SELF IMPROVEMENT AND MOTIVATION

A surprising number of people just don’t get along at the office. Recent research by The Creative Group found that nearly one-third of executives surveyed have had someone try to make them look bad on the job. This type of behavior can range from pointing out someone’s mistake to copying a coworker’s manager on an email criticizing a project the person worked on. In fact, many companies should introduce a month like April as Workplace Conflict Awareness Month. Sometimes, workplace relationships can be complex and confusing. Personality types combined with competitiveness and the desire to protect “territory,” in the professional sense of the word, can combine and create strange behavior. But what do you do when you encounter a coworker who just seems to have it in for you? “It happens more often than you think,” says executive coach AJ - Malaysia. And the negative behavior may range from simply being adversarial to full-on sabotage. To counter such a difficult cow...

We all work with them, live near them or at the least know them – Toxic people. If you have been lucky enough to escape regular interactions with one of these people be grateful. Daily interaction with them can wreak havoc on your peace of mind and influence how you feel. Toxic people have a serious of bad habits that on some level have worked for them so they continue to engage in these habits at the expense of those around them. In our personal lives it is a bit easier to get away from them but when it comes to work, we often end up trapped for 8 or more hours in an office where there is no escape from bad behavior. Just as successful people spend a lot of time and energy doing things that cultivate success, toxic people spend the same (if not more) time and energy creating chaos. The crazy thing is that somehow there is a return on their investment in that they either get what they want or simply that they are allowed to continue with their antics. Organizations can be ...

Networking is an invaluable tool when you’re in the market for a new job – particularly for graduates who may not have professional contacts. If you’re not sure how to network, never fear. With a few easy steps, you can build a great network of useful connections. STEP 1: Be prepared Being able to explain who you are, what you do, and that you’re exploring new career opportunities easily in one sentence will help you sell yourself to potential contacts.  Tweet me! Make a beeline for someone who is standing on their own and introduce yourself. In all likelihood, they’re just as nervous as you are and will be grateful you’ve included them. Casual conversation while you’re standing in line can be a Godsend. The wait also presents a great small talk opportunity. A simple “wow, it looks like it’s going to be a big crowd tonight” or “the food looks amazing” are great openers (but don’t ask if the event is open bar…) Offer someone a genuine compliment. Telling someone yo...