How to tackle difficult conversations at work It is much easier to discuss sensitive issues if you depersonalize them and try to approach things objectively, writes Gloria West. Make sure you have a lot of positive conversations with co-workers so that when a discussion is required over a difficult issue, it's easier to handle, West writes. Success Labs (3/26)
Making the Connection
Professional associations boast many benefits Membership in professional associations can allow you to attend events where you'll meet new networking partners and learn more about your industry, writes Career Valet president Marcelle Yeager. Professional associations can also provide you with a platform for showing your expertise and knowledge. U.S. News & World Report (3/30)
The Landscape
Women employees can boost sustainability efforts Women in the workplace can help improve a company's sustainability program, says Kellie McElhaney, founder of the Center for Gender Equity and Leadership at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business. Her study showed that companies with one or more women in executive board positions had higher environmental, social and governance performance scores. The Huffington Post (3/31)
Don't try to be impartial or remove the emotional component of decisions within your job search, which is a very personal endeavor, writes Michelle Dumas. Instead, dream big and pursue your passion while doing the necessary homework on companies you may be interested in working for. Forbes (3/31)
Balancing Yourself
Make your life better with simple habits Try to make time for brief periods of high-intensity exercise or meditation in order to boost your mood, reduce stress and be at your best each day, writes Patrik Edblad. Other simple changes that can improve your life include sorting your daily tasks based on importance and learning to say "no" to activities that you don't have time for or are not interested in. TheMuse.com (3/31)
Despite the generations-old schoolyard myth, pencils have never contained lead and instead use graphite, according to specialty pencil shop owner Caroline Weaver. Another little-known pencil fact is that pencils were luxury items made by cabinet makers back when the only other alternative was a quill and ink, Weaver said. 99U (3/21)
Criticism without suggestion is like trying to stop flood with flood and put out fire with fire. It will surely be without worth.
