The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes
Why develop a positive attitude?
There is an awakening in the corporate world of the importance of a positive mental attitude. Customers are lost, friction and conflicts occur, stress increases, employees report sick, performance at work gets affected, productivity goes down – all due to a negative mental attitude.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
DRESSING FOR THE INTERVIEW
Wear clothing that indicates you are ready to go to work today.
Men and Women
All clothes should be neatly pressed.
Conservative two-piece business suite (solid dark blue or gray is best)
Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)
Clean, polished, conservative shoes
Clean and well-groomed hairstyle
Clean, trimmed fingernails
Minimal cologne or perfume
Empty pockets – no noisy coins
No gum, candy or cigarettes
Men
Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern
Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best); clean and polished
Dark socks (black is best)
Short hair always fairs best in interviews
No beards – mustaches are acceptable (keep neat and trimmed)
No earrings
No heavy cologne
Women
Always wear a suit with a jacket; or a sheath dress with a jacket
Do not wear extremely high-heeled or platform shoes
Do not wear open-toe shoes or mules (they are more casual)
Conservative hosiery at or near skin color (and no runs!)
If you wear nail polish (not required), use clear or a conservative color
One set of earrings only
Conservative makeup
No heavy perfume
No heavy cologne
Men and Women
All clothes should be neatly pressed.
Conservative two-piece business suite (solid dark blue or gray is best)
Conservative long-sleeved shirt/blouse (white is best, pastel is next best)
Clean, polished, conservative shoes
Clean and well-groomed hairstyle
Clean, trimmed fingernails
Minimal cologne or perfume
Empty pockets – no noisy coins
No gum, candy or cigarettes
Men
Necktie should be silk with a conservative pattern
Dark shoes (black lace-ups are best); clean and polished
Dark socks (black is best)
Short hair always fairs best in interviews
No beards – mustaches are acceptable (keep neat and trimmed)
No earrings
No heavy cologne
Women
Always wear a suit with a jacket; or a sheath dress with a jacket
Do not wear extremely high-heeled or platform shoes
Do not wear open-toe shoes or mules (they are more casual)
Conservative hosiery at or near skin color (and no runs!)
If you wear nail polish (not required), use clear or a conservative color
One set of earrings only
Conservative makeup
No heavy perfume
No heavy cologne
INTERVIEWING
The job interview is your chance to impress the interviewer with your skills and confidence. These few simple steps can help you prepare.
Before the Interview
Review the job duties included in the Vacancy Notice.
Research the department.
Dress professionally. Don’t wear perfume or cologne.
Bring extra copies of your resume.
Bring a pen and paper to write down any information you might need to remember.
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer.
Prepare answers to any questions you think you might be asked (see sample questions below).
At the Interview
Arrive on time. Try to be a few minutes early if possible.
Try to relax. Be yourself.
Show self-confidence – make eye contact; answer questions in a clear voice.
Remember to listen.
Think before answering questions. Try to make your answers as clear as possible.
Avoid negative body language – crossing your arms, swinging your foot or leg, slouching, covering your mouth while speaking.
When given a chance, ask any questions that you have prepared in advance. You can also follow up on anything that the interviewer tells you during the interview.
After the Interview
End the interview with a handshake and thank the interviewer for his or her time.
Find out when the department plans to make a hiring decision.
Follow up with a short “thank you for the interview” note.
Common Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself.
Tell me what interested you in this job.
Why did you leave your last job?
What are some of your strengths?
What are some of your weaknesses?
Describe your workstyle. Do you prefer to work by yourself or with others?
What are your career plans? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
What supervisory experience have you had?
Tell me about your favorite supervisor.
Why should I hire you?
Questions for an Applicant to ask in the Interview
What level of responsibility can I expect in this position?
Why is this job available?
What training programs do you have for new employees?
Is there a typical career path for a person in this position?
How are employees evaluated?
Do you like working here?
Tell me about a typical day in this department.
Before the Interview
Review the job duties included in the Vacancy Notice.
Research the department.
Dress professionally. Don’t wear perfume or cologne.
Bring extra copies of your resume.
Bring a pen and paper to write down any information you might need to remember.
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer.
Prepare answers to any questions you think you might be asked (see sample questions below).
At the Interview
Arrive on time. Try to be a few minutes early if possible.
Try to relax. Be yourself.
Show self-confidence – make eye contact; answer questions in a clear voice.
Remember to listen.
Think before answering questions. Try to make your answers as clear as possible.
Avoid negative body language – crossing your arms, swinging your foot or leg, slouching, covering your mouth while speaking.
When given a chance, ask any questions that you have prepared in advance. You can also follow up on anything that the interviewer tells you during the interview.
After the Interview
End the interview with a handshake and thank the interviewer for his or her time.
Find out when the department plans to make a hiring decision.
Follow up with a short “thank you for the interview” note.
Common Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself.
Tell me what interested you in this job.
Why did you leave your last job?
What are some of your strengths?
What are some of your weaknesses?
Describe your workstyle. Do you prefer to work by yourself or with others?
What are your career plans? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
What supervisory experience have you had?
Tell me about your favorite supervisor.
Why should I hire you?
Questions for an Applicant to ask in the Interview
What level of responsibility can I expect in this position?
Why is this job available?
What training programs do you have for new employees?
Is there a typical career path for a person in this position?
How are employees evaluated?
Do you like working here?
Tell me about a typical day in this department.
Resume, Cover Letter & Interviewing Tips
Why should I use a resume along with my application?
A resume can help Human Resource Services staff and the hiring supervisor understand what skills, experience, and education you have that are relevant to a job. A well-done resume makes your application look more professional. You can use a resume to help demonstrate your communication skills.
What should I include in my resume?
Use your resume to help target your job search. Include relevant job history, education, volunteer experience, and memberships/associations. Use your resume to highlight important work experience and skills. Do not include information regarding marital status, parental status, religious affiliation, photos, age, or weight.
Resume Language
Use action verbs such as “developed,” “managed,” “coordinated,” and “maintained.”
Don’t use “I” to start every sentence.
Do use your own words to explain your experience
Proofread carefully!
Resume Information
Keep your name, phone number and address current.
Include dates of employment in a month/year format (example: 05/02 – 08/02).
Include references. Use a separate sheet if necessary.
Resume Appearance
Use 1” margins on all sides.
Use a standard font that is easy to read.
Use bold font and italics to highlight information.
Make sure to leave some white space in between sections.
Don’t label your resume. The title “Resume” is unnecessary.
Your resume can be longer than 1 page. A good rule of thumb is 1 page for each 10 years of work history.
