Do you understand the words that are coming out of my mouth?!

We do it all the time – Communicate.  But… it doesn’t mean we are good at it…

In talking to a co-worker today, I realized once again the importance of awareness in communication.  Sure you might have delivered the message in a way that made sense, in a logical pattern of thought, and in the right setting – but is your job in the communication done?

In my opinion – NO!  Delivering the message is only half the battle.  Making sure the other party actually got it is crucial.  Don’t be afraid to ask… but be careful it does not come across as you being condescending… (see title)

Oh that’s right… then there is that whole thing about listening - I heard that is important too

Posted April 29th, 2008 by Harry Glazer - Posted in Customer Service, Human Resources, Other | | 0 Comments

Bring the Best Out in Employees by Showing You Care

An article I ran into at BusinessWeek.com talks about when employees know they are being cared about, they will in turn step up their efforts around the office. Also, it says to be careful not to neglect a valued employee because they can probably go elsewhere and make the same amount of money, if not more, doing something similar or more compelling.

With that said, you must be thinking, “what can I do to make sure my employees aren’t going to leave me? You are in luck. Another section of the article gave a list of suggestions for managing the type of valued employees that fit the about criteria? Rank-order each of your direct reports in terms of his contribution to your customers and your company.

• Ask yourself, "How many of these people could leave our company and get another job—with a pay raise—in three months?"

• Make sure you express your sincere appreciation for the contribution these great people are making to your company.

• Make peace with the fact that you need them more than they need you.

• Ask each of them, "What can your manager do to create an environment where this is a great place for you to work?"

• Don't focus on what you cannot change. Focus on what you can change. Let's say you can't give them a raise. Accentuate the things you can give them: recognition, educational opportunities, the chance to work with a wider range of people, both within the company and outside of it.

• Listen to their ideas, and do whatever you can to keep them coming to work with you.

• Treat them as a great human services leader would treat valued volunteers.

Posted April 18th, 2008 by admin - Posted in Human Resources, Performance Reviews, Productivity, Recruiting | | 1 Comments

10 Unusual Excuses for Being Late to Work

Everyone has their reasons for being late at one point or another.  Some of the stories can seem quite far fetched if you ask me.  Here is a list of the top 10 unusual excuses for being late to work from the Business Journal.

According to the survey, hiring managers gave the following top 10 unusual excuses they've heard for being late to work:

1. While rowing across the river to work, I got lost in the fog.
2. Someone stole all my daffodils.
3. I had to go audition for "American Idol."
4. My ex-husband stole my car so I couldn't drive to work.
5. My route to work was shut down by a Presidential motorcade.
6. I wasn't thinking and accidentally went to my old job.
7. I was indicted for securities fraud this morning.
8. The line was too long at Starbucks.
9. I was trying to get my gun back from the police.
10. I didn't have money for gas because all of the pawnshops were closed.

Do you have any other stories that can top this list?

Posted April 11th, 2008 by admin - Posted in Human Resources, Productivity | | 1 Comments

The Rules of Criticizing Others

The ability to give and receive criticism is an art that few have mastered.  If you can, you will have a leg up on managing your employees. 

A line from BusinessWeek.com points out some ground rules to go over before you criticize someone.

When you want to criticize someone:

1. Begin by finding something you like or appreciate about the person you’re about to criticize. This is not only fair, but will also make the person more likely to be receptive to what you have to say.

2. Focus on what that person has said or done, not on him or her personally. Only the former is relevant and likely to be acknowledged.

3. Conclude by affirming your faith that the other person will consider what you have to say. This is both a respectful way to wrap up the criticism and the best way to ensure that your remarks will be given their due.  

Living by these rules, before you attack someone, will make you a more respected manager/co-worker with everyone involved in the situation.  Also, it will allow more communication to pass through one another.  Next time you have a beef to pick with someone…remember the rules.

Posted April 4th, 2008 by admin - Posted in Customer Service, Human Resources, Performance Reviews, Productivity | | 0 Comments