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Hi everyone!
In case you haven't noticed, I haven't written anything on this site in awhile. But, I have been writing somewhere else - I got a new Web site!
From now on, for all the latest career news and advice, please visit me at http://www.theworkbuzz.com.
There, you'll find a ton of new stuff. Feel free to leave your comments as usual!
Hope to see you there!
CeeBee
Happy Hump Day!
I think just about everywhere in the U.S. (except maybe the South) has gotten hit in the past week with some kind of winter storm. For us, first it was an ice storm on Saturday, and last night we got hit with another 6 inches of white fluff.
I love snow as much as the next person, but I especially like it under the following conditions:
Ok, ok, so those aren't the most likely conditions... I'll deal with it. The point is, whenever there's a winter storm, I always think about those who can't avoid the snow because they work with it. Their job is to keep the streets clean, the sidewalks shoveled and the highways salted.
Do you love the snow and want to help keep others safe during their winter travels?
Here are five jobs that let you do just that:
Snow shoveler: Shovels snow into truck or open sewer from streets and other public thoroughfares. Chops ice and packed snow, using pick or ice-chopper, to clear area around catch basins, fire hydrants and street corners. May spread salt or thawing chemicals onto roadway from rear of moving truck, using shovel. Average salary: $31, 972
Snow removing supervisor: Supervises removal of snow from thoroughfares and public places, such as airports, government buildingsand streets. Average salary: $39,469
Snow plow operator: Maintains highways, municipal and rural roads, and rights-of-way in safe condition, performing combination of following duties: erects and repairs guardrails, highway markers, and snow fences, using handtools and nails, and power tools. Average salary: $39,890
Snow making supervisor: Supervises those who tend artificial snow making equipment of ski resort to produce artificial snow along ski trails: rides chair lift or drives snow-terrain vehicle along ski trails to reach snow equipment. Average salary: $60,614
Snow blower: Operates a snow blower to clear sidewalks and paths. Average salary: $18, 712
Here's this week's latest working news. Have a great weekend!
Colleague, not cell phone, kills man
Graveyard shifts causing cancer?
Grocery store employee gets $15,000 for good customer service
This morning while I was doing some research for an upcoming article, I had a few questions about the information I was finding. I clicked on the "Contact Us" button on the site, and up came the PR contact for the company. I got his name, address, phone, fax and e-mail.
As I picked up the phone to call him, I rehearsed what I would say in my head...
"Hi, I'm a writer for CareerBuilder.com..." no, that doesn't sound right. "Hey, I'm looking for some more information on..." no, not that either.
I hung up. As I clicked on the contact's e-mail address and I quickly typed out my request, I thought about my actions. Why couldn't I just pick up the phone and call the guy? It's not like I was in 6th grade and calling my crush or anything.
And then it occurred to me - I sort of forgot how.
When it comes to the phone, the only people I really talk to are my friends and family - at work, e-mail is my choice of communication. In a time where technology rules, this isn't surprising, so I thought that if I'm having a problem, other's might be too.
Here's a quick lesson in telephone etiquette from Marjorie Brody, author of "Professional Impressions: Etiquette for Everyone, Every Day."
When the telephone rings...
Answer all calls within three rings, Brody advises. When you pick up, smile (she says it will come through in your voice) and identify yourself. For example, "Victoria Smith speaking" or "This is Victoria Smith."
Screening your calls
Everyone is busy - there's nothing wrong with having your assistant screen your calls, or screening them yourself - as long as everyone is getting screened, and not just certain people.
If you use voice mail to answer your calls, Brody suggests keeping your outgoing message up-to-date with the time you expect to return or be available.
Calling back
The sooner, the better, Brody says. Always return a phone call within 24 hours. Even if the call isn't about something you can help with, let the caller know so he or she can look elsewhere for help.
Scheduling a conversation
Scheduling a phone call is the same as scheduling a meeting, Brody says. You wouldn't ignore a meeting or appointment you made, so don't "stand up" someone who is waiting to speak with you.
Holding a conversation
Keep your full attention on the person you're talking to , no matter what else is going on around you, Brody says. Concentrate on listening - not on checking your e-mail, not doodling on a notepad - listening.
When you are the caller
Before calling, get organized. Know what you want to say and accomplish, Brody says. (This was my problem earlier!) Identify yourself immediately.
Oh, and never make any comments in your work area until after you've hung up, Brody says. Even then, make sure it's on the hook - you don't want the other person to hear anything you say if they're still on the line.
Speakerphones
Plain and simple, unless you're on a conference call, using speakerphone is rude - don't do it, Brody says.
Voice mail
You want your voice mails to be professional, Brody says. Keep the message brief; speak slowly and enunciate; and give your name and number at the beginning and end of the message.
From the past couple of weeks... Happy Thanksgiving!
Secretary fired for being too young
Goldmach has $20M to hire new employees
No, I'm not cheering for my favorite football team - I'm referring a trend that's moving beyond citizens, lawmakers and environmentalists and moving into small businesses and corporations around the country.
"Going green" - preserving the earth’s natural resources and improving our standard our living - is becoming increasing important to job seekers around the country. More and more workers are interested in scoring a job that has a positive impact on the environment and are more inclined to work for a company that’s environmentally friendly.