COVER LETTERS
Why should I include a cover letter along with my application?A cover letter can be a helpful tool to highlight your skills. Use a cover letter to show how your skills are appropriate for the job. A cover letter can also be used as a marketing tool – think of it as your personal sales brochure! You should use a cover letter anytime you use a resume.
Can I use one standard cover letter on each of my applications?You will need to submit a separate cover letter with each set of application materials. Since the cover letter is a way to help interest employers in your skills and how they are suited to the particular job, it is a good idea to customize your cover letter for each position that you are applying for.
What information do I include in my cover letter?
Identify the job for which you are applying. Include the title and vacancy number.
Mention where you found out about the job (newspaper ad, web page, etc.). If you were referred by someone, mention that person.
Briefly highlight your skills and experience. Don’t include all of the information found on your resume.
Tell the hiring supervisor what he/she will gain by hiring you.
Close the letter by stating what you would like to happen next. Mention where you can be reached by phone or email.
What format do I use?Your cover letter should be in standard business letter format.
Should I include a cover letter if I submit my materials through email?Yes.
A resume can help Human Resource Services staff and the hiring supervisor understand what skills, experience, and education you have that are relevant to a job. A well-done resume makes your application look more professional. You can use a resume to help demonstrate your communication skills.
What should I include in my resume?
Use your resume to help target your job search. Include relevant job history, education, volunteer experience, and memberships/associations. Use your resume to highlight important work experience and skills. Do not include information regarding marital status, parental status, religious affiliation, photos, age, or weight.
Resume Language
Use action verbs such as “developed,” “managed,” “coordinated,” and “maintained.”
Don’t use “I” to start every sentence.
Do use your own words to explain your experience
Proofread carefully!
Resume Information
Keep your name, phone number and address current.
Include dates of employment in a month/year format (example: 05/02 – 08/02).
Include references. Use a separate sheet if necessary.
Resume Appearance
Use 1” margins on all sides.
Use a standard font that is easy to read.
Use bold font and italics to highlight information.
Make sure to leave some white space in between sections.
Don’t label your resume. The title “Resume” is unnecessary.
Your resume can be longer than 1 page. A good rule of thumb is 1 page for each 10 years of work history.
COVER LETTERS
Why should I include a cover letter along with my application?A cover letter can be a helpful tool to highlight your skills. Use a cover letter to show how your skills are appropriate for the job. A cover letter can also be used as a marketing tool – think of it as your personal sales brochure! You should use a cover letter anytime you use a resume.
Can I use one standard cover letter on each of my applications?You will need to submit a separate cover letter with each set of application materials. Since the cover letter is a way to help interest employers in your skills and how they are suited to the particular job, it is a good idea to customize your cover letter for each position that you are applying for.
What information do I include in my cover letter?
Identify the job for which you are applying. Include the title and vacancy number.
Mention where you found out about the job (newspaper ad, web page, etc.). If you were referred by someone, mention that person.
Briefly highlight your skills and experience. Don’t include all of the information found on your resume.
Tell the hiring supervisor what he/she will gain by hiring you.
Close the letter by stating what you would like to happen next. Mention where you can be reached by phone or email.
What format do I use?Your cover letter should be in standard business letter format.
Should I include a cover letter if I submit my materials through email?Yes.
25 things to avoid in an Interview
1.Poor personal appearance
2.Lack of interest and enthusiasm; passive and indifferent
3.Over-emphasis on money
4.Criticism of past employer
5.Poor eye contact with interviewer
6.Late to interview
7.Failure to express appreciation for interviewer’s time
8.Asks no questions about the job
9.Unwillingness to relocate
10.Indefinite answer to question
11.Overbearing, aggressive, conceited with ‘know-it-all’ complex
12.Inability to express self clearly; poor voice, poor diction, poor grammar
13.Lack of planning for career, no purpose or goals
14.Lack of confidence and poise, nervous, ill at ease
15.Failure to participate in activities
16.Expects too much too soon
17.Makes excuses, evasive, hedges on unfavourable factors on record
18.Lack of tact
19.Lack of courtesy, ill-mannered
20.Lack of vitality
21.Lack of maturity
22.Sloppy application form
23.No interest in company or industry
24.Cynical
25.Intolerant, strong prejudices
2.Lack of interest and enthusiasm; passive and indifferent
3.Over-emphasis on money
4.Criticism of past employer
5.Poor eye contact with interviewer
6.Late to interview
7.Failure to express appreciation for interviewer’s time
8.Asks no questions about the job
9.Unwillingness to relocate
10.Indefinite answer to question
11.Overbearing, aggressive, conceited with ‘know-it-all’ complex
12.Inability to express self clearly; poor voice, poor diction, poor grammar
13.Lack of planning for career, no purpose or goals
14.Lack of confidence and poise, nervous, ill at ease
15.Failure to participate in activities
16.Expects too much too soon
17.Makes excuses, evasive, hedges on unfavourable factors on record
18.Lack of tact
19.Lack of courtesy, ill-mannered
20.Lack of vitality
21.Lack of maturity
22.Sloppy application form
23.No interest in company or industry
24.Cynical
25.Intolerant, strong prejudices
Frequently Asked Job Interview Questions and Answers
Tell me about yourself?
Although your first instinct might be to start by describing your interests and hobbies, remember where you are. You are in a job interview with the sole purpose of being hired. The information that you should detail when asked this question is to begin by describing yourself in a work situation. Prepare a summary of your work experience as well as your career achievements. Briefly detail your education accomplishments as well as any other accomplishment or transferrable skills that are relevant to the job vacancy. Only once you have discussed information that is specific to the available position, should you then give a short explanation about your interests and character traits.
Describe your working experience?
Study your CV prior to your job interview and indentify areas of your work experience that is specifically relevant to the job that you are being interviewed for. Be sure to scrutinise the job advert as this will guide your answer and provide you with clues on what exactly the recruiter is looking for in a candidate. Your answer should be concise and relevant; the recruiter has already seen your Curriculum Vitae and already has a good idea of your experience. Try to get the recruiter to specify what areas they would like you to discuss so as to avoid digressing off the topic with long winded explanations. The reason why the recruiter is asking this question even after having seen your CV application is because they want to hear how you would describe your experience verbally and to ensure that your verbal explanation is consistent with the information detailed in your CV.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Although this question may seem as though you should answer with a positive answer for your strengths and a negative for your weaknesses, try to give two positive answers. When discussing your strengths highlight roughly three positive attributes or strengths that specifically apply to the available post based on what you consider to be the recruiter's specific requirements. When indicating your weaknesses, never detail a character defect or poor performance areas that have no opportunity to be improved on. Rather, try to explain where you identified a problem area where you were able to remedy this and explain how you did so.
