MAKING EVERYONE FEEL IMPORTANT ON A TEAM

When you manage others, it’s your responsibility to set the standard for behavior for the department. Your image, and how you are perceived, transcends the moment.

 

We all want to be part of a team where we feel included, energized, and appreciated.

 

When in a group meeting:

• Never be condescending in front of others.
• Listen to everyone’s opinions.
• Make everyone feel like a valued member of the team.
• There are no “bad” ideas, just not the “right” solution.
• Be considerate for others and their feelings.

If there are difficult people at the table, listen to them. Should the situation escalate, use their name to get immediate attention. Follow with non-threatening phrases beginning with “I”. Make statements such as “I believe..” or “I feel…”.

 

 

If you are angry or upset, do not share your emotions publicly. Have a private conversation to express your concerns.

 

The power of a group comes from making everyone feel valued.



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CONSIDERING A CAREER CHANGE?

On the average, you can expect to have between three and five career changes during your lifetime and up to six job changes within a career, according to a study conducted by the University of Wisconsin.

Changes in the economy or your workplace can lead to change. In many industries, job security is a thing of the past.

Change is inevitable. Stay in touch with your professional network. Former supervisors, peers, and associates will vouch for prior successes, as well as your aptitude for a new profession.

The best way to prepare for a new path is to create a road map. If you’re considering a career change, there are agencies through which you can sample a “dream job” and, for example, spend a few days brewing beer or working in an entertainment production company.

When considering a career change, explore your interests and consider potential training in this new area.

Work your network. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Who do you know who is successful in the field into which you’d like to move? Can someone provide an informational interview?

Should you choose to change careers, throughout the process maintain touch with your existing professional network. You never know when you might want to return to your prior industry.



 

ARE YOU IN A JOB OR A CAREER?

 

What’s the difference?

As an employee in a job, you contribute labor to the firm in exchange for payment of wages.

A career connotes a series of positions that cumulatively result in a body of work over the course of your life.

Jobs end. Careers are your life. Think about how much time you spend in the office. Work you enjoy transcends individual jobs.

All your experiences contribute to your career success. Instead of focusing on negative events and issues within a particular job, focus instead on how the skills and knowledge you develop can move you forward as you create your life’s work.

What do you want to do with your life? When you look at your accomplishments over the past few years, are you pleased with what you see? Is it time to set new goals?

Is there anything you would like to add or subtract that will move you forward in your chosen field?