Companies are listening to this demand and are responding by developing eco-friendly policies - not only to attract talent, but also to increase productivity and decrease absenteeism.
Companies are implementing recycling and community effort programs. Some employers are going as far as reimbursing employees for purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles or finding other means of commuting. With these changes and more, finding an eco-friendly environment has never been easier.
Not studying science but still looking for a “green” career? No worries - Education, communication, business and most other lines of work all have jobs that let you go green. Science teachers and professors educate the public about environmental well-being. Public health officials look out for health and environmental safety. Eco-friendly interior designers and architects create buildings and spaces that save energy without losing style. Housekeepers and dry-cleaners are ditching harsh chemicals and processes in favor of more energy- and air-friendly means of cleaning. The list goes on.
Here are just a few careers to steer you in the green direction:
Here are my picks in working news from this week and last. Enjoy!
Mobile cubicle keeps workers moving
Employee stress takes its toll
Famous female wrestler passes away
Chrysler cuts thousands of jobs
Company pulls tainted toy off shelves
Substitute teacher's plans enrage parents
Parking agent writes 10,000 fake tickets
'Tis the season alright... for calling in sick. Along with the holidays, the cold and flu seasons are upon us. You know what that means - workers are sick.
Or are they?
Thirty-two percent of workers said they have called in sick when they were well at least once in the last year, according to CareerBuilder.com's annual survey on absenteeism. Most (75 percent) employers said they believed employee's excuses, but 35 percent have checked up on an employee who called in sick.
Of those 35 percent, 67 percent said the employee had to show a doctor's note, 59 percent called the employee at home, 16 percent had another worker call the employee and 14 percent went so far as to drive past the employee's home.
Have you ever called in sick to work when you were feeling fine and just didn't feel like going to work? Or you just wanted to relax, catch up on sleep or make plans with family and friends? Don't feel bad - plenty of us feel that way.
Next time you call in sick, don't try these excuses at home. But for a good laugh, check out the most unusual excuses employees gave for missing work, according to employers from the survey:
Halloween is here and thrill-seekers in offices around the
country are crafting creative costumes to wear to work, spooky cube
décor and ways to frighten their co-workers while they're chained to
their desk on their favorite day of the year. The
biggest "scare factor" of most people's jobs is merely the simple act
of coming to the office everyday. But some workers don't have to look
farther than their own occupation to get their Halloween fix.The
following jobs deal with matters from corpses to violence to death to
the supernatural. They're not for the faint of heart, but if you wish
Halloween was year-round, consider one of the following 10 spooky jobs
to keep you looking over your shoulder every day. Coroner
Why it's spooky: Coroners observe corpses and investigate the cause, time and manner of death, mostly when it happens under unusual circumstances.
Scary salary: $35,866*Ghost hunter
Why it's spooky: Ghost hunters use scientific tools to measure and collect evidence of paranormal activity in areas that are said to be haunted. Teams of these people are called paranormal investigation teams.
Scary salary: Salary information is not availableMystery writer
Why it's spooky: Mystery writers
need the creative mind to develop scary plots, suspenseful story lines
and twisted characters to comprise compelling novels for their readers.
Scary salary: $45,442Mortician
Why it's spooky: Morticians (also known as undertakers or funeral directors)
oversee all funeral arrangements for the deceased, including details of
body preparation for viewing and preparing the body itself.
Scary salary: $42,284Witch doctor
Why it's spooky:
Witch doctors are healers through magic and witchcraft. They believe
illnesses and injuries are caused by magic and witchcraft and so they
are best treated that way.
Scary salary: Salary information not available.Embalmer
Why it's spooky: Embalmers
prepare corpses for burial or cremation by washing, drying and
disinfecting the body; releasing excess air from the lungs; draining
blood from the circulatory system and replacing it with embalming fluid
and applying cosmetics to create a more lifelike appearance.
Scary salary: $34,791Crime scene cleanup
Why it's spooky: Crime scene cleaning crews sanitize and clean the aftermaths of crimes on all levels, from murders to domestic violence.
Scary salary: $35,000 average starting salary; can increase to $75,000 or $80,000 based on markets with higher violent death rates.Grave digger/Cemetery worker
Why it's spooky: Grave diggers work in cemeteries
digging graves before funerals, oftentimes working late into the night
or early morning hours. Cemetery workers assist in the upkeep of grave
and memorial sites.
Scary salary: $33,601 for grave
diggers. Cemetery workers' salaries are determined by whether the
individual is working for a distinguished cemetery and whether the
location is non-profit, according to the International Cemetery and
Funeral Association.Obituary writer
Why it's spooky: Obituary writers are responsible for writing summaries of the lives of the deceased for such publications as newspapers, magazines and Web sites.
Scary salary: $42,150Crematorium technician
Why it's spooky: These technicians incinerate corpses and collect the ashes to give to family and loved ones.
Scary salary: $35,000*Salary information from Salary Expert, International Cemetery and Funeral Association and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Since I was out sick last week, I wasn't able to post the latest working news, so I've included them in these week's picks.