What do you know about our company and why do you want to work here?
You will need to prepare for this typical job interview question far in advance in order to ensure that you are comfortable discussing the employers company. Don't be a know it all, you are talking with someone who may have been part of the company for several years and will know greater detail that you will. Never argue about details and be open to correction should you have interpreted research information incorrectly. When answering the reason for you wanting to join their establishment specify what interests you about the industry or company and how you feel you could contribute to its longevity. Express admiration and respect for the company and include an explanation as to what value you feel you will be able to bring to the company that other candidates may not be able to. Try to get a good understanding of the company's objective as well as their vision and mission and how you plan on sustaining this or improving on it, based on your relevant skills and attributes.
Describe a short term goal you have set for yourself and how you intend on achieving this goal?
A short term goal generally falls within a one to two year delivery period. The goals that you describe should be career focussed, based on areas where you would like to improve on a skill or achieve a qualification that will boost your career growth. When answering to how you intend on achieving these goals to the employer, never leave a door closed. Opportunity and drive is your number one objective in order to achieve any goal and this is why your explanation needs to be realistic and attainable within this short period. By displaying your enthusiasm and desire to succeed, this will indicate to the employer that you are a motivated and inspired employee.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
When answering this typical job interview question stay focussed on career goals and aspirations. Potential employers don't want to hear about your plans to 'Take over their company' nor your desire to become a pro golfer. Keep these career aspirations realistic and attainable within a 5 year period. Discuss ways in which you anticipate attaining your career goals as well as steps you have already taken to reach these career goals.
What are you looking for in a job?
This may seem like an easy common interview question to answer, it is in fact a tricky job interview question. While the interviewer is asking you what you are looking for in a job, in actual fact they want you to answer with what they are looking for from you. Again when preparing for this question, be sure to have the job ad close at hand in order to assess in precise detail what the recruiter is looking for in a candidate. Answer this question the way you think the interviewer wants you to answer it, by describing desires that the job you have applied for will be able to deliver to the candidate.
What are your salary requirements?
Prepare ahead of time prior to your job interview on how you intend on answering this question. A good place to start is to research the industry standard or market related salary that employees in similar roles are earning. Generally this information can be found on the internet or alternatively recruitment agents will be able to give you a good indication of your market related salary. In your interview, try not to discuss exact figures but rather give a ball park figure that you will be able to negotiate on later on should the employer makes you an offer. Never discuss your salary goals unless asked by the interviewer.
Although your first instinct might be to start by describing your interests and hobbies, remember where you are. You are in a job interview with the sole purpose of being hired. The information that you should detail when asked this question is to begin by describing yourself in a work situation. Prepare a summary of your work experience as well as your career achievements. Briefly detail your education accomplishments as well as any other accomplishment or transferrable skills that are relevant to the job vacancy. Only once you have discussed information that is specific to the available position, should you then give a short explanation about your interests and character traits.
Describe your working experience?
Study your CV prior to your job interview and indentify areas of your work experience that is specifically relevant to the job that you are being interviewed for. Be sure to scrutinise the job advert as this will guide your answer and provide you with clues on what exactly the recruiter is looking for in a candidate. Your answer should be concise and relevant; the recruiter has already seen your Curriculum Vitae and already has a good idea of your experience. Try to get the recruiter to specify what areas they would like you to discuss so as to avoid digressing off the topic with long winded explanations. The reason why the recruiter is asking this question even after having seen your CV application is because they want to hear how you would describe your experience verbally and to ensure that your verbal explanation is consistent with the information detailed in your CV.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Although this question may seem as though you should answer with a positive answer for your strengths and a negative for your weaknesses, try to give two positive answers. When discussing your strengths highlight roughly three positive attributes or strengths that specifically apply to the available post based on what you consider to be the recruiter's specific requirements. When indicating your weaknesses, never detail a character defect or poor performance areas that have no opportunity to be improved on. Rather, try to explain where you identified a problem area where you were able to remedy this and explain how you did so.
What do you know about our company and why do you want to work here?
You will need to prepare for this typical job interview question far in advance in order to ensure that you are comfortable discussing the employers company. Don't be a know it all, you are talking with someone who may have been part of the company for several years and will know greater detail that you will. Never argue about details and be open to correction should you have interpreted research information incorrectly. When answering the reason for you wanting to join their establishment specify what interests you about the industry or company and how you feel you could contribute to its longevity. Express admiration and respect for the company and include an explanation as to what value you feel you will be able to bring to the company that other candidates may not be able to. Try to get a good understanding of the company's objective as well as their vision and mission and how you plan on sustaining this or improving on it, based on your relevant skills and attributes.
Describe a short term goal you have set for yourself and how you intend on achieving this goal?
A short term goal generally falls within a one to two year delivery period. The goals that you describe should be career focussed, based on areas where you would like to improve on a skill or achieve a qualification that will boost your career growth. When answering to how you intend on achieving these goals to the employer, never leave a door closed. Opportunity and drive is your number one objective in order to achieve any goal and this is why your explanation needs to be realistic and attainable within this short period. By displaying your enthusiasm and desire to succeed, this will indicate to the employer that you are a motivated and inspired employee.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
When answering this typical job interview question stay focussed on career goals and aspirations. Potential employers don't want to hear about your plans to 'Take over their company' nor your desire to become a pro golfer. Keep these career aspirations realistic and attainable within a 5 year period. Discuss ways in which you anticipate attaining your career goals as well as steps you have already taken to reach these career goals.
What are you looking for in a job?
This may seem like an easy common interview question to answer, it is in fact a tricky job interview question. While the interviewer is asking you what you are looking for in a job, in actual fact they want you to answer with what they are looking for from you. Again when preparing for this question, be sure to have the job ad close at hand in order to assess in precise detail what the recruiter is looking for in a candidate. Answer this question the way you think the interviewer wants you to answer it, by describing desires that the job you have applied for will be able to deliver to the candidate.
What are your salary requirements?
Prepare ahead of time prior to your job interview on how you intend on answering this question. A good place to start is to research the industry standard or market related salary that employees in similar roles are earning. Generally this information can be found on the internet or alternatively recruitment agents will be able to give you a good indication of your market related salary. In your interview, try not to discuss exact figures but rather give a ball park figure that you will be able to negotiate on later on should the employer makes you an offer. Never discuss your salary goals unless asked by the interviewer.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Personal Goals In Life
The moment we are born, we join a competition and end up competing with everyone around, including ourselves.,we asked to set our goals, which will decide the way we live our lives. Goals are supposed provide a definite direction to our lives and help us identify our final destinations. So many of us set goals at a time when we should be enjoying, and by the time we think we have achieved all our goals, we feel that something is missing. That is because we reach stagnation after that. Many of us do not know that goals are to be changed and ‘updated’ from time to time. Also, most of us might think that goals are only associated with career; contrary to that notion, goals are all-encompassing and are also include the personal and familial life of a person. Even as a person aims to reach to a certain level in their career, they might want to get a six pack abs! Here are a few personal goals that will make your lives worthwhile.
How To Set Personal Goals In Life
Here are some ways to decide upon various personal goals that you may want to set for yourself. Though education features first on the list, you could set your goals with first priority on something else – you must remember that these are not in the order of importance or significance. You could device your own priority list.
Education
This refers to any kind of knowledge that you may want to acquire, when you can do it or when you can devote time to it and how long would it take you to do so. Some people might decide to get a certain degree or attend classes after many years of having worked just to keep themselves updated about what is happening in the industry. Others may want to start with the profession only after they have acquired that knowledge. You should know when it is time for you to enhance your knowledge or acquire some new skills.
Career
You must have set goals about the profession that you are following. It is like asking yourself the very typical interview question – where do you see yourself after a stipulated amount of time. There is no point in reaching stagnation in your career and studies prove that people cannot be satisfied with their jobs or professions until it offers them challenges and more responsibilities at regular intervals. You should have a clear idea about where you wish to reach in your life. It is one goal that you cannot afford to lose track of. Employers also invest more in people who know where they are headed.
Financial
When you set out to work and began to work, you must have thought of the amount of money you will need to build a home of your own, what all you will need for it and so on. You might also want to know what you do with that money. You may want to keep track of your daily expenditure to know how much money is going in which direction, so that you can cut down on wasteful expenditure. If you plan to buy or build a house or acquire other assets, you may have to plan ahead as to how much money you will have to save for it.
Community Service
Many youngsters, even as they work and earn, support many causes that may touch a chord with them – some of them may want to associate themselves with AIDS awareness or may spend some time taking care of differently abled children or some others may want to lend a hand at the Helpage India Foundation. Whatever be the cause that you want to associate yourself with, make sure you stick to it. You should also know why you are associating yourself with the cause and how much time you can devote to the cause as a volunteer and in which way you can contribute to the cause that is close to your heart – whether it is spending some time with homeless veterans at Helpage homes, preparing to lend services as a volunteer for various activities or so on.
Family
Men and women have responsibilities towards their families, the ones they were a part of, as well as, the families that they build. You will need to ask yourself what kind of responsibilities you have towards your family members, your parents, your siblings, your children, your spouse, parents-in-law too. These responsibilities are not only in the material sense and go beyond the monetary duties. It could be in ways like helping your child with his physics lessons or helping your wife cook lunch every day because she is going through a painful menopause! It could also be in the form of taking care of ageing parents or, sometimes even parents-in-law. You have to know how much time and energy to devote for the family, which is your prime reason for earning a living.
How To Set Personal Goals In Life
Here are some ways to decide upon various personal goals that you may want to set for yourself. Though education features first on the list, you could set your goals with first priority on something else – you must remember that these are not in the order of importance or significance. You could device your own priority list.
Education
This refers to any kind of knowledge that you may want to acquire, when you can do it or when you can devote time to it and how long would it take you to do so. Some people might decide to get a certain degree or attend classes after many years of having worked just to keep themselves updated about what is happening in the industry. Others may want to start with the profession only after they have acquired that knowledge. You should know when it is time for you to enhance your knowledge or acquire some new skills.
Career
You must have set goals about the profession that you are following. It is like asking yourself the very typical interview question – where do you see yourself after a stipulated amount of time. There is no point in reaching stagnation in your career and studies prove that people cannot be satisfied with their jobs or professions until it offers them challenges and more responsibilities at regular intervals. You should have a clear idea about where you wish to reach in your life. It is one goal that you cannot afford to lose track of. Employers also invest more in people who know where they are headed.
Financial
When you set out to work and began to work, you must have thought of the amount of money you will need to build a home of your own, what all you will need for it and so on. You might also want to know what you do with that money. You may want to keep track of your daily expenditure to know how much money is going in which direction, so that you can cut down on wasteful expenditure. If you plan to buy or build a house or acquire other assets, you may have to plan ahead as to how much money you will have to save for it.
Community Service
Many youngsters, even as they work and earn, support many causes that may touch a chord with them – some of them may want to associate themselves with AIDS awareness or may spend some time taking care of differently abled children or some others may want to lend a hand at the Helpage India Foundation. Whatever be the cause that you want to associate yourself with, make sure you stick to it. You should also know why you are associating yourself with the cause and how much time you can devote to the cause as a volunteer and in which way you can contribute to the cause that is close to your heart – whether it is spending some time with homeless veterans at Helpage homes, preparing to lend services as a volunteer for various activities or so on.
Family
Men and women have responsibilities towards their families, the ones they were a part of, as well as, the families that they build. You will need to ask yourself what kind of responsibilities you have towards your family members, your parents, your siblings, your children, your spouse, parents-in-law too. These responsibilities are not only in the material sense and go beyond the monetary duties. It could be in ways like helping your child with his physics lessons or helping your wife cook lunch every day because she is going through a painful menopause! It could also be in the form of taking care of ageing parents or, sometimes even parents-in-law. You have to know how much time and energy to devote for the family, which is your prime reason for earning a living.
Confidence Building Techniques
Imagine a scene where you are on an operation table and the doctor who is doing your surgery is bathed with sweats and is wobbly with apprehensions. Would you want him to operate on you? The answer certainly is ‘no’ by all means. Even though the doctor may be very experienced and good, unless he is confident, you will never have confidence in him and better say you are off without him. Now come to think of it, are you like the wobbly doctor? Do you struggle to take decisions? If yes, then you might as well be suffering from lack of self-confidence. A person without confidence is like a ship without a captain. Self-confidence is of utmost importance in every aspect of our lives and unless we are confident, we would not be able to achieve anything in our life. Nobody is by birth a confident man/woman, it is cultivated and it is never too late to cultivate it. If you feel you lack in confidence, you can use confidence-building techniques to increase and enhance your confidence. So what are you waiting for? Go on read for yourself the techniques for confidence building.
Confidence Building Exercises....
Imagine yourself as the perfect person. You imagine yourself as an epitome of talent and virtue. You already have things, which you want to achieve. This is the greatest teaching of Zen.
Use positive motivational quotes from the good books you have ever read. Write them down on a book or in a laptop. Just refer it again and again when you feel so frustrated.
When you are feeling very less confident, imagine yourself as the wise man on earth. Think about how a wise, confident person would have handled the situation?
Study your favorite personalities and analyze their activities and behavior pattern and act like them.
Treat yourself as if you were your own best friend. You never want to hurt your best friend. Even if he does a mistake, you pamper him and convince him that he didn’t commit any. Treat yourself with the same approach. Never let you down in any case.
Be kind to yourself with your words and actions. Do not hurt yourself by complaining about your weakness and negative traits. Never think of yourself as a loser or a joker.
Focus on the positive things about yourself. Just make a list of positive traits. Analyze those qualities from roots, and find out what a beautiful personality you are.
Gracefully accept the compliments of others. There is nothing wrong in accepting the compliments from others. Your subconscious gets designed in a positive way when you accept the compliments from others. When you reach a higher level of confidence, you don’t need other’s compliments to feel contented.
Praise yourself million times a day if possible. Don’t be too pushy on success. Whenever you achieve a minor goal, praise yourself to the Himalayan heights.
Try to help others honestly. Never shut the door to people. Always keep a lot of friends.
There is a saying “look for the silver lining in every cloud” which means see positive traits in whatever happens even if that is a negative thing in a normal sense.
Imagine your life is already fulfilled and full of joy, fun, and music. If you can think of your imagination as the reality, it gradually turns into reality.
Practice meditation and yoga. You will feel more contented and relaxed.
Do some weight training exercises and build yourself a good physique. A strong physique is the foundation of good mind.
Do not watch, listen to, or read the news just before bed. News is polished version of facts, which is designed to shock you. Most of news, you can find in any newspaper are negative. So avoid the habit of reading the newspaper in night before you sleep. Instead of exposing yourself to bad news, recall the entire positive experiences of the day.
Confidence Building Exercises....
Imagine yourself as the perfect person. You imagine yourself as an epitome of talent and virtue. You already have things, which you want to achieve. This is the greatest teaching of Zen.
Use positive motivational quotes from the good books you have ever read. Write them down on a book or in a laptop. Just refer it again and again when you feel so frustrated.
When you are feeling very less confident, imagine yourself as the wise man on earth. Think about how a wise, confident person would have handled the situation?
Study your favorite personalities and analyze their activities and behavior pattern and act like them.
Treat yourself as if you were your own best friend. You never want to hurt your best friend. Even if he does a mistake, you pamper him and convince him that he didn’t commit any. Treat yourself with the same approach. Never let you down in any case.
Be kind to yourself with your words and actions. Do not hurt yourself by complaining about your weakness and negative traits. Never think of yourself as a loser or a joker.
Focus on the positive things about yourself. Just make a list of positive traits. Analyze those qualities from roots, and find out what a beautiful personality you are.
Gracefully accept the compliments of others. There is nothing wrong in accepting the compliments from others. Your subconscious gets designed in a positive way when you accept the compliments from others. When you reach a higher level of confidence, you don’t need other’s compliments to feel contented.
Praise yourself million times a day if possible. Don’t be too pushy on success. Whenever you achieve a minor goal, praise yourself to the Himalayan heights.
Try to help others honestly. Never shut the door to people. Always keep a lot of friends.
There is a saying “look for the silver lining in every cloud” which means see positive traits in whatever happens even if that is a negative thing in a normal sense.
Imagine your life is already fulfilled and full of joy, fun, and music. If you can think of your imagination as the reality, it gradually turns into reality.
Practice meditation and yoga. You will feel more contented and relaxed.
Do some weight training exercises and build yourself a good physique. A strong physique is the foundation of good mind.
Do not watch, listen to, or read the news just before bed. News is polished version of facts, which is designed to shock you. Most of news, you can find in any newspaper are negative. So avoid the habit of reading the newspaper in night before you sleep. Instead of exposing yourself to bad news, recall the entire positive experiences of the day.
How To Make A Great First Impression
The phrase, “first impression is the last impression”, has struck a note in the minds of all people alike, which is why most of us long to make a great first impact on people. Be it a business meeting, the first date or the first day at work, the first impression would go a long way in establishing and imprinting your position in the mind of the person you are meeting. As such, it is very necessary that you create a great impact, so that the person has positive feelings or thoughts of you. Great styling, impressive conduct, oozing confidence and a winning smile are some of the determining factors for making a striking first impression. If you want to arm yourself with all the tips on how to make a great first impression, keep reading the article.
Making A Strong First Impression
Right on Time
Imagine meeting a person for the first time and opening your introduction with a sorry or an excuse for being late? What a loser you would look like! Being on time is the first step towards making a great first impression. Plan your day in such a way that you reach the assigned location, at least 5 to 10 minutes prior to the preset time.
Just be Yourself
Most of the people go way beyond their individuality to create a good first impression. Result - confusion and nervousness!! To avoid such a scenario, the deal is to be yourself. If you are projecting your own personality to the person you are meeting, you would be utmost confident and completely at ease. And if you are calm and confident, the other person would automatically feel relaxed. Remember, even he/she is meeting you for the first time, so apprehensions and nervousness would be common between the two of you.
Style Yourself Well
Believe it or not, the first look can go a long way in making an impressive first impression. Here, grooming and styling should be the mantra for you. Dress appropriately before stepping out of the house. Make sure your hair-do serves as an add-on to your look. For men, going clean shaven is a must. Make sure that the attire you are wearing gives a boost to your personality, making you look all the more stunning and stylish. Remember, untidy clothes and messy hair-do is enough to make you look under confident and sheepish!
Impressive Introduction
While looks would create the 50% of the first impression, the rest depends on how impressive is your introduction. Since you are meeting a person for the first time, chances are that the two of you barely know each other. In such a case, it would be best if you start off with a bang. Smartly introduce yourself and fill in the other person with all the necessary details that he/she should know about. However, do not lengthen it. An impressive introduction is one that is short and crisp, with all the details.
Winning Smile
George Eliot rightly said “Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles”. Nothing can be more depressing than to meet a person who is dressed up without a smile. Remember, a warm smile can shed off all the initial apprehensions and make both of you at ease. So, the trick is to smile and win the heart and mind of the other person. However, do not go overboard and laugh with your mouth open. (I’m sure the other person does not want to know how many teeth you have or how big your tonsils are!!)
Oozing Confidence
Did you know that your body language contributes more than 90% of your communication? Thus, it is very necessary to project appropriate body language. Small things like eye contact, standing tall with the head held high, a winning smile and a firm handshake would talk a lot about your personality and the person you are. Remember, if you want to create an impressive impression, keep the nervousness locked in your cupboard.
Chivalry at Best
Do we need to elucidate on this point? Needless to say, men and chivalry should go hand in hand. Good manners and courteous behavior lay the foundation for any relationship, creating the best first impression. A rule of the thumb - switch off your mobile while you are with the person. Remember, you are here to create a good impression on the person you are meeting and not on the person whom you are talking to!!
Making A Strong First Impression
Right on Time
Imagine meeting a person for the first time and opening your introduction with a sorry or an excuse for being late? What a loser you would look like! Being on time is the first step towards making a great first impression. Plan your day in such a way that you reach the assigned location, at least 5 to 10 minutes prior to the preset time.
Just be Yourself
Most of the people go way beyond their individuality to create a good first impression. Result - confusion and nervousness!! To avoid such a scenario, the deal is to be yourself. If you are projecting your own personality to the person you are meeting, you would be utmost confident and completely at ease. And if you are calm and confident, the other person would automatically feel relaxed. Remember, even he/she is meeting you for the first time, so apprehensions and nervousness would be common between the two of you.
Style Yourself Well
Believe it or not, the first look can go a long way in making an impressive first impression. Here, grooming and styling should be the mantra for you. Dress appropriately before stepping out of the house. Make sure your hair-do serves as an add-on to your look. For men, going clean shaven is a must. Make sure that the attire you are wearing gives a boost to your personality, making you look all the more stunning and stylish. Remember, untidy clothes and messy hair-do is enough to make you look under confident and sheepish!
Impressive Introduction
While looks would create the 50% of the first impression, the rest depends on how impressive is your introduction. Since you are meeting a person for the first time, chances are that the two of you barely know each other. In such a case, it would be best if you start off with a bang. Smartly introduce yourself and fill in the other person with all the necessary details that he/she should know about. However, do not lengthen it. An impressive introduction is one that is short and crisp, with all the details.
Winning Smile
George Eliot rightly said “Wear a smile and have friends; wear a scowl and have wrinkles”. Nothing can be more depressing than to meet a person who is dressed up without a smile. Remember, a warm smile can shed off all the initial apprehensions and make both of you at ease. So, the trick is to smile and win the heart and mind of the other person. However, do not go overboard and laugh with your mouth open. (I’m sure the other person does not want to know how many teeth you have or how big your tonsils are!!)
Oozing Confidence
Did you know that your body language contributes more than 90% of your communication? Thus, it is very necessary to project appropriate body language. Small things like eye contact, standing tall with the head held high, a winning smile and a firm handshake would talk a lot about your personality and the person you are. Remember, if you want to create an impressive impression, keep the nervousness locked in your cupboard.
Chivalry at Best
Do we need to elucidate on this point? Needless to say, men and chivalry should go hand in hand. Good manners and courteous behavior lay the foundation for any relationship, creating the best first impression. A rule of the thumb - switch off your mobile while you are with the person. Remember, you are here to create a good impression on the person you are meeting and not on the person whom you are talking to!!
Effective Leadership Skills
The secret to great leadership is about having the leadership skills to be able to deal with people in a delicate yet powerful manner. In fact leadership skills are much more than speaking confidently and carrying a serious demeanor. To be an effective leader, one must possess an exclusive set of human relations and interpersonal skills. The right leadership style is required in every walk of professional life, whether you own a business, manage it or are an employee looking to make your way up to the corporate ladder. Effective leadership skills cannot just be stumbled upon, they require investment of time and energy to perfect and craft your skills. Hence, it is rightly said, well-honed leadership skill is the most important component for being successful in the business world. Read to know the different traits of an effective leader.
Traits Of An Effective Leader
Emotional Stability
A good leader should be capable of tolerating frustration and stress. The person must be able to adjust well and have the psychological maturity to deal with anything that he/she is likely to face, while being a leader.
Dominance
An effective leader must be assertive in his thinking style and have a confident attitude, while dealing with other people. He should be competitive and capable of taking decisions on behalf of his entire team.
Enthusiasm
Leaders are assumed to be active and expressive. An effective leader must be optimistic and open to changes coming across him. However, he should also be quick and alert while doing so. He/she should have an undying spirit and enduring enthusiasm about the work and should be capable of inducing the same attitude into his team.
Conscientiousness
Since leaders are dominated by a sense of duty, they tend to be demanding in character. Hence, a successful leader should be very self-disciplined and have a need for order and a high standard of excellence.
Tough-mindedness
A good leader should be practical, logical and to-the-point. Since he/she has to face lots of risks and criticism, a leader must be low in sentimental attachments and insensitive to hardship.
Self-assurance
Other common characteristics of an effective leader are self-confidence and resiliency. A leader should be secure, free of guilt and unaffected by prior mistakes or failures.
High Energy
A leader should be highly energetic since he would have to invest in long hours of work to raise the company. A leader should possess a never-say-die-spirit and should always to ready for challenges.
Maturity
Personal power and recognition should be put aside to focus on the development of the employees in order to be a good leader. One must be mature enough to recognize that more can be accomplished by empowering others, rather than ruling them.
Team Orientation
These days, more emphasis is laid upon team work by business leaders. A good leader establishes an adult-adult relationship with his employees to encourage and motivate them, rather than an adult-child relationship, wherein the former orders and the latter obeys.
Charisma
Since leaders are perceived larger than life by most people, charisma plays an integral role in gaining the trust of the employees. Charismatic leaders are better capable of arousing strong emotions among the employees by defining a vision, thereby unifying and captivating them. Through this vision, a leader better motivates employees to achieve their future goals, resulting in personal rewards and values.
Traits Of An Effective Leader
Emotional Stability
A good leader should be capable of tolerating frustration and stress. The person must be able to adjust well and have the psychological maturity to deal with anything that he/she is likely to face, while being a leader.
Dominance
An effective leader must be assertive in his thinking style and have a confident attitude, while dealing with other people. He should be competitive and capable of taking decisions on behalf of his entire team.
Enthusiasm
Leaders are assumed to be active and expressive. An effective leader must be optimistic and open to changes coming across him. However, he should also be quick and alert while doing so. He/she should have an undying spirit and enduring enthusiasm about the work and should be capable of inducing the same attitude into his team.
Conscientiousness
Since leaders are dominated by a sense of duty, they tend to be demanding in character. Hence, a successful leader should be very self-disciplined and have a need for order and a high standard of excellence.
