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Happy Turkey Day!

My greeting to you

So you think you are thankful this Thanksgiving? My challenge to you and what I will do: write down everything you are thankful for. Your list should have at least 30 entries. Next time life isn’t going too well, or so you think, pull out the list and read it.  Heck, read it every morning. Focus on what is right vs. what is wrong. Do something that will move you forward in a positive manner.

Happy Thanksgiving-Marsha

I hate my job … but hate you more.

People stay in jobs they hate because of the unstable job environment. When this decision is made, it’s important to have tools at hand that will help with internal (your thinking) and external (the jerks at work) conflict resolution.  Poor employee relationships do not increase workplace productivity or help team conflict resolution.  So what can be done when the goof ball in the next cubicle is driving you nuts?

1. How can employees deal with a co-worker who is a slacker and doesn’t pull their weight at work?

If it affects their work outcome or output, they should approach their supervisor, manager, director or whomever they report. This is the type of conversation they should have. “I need your help and need some clarification.  Is this a good time for you?” If it is not a good time, schedule a time when it is.  If it is a good time, continue by saying, “I understand that my job responsibilities are _____________.  Is that correct?  Great. Here’s where I need your help.  Did you want to review the responsibilities with (name of the slacker) or was there someone else you wanted to do this?”  You are now putting the ball back in their court.  This approach may have to be done several times because the leader may be in denial and not hear the message the first or second time.

How does the employee response change if their supervisor is a slacker? Same approach – except you substitute, “With whom on the leadership team did you want me to verify responsibilities?”

i_hate_my_job_rant_job_sucks_crap2. What should employees do when a co-worker (or supervisor) yells at them?

Calmly say, “You maybe right.  Help me understand where you’re coming from.” Did deeper, and don’t take it personally.  It’s not about you.  It’s about the work!

3. How can employees handle unwanted flirting or sexual advances?

Again calmly approach saying, “I need to discuss a sensitive issue with you.  Is this a good time? OK good.  I’m not comfortable with some of the comments you’ve made to me and consider it inappropriate for the business environment.  I would appreciate conversation to be kept to work topics and for the personal refeWatch your hands!rences (or whatever) to stop.  Is that something that we can agree on as two professionals (colleagues, business partners or whatever.)”

This information is actually from a conversation I had with a media interview for The Reactor Factor: How to Handle Difficult Work Situations Without Going Nuclear. Would love to hear your comments and suggestions!!  Marsha

Stabilizing an Unstable Work Environment

Real world: Unemployment is 10.2%. With so many people looking for employment, you must ensure that your talents stand out. Whether you’ve been laid off, are unsure of your future with your current position or are looking for a promotion, here are seven secrets that will help you be the star.

Find a job

1. Communication development: No matter what happens, you have polished communication skills and are ready to respond assertively in any circumstance.

2. Conflict resolution skills: People are angry and unsettled. When tempers flare, you can move disagreements to amicable solutions.

3. Decision making skill: You are not mired in “analysis paralysis” and can gather information to make a decision that brings needed results to the situation.

4. Effective presentation skills: Your platform skills are polished and on a moments notice, without anxiety and fear, you can address any group concisely.

5. Employee retention strategies: Whether a leader or not, you understand self-leadership and support key people to sustain even difficult times.

6. Personal development expert: You understand the importance of life long learning and continue to polish your skills.

7. Workplace team building: Whether the team lead or not, you help every project move forward in a positive, efficient manner.

It’s your turn to choose what you can improve and polish. These are skills and habits and you can change them if you want!

Would love to hear your comments about this post!

ps: Click here to download the eBook The CEO of YOU: leading yourself to success – my treat! A huge thank you for all of you that purchased my latest release … and it is now on the Bookscan Bestseller List!

Also, please check www.ReactorFactorBook.com – you can download the worksheets from The Reactor Factor: how to handle difficult work situations without going nuclear.