Stress at work linked with heart attacks
Pepsi worker attacks Coke worker
Study shows swearing at work benefits employees
A few weeks ago, I commented on mental health in the workplace, specifically how companies can benefit by providing workers with mental health coverage.
On the same note, according to the most recent report by the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), combined data from 2004 to 2006 indicate that an average of 7 percent of full-time workers aged 18 to 64 experienced a major depressive episode (MD) in the past year. The highest rates of MDE were among full-time workers in the personal care and service occupations (10.8 percent) and the food preparation and serving related occupations (10.3 percent).
Here is a full list of the depression rates among full-time workers, according to the report.
Today is National Boss's Day, a day for employees to show their appreciation to their supervisors for their kindness and fairness throughout the year (that's the hope, anyway). Not feeling like your boss deserves anything for his antics? Suprisingly, your co-workers probably don't agree with you.
In a recent study by Robert Half International and CareerBuilder.com, most of workers surveyed said they are satisfied with their boss's performance. Six-out-of-ten respondents said their supervisors are trustworthy, while only 25 percent said they would do a better job if they were boss.
The day was initiated by Patricia Bays Haroski with the Chamber of Commerce in 1958. She chose October 16 because it was her current boss's (who happened to be her father) birthday, because she thought he was an exemplary boss.
Looking for a way to show your boss your appreciation? Try the following methods to say 'Thanks, boss!'
Sort of a slow week in the world of working news. Here's what I've got...
Unemployment rate increase, so does job creation
Etiquette seems to be the word of the day today - at least in the workplace.
So far, I've seen an article on MSN about cubical etiquette and then on the way to work, I came across an article in the Red Eye, an edition of the Chicago Tribune. It was titled, "Oh, Behave! Etiquette Training Helps Employees Mind Their Manners."
The article, written by Alison Shipley, discusses how companies are sending employees to etiquette workshops and seminars. The piece cites Advanced Equities, an investment bank in Chicago, which required its employees to attend an etiquette training session intended to increase business and create better relationships with clients. The course focused on how to speak professionally on the over, how to deal with difficult clients . Employees of the company said they were grateful for the training because the lessons learned can flow into their personal lives too.
Lori Ann Robinson, the corporate etiquette expert cited in the article, offered the following five etiquette rules when mingling at networking events or dining with executives:
This week's news is a mixture of this week and last - Happy Friday!
New Facebook feature challenges LinkedIn
Licensing rules might loosen for casino workers
Firms biased against pregnant workers?
Wal-Mart sued for worker abuse
Workers killed in chemical fire
Wal-Mart workers win $62 million
U.S. payrolls rose in September
I recently returned from a short vacation in a small, coastal town in Oregon. It was one of those places that is breathtakingly beautiful - but at the same time, it's so small that it makes you wonder, how do people make a living here?
As the days went on, I answered my own question. Roseanna's Cafe, Lex's Cool Stuff, Bernie's Grocery - everyone owned something in town. Then it hit me: this is the kind of town that will always have places for people to work.
So, I decided I would give those folks who want to get out of the city for a bit and explore something new, a few ideas.
Here are 10 jobs you could pursue in a small, coastal town:
An estimated 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and older suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million adults, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
That's a lot of people.
What most people don't realize is the burden of mental illness on health and productivity in the United States - and how it's affecting our workers.
Depression affects about six percent of employees every year, costing more than $30 billion annually in lost productivity. Many of these depressed workers are untreated or inadequately treated.
While cost-of-illness studies show that depression is among the most costly of all health problems to employers, a new study shows that investing in depressed employees can cut absenteeism while improving workers' health.
Despite many employers' view that mental health coverage is a financial black hole, the study, funded by NIMH and reported in today's Journal of the American Medical Association, shows spending money on depression is a smart business move, says researcher Philip Wang.
Workers involved in the year-long study were given treatment and even received telephone psychotherapy. Employees who got this intervention worked about two weeks more on average during the study than those who got the usual care - advice to see their doctor or seek a mental health specialist.
At the year's end, 93 percent of workers from the intervention group were still employed, compared to 88 percent of workers not in the group, which helped employers avoid hiring and training costs, researchers said.
Plus, the "intervention employees" were almost 40 percent more likely to recover from depression.
Have you ever sat at your desk and wished you were doing something - ANYTHING - else? Perhaps you wish you were off fighting a fire? Playing a live concert? Pitching for your favorite baseball team (that happens to be playing right now!)?
Workers and job seekers alike now have the opportunity to work cool jobs - with the potential to lead to real jobs - and earn pay in Second Life's virtual world - and CareerBuilder.com was the first of the major job boards to offer the opportunity.
In Second Life, a three-dimensional online community where people can live out digital experiences mirroring real life, companies have begun posting jobs and hosting career fairs as additional way to market their company as well as recruit new employees.
For example, CareerBuilder has 50 branded kiosks in locations across Second Life, where users can use the kiosks to search for real jobs on CareerBuilder.com. They can also search for virtual jobs they can instantly, without applying or interviewing.