Tough-mindedness
A good leader should be practical, logical and to-the-point. Since he/she has to face lots of risks and criticism, a leader must be low in sentimental attachments and insensitive to hardship.
Self-assurance
Other common characteristics of an effective leader are self-confidence and resiliency. A leader should be secure, free of guilt and unaffected by prior mistakes or failures.
High Energy
A leader should be highly energetic since he would have to invest in long hours of work to raise the company. A leader should possess a never-say-die-spirit and should always to ready for challenges.
Maturity
Personal power and recognition should be put aside to focus on the development of the employees in order to be a good leader. One must be mature enough to recognize that more can be accomplished by empowering others, rather than ruling them.
Team Orientation
These days, more emphasis is laid upon team work by business leaders. A good leader establishes an adult-adult relationship with his employees to encourage and motivate them, rather than an adult-child relationship, wherein the former orders and the latter obeys.
Charisma
Since leaders are perceived larger than life by most people, charisma plays an integral role in gaining the trust of the employees. Charismatic leaders are better capable of arousing strong emotions among the employees by defining a vision, thereby unifying and captivating them. Through this vision, a leader better motivates employees to achieve their future goals, resulting in personal rewards and values.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
EXAMPLES OF SWOT ANALYSIS
Example 1 - Wal-Mart SWOT Analysis.
Strengths - Wal-Mart is a powerful retail brand. It has a reputation for value for money, convenience and a wide range of products all in one store. Weaknesses - Wal-Mart is the World's largest grocery retailer and control of its empire, despite its IT advantages, could leave it weak in some areas due to the huge span of control. Opportunities - To take over, merge with, or form strategic alliances with other global retailers, focusing on specific markets such as Europe or the Greater China Region. Threats - Being number one means that you are the target of competition, locally and globally.
Example 2 - Starbucks SWOT Analysis.
Strengths - Starbucks Corporation is a very profitable organization, earning in excess of $600 million in 2004. Weaknesses - Starbucks has a reputation for new product development and creativity. Opportunities - New products and services that can be retailed in their cafes, such as Fair Trade products. Threats - Starbucks are exposed to rises in the cost of coffee and dairy products.
Example 3 - Nike SWOT Analysis.
Strengths - Nike is a very competitive organization. Phil Knight (Founder and CEO) is often quoted as saying that 'Business is war without bullets. 'Weaknesses - The organization does have a diversified range of sports products. Opportunities - Product development offers Nike many opportunities. Threats - Nike is exposed to the international nature of trade.
Example 4 - Indian Premier League (IPL) SWOT Analysis.
Where will you find the Mumbai Indians, the Royal Challengers, the Deccan Chargers, the Channai Super Kings, the Delhi Daredevils, the Kings XI Punjab, the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Rajesthan Royals? In the Indian Premier League (IPL) - the most exciting sports franchise that the World has seen in recent years, with seemingly endless marketing opportunities (and strengths, weaknesses and threats of course!).
Example 5 - Bharti Airtel SWOT Analysis.
Weaknesses - An often cited original weakness is that when the business was started by Sunil Bharti Mittal over 15 years ago, the business has little knowledge and experience of how a cellular telephone system actually worked. So the start-up business had to outsource to industry experts in the field.
Simple rules for successful SWOT analysis.
Be realistic about the strengths and weaknesses of your organization when conducting SWOT analysis.
SWOT analysis should distinguish between where your organization is today, and where it could be in the future.
SWOT should always be specific. Avoid grey areas.
Always apply SWOT in relation to your competition i.e. better than or worse than your competition.
Keep your SWOT short and simple. Avoid complexity and over analysis
SWOT is subjective.
Once key issues have been identified with your SWOT analysis, they feed into marketing objectives. SWOT can be used in conjunction with other tools for audit and analysis, such as PEST analysis and Porter's Five-Forces analysis. So SWOT is a very popular tool with marketing students because it is quick and easy to learn. During the SWOT exercise, list factors in the relevant boxes. It's that simple. Below are some FREE examples of SWOT analysis - click to go straight to them
SWOT analysis should distinguish between where your organization is today, and where it could be in the future.
SWOT should always be specific. Avoid grey areas.
Always apply SWOT in relation to your competition i.e. better than or worse than your competition.
Keep your SWOT short and simple. Avoid complexity and over analysis
SWOT is subjective.
Once key issues have been identified with your SWOT analysis, they feed into marketing objectives. SWOT can be used in conjunction with other tools for audit and analysis, such as PEST analysis and Porter's Five-Forces analysis. So SWOT is a very popular tool with marketing students because it is quick and easy to learn. During the SWOT exercise, list factors in the relevant boxes. It's that simple. Below are some FREE examples of SWOT analysis - click to go straight to them
SWOT Analysis
SWOT analysis is a tool for auditing an organization and its environment. It is the first stage of planning and helps marketers to focus on key issues. SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Strengths and weaknesses are internal factors. Opportunities and threats are external factors.
In SWOT, strengths and weaknesses are internal factors.
For example:
A strength could be:
Your specialist marketing expertise.
A new, innovative product or service.
Location of your business.
Quality processes and procedures.
Any other aspect of your business that adds value to your product or service.
A weakness could be:
Lack of marketing expertise.
Undifferentiated products or services (i.e. in relation to your competitors).
Location of your business.
Poor quality goods or services.
Damaged reputation.
In SWOT, opportunities and threats are external factors.
For example:
An opportunity could be:
A developing market such as the Internet.
Mergers, joint ventures or strategic alliances.
Moving into new market segments that offer improved profits.
A new international market.
A market vacated by an ineffective competitor.
A threat could be:
A new competitor in your home market.
Price wars with competitors.
A competitor has a new, innovative product or service.
Competitors have superior access to channels of distribution.
Taxation is introduced on your product or service.
Learning Time Management Skills
The good news is that time management skills can be learned and mastered by anyone. All it takes is practice and dedication.
Like any other skill, you can learn time management the easy way or you can learn it the hard way.
The hard way usually involves years of trial and error and lots of false starts trying to figure out what works and what doesn't.
If you'd like to save yourself some time, money and effort, I recommend you try the easy way: learn from someone who has already done it.
Makes sense, right?
15 Time Management Tips
In the meantime, here are 15 practical time management tips to help you get started...
1. Write things down
A common time management mistake is to try to use your memory to keep track of too many details leading to information overload. Using a to-do list to write things down is a great way to take control of your projects and tasks and keep yourself organized.
2. Prioritize your list.....
Prioritizing your to-do list helps you focus and spend more of your time on the things that really matter to you. Rate your tasks into categories using the ABCD prioritization system described in the time management course.
