Monday, November 24, 2008

Three Legged Stool Of Employee Development


Click to enlarge

7 WAYS TO MAKE A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION!


By Lee Hopkins

1. FOCUS ON THE OTHER
Being known as a 'natural' at interpersonal communication is not just a gift that a select few enjoy. We can all enjoy the reputation of being 'a great communicator'.

Simply focus the conversation on the other person. This takes the pressure off you—you don't have to be a witty bon-vivant to be a great communicator.

Avoid interrogating your new acquaintance, and if you are really nervous, do your best to control twitches and jittery movements. And (best hint coming...) ALWAYS slow your speaking rate down. Nervousness makes us talk
too fast.

2. THE EYES HAVE IT
Here's a great 'rule breaker': instead of sticking to the 'respect someone's privacy and personal space' rule, when you meet someone for the first time, give them a good look right in the eyes.

It's well known that when we look at someone we find attractive, our pupils dilate, a phenomenon that the other person instinctively picks up on. Well, that phenomenon can also be put to good use in our business dealings, too. Notice the other person's eye color, say 'great' to yourself, and you'll find yourself involuntarily smiling. The other person will pick up on your mood.

3. GET OVER YOUR 'BAD HAIR DAY'
While 'being yourself' is always a good thing for relational honesty, try and disguise your inherent pessimism and bad mood from new acquaintances.

Even though you know you are just 'having a bad day' or a bad half-hour, the other person will probably decide that you are a 'full-time whiner', an impression and reputation hard to shake.

A bad mood will spread contagiously, bringing down the other person too. Better to start off positively; you can always let them see your 'other' side on another day...

4. “MIRROR IN THE BATHROOM”
Adjust your posture, voice, and gestures to those of your new acquaintance. Establish rapport by mirroring their head nods and tilts. Speak at their pace and volume level. You'd be surprised by just how many different 'voices' a successful salesperson uses in a day—they spend a large amount of time mirroring the other person's gestures, voice, language, pace, intonation, and volume.

5. TREAD LIGHTLY...
He's talking about his new Holden Commodore; you're thinking of your new Impreza WRX. Or she's talking about her latest small win at the office and you're thinking about the new $1M account you just landed single-handed.

Which do you reckon will be more impressive: you gloating about your wins and toys, or you letting the other person have their 15 minutes of fame?

Good manners, as well as psychological research, dictate that to impress your guest you should always keep at the forefront of your mind the question, “How am I making the other person feel?”

Actively encourage others to talk about themselves, and respond genuinely—without bringing it back to yourself.

6. FOCUS ON THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS
Use flattery sparingly but powerfully by focusing on the other person's achievements, not their personal attributes. Even if they suspect you might be brown-nosing, they will still get a warm glow from a well-directed compliment. “You have a great eye for color; I really like how you have put the office decor together” is more flattering than, “Nice office.”

7. IT'S NEVER TOO LATE
Remember, there's very little that is unfixable in our interpersonal business relationships. There is usually always another chance to fix false first impressions.

Let's say you arrive at a meeting late, having just copped a parking ticket from the previous appointment. Your mood is not, as they might say, triumphant and glowing. Instead of responding appropriately to a new acquaintance's polite greeting, you mumble a grumpy 'yeah' and drop your laptop bag unceremonially into a nearby chair.

Okay, not a good start. But step outside the room for a moment, take a deep breath, count to seven (ten is too long a pause), re-enter the room, and look your acquaintance in the eye. Apologize and explain why you are out of sorts. You might even want to turn it into a joke by saying something like, “I see you just met my evil twin.”

And remember to cut others some slack if they make a bad first impression on you, too!

About the Author:

Management psychologist and skilled communicator, Lee helps both businesses and individuals communicate better for better business results. Recognized as one of Australia's leading business communicators, he is hailed worldwide as a leading thinker in online business communication strategy. He is at the leading edge of Social Media/Web2.0 developments. For more information please visit http://www.Hopkins-Business-Communication-Training.com.

MAKE YOURSELF INDISPENSABLE



There's too much bad news in the business section these days. Stocks are down. Companies are cutting back. People are being let go. Don't take chances with your career—take action to make yourself indispensable!
Companies never want to lose their most valuable employees, and often, managers will go to great lengths to protect their top performers. What follows are a few inside tips from senior managers about what makes an indispensable employee.

1. RESULTS COUNT MOST
More than anything else, managers want employees who get the job done—people who finish projects on time, on budget, and exceed expectations. The following are characteristics of top performers:
• They consistently deliver measurable results.
• They don't waste other people's time.
• They understand the company's goals.
• They know their role and the importance of doing their job well.
• They know how to prioritize and stay focused.
• They put the customer first.
• They do whatever it takes to get the job done.


2. ATTITUDE IS ALMOST EVERYTHING
While results count most, having the right attitude is extremely important. What's the right attitude? Here are traits managers look for:
• People who focus on results.
• Problem solvers who seek solutions.
• Champions who take initiative.
• People who accept responsibility and don't blame others or circumstances.
• Positive people who don't complain.
• People who aren't afraid to take risks.
• Those who do whatever it takes to get the job done (we did repeat this one!).

