Poor communication is a common reason for projects to go off track, writes Henry Clifford, who advises sending daily recaps to clients, even when there is no new information, to manage expectations and prevent frustration. "Tell the client you’ll be sending them daily recaps until the punchlist is 100% completed and they’re happy," writes Clifford. "This puts everyone on the same page and establishes accountability." Full Story: Residential Systems (11/17)
What's the secret sauce for leadership? Try the 3 Cs Effective leadership relies on the three Cs of challenging people, building confidence and coaching employees to achieve their best, writes Paul Thornton, the author of "The Leadership Process." "Each new challenge, especially the big ones, often requires some tailored coaching and affirmation to ensure a strong start," Thornton writes. Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (11/15)
Why putting nothing in the desired salary might work Filling out the desired salary field on job applications requires a strategic approach to balance personal value with employer budgets. Options include leaving the field blank, writing "negotiable," entering "000" or providing a salary range. Writing "negotiable" in the desired salary field shows your willingness to discuss salary based on the full compensation package. Full Story: MSN (11/17)
Hire Smart
Company asks candidates to choose their salary Ancient Gaming allows job candidates to set their own salary to attract leaders who value autonomy and self-confidence, marking a shift from traditional pay structures. The hiring process is gamified, where candidates face challenges that test their problem-solving and strategic thinking. Full Story: Digital Journal (11/19)
The Landscape
Employers crack down on company credit cards Looking to curtail late-night purchases that present certain kinds of risks, companies are starting to limit the time of day when cards can be used. They are also looking to eliminate expensive meals, so companies are also preventing cards from being used at high-end restaurants. Full Story: Fortune (tiered subscription model) (11/18)
Employment lawyer Brett Kaplan emphasizes the importance of negotiating key points in severance agreements, such as compensation, neutral references and noncompete clauses. Employees should not rush to sign severance agreements without fully understanding their rights and options, Kaplan says, adding that consulting an employment lawyer can be beneficial. Full Story: Fast Company (tiered subscription model) (11/15)
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Exercise alone can't make up for sitting all day Prolonged sitting is linked to a higher risk of heart disease, even for those who exercise regularly, according to a study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The research suggests that sitting for more than 10.6 hours a day increases the risk of cardiovascular issues. "What we can say from the findings is that moderate to vigorous physical activity -- so that's running, a brisk walk -- is not sufficient to neutralize the harmful effects of sitting," says Dr. Ezim Ajufo of Brigham and Women's Hospital. Full Story: CNN (11/18)
During the early 1800s, there were at least 144 time zones in North America, but in 1883, the concept of time zones was introduced across the US and Canada. The idea was conceived by train companies that wanted to prevent passengers from missing their trains ... and the trains from colliding on the tracks! Full Story: BBC (11/18)
SmartBreak: Question of the Day
"Ben-Hur" won 11 Academy Awards. "The Turning Point" was nominated for 11, but won zero. Which other film did the same?