3. Plan your week....
Spend some time at the beginning of each week to plan your schedule. Taking the extra time to do this will help increase your productivity and balance your important long-term projects with your more urgent tasks. All you need is fifteen to thirty minutes each week for your planning session.
4. Carry a notebook.....
You never know when you are going to have a great idea or brilliant insight. Carry a small notebook with you wherever you go so you can capture your thoughts. If you wait too long to write them down you could forget. Another option is to use a digital recorder.
5. Learn to say no.....
Many people become overloaded with too much work because they overcommit; they say yes when they really should be saying no. Learn to say no to low priority requests and you will free up time to spend on things that are more important.
6. Think before acting.....
How many times have you said yes to something you later regretted? Before committing to a new task, stop to think about it before you give your answer. This will prevent you from taking on too much work.
7. Continuously improve yourself.....
Make time in your schedule to learn new things and develop your natural talents and abilities. For example, you could take a class, attend a training program, or read a book. Continuously improving your knowledge and skills increases your marketability, can help boost your career, and is the most reliable path to financial independence.
8. Think about what you are giving up to do your regular activities....
It is a good idea to evaluate regularly how you are spending your time. In some cases, the best thing you can do is to stop doing an activity that is no longer serving you so you can spend the time doing something more valuable. Consider what you are giving up in order to maintain your current activities.
9. Use a time management system......
Using a time management system can help you keep track of everything that you need to do, organize and prioritize your work, and develop sound plans to complete it. An integrated system is like glue that holds all the best time management practices together.
10. Identify bad habits......
Make a list of bad habits that are stealing your time, sabotaging your goals, and blocking your success. After you do, work on them one at a time and systematically eliminate them from your life. Remember that the easiest way to eliminate a bad habit, it to replace it with a better habit.
11. Don’t do other people’s work.....
Are you in the habit of doing other people’s work because or a ‘hero’ mentality? Doing this takes up time that you may not have. Instead, focus on your own projects and goals, learn to delegate effectively, and teach others how to do their own work.
12. Keep a goal journal.....
Schedule time to set and evaluate your goals. Start a journal and write down your progress for each goal. Go through your goal journal each week to make sure you are on the right track.
Keeping a journal on your computer has never been easier!
13. Don’t be a perfectionist....
Some tasks don’t require your best effort. Sending a short email to a colleague, for example, shouldn’t take any more than a few minutes. Learn to distinguish between tasks that deserve to be done excellently and tasks that just need to be done.
14. Beware of “filler” tasks.....
When you have a to-do list filled with important tasks, be careful not to get distracted by “filler” tasks. Things such as organizing your bookcase or filing papers can wait until you tackle the items that have the highest priority.
15. Avoid “efficiency traps”
Being efficient doesn’t necessarily mean that you are being productive. Avoid taking on tasks that you can do with efficiency that don’t need to be done at all. Just because you are busy and getting things done doesn’t mean you are actually accomplishing anything significant.
Like any other skill, you can learn time management the easy way or you can learn it the hard way.
The hard way usually involves years of trial and error and lots of false starts trying to figure out what works and what doesn't.
If you'd like to save yourself some time, money and effort, I recommend you try the easy way: learn from someone who has already done it.
Makes sense, right?
15 Time Management Tips
In the meantime, here are 15 practical time management tips to help you get started...
1. Write things down
A common time management mistake is to try to use your memory to keep track of too many details leading to information overload. Using a to-do list to write things down is a great way to take control of your projects and tasks and keep yourself organized.
2. Prioritize your list.....
Prioritizing your to-do list helps you focus and spend more of your time on the things that really matter to you. Rate your tasks into categories using the ABCD prioritization system described in the time management course.
3. Plan your week....
Spend some time at the beginning of each week to plan your schedule. Taking the extra time to do this will help increase your productivity and balance your important long-term projects with your more urgent tasks. All you need is fifteen to thirty minutes each week for your planning session.
4. Carry a notebook.....
You never know when you are going to have a great idea or brilliant insight. Carry a small notebook with you wherever you go so you can capture your thoughts. If you wait too long to write them down you could forget. Another option is to use a digital recorder.
5. Learn to say no.....
Many people become overloaded with too much work because they overcommit; they say yes when they really should be saying no. Learn to say no to low priority requests and you will free up time to spend on things that are more important.
6. Think before acting.....
How many times have you said yes to something you later regretted? Before committing to a new task, stop to think about it before you give your answer. This will prevent you from taking on too much work.
7. Continuously improve yourself.....
Make time in your schedule to learn new things and develop your natural talents and abilities. For example, you could take a class, attend a training program, or read a book. Continuously improving your knowledge and skills increases your marketability, can help boost your career, and is the most reliable path to financial independence.
8. Think about what you are giving up to do your regular activities....
It is a good idea to evaluate regularly how you are spending your time. In some cases, the best thing you can do is to stop doing an activity that is no longer serving you so you can spend the time doing something more valuable. Consider what you are giving up in order to maintain your current activities.
9. Use a time management system......
Using a time management system can help you keep track of everything that you need to do, organize and prioritize your work, and develop sound plans to complete it. An integrated system is like glue that holds all the best time management practices together.
10. Identify bad habits......
Make a list of bad habits that are stealing your time, sabotaging your goals, and blocking your success. After you do, work on them one at a time and systematically eliminate them from your life. Remember that the easiest way to eliminate a bad habit, it to replace it with a better habit.
11. Don’t do other people’s work.....
Are you in the habit of doing other people’s work because or a ‘hero’ mentality? Doing this takes up time that you may not have. Instead, focus on your own projects and goals, learn to delegate effectively, and teach others how to do their own work.
12. Keep a goal journal.....
Schedule time to set and evaluate your goals. Start a journal and write down your progress for each goal. Go through your goal journal each week to make sure you are on the right track.
Keeping a journal on your computer has never been easier!
13. Don’t be a perfectionist....
Some tasks don’t require your best effort. Sending a short email to a colleague, for example, shouldn’t take any more than a few minutes. Learn to distinguish between tasks that deserve to be done excellently and tasks that just need to be done.
14. Beware of “filler” tasks.....
When you have a to-do list filled with important tasks, be careful not to get distracted by “filler” tasks. Things such as organizing your bookcase or filing papers can wait until you tackle the items that have the highest priority.
15. Avoid “efficiency traps”
Being efficient doesn’t necessarily mean that you are being productive. Avoid taking on tasks that you can do with efficiency that don’t need to be done at all. Just because you are busy and getting things done doesn’t mean you are actually accomplishing anything significant.
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