In addition to job kiosks, CareerBuilder has 'Buzz Agents' who are dressed CareerBuilder clothing as an additional branding tool for CareerBuilder. Other companies hosting job fairs have hiring managers, dressed to the nines, that are looking for potential candidates. The job fairs even allow candidates to find recruiters and major companies and drop off their resume.
So, if you're looking for a new way to change up your job search, log into Second Life (basic membership is free) and start getting creative.
Cee Bee's picks for this week's working news. There are some strange ones!
Carpenter allowed to work nude
U.S. employers hiring at same pace
Burger King employee almost killed in drive-through dispute
In-home nurses get workers comp for car accidents
Firefighter impersonator jailed
U.S. payrolls fell 4,000 in August
McDonald's employee jailed for salty burger
Airline made second passenger cover up
From the editors of CareerBuilder.com and Second City Communications comes Cube Monkeys!
Coming to bookstores nationwide on September 18th is a new book by CareerBuilder.com and Second City Communications titled, "Cube Monkeys: a handbook for surviving the office jungle."
Filled with hilarious irreverent humor, Cube Monkeys is the "must have" resource for anyone who "must have" taken a wrong turn in their career. From nightmare bosses and co-workers to cube etiquette and meeting mishaps, Cube Monkeys helps workers tackle the challenges faces on the job every day... and brings some comic relief to the workplace.
See the Book in Action! CareerBuilder and Second City launched two videos on YouTube, highlighting lessons from the book:
Impress the Big
Dogs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJucTMlc-ks
Boss to English
Dictionary
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnQRqQP4a6o
Here are some excerpts from the book:
Quiz: Are you the Office Party Animal?
1. Your cubicle...
a. Is always neat and tidy.
b. Has a certain homey charm.
c. Has been moved to the strip club down the street.
2. You prepare for the annual office Christmas party...
a. A few days in advance.
b. A few weeks in advance.
c. In June.
3. How do you take your coffee?
a. With just a hint of cream.
b. With a few packets of sugar.
c. With gin.
4. Your fellow employees enjoy carpooling with
you because...
a. You always pay for gas.
b. You make friendly chitchat.
c. It invariably results in a spontaneous road trip to Tijuana.
5. You greet new clients...
a. With polite professionalism.
b. As a future friend and colleague.
c. By handing them a business card that reads:
"Sleeping through my job since 1995."
6. Your 401(k)...
a. Is your retirement fund.
b. Is being saved for your kids' education.
c. Has already been used for keg money.
7. Lunchtime is the right time for...
a. Getting extra work done.
b. Returning all of your unanswered e-mail.
c. Doing beer bongs in the bathroom.
8. Your weekend begins...
a. Saturday morning.
b. Friday at 5 P.M.
c. Sunday at midnight.
| The Boss Says: "Great job on the report!" Translation: "I'm taking credit for your work." |
| The Boss Says: "I have to attend an off- site meeting." Translation: "I'm having an affair." |
| The Boss Says: "Let me give you some broadstroke ideas and you can fill in the rest." Translation: "I still haven't learned how to create an Excel document." |
| The Boss Says: "Headquarters has assured me we will not be affected by the merger." Translation: "You are going to be fired." |
| The Boss Says: "I'm not sure if what you are suggesting is in alignment with our core competencies." Translation: "What exactly do we do again?" |
| The Boss Says: "This office is a family and my door is always open if you ever need to powwow with Papa Bear." Translation: "I am a tool." |
| The Boss Says: "I'll be out of the offi ce for a couple hours with senior management, but you can reach me on my mobile." Translation: "I'm playing golf." |
| The Boss Says: "I'll be off- site and unreachable for the rest of the afternoon." Translation: "I'm playing golf and I expect to be very, very drunk." |
| The Boss Says: "I think we should order in some lunch for the team." Translation: "None of you are getting a raise. Enjoy your pizza." |
| The Boss Says: "I don't want to have to micromanage this whole operation!" Translation: "I'm the boss because I made good business contacts at my Ivy League university; I don't know how to actually do things." |
| The Boss Says: "This came down from up top." Translation: "I have no real power." |
| The Boss Says: "I can't give you an answer at this moment. Let me survey the situation and see what we can leverage out of it." Translation: "Oh God, I wish I was still in sales!" |
American workers are the most productive in the world, according to a new study by the International Labor Organization.
According to the report, Americans also work longer hours and produce more per person over the year. Americans also get more done per hour than everyone but the Norwegians.
The average U.S. worker produces $63,885 of wealth per year, more than their counterparts in all other countries, the report says. Ireland comes in second at $55,986, followed by Luxembourg at $55,641, Belgium at $55,235 and France at $54,609.
"The difference in rankings can be explained by the fact that annual working hours per person employed are considerably higher in the United States than in the majority of European economies," the report said.
The U.S. employee clocked an average 1,804 hours of work in 2006, according to the report. Norwegian workers put in 1,407.1 hours and the French worked 1,564.4 hours, respectively.
Click here to read the full press release.
Some news to send you off into the holiday weekend...
How to handle an office romance
9/11 workers suffer from higher rates of asthma
Writer creates creepy serial killer character
Deputy nabbed twice for DUI - by her husband
Worker fired over threat claim
If you find yourself too busy on social networking sites like Facebook.com to look for a job, I've got good news: CareerBuilder.com will do the looking for you.