3. TEAM PLAYERS
Indispensable employees almost always fall into one of two categories: leaders and team players. Leaders are invaluable when it comes to providing direction and motivation. But great team players are equally valuable when it comes to getting things done. Here's what makes someone an ideal team member:
• Willingness to be honest – they don't withhold information.
• Assertiveness – they challenge others without being confrontational.
• Contributors – they share ideas and opinions.
• Exceptional communicators – they can write, speak, and listen skillfully.
• Multi-talented – they have a variety of useful skills and expertise.
• Flexibility – they are open to new ideas and willing to make changes.
• Willing to lend a hand – they pick up the ball when a team member needs help.
• Creativity – they actively look for new ways to get things done.

4. CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
Every business wants to improve its results consistently, and they also want employees who continually improve themselves. It's a fast-paced world—skills and knowledge become outdated all too quickly. Indispensable employees are always looking to learn new skills and expand their expertise. Want to improve yourself? Here's what you can do:
• Update your technical skills.
• Take on new projects that will challenge you.
• Seek additional responsibility by taking on projects you can manage.
• Look for opportunities to get cross-trained.
• Join professional organizations.
• Read trade journals to stay up to date on your industry.
• Study your competitors' websites to see what they're doing.
• Improve soft skills, including management, leadership, and communication.

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST
Darwin had it right. Those who are the most fit are those who survive. In today's corporate world, nothing can eliminate your risk of being caught in a downsizing effort. But by taking the steps to make yourself indispensable, you can greatly increase your job security—and make yourself even more marketable!

Friday, November 14, 2008

MAKING THE A-LIST



Looking for a great way to earn that raise or promotion? Get on your manager's A-List.

It's a simple fact: if you consistently show your manager that you're doing a great job, you'll progress further, faster. Start by finding ways to get noticed and separate yourself from the pack. To help, try using these techniques to create a lasting positive impression:

1. COMMUNICATE CLEARLY.
When in doubt, especially if you or your manager is new to the job, err on the side of clarity. Ask questions when things are unclear, as opposed to making dangerous assumptions (what's “soon” to you may not be “soon” to your manager).

Provide your manager with regular updates about your projects and plans. Be careful, though, not to go overboard – ask him directly if you're providing enough information or too much.

2. LIVE UP TO YOUR COMMITMENTS.
The phrase “under promise, over deliver” may be an oldie, but it's still a goodie. Don't shy away from new challenges; just make reasonably sure you can hit an objective before taking on the additional responsibility. By consistently delivering high quality work in a timely manner, you will undoubtedly gain your manager's attention.

3. UNDERSTAND WHAT MAKES YOUR MANAGER TICK.
If you don't already know them, learn your manager's pet peeves – and avoid them.

Find out what his priorities are – and incorporate them into your own (e.g., if your manager is a numbers guy, quantify all your results). Anticipate his needs by providing what you know he'll want before he asks (e.g., if you know your manager will ask for three quotes before approving a purchase order, get all three before approaching him). Show him that you understand the issues he faces and you're sure to make your mark.

4. PROVIDE SOLUTIONS ¬– NOT JUST PROBLEMS.
Hey, stuff happens. Everyone makes mistakes. But if something does go wrong, view it as an opportunity to set yourself apart from chronic excuse-makers. Own up to the problem or mistake and come to the table with potential solutions. Your manager will appreciate your ability to think for yourself and manage a difficult situation.

5. MIRROR YOUR MANAGER.
Observe how your manager communicates with you and mirror his preferred method: if your manager likes email, use it; if he prefers voicemail, phone in your updates.

When possible, keep office hours similar to his: if he's a morning person, start coming in a little earlier; when he's working late to meet a deadline, offer to stay and help.

Last but not least, emulate the way he dresses (i.e., level of professionalism). If you want to impress the manager, start dressing like one yourself.

6. BE POSITIVE.
When you celebrate a departmental success, send a congratulatory email and copy your manager. The gesture will draw
attention to your project's success as well as your leadership skills.

During more stressful times, strive to maintain a positive attitude. For every two complaints or suggested improvements you make to your manager, point out eight positive things. Your consistent optimism and enthusiasm will not go unnoticed.

7. TACKLE NEW PROJECTS.
Examine your department to identify weaknesses, process gaps or other potential problems. Approach your manager with ideas for overcoming these challenges and take responsibility for seeing the project through.

Alternately, if your manager comes to you with an idea for improvement, respond to it constructively. Instead of throwing up roadblocks, keep an open mind and brainstorm ways to tackle the project together.

8. TAKE A CALCULATED RISK.
A manager will notice a talented employee who demonstrates his desire for excellence by occasionally sticking his neck out. So when the time is right, make a bold move. Volunteer for a difficult assignment or challenge the “status quo” to improve work processes. Your courage and enthusiasm will increase your visibility and earn the respect of your manager and co-workers alike.

Sources used to write this article:

Heller, M. How to Impress
Your Boss.
http://www.howtodothings.com/careers/how-to-impress-your-boss

Six Ways to Impress Your Boss.
http://www.black-collegian.com/
career/impress1299.shtml

Steen, Margaret. 10 Habits that Bosses Love.
http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/jobseeker/tools/ept/printallept.html?post=480&eptTemplete=careerarticles