A new title without a raise could be a good thing | Why it's time to embrace videoconferencing | Redirect unproductive conversations to finding solutions
A new title without a raise could be a good thing If you're given a new job title but no raise, it could be because the new role more accurately reflects the job you're already doing, or it could be an indication that a higher position is in the cards, says HR consultant Mikaela Kiner. Consider negotiating a trial run without a pay increase until your next performance review. Fast Company online (7/2)Why it's time to embrace videoconferencing Videoconferencing is preferable to email or traditional phone for group communication, yet many offices still rely on conference calls for meetings, consultant Scott Edinger writes. "The phrase 'phoning it in' exists because people can sit back, be less engaged, and less focused on a phone call," he writes. Harvard Business Review online (tiered subscription model) (6/29)
Making the Connection
Redirect unproductive conversations to finding solutions If we don't control conversations that are focused on gossip and other distractions, we might end up angry -- and get nothing accomplished, according to Marlene Chism. "Conversations that drive results are focused on the future, what's possible and what course-corrections are needed," she writes. SmartBrief/Leadership (7/2)
A Dunkin' Donuts employee has been fired for writing "Stop 'Hangin' out in-front of the store. If you have a Full Time Job! -- management" on a homeless customer's cup. The store owner has condemned the action and says he wants to reach out to the customer to apologize. The Cincinnati Enquirer (tiered subscription model) (6/29)
Your Next Challenge
CEO offers advice for job interviews Stand out at job interviews by explaining what motivates you, Korn Ferry CEO Gary Burnison writes. Talk about your career plans and accomplishments, and strive to show your genuine self. Forbes (6/27)
Balancing Yourself
Stop putting off your vacation You're waiting too long to take a vacation if you feel guilty about taking time off, you're saving your vacation days "just in case" or you think that vacation is too expensive, Abby Wolfe writes. "Figure out whatever it is you need to do to banish these excuses from your life and use those days," she advises. The Muse (7/2)
The percentage of Americans who describe themselves as "extremely proud" of their country has decreased to 47%, a Gallup survey has found. The figure represents the lowest level of US patriotism in the 18 years that Gallup has conducted the survey. Business Insider (7/3)
Editor's Note
SmartBrief will not publish Wednesday In observance of Independence Day in the US, SmartBrief will not publish Wednesday. Publication will resume Thursday.
We can only see a short distance ahead, but we can see plenty there that needs to be done.
