People often shy away from risks because of unnecessary fears, says Coca-Cola executive Pamela Stewart. You don't always need a role model to follow, but you should pursue big dreams, take risks when you're getting comfortable and challenge yourself. Forbes (2/4) Win over cynics with honesty You can convert cynics by treating everyone fairly and following through on promises, writes Theodore Kinni. "Cynics can make great employees, but only if you can allay our suspicions about your motives and reignite our idealism," he writes. Strategy+Business online (free registration) (1/30)
The Landscape
Too much engagement can lead to burnout, researchers say Employee engagement is a hot topic, but too much can lead to symptoms of burnout, researchers said. Generally, they found workers who were optimally engaged had high resources but low work demands, in terms of workload, bureaucracy, concentration and attention, while those who were "engaged-exhausted" had high resources and high work demands. Harvard Business Review online (tiered subscription model) (2/2)
Your Next Challenge
Reentering the workforce? Consider a returnship program Programs for people returning to work attract a diverse workforce and offer experienced people flexible working arrangements, says Allison Robinson, founder of The Mom Project. BP recently worked with The Mom Project to develop a returnship program aimed at finding midlevel talent. UNLEASH News (2/5)Keep it simple with a good resume and cover letter Tailor your resume to the job you're applying for and ensure it looks professional, writes Heather Huhman. Although it's important to be honest, you don't need to say everything in your cover letter. Glassdoor (2/2)
Balancing Yourself
Combat work stress with these tips If you're feeling stressed at work, avoid reaching for stimulants such as caffeine or sugar to get you through your day, writes Robin Madell. Take regular breaks, make exercise a habit and plan your tasks at the beginning of the day. U.S. News & World Report (2/5)
The Water Cooler
Md. hunter knocked out by falling goose A hunter in Maryland was knocked unconscious last week by a falling goose he had just shot. Robert Meilhammer was hunting in a group before the incident and was treated for head and facial injuries at a nearby hospital. CBS News (2/2)