In a meeting last week the speaker was unable to attend so we each went around and gave our best business tip.  It was interesting that over half of the tips shared were about doing what you say you are going to do.  That seems like such an obvious thing – why was everyone talking about it? Clearly we have a problem. I think it is because people look at that two ways – on the one hand there are people who say they will do something but have no intention of actually doing it.  Those are the people we don’t work with after that first time because you know that’s what’s going on. The other way this happens is people intend to do exactly what theysay  – they will meet that deadline, they will attend the meeting, etc. But, things happen that get in […] Continue reading
First Thing In the Morning
There are a bunch of articles right now about what to do first thing in the morning. Â Most tell you not to check email, not to take phone calls, etc. Â The problem is, that would STRESS ME OUT! I totally get the people who say you shouldn’t get caught up in things without some thought at the beginning of the day, but the system has to work for you. I recommend determining what causes you stress – what things have to be done to make you feel comfortable. Â When I worked for my Dad, I thought it was fun to find out he walked into the office, put his things down, got a cup of coffee and stood in his window drinking coffee, reading the Wall Street Journal and watching people out the window as he planned his day. Â It was his work ritual and […] Continue reading
Stop Being Late!
We all love Dilbert, right? Lately, this one REALLY hits the mark for me: Why? Because suddenly, everyone else’s time is more important than mine. Â Granted I’m a bit grumpy because over 25% of my meetings scheduled last week didn’t happen because the other party didn’t show. At all. No phone call, no nothing. But I digress…. If you register for a meeting, sign up to attend something, schedule a meeting with another person, or just tell a friend you’ll meet them for coffee and don’t, you are communicating a whole bunch of information in a very direct way. Â Clearly that event / meeting / coffee whatever WASN’T IMPORTANT ENOUGH TO REMEMBER. Â Have you ever known anyone who likes to be forgotten? Also, schedule yourself so you have enough time to get where you need to be. Â Aren’t sure where you are going? Â Check a […] Continue reading