CareerBuilder.com has launched new two applications on the Facebook Platform for job and internship matching. Users who add the applications will receive continuously updated job and internship listings. Based on information like major in school, hometown and network, users will receive the most relevant jobs from CareerBuilder's database in their profile. You can apply to jobs directly or access a link to search for more job on the CareerBuilder.com Web site.
As with any information shared over the Internet, Richard Castellini, Vice President of Consumer Marketing at CareerBuilder.com, warns Facebook users to be mindful of what they include on their profiles.
Follow Castellini's tips to make your profile employer-friendly:
1. Promote yourself. Employers often look at profiles to get a better sense of the candidate’s talents and fit within the company culture. Use your profile to showcase your creativity and contributions. Highlight achievements and awards, post things you’ve written or designed, include community or volunteer activities or other pertinent information.
2. Have no regrets. Don't post anything on your profile or your friends’ profiles you wouldn't want a prospective employer to see. Derogatory comments, risqué photos, foul language and lewd jokes all will be viewed as a reflection of your character.
3. Be discreet. If your network offers the option, consider setting your profile to “private,” so that it is viewable only by friends of your choosing. And since you can't control what other people say on your site, you may want to use the “block comments” feature.
Remember, you must have a Facebook account to add the application!
Click here to read the full press release.
Click here to add the Find A Better Job application.
Click here to add the CBcampus.com Internship application.
After 4 years of working in the same city, it was time for a change. So, I packed up and moved - but not without looking for a job first. While I didn't find one that was willing to pay for my move to the new job, one-third of employers say they have paid to relocate an employee from another area to their company's location in the last two years, according to a new study from CareerBuilder.com and Apartments.com.
"Given the shortage of qualified workers, 14 percent of the employers wer surveyed say they're more willing to pay to relocate new employees from another area to their company's location this year compared to last year," says Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources for CareerBuilder.com.
Forty precent of employers say they're willing to spend $1,000; one-third says they'll spend more than $2,500 and one-in-ten are willing to pay more than $10,000.
If you're looking to relocate, Kevin Doyle, senior vice president and general manager of Apartments.com suggests the following tips:
Click here for the full release.
Hey guys!
Sorry I was MIA last week... brief system shut down.
Here are this week AND last week's working news picks...
Drunk flight attendant tells pilot, "You're dead."
Miners trapped; rescue workers die
At my first job in 'the real world,' one of my biggest complaints was the lack of recognition I received for my hard work. I didn't have this "entitlement attitude" that people speak of these days - I didn't feel my company owed me anything, in fact.
But, as I put countless hours of hard work into every project I did, always going the extra mile to make a client happy, it was extremely unmotivating to continue working diligently in an environment where not only did I not get a "nice job," or "thank you" for my contributions - I never even got a wink or a nod that indicated my employers knew I even worked there at all.
I was not alone in my quest for recognition - in fact, many employees feel the same way. What I've come to find out is that many employers WANT to give their employees recognition - they just don't put it at the top of their "to-do" list.
Cindy Ventrice, author of "Make Their Day! Employee Recognition that Works," offers the following advice for employees to take matters into their own hands and get the recognition they deserve.
"When you aren't getting the praise and acknowledgment that you deserve, it is probably time to take matters into your own hands," Ventrice says. "There are ways to let your boss know what you are doing without bragging or embarrassing yourself in front of your co-workers."
How do you know if you've gone too far?
"It is possible to step over the line and become known as an attention seeker. Watch people's reactions when you recognize. Do they look bored, frustrated or annoyed? You might be overdoing it a bit," Ventrice says.
On the other hand, you will know you're having the right effect if people want to work with you, acknowledge you and respond to your requests quicker, Ventrice adds.
Have you ever walked away from an interview feeling sick to your stomach because you messed it up? You didn't shake hands when you were introduced to the CEO. You forgot that the company you were interviewing with was number one in the industry - not number two! AND you misprounced the hiring manager's name. It couldn't have been worse.
First impressions are important and there's nothing worse than making a bad one. Have no fear - it's possible to recover.
"Not all interviewing mistakes or other first-meeting errors are fatal," says Annie Stevens, managing partner with ClearRock, a Boston-based outplacement and executive coaching firm. "With a combination of the right follow-up plan and quick action, some bad first impressions can be turned around effectively."
Here are some common interviewing and other job-related bad first impressions:
ClearRock suggests the following steps after you've committed a first impression faux pas:
Lots going on this week in news - check out my picks!
Happy Friday!
Monster downsizes by 800 workers
Employee steals $1.3 million, fired
WANTED: New assistant for Diddy
Boss kills workers who wanted raises
Reporter reprimanded for crude comment about Michael Vick
Unfortunately, meetings are not an expendable part of corporate America. They are, however – or at least they can seem like – a colossal waste of time. (Unless, of course, food is served.)
Mind-numbing as they may be, meetings are necessary. If conducted efficiently, they’re useful and can help you stand out in the workplace.
Though you might be making all the right meeting moves, there are always folks who struggle with the concept of “good meeting behavior.” There are always those who talk out of turn, snap their gum loudly or spin in their chairs while others are speaking.
Whether you’re the meeting leader or just a participant, prevent yourself from being “that guy” and never make these meeting mistakes:
1. Being Unprepared.
Participant: If you receive an agenda or support material beforehand, read it. Or, contact the leader of the meeting and ask for some background info. Figure out what you’ll be able to bring to the table in a discussion.
Leader: Make sure any technical aides are working – have a back-up plan if they aren’t. Confirm your meeting room; make sure it’s big enough for all attendees to fit comfortably and prepare the room beforehand so you aren’t wasting people’s time. Always provide an agenda or support material in advance.
2. Showing Up Late.
Participant: Whether you’re in a meeting with two people or 200, get there on time. Being late will damage your image and show your disrespect for others’ time. Don’t expect others to review what you missed if you are late.
Leader: Don’t call an “important” meeting and then make everyone wait for you to stroll in at your own convenience. Worse, don’t forget about the meeting altogether and leave your co-workers waiting for you.
3. Being a Meeting Hog.
Participant: Don’t talk just to talk – plan to speak when you have something useful to say. If you’re asked to say something, be conscious of how much floor time you’re taking to make a point. Be blunt, be brief and be done.
Leader: It’s your job to facilitate proper flow of conversation. If there’s someone hogging the floor, it’s up to you to keep track of the time and let others have a turn.
4. Sitting Silently.
Participant: Refusing to participate will earn you a label you don’t want: Either as someone who lacks creativity or who can’t get things done; or your colleagues might get the vibe that you think you’re too good to offer your input. Engage in conversations, even if it’s only to share one suggestion. Otherwise, don’t bother showing up.
Leader: Encourage participation. Don’t hand attendees a topic and let them run with it – lead the conversation and motivate others to get involved. If no one volunteers, take it upon yourself to ask people for their questions, comments and opinions.
5. Expressing Rude Body Language.
Participant: Sleeping, sighing, slouching in your chair, hair tossing/touching/smoothing, spinning in your chair, leaving the room, eating loudly and making rude gestures or facial expressions are all distracting, rude and disrespectful.
Leader: Manage those who are being rude. Don’t put anyone down, but don’t tolerate disrespectful behavior.
6. Conducting Sidebar Conversations.
Participant: Having a side conversation is possibly the rudest thing you can do in a meeting. Even if you’re discussing the topic at hand, save sidebar conversations for after the meeting.
Leader: If you notice attendees chitchatting, ask if there’s a question or concern – this turns the attention back to the meeting’s issues, and lets everyone know sidebar conversations aren’t tolerated.
7. Arguing or Putting Others Down.
Participant: Disagreements are fine – as long as they’re appropriate. Don’t make others (i.e., the boss or your co-worker) look bad. Don’t contradict them, expose their mistakes in a condescending way or ignore their points altogether. If you have something to debate, do it in private and don’t waste everyone’s time.
Leader: There’s no need to discredit others’ ideas or comments just because you are leading the meeting. Be professional when you disagree.
8. Leaving Your Cell Phone On.
Participant: Cell phones shouldn’t even enter the boardroom, but if they do, turn them to vibrate mode. Interrupting meeting progress with your calls is distasteful and disrespectful. If you’re expecting an obligatory phone call, either skip the meeting or let everyone in the room know in advance the call might happen and excuse yourself quietly when (and if) it does.
Leader: Same advice - leave cell phones out or turn them off.
9. Chewing Gum.
Participant: The smack, crackle and pop of your gum are annoying, not to mention rude and unprofessional. Get rid of it.
Leader: You want attendees to pay attention to you, not your gum-smacking.
10. Shutting Down After the Meeting.
Participant: Forgetting what you heard in the meeting is counter-productive. Hold onto support materials, and if you still have questions or concerns, contact the leader.
Leader: Tie up all loose ends in the meeting. Reach a consensus if necessary; otherwise, summarize effectively to answer any and all questions.
Note to self: Post these tips in meeting rooms.
Breakthrough in hospital/worker spat
Drew Carey takes of 'Price is Right'
Ex-ranger is re-captured in Canada
Construction workers laid off in Florida
Minor league coach killed by line drive (This story is so tragic; our thoughts go out to the family.)
Muslim workers at U.S. plant harassed over prayer
No charges for doctor in Katrina hospital deaths
And last but not least...sadly, one of the bigger news stories of the week...
With summer coming to a close and the holiday season not far around the corner, seasonal hiring is on the rise.
Heather Mayfield, vice president of Training and Operations for Snelling Staffing Services, tells us the who, what, where, when and why of seasonal hiring.
WHO is hiring temporary staff members?
"This is happening more and more at all levels of the organization: Human Resources, department heads as well as the assistants to department heads. While the order placer can be virtually anyone within an organization needing an additional hand, we are finding the industries are varied as well. It can be the traditional receptionist position to cover for vacation or maternity leave or it can be a programmer with very specific experience that is needed for just a few days or hours to automate a process saving the company thousands of dollars.
Manufacturing is one area that has a high usage of contingent staff. We have clients where our Snelling field employees represent 70-90 percent of the workforce in the manufactuing facility. The use of a contingent staff allows them to flex with the demand of the season or sales environment."
