Probe the boss for answers when your idea loses steam You should feel comfortable asking your manager to reconsider if one of your ideas gets shot down, Richard Moy writes. Be frank, and seek advice about whether you should shift your focus to something else. The Muse (10/31)Overcome your fears before a big presentation Calm any jitters before a presentation by learning your material well and by preparing for possible technical problems, Jane Burnett writes. Consider augmenting your presentation with a group activity to spur brainstorming. Ladders (10/30)
Although small talk may seem inconsequential, it plays a role in the facilitation of social bonding, writes David Roberts. "It is an important skill, one that many people lack and are never taught," Roberts writes. Vox (10/28)
The Landscape
Lawsuit claims Facebook misclassifies workers to avoid overtime pay A former client solutions manager for Facebook is suing the company, saying it misclassifies certain workers so they aren't eligible for overtime compensation. The lawsuit, which seeks class-action status, alleges violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and Illinois' minimum wage laws. Quartz (10/30),Ars Technica (10/29)
Your Next Challenge
9 tips for mastering a video interview Job applicants should take key steps to prepare as employers rely more on remote interviews, writes Andrew Trechsel of Witt/Kieffer. Trechsel offers nine tips for successful video interviews, including testing computer equipment, setting up correct lighting and eliminating distracting backdrops. Training magazine (10/25)
The Water Cooler
Popular Adirondacks cabins have no electricity The Timberlock cabins in the Adirondack Mountains are completely booked through the 2018 season despite the fact none have electricity, says co-owner Bruce Catlin. The 63-acre property has a single landline telephone and one Ethernet cable. CNN (10/31)
