10 Ways to Be More Successful in 10 Minutes or Less

Endless emails. Countless voicemails. An inbox that’s piled 8” high. With all the daily demands of your job, who has time to focus on career development?

You do. If you can find just 10 extra minutes in your busy workday, you can accomplish one of the tasks below. Each of these simple ideas will put you one step closer to getting the recognition, raise or promotion you want.

1. Ask someone in another department to explain his job to you.

Find out how other positions relate to your own – and the organization as a whole. Develop a “big picture” perspective now, and you’ll more readily identify opportunities to make a positive impact in the future.

2.Propose a new idea.

Spend 10 minutes brainstorming: a solution to an existing problem; ways your company could generate additional revenue; ideas for saving money around the office. Present your best ideas to your boss. Positive, constructive suggestions for making your company more successful will always enhance your image.

3. Ask your boss out to lunch.

During your meal, find out more about what makes him tick (and ticked-off). Ask him what his priorities are and incorporate them into your own. Show him that you understand the issues he faces and you’re sure to make your mark.

4. Clean your desk.

Go through those stacks of paperwork and over-stuffed file drawers. Eliminate as much of the clutter and trash as you can. A clean desk will help you think more clearly, improve your efficiency, and show others that you take pride in your space – as well as your work.

5. Talk yourself up.

When it comes to your career development, “who knows you” is often as important as “who you know.” Here are a few quick ideas get onto key executives’ radar screens, without coming across as a braggart:

• Accept credit graciously when your hard work has paid off.
• Email your boss a brief weekly status report, outlining your major
accomplishments and upcoming projects.
• Present your group’s milestones at the next business planning meeting.

6.Organize your email.

Have an inbox with 500 outdated messages? Go through it and purge. Then, if you regularly send emails to the same groups of people, spend a few minutes creating key contact groups. This process will make sending emails to multiple recipients much more efficient and ensure nobody is left outof-the-loop.

7. Write a To Do list.

Prioritize your existing projects and job responsibilities. Next, enter them into a simple “To Do” program (e.g., Microsoft Outlook) that will provide pop-up reminders for your meetings, tasks, deadlines, etc. You’ll be able to take your mind off lesspressing items – and focus more productively on what you’re doing now.

8. Tie up loose ends.

Need to turn in expenses? Move last quarter’s files into storage? Make a few follow-up phone calls? Take 10 minutes and cross a few of these small items off your list. You’ll be amazed how much better you feel when you’ve tied up those loose ends – and your To Do list will have room for fresh challenges.

9. Start a portfolio.

Keep track of your professional accomplishments and contributions by assembling a simple portfolio that showcases your skills and experience. Start by highlighting your most recent projects, and then work backward as time permits (10 focused minutes a week will yield results quickly). When it comes time to make your case for a raise or promotion, your portfolio will prove an invaluable tool.

10.Write a thank you note.

Too often in business, we fail to take the time to show co-workers our appreciation. So if you’ve recently received a helping hand from a colleague – on a project, or with your professional development – send that person a hand-written thank you note. The respect, kindness and personal touch of a handwritten thank you will create a lasting positive impression of you in the recipient’s mind.

The Secret to Finding a Great Job During a Recession

Bob was recently laid off from his job of 10 years. Hitting the panic button, he called a friend who told him that he should check out a staffing company. Bob immediately blurted, “I don't want to be a temp! I have skills and experience!” This common misperception of staffing as filling warm bodies in chairs to answer phones or file all day is a thing of the past. Working with PrideStaff may be the best (and easiest) thing you can do to make it through a layoff or search for a job during tough economic times.

WHY SHOULD YOU WORK WITH PRIDESTAFF?

1. IT'S FREE!

2. GET ACCESS TO MORE JOBS.
Staffing and recruiting firms are often responsible for hiring for job opportunities that may not be advertised to the general public.

3. GET YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR.
When companies are not hiring full-time employees, they may still be hiring temporary and contract workers. If you get hired as a temporary employee, you'll get your foot in the door with a company that may decide to keep you on full-time.

4. GET EXPERT JOB SEARCH ADVICE.
When you work with a recruiter or staffing company, such as PrideStaff, you get practical advice on the best ways to find employment. Your staffing partner can help you put together your resume, brush up on interviewing skills, and even help you negotiate your salary once you've been offered a job. Best of all, your staffing representative can really help shorten your job search by proactively marketing your skills to the right employers.

5. MAKE YOURSELF MORE MARKETABLE.
Staffing gives you a great opportunity to enhance your skills. Through temporary work, you can gain on-the-job experience and improve your resume. Also, many staffing firms offer free training on popular computer software applications.

6. SHORTEN YOUR JOB SEARCH.
Right now, employers are getting flooded with resumes. A staffing company can help you get your resume to the top of the pile. And as an added bonus, your staffing representative can directly contact many hiring managers, so you'll get faster feedback.



With all the challenges of the current economy, you need every advantage you can get. Working with the right staffing partner will help you build your skills, present yourself in the best possible manner, and find a great job in less time. All staffing firms believe in one common goal--to help you and employers find a match in long-term employment. Consider PrideStaff as a partner through these challenging economic times.

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!

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

PREPARE NOW FOR AN UPSWING IN THE ECONOMY

If you looked into a crystal ball…what would you see?

Consumer spending—up. Government spending—up. Inventories—low. Factory orders are surging. Money is cheap. The stock and housing market is booming. And talent is available. Sound too good to be true? Well it happened in 2002 right after the big dip in the economy following the last recession. And if history repeats itself, an upswing may be just around the corner.


WHEN IT HAPPENS,
WILL YOU BE READY?
Throughout the past century, businesses have had a habit of becoming too lean during a downturn. So when the economy picks back up, they have trouble getting back on track.
Want to ensure you're ready for growth? Then keep following the lessons you've learned during the last several months:


SPEND WISELY.
During a recession, businesses scrutinize every expense. Why stop when profits increase? While you shouldn't be pennywise and pound foolish, you should continue to treat every expense as an investment. If the investment won't yield improvement in your efficiency, cost structure, or ability to service customers, don't make it! Some of the smartest places to put your money in the coming months include:

• Technology enhancements to improve productivity
• Infrastructure development to increase capacity or operational flexibility
• Product developments to better satisfy customer needs
• Process improvement to increase efficiency
• Training and employee development
• Sales and marketing

Set a goal to become the lowest cost producer of the goods and services that best satisfy your customers' needs. In manufacturing, they call this lean thinking—eliminating all waste from production processes. The goal is not to become the cheapest—it's to become the most efficient producer at the level of quality your customers want. At the same time, focusing on process helps to drive improved consistency, which is one of the most important drivers of quality.


AVOID DEBT.
Leverage can be essential for capital projects, but avoid having too much of a good thing. Did you know that five of the last seven recessions were "double dip" recessions—two periods of decline with a brief rebound in the middle. Protect yourself by borrowing no more than you can comfortably repay in three to five years assuming zero to moderate revenue growth.


MANAGE KEY INDICATORS.
Profit is no excuse for poor performance. Key indicators are those metrics that predict future performance in your industry. Unlike financial statements, which are backward looking, key indicators allow you to forecast future results. While every business is different, key indicators to watch may include:

• New Orders — the pace of orders can show the direction your business is heading
• Inquiries — the volume of inquiries is a measure of future results as well as the effectiveness of sales and marketing activities
• Conversion Rate — a measure of the market and the productivity of your sales efforts
• Days to Pay — an indication of your clients' financial health
• Quick Ratio (A/R divided by A/P) — watch for trends to see how well you're managing cash
• Service Request / Customer Complaint Volume — an indicator of product and service quality


BE AGGRESSIVE ABOUT SALES AND MARKETING.
Want to know the dumbest statement ever made by a CEO — and this is an actual quote: "We're so busy right now that we don't want any more new customers." This comment was made by a CEO in 1999, and guess what, he got his wish—he went out of business shortly thereafter.

Every day your business is headed in one of two directions: up or down. It's obvious, but it needs to be said—you always need new customers. While advertising traditionally increases during good times, sales efforts often get less aggressive as more time gets spent servicing existing clients. Avoid the temptation to turn sales people into service reps, and instead, increase quotas as the economy improves and invest the revenue into developing your capacity for service.


DEEPEN CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS.
It's funny—and sad—how many businesses had to be reminded to focus on building client relationships during the recession. Strong client relationships are a critical asset in any economy. Don't wait for business to get better to go out and look for new ways to help your customers. Get out there and find out:

• What you do well and where you can improve
• The challenges your clients face and how you can help
• The new products and services your customers are going to need
• New contacts you can work with inside existing accounts
• New applications for your products and services at each customer site
• What you can do to win a 100% share of each customer's business


STAY POSITIVE.
No question, it's tough to stay positive and optimistic during a slowdown. But it's essential. Negativity spreads and can eat away at the core of your culture. Regardless of whether business goes up, down or sideways, find occasions to celebrate. Reward people for their results. Recognize them for their efforts. And constantly give them a reason to smile and feel good about the future. Optimism is contagious—it breeds excitement, a willingness to work hard, and it gives customers more desire to work with you.