WHAT are employers looking for temporary staff employees?
"Reliability, flexibility and applicable experience to complete the work that they need to have done in a timely and cost-effective manner are the key things that most employers are seeking in a temporary staff member."
WHEN is a good time to hire temporary staff members?
"This usually falls into one of two categories. Either the client is looking for consistent performance that can free up or supplement their permanent staff, or they are looking to hire a skill set that doesn't exist within their current staff, and in many situations does not make sense to employ on a full-time basis.
As we continue in the employee driven market of today, we will find more and more companies relying on temporary staff because it is the only way for them to secure the skill sets that they need. For example, many nurses are choosing to work contract (or temporary), finding that they can negotiate a higher hourly pay rate and commit to specific hours that meet their work/life balance needs."
WHERE to look for temporary jobs?
"A professional staffing agency is the best place to find temporary positions."
WHY does it make sense to hire temporary staff?
"Often a company needs a specific skill set for a very limited time or needs additional people resources to cover an unexpected work load increase. By hiring a temporary employee, the company can secure the appropriate skill set to be used just for the duration of the need.
Employees like to utilize all the skills that they can offer in the workplace and be paid accordingly - temporary employment allows this for client companies and temporaries alike."
Here's what's been goin' on in this week's working news...
Cabbies at risk of nodding off
Lindsay Lohan turns herself in
If Christian or Sean (the two head plastic surgeons on FX's show, Nip/Tuck) were to say, "Tell me what you don't like about yourself," to one of today's baby boomers, they might simply respond, "the way I look."
More than half of workers polled in 2006 said having cosmetic surgery or cosmetic dental work would help advance their careers. Fifty-three percent said plastic surgery would help their career, thirty-one percent said it wouldn't and 14 percent were unsure of the impact.
So, are baby boomers actually having said cosmetic surgery to get them ahead? You bet they are.
Baby boomers had the majority (68 percent) of procedures in 2006, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
With younger job seekers determind to climb up the corporate ladder, baby boomers feel they have added pressure to keep up with today's fast-paced society. Baby boomers are also working longer and want their looks to reflect how young they feel, experts say.
The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that more than $344 million is being spent on anti-aging creams and lotions. With the uncertainty of the actual results of these products, boomers are opting for a solution they know will work - and have immediate results.
There's nothing wrong with a little nip tuck - if boomers can enhance their appearance, feel confident and get to work advancing their careers, more power to them!
For more resources on baby boomers in the workforce, check out these articles:
Cee Bee's picks in the latest working news...
Chicago Reporter Amy Jacobsen Gets Fired
Employee sues over perfume scent
Pizza deliveryman co-conspirator in collar-bomb case
NASCAR president faces tragedy
Katie Couric unsure of CBS move
Gas station owner flies 193 miles on balloons
Male nurse survives window blowout in air ambulance
According to a new survey by Harris Interactive and Diet Pepsi MAX, 55 percent of Americans yawn at least five times a day, with 28 percent admitting to yawning 10 or more times a day.
While yawning at work is common, the survey also revealed a few surprising facts about yawning etiquette, yawning in the workplace and just yawning in general.
Yawning etiquette
Political Drowiness
Note: These results are from the "Diet Pepsi MAX Yawn of Time" survey. These results do not reflect CeeBee's political views or opinons.
This week was a strange one in the workplace with the holiday on Wednesday, so I figured I'd honor that strangeness with some (definitely not all) strange (and some highly entertaining) picks in this week's news.
Goldman Sachs receives death threats
Longoria-Parker wedding this weekend, 7/7/07
777- Luckiest day of the year?
Gir-R-Done Beer, from Larry the Cable Guy
T.V. Anchor on leave during investigation of relationship with L.A. Mayor
And my personal favorite...
Wednesday is the Fourth of July... which, in corporate America, usually doesn't mean much more than a day or two off.
For some workers though, this national holiday doesn't even mean that. Even though they might be granted a day out of the office, majority of workers will still be working at home, according to CareerBuilder.com's annual vacation survey. Twenty percent of workers say they plan to stay in touch with the office during their vacation this year, the survey says. Nine percent of workers say their employers expect them to check voicemail or e-mail on vacation, but others may feel the pressure to do so anyway.
If you're taking a few days off this Independence Day for some quality R&R, follow these four tips from Rosemary Haefner, Vice President of Human Resources for CareerBuilder.com.
1. Leave a roadmap.
Before you leave, record important information, key contacts and any deadlines that will come up while you are gone. Leave co-workers with a guide that will help them address questions that arise and keep things moving forward, they will be less likely to contact you while you're out and you will be less likely to walk into a war zone when you return.
2. Stick to an itinerary.
It's best to leave work at the office, but if you must do work, set limits and boundaries for yourself and your co-workers. Don't let activities on vacation be interrupted by work. Set aside 30 minutes each day to think about work and stick to it. Don't have co-workers call you - tell them when you are going to check in, so you can control the time allotted.
3. Think big.
If you have a big project and a great vacation planned for the same week, expect one of the two to give. Schedule the dates before and after the big stuff to lighten your load and enjoy your time off.
4. What if you're the boss?
If you're working for yourself, anticipate your busy seasons by reviewing your previous sales and current situation. Save vacation time for slower periods and make sure to notify customers in advance.
Click here for the full article on working and vacationing.
Here are this week's picks in working news:
More than 700 workers laid off in 4 days
Horse-kicking jockey suspended, fined
Happy National Handshake Day!
You heard me right - it's National Handshake Day, according to Chase's Calendar of Events.
Take today to perfect your grip - workplace/career experts Pamela J. Holland and Marjorie Brody (also co-authors of Help! Was That a Career Limiting Move?) offer 10 nightmarish handshakes to avoid:
I've come across a few articles in the news lately about people taking a "leap of faith" when it comes to their job.
In some cases, people realize their current occupations just aren't doin' it for them anymore. Or sometimes, these folks have had an underlying passion for something unrelated to their current job, but for whatever reason - fear, lack of resources or whatever -they haven't acted on it.
Ditching corporate America to pursue personal passions - anything from animals to quilting to art - can be risky business. It usually requires deep pockets, lots of patience and plenty of determination.
That being said, it can be done.
For example, Jill Lurato changed the face of pet care in parts of New York and New Jersey. She spent 15 years working for a Fortune 50 company, dealing with stressful commutes, downsizings, mergers and other day-to-days in the corporate world. Finally, she developed a "plan B," which included pouring her passion for pets into a lucrative business endeavor by launching an at-home petsitting and dog-walking service. She now enjoys a fun and healthy lifestyle, while gaining financial security and professional independence.
Lurato is one of many examples of what can happen when you take a leap of faith with your career.
Follow these tips if you're feeling like taking the jump:
Good luck!
(well, in a few days...)
Dad's have always been expected to bring home the bacon, but in today's modern workplace, mom and dad are both doing their fair share. In fact, according to a new CareerBuilder.com survey, 37 percent of working dads would stay at home if their spouse or partner made enough money to support the family and 38 percent would take a pay-cut to spent more time with their kids.
Are you bitter because dad missed dance recitals, soccer games and graduation because of work? Twenty-four percent of working dads feel work has negatively impacted their relationship with their kids. In the past year, almost HALF (48 percent) of dads have missed a significant event in their child's life due to work. One-in-five have missed four events or more.
Some other significant findings about working dads from the survey:
Some dads say their companies haven't caught on to the new trend of flexible work environments. Thirty-six percent say their company doesn't offer flexible hours, telecommuting, job sharing and more.
Are you a working dad looking for a healthy balance between family time and work? Richard Castellini, Vice President of Consumer Marketing at CareerBuilder.com and father of three, offers these five tips:
It seemed to be a big week in celebrity working news... but that's not all!
I always wonder - who is the person that writes the blurb on the back of my new DVD? Whose voice am I listening to in the movie theater during previews? Whose job is it to map out the do's and don'ts of traveling abroad?
These things don't come about by themselves - it's someone's job to do them. If you think about it, there is a job for almost everything. Some jobs are awesome, others are awful, most are just enjoyable enough to get us through the day.
What about people who have those really "fun," "cool" jobs? You know, the people who love talking about their job because they know others will "ooo" and "ahhh" at the cool factor of their work?
What I've always wondered is, do they pay well?
Check out these fun jobs and how much you'll earn:
Travel Agent
Why it's cool: Travel from your desk by making flight and hotel accommodations, recommending tourist attractions and restaurants and providing travel advice to clients - all while reaping benefits like reduced rates for transportation and lodging.
What it pays: $27,640
Sports Agent
Why it's cool: Agents get to haggle with money for a living. Securing and negotiating employment and endorsement deals as well as handling public relations matters for clients are among the day-to-day for these folks.
What it pays: $64,100
Wedding Planner
Why it's cool: Helping brides plan the wedding logistics, from choosing colors to church decorations to party favors, allows you to hone your people-helping skills and have fun at the same time.
What it pays: $30,300
Sommelier
Why it's cool: How cool would it be to know, off the top of your head, that oysters and Chablis pair well, or to be able to go to a meeting where tasting wine was the entire agenda?
What it pays: $110,000 at upscale restaurants
Impersonator
Why it's cool: Masquerade as your favorite pop icon, political figure or even as the opposite sex in this creative profession.
What it pays: $23,500
Groomer
Why it's cool: Perfect for animal lovers, groomers are responsible for maintaining animals' (usually a dog or cat) appearance. They give baths, manicures and haircuts to our furry friends, saving us time and trouble.
What it pays: $60,000
(for the full story, read Fun Jobs : Do They Pay?)
We all know the term "living from paycheck to paycheck." Some of us (a whopping 45 percent of Americans) know it better than others. The burning question is, how do we get out of this endless paycheck cycle and move into financial bliss?
Easily, says Michael B. Rubin, author of "Beyond Paycheck to Paycheck." Rubin says most young adults want to improve their financial futures, despite the appearance of poor habits and a sense of indifference.
In his book, Rubin, also a CFP, CPA and founder of Total Candor, a financial planning education company, offers 10 easy strategies to increase your savings level without becoming cheap. Here's how:
