September 17, 2001
We are usually so busy racing to meetings that we often don’t stop to get to know the people who work around us.
If you don’t know what to say, just listen. Ask an open-ended question like, "What do you think about all of this?" You might be surprised to learn how special people are.
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October 8, 2001
Say unto others as you would want said unto you. . .
As you are about to rebuke your employee, think about how you would feel if your superior said those same words to you. Would harsh criticism motivate you to do your best? Or would words of encouragement followed by some specific suggestions be better?
Plan your words carefully - you have the power to make your employees miserable and unproductive, or you can use words that inspire them to perform at their best.
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October 28, 2001
We often feel like victims of circumstance. Our boss yells at us or our co-worker acts thoughtlessly. But we actually have more control over our circumstances than we think. If you sincerely compliment your boss's tie, he will be less apt to speak harshly to you. If you tell your co-worker how much you appreciate her kindness, she will be more likely to act thoughtfully. There are some circumstances we can't do anything about, but many times, kind words can make all the difference to our own happiness.
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November 11, 2001
The old saying goes, "You meet the same people on the way down as you stepped on climbing your way to the top." If it's difficult for you to reach out and help your co-workers simply for altruistic reasons, recognizing how much your success depends on their support may help motivate you to be kinder to them.
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Thanksgiving 2001
Stop and thank all your support staff for all their hard work. For example, the receptionist is probably the most underappreciated person in the office and perhaps one of the most important. Remember a debt of gratitude is one of the best assets you can have.
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December 11, 2001
Most of us are quick to compliment a co-worker’s new suit or haircut. A person feels even better, however, when we appreciate his or her inner qualities, since they are more integral to the person’s identity. Here are some ways to express appreciation for what often goes unnoticed:
- "I’m impressed with how you never waste company time with personal chit-chat. That shows a lot of integrity."
- "I noticed how hard you worked on that project. I genuinely admire your dedication."
- "You really responded with humility when the boss chewed you out just now. Humility is certainly an underrated virtue."
- "I wish I could be as cheerful as you are. Your smile lights up the whole office."
- "I heard you missed last night’s meeting because your kid had a school play. That’s what I call having your priorities straight."
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Tips of the Week: At Work