Five Myths of Managing Up

Five Myths of Managing Up

Geoffrey James, BNET, Yahoo! HotJobs

Career advice from BNET: Like just about everything else in the workplace, the conventional wisdom about how to manage the boss has evolved considerably in recent years. If you hope to climb the career ladder by impressing your boss, these are the new and revised rules of the road.

Myth #1: Always be in the office before your boss arrives.

Conventional wisdom: If you're even five minutes late, the boss will think you're a slacker.

Why it's a myth: In an age of flex time, telecommuting, Blackberries, and instant messages, bosses care more about whether you're getting the job done than whether you're warming your seat.

Try this instead: Make sure the boss knows you're putting in extra hours at home or on the road, both by maintaining a rapid-response email or instant message presence, and by hinting at when you're putting in those extra hours.

Example: "I had to work over the weekend on this report, but I think you'll agree the extra effort was worth it."

Myth #2: Ask for permission before bringing up difficult issues.

Conventional wisdom: You want your boss to be in a good mood when you deliver bad news.

Why it's a myth: Thanks to email and cell phones, word travels faster than ever. If you don't tell your boss the bad news, somebody else will, and then you'll look evasive or stupid -- or both.

Try this instead: Deliver bad news in the context of what you're doing to fix the situation or make it better.

Example: "The Acme sale fell through, so we're launching a quick sales campaign with the other customers to make up the revenue loss."

Myth #3: Suggest ways to make the boss more popular with the team.

Conventional wisdom: The boss will appreciate your efforts to improve morale and teamwork.

Why it's a myth: If your boss is unpopular, there's very little you can do to change that perception.

Try this instead: When boss-bashing takes place beyond his earshot, don't join the fray. Instead, give the boss credit for things he does well. When the department spy (there always is one) reports back to the boss, he'll learn that you're an ally.

Example: "Yeah, Joe loses his temper sometimes. But he's really good at defending our interests in front of the budget committee."

Myth #4: Protect your boss from your underlings, and vice versa.

Conventional wisdom: If your boss talks directly to your team members, information could be revealed that you'd rather keep under wraps.

Why it's a myth: Attempting to control the flow of information inside today's wired-up corporations is utterly pointless.

Try this instead: Cue your underlings to reinforce the message you're giving the boss.

Example: "When the big boss asks what you're doing, be sure to point out how well you're supporting our group's quarterly sales goal. She likes that kind of thing."

Myth #5: Never say anything to the boss when you're angry.

Conventional wisdom: If you're hot under the collar, you're likely to say things you'll later regret.

Why it's a myth: Your emotions aren't the problem; the issue is how you express them.

Try this instead: Don't lose your cool. When you're frustrated or angry, say so -- but without blowing up or exploding. Avoid whiny complaining. Instead, focus on fixing the things you want to change, and ask for the boss's help in changing them.

Example: "OK, I understand we need to get the report done. But let's come up with a plan that doesn't involve everyone working over the holiday."

Copyright 2007 CNET Networks, Inc. All rights reserved. BNET offers managers the solutions and tools they need to solve the most pervasive day-to-day business challenges and perform with excellence in today's demanding professional environments. For more information, visit BNET.com.

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Surviving your worst meeting nightmares
Toot your own horn on the job
Make your best impression in 90 days
Find a new job near you

Four Ways to Overcome Boredom at Work

Four Ways to Overcome Boredom at Work

Caroline Levchuck, Yahoo! HotJobs, Yahoo! HotJobs

Even if you really enjoy your job, it's still possible to battle boredom as you work your way toward the boardroom. You may not be able to make big changes -- or change your job -- but you can make small adjustments to your routine that can make every day seem, well, a little less routine.

1. Switch Your Seat

Change your outlook at the office by changing your office -- literally. Ask your supervisor to help you find a new desk, office, or cube to call home. Even switching desks with a neighboring coworker can offer a fresh perspective.

If it's not possible to change your location, see if you can change how your desk is oriented. A new perspective can be just as refreshing as a new location.

2. Change Your Commute

Start and end your day in a different way by making changes to your commute. Consider a new mode of transportation, if it's possible. Take a subway. Ride a bike on sunny days. Carpool with a coworker. Use a new route to get to your job. You needn't change your commute permanently -- just long enough to help you escape the doldrums.

3. Find a New Way to Work

Shake things up at the office by changing how things get done.

Sick of attending that long-standing Monday morning meeting? Try to rally your boss to change it to the afternoon.

If you find yourself feeling most bored in the afternoons, try to arrange to do your favorite tasks then and tackle less desirable projects in the mornings.

If you usually communicate with coworkers via email and instant messaging, start dealing with people face to face. Increased interaction with coworkers may help improve your mood.

4. Get and Set a Goal

If you're not working toward something, it's no wonder that work has become boring. Identify a goal and set an "achieve by" date for it.

Your goal needn't be lofty as long as you have sufficient enthusiasm for it. Perhaps you want to tackle a new project. Maybe you'd like to pursue a promotion. Or you may even set a goal of finding a new job altogether. Whatever it is, actively moving toward an objective will make work much more interesting.

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Beat back boredom on the job
Using tact with a rude interviewer
Change jobs without changing employers
Find a new job near you

Six Common Job-Interview Questions.

Six Common Job-Interview Questions

Try These Sample Questions to Help Get Ready
By Tom Musbach

One of the easiest ways to build confidence before a job interview is to prepare answers to questions you might be asked. Whether you're applying for a position as a web programmer, accountant, or legal secretary, interviewers often use some general questions to assess candidates, so you'll increase your chances for success if you prepare for them in advance.

Six common questions are listed below, along with insights from several recruitment professionals about how to answer. As part of your interview preparation, take the time to formulate answers to each question, focusing on specific tasks and accomplishments.

"What are your strengths and weaknesses?"

This is one of the most well-known interview questions, and interviewers often ask it indirectly, as in, "What did your most recent boss suggest as areas for improvement in your last performance review?"

Lindsay Olson, founder of Paradigm Staffing Solutions, a firm specializing in hiring public relations professionals, suggests tailoring your "strengths" answer to skills that will benefit the prospective employer. Though you may have a knack for building gingerbread houses, it might be of little value for the job at hand.

When it comes to weaknesses, or areas of growth, Olson recommends building on your answer to include "how you have improved, and specifics on what you have done to improve yourself in those areas."

"Why did you leave your last position?"

"Interviewers will always want to know your reasoning behind leaving a company ? particularly short stints," says Olson. "Be prepared to tell the truth, without speaking negatively about past employment."

"Can you describe a previous work situation in which you ... ?"

This question comes in many forms, but what the interviewer is looking for is your behavior on the job. Your answer could focus on resolving a crisis, overcoming a negotiation deadlock, handling a problem coworker, or juggling multiple tasks on a project.

The theory behind this type of question is that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior, according to Yves Lermusi, CEO of Checkster, a company that offers career and talent checkup tools. "The key to responding well is preparing real job examples, describing your behavior in specific situations that demonstrate important skills that the job requires."

"What is your ideal work environment?"

This question is not about whether you prefer a cubicle or an office, so think broadly to include ideas about supervision, management styles, and your workday routine.

Bob Hancock, senior recruiter for video game publisher Electronic Arts, says that he uses this question with candidates because it can give "a sense of their work habits, how flexible they are with their schedules, and how creative they are."

"How do you handle mistakes?"

The best strategy for this general question is to focus on one or two specific examples in the past and, if possible, highlight resolutions or actions that might have relevance to the job you're interviewing for.

"Employers want to know they're hiring someone with the maturity to accept responsibility and the wherewithal to remedy their own mistakes," says Debra Davenport, a master professional mentor and columnist for the Business Journal in Phoenix.

"What is your most notable accomplishment?"

Paradigm Staffing's Olson suggests that candidates think of three or four accomplishments and quantify what their actions meant in terms of increasing revenues, saving resources, or improving resources.

"Being able to quantify your achievements in your career will launch you ahead of the rest," she says, "and demonstrate your ability to do the same as a future employee."

Ten Tips for Dealing with Difficult Coworkers.

Ten Tips for Dealing with Difficult Coworkers
Tuesday May 8, 8:00 am ET
By AllBusiness.com Is there someone in your workplace -- a domineering manager, a difficult coworker, or maybe even a demanding client or customer -- who drives you crazy? Are there people at your job who make you feel inadequate, unworthy, or just plain miserable?

Difficult people exist at work as in all facets of life, and they come in every variety. Dealing with these types is easier when the person is just generally obnoxious or when their behavior affects more than one person. But it is much tougher when they personally attack you or undermine your professional standing.

While you probably can't change such a person, the good news is that by following these 10 tips for dealing with problem people in the workplace, you can avoid being their victim:

1. Identify problem people. Learn to recognize when a coworker is "toxic." Difficult people come in all shapes and sizes: Some talk constantly and never listen. Others must always have the last word. Some coworkers fail to keep commitments. Others criticize anything that they did not create themselves. A toxic coworker can take the form of a cut-you-downer, a two-faced backstabber, a gossip, a meddler, an instigator, or a nasty competitor.
   
2. Beware bad bosses. Bosses are in charge, whether you like it or not. If your intention is to keep your job, you will have to learn how to get along with an arrogant or controlling boss. If you need to confront your boss, avoid putting him or her on the defensive. This is the most risky situation with which to deal.
   
3. Assess your situation. Initially, you might be shocked that you are being treated unprofessionally. Take a deep breath, and try to understand exactly what is happening to you. Realize that you are not alone.
   
4. Take concrete action. Once you are fully aware of what is happening, deciding to live with the situation long-term is rarely an option. Your situation won't improve unless you do something about it. In fact, left unaddressed, it usually gets worse. Let the coworker in question know that you are on to his or her game and that you will escalate it to a higher authority if necessary.
   
5. Don't let the problem fester. Make sure to take action swiftly. You may eventually become so angry that your efforts to address the situation could become irrational. It's far better to tackle the problem while you can maintain some objectivity and emotional control.
   
6. Safeguard your reputation. Constant complaining about the situation can quickly earn you the title of "office whiner." Managers might wonder why you're unable to solve your own problems, even if their tolerance of the situation is part of the problem. If you are embroiled in a constant conflict at work, you may end up getting blamed for other problems.
   
7. Don't sink to their level. As problematic as the person may be, there are many dysfunctional approaches to dealing with them in which you do not want to engage. Some no-no's: sending anonymous notes, gossiping about the person, bad-mouthing him or her to the boss.
   
8. Keep it private. Be sure to keep all of your dealings with the person private. Never lose your temper at work or engage in a confrontation in front of your boss or colleagues.
   
9. Make the first move. If you approach a difficult person with the belief that he or she is as eager as you are to restore harmony, you can make the first move. Start your conversation with Start your conversation with statