, don't join the rat race!"

~ Week in Review ~

2007-09-22T11:18:00.000-04:00

Does anybody really want to work?

Week of September 17th

I've been out of graduate school and working for about 3 years now.... and this week I seriously questioned, "Does anybody really want to work"?

Once I arrive to work on Monday mornings I either encounter or over hear greetings and responses from coworkers and other building dwellers:

"Good morning" with 2 possible responses 1) "its Monday!" or 2) "As good as it gets for a Monday" in a rather disgruntled, even irritated tone. What a way to start the work week. I mean, Mondays are rough for me too, but I try to fake it till I make it ~ through the day that is. With the 2 day weekends not being enough time to fully recuperate from the previous 5 day work week, it is understandable to be agitated at being back at work again. But I say - FAKE IT, people, don't bring everyone else down. Some people are actually trying to hype themselves up.

We then move on to Tuesday mornings; I'm in the the break room making my usual morning cup of oatmeal and in comes a fellow building mate, I say, "Good Morning" - they say - "Is today only Tuesday?" Did you honestly think it was Friday already you lazy bum - how much work did you get done yesterday that has you thinking its the end of the week already?

Wednesday becomes "Hump Day" because we are now getting over the hump and on a downward spiral towards the end of the week. I've noticed at this point employees are trying to put some pep in their step and get positive and motivated to make it to the finish line, we call "Friday".

Thursday takes people to the point of desperation, begging for the weekend. I hear numerous times a day, "I can't wait until Friday" and "I wish it were tomorrow already, like if its said enough we will time travel at warp speed into Friday at exactly 4:59pm.

If one just so happens to make it to Friday, everyone is thanking God and Goodness because they have survived the week. I hear cheerful voices greeting and shouting "Happy Friday" as I walk throughout the building.

Let us try to be a little more positive people. Apparently we have to work otherwise we wouldn't be subjecting ourselves to this torture every week.

.....Better Luck next week!

"The Code"

2007-09-14T11:44:00.000-04:00

In most jobs there are dress codes--whether it is a uniform, business causal or formal business attire, it is understood that you are exchanging a paycheck with your freedom to dress as you please. Some company's employee handbooks will outline the do's and don'ts, while others just have a blanket statement of being dressed professional, clean, and neat. Whose idea of professional, clean and neat?

The interpretation for professional, clean and neat of course differs from person to person. The workplace already has its rules and regulations, on work ethics, internet use and the like, and now one's sense of style is being restricted! I guess this is what you have to put up with when you "stay in the loop" of Corporate America.

Look on the bright side Ladies and Gents. Check out the latest work foot wear for ladies and shirts and ties for the men--these trends are sure to keep you in line with your dress code and at the same time show off your sense of style........

Ladies, please don't kill your feet all week-- you can dance the night away in your stilettos on the weekends and be comfortable and cute during the week!

Wearing flats to the office could very well be the best possible fashion trend today; especially because designers have created very fashion forward and stylish flats that have cute decorative pieces in place of the infamous "penny" in the penny loafer. The color schemes and textures also provide that splash of pizazz, mojo or whatever you want to call it to set off your outfit.

On those days when I'm frustrated with my boss and wish I were at home watching "The People's Court" I simply look down at my cute and comfortable flats, and think of another outfit I could match them up with!

As for the guys, please don't get caught up in the "white shirts" club. You too can stick to the dress code and have your mojo too!

Patterned shirts and tie

If you absolutely have to wear a "white shirt" jazz it up with a cool tie!

If no tie is required -- live it up!

I had to learn that there are ways to express my personal style and follow the rules, you can too, unless that is --you'd rather quit your job because you aren't able to wear pajama pants and flip flops.

Image source: http://www.macys.com/ , http://www.stevemadden.com/ and http://www.bachrach.com/

Caution - Office Safety Risks

2007-08-18T13:42:00.001-04:00

I was thinking one day...When deciding on a career one may take into consideration the risks involved with performing a job. I always knew that I didn't want to have a job that involved manual labor, or any other type of work that would purposely put me in harms way. A corporate type, office job seemed like a safe environment, but beware of the dangers in the workplace. How can you hurt yourself sitting at your desk. Little did I know of the top 5 risks I face each day when I step foot into my office building.

5. Paper cuts - I currently have 5 paper cuts combined on both of my hands.

4. Slamming finger in file drawer - who is putting WD40 on these drawers, boy do they slam shut so fast.

3. Hanging file folders - Not only has these hanging file folders put holes in my clothes, and pulled threads out of my sweaters, I have actually had one of those prongs get caught in an existing papercut. Ouch!

2. Hand/Arm caught in vending machine trying to retrieve merchandise you bought that did not release properly. At 5 feet 5 inches and about 108 pounds (and gaining), it is quite impossible for me to rock the entire vending machine back and forth to get my Strawberry pop tart.

1. Bathroom doors - if you have ever been in a hurry - off to a meeting you forgot about, trying to hurry out to lunch or even that last bathroom break before you rush home - you may have been a victim of the being hit with a swinging bathroom door or better yet having a head on collision with a fellow colleague.

Be careful and extremely cautious at work, we are definitely not in the clear of injury.

~WEEK IN REVIEW~

2007-08-16T19:29:00.001-04:00

Week of August 20th

Monday- 10:00AM, You sat in a meeting for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes , and you are still trying to figure out what it was about.

Tuesday - 4:57PM - Your coworker pawns an employee call off on you, when she knows good and well that their question requires her expertise. She sees you packing up to go home!

Wednesday - 12:20PM, Lunch time rush - You stand in line for approximately 23 minutes at a local sandwich shop for a chicken salad sandwich. What a ding-dong, lunch is at 1:00PM from now on.

Thursday - 2:45PM, Your boss insist that you attend an out of office meeting at another location. You brave the mid-afternoon traffic, hassle with the toll bridge, and fear all the crazies who shouldn't have a license. Once you reach your destination 45 minutes later, you find that the meeting has been cancelled and no one thought to tell you!

Friday - 8:30AM, Trying to end your week on a positive note, you are at your desk typing an email when you hear a "pop". Your belt buckle completely snaps off the leather end as you are wearing pants that actually require a belt to keep them UP! You hurry off to the grocery store to find a cheap belt, needless to say its ugly!

...........Better luck next week

"Corporate Lingo"

2007-08-11T13:00:00.000-04:00

After about 2 months of working in "Corporate America" I learned of this secret language. A language that I would eventually grow to mock. My good friend Olivia and I, have had countless conversations regarding the meanings of these phrases and the need to use them. Do these terms really get our points across in a more effective way? Are we trying to create an elite club where you can distinguish its members through these sayings? Can one be considered unprofessional, or lacking in intelligence, innovation and business savvy if these terms and phrases are not present in their vocabulary?

Top 10 Overly Communicated Corporate Terms, Phrases and Lingo

1. "Think outside the box" - Thinking creatively and not of the norm (lingo within lingo). Would it not be accepted to say, "try thinking of something that hasn't been thought of before" or "be a little more creative". What is the box, the box of business measurements the box of normalcy? Wouldn't it be great for everyone to think within their own box, their minds, and then exchange boxes, and then collaborate the boxes to create this great big box of creativity.

2. "Touch Base" - To follow up. Such an easy term to define, yet used way too much. No really, way too much!

3. "....Oriented" - According to Webster.com, oriented means intellectually, emotionally, or functionally directed. My gripe is that just adding "oriented" before or after something does not make it a power saying hence hearing this word in numerous variations many times a day. i.e. deadline-oriented.

4. "Drill down" - Digging/researching deeper into a problem or issue's core. I'm sure that one could say, "I am going to research further and get back to you" or a manager could ask their employee to "gather more information to get to the bottom of it".

5. "Show Stopper" - A highly important item that if not addressed will cause detrimental effects. I already have a short attention span, so sayings like this just take me away from the meeting at hand. It makes me think that the meeting I am in is really about something fun and interesting and then I snap back to reality and find myself in a boring meeting discussing budgets or something.

6. "Push Back" - To disagree with an idea. In different workplace settings I have had bosses who welcome push back or simply despise it. This takes us to my theory that these terms, thought to be universal can carry different meanings in different places and you never really know what your coworker or boss is talking about. Oh, or is that just me? Perhaps I am "pushing back" on all these terms because I don't know their true meanings.

7. "Buy In" - Gaining support perhaps from upper management and/or executives.

8. "Take this Offline" - Discuss a topic or issue at a later time, outside of the current meeting.

9. "Benchmark" - Making comparison or evaluation of best practices (lingo within lingo) within industry to aide in making informed and strategic decisions. And that is fine, it is actually needed in all business aspects to remain competitive in the company's respective industry. But another that I have witnessed be used numerous times a day.

10. "Stay in the loop" - Yet another form of "Touch Base". Staying informed of a variety of things including, physical whereabouts throughout the work day, progress on assignments, projects and tasks, all not to leave your boss, coworkers without a clue of what is going on in relevance to them. (wink, wink) Yes, it is the name of the blog, but believe me, this phrase is the only one that I admit has made a home in my vocabulary!

Lessons Learned - "The Devil's Advocate"

2007-08-11T11:46:00.003-04:00

When it comes to giving advice, there are two types of people:

People who are afraid to make their own decision, so they ask for advice and actually take it.
People who ask for advice in hopes to validate the decision they already made.

Because its a 50-50 chance that you are going to do "what the hell you want to do" anyway, this column is my way of fulfilling my civic duty, like jury duty. My objective is to supply you information, possible options and alternatives to help you make an informed decision that works best for you.

DEAR Workerbee,

"I will be graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism next year and I really want to work as a writer for a magazine or newspaper. I don't have any experience in the field but I am willing to work hard and do whatever it takes. Since I have a year until graduation do you have any suggestions as to how I should prepare to job hunt once I graduate?"

~Girl who doesn't want to graduate without a job in my field.

Dear Girl who doesn't want to graduate......
I am glad that you are attempting to take a proactive approach to your career planning. First, I want to say that it is very common for recent graduates to take a job that is not in their field of study upon graduation. There is nothing wrong with doing so; gaining professional work experience allows you to gain exposure in different environments and become well rounded. With your lack of experience, I suggest, if you haven't done so already join a writing club, join the newspaper staff at your college or university and try to secure an internship. Gaining these types of experiences although unpaid will give you items to put on your resume as well as compile a writing portfolio of your writing to present at a job interview. Lastly, start researching potential employers that you may be interested in working for and going as far as reaching out to contacts at the company to inquire about paid internships and entry level positions. You know what they say....the early bird catches the worm!

Good Luck!
Got a question, let me know!