Create an outline, speaking notes and slides for your presentation at least five days before you're scheduled to present it, Richard Moy writes. Practice, get feedback and make edits to your slides over the next few days. The Muse (9/27) How to convince your boss to support your next move When your boss isn't supporting your efforts to move on to a new position or employer, try to ease the tension by offering to complete major projects and train your replacement before you depart. If you're worried that your boss is providing lukewarm recommendations, see if you can get a better one in writing, advises Mike Figliuolo. ThoughtLeaders (9/27)
Making the Connection
Great mentors can come in all age groups When considering a potential mentor, try not to get caught up in expectations based upon age or career stage. Even a professional who is younger than you may have skills in areas that you struggle with or specific experience that you lack, says Nancy Shenker. Ladders (9/22)
A law designed to prevent racial and gender bias in the workplace does not apply to sexual orientation, a Justice Department attorney has argued in federal appeals court. Though appeals courts have historically ruled for the employer in cases regarding sexuality, this legal challenge concerning Title VII might end up at the Supreme Court. Bloomberg (9/26)
Your Next Challenge
How to assess a failed job interview After an unsuccessful interview, replay key moments of your interactions with the hiring manager, Arnie Fertig writes. A pattern of rejections might demonstrate that you're missing specific training or experience. U.S. News & World Report (9/26)
Balancing Yourself
Shorter workdays could make workers happier, more productive The average employee works for approximately three hours of a normal eight-hour workday and would likely be more productive by working fewer hours, according to researchers. Shorter work weeks will help employees become more productive and maintain a better balance within their lives, said Treehouse CEO Ryan Carson. Business Insider (9/26)
The Water Cooler
Boston politician gallivants in clown costume Boston City Council candidate Pat Payaso recently dressed as a clown and drove around the city in a Dodge Viper with a clown-inspired paint job to attract attention to his campaign. Payaso's last name means "clown" in Spanish. Boston Herald (9/28)
He that will not apply new remedies must expect new evils, for time is the greatest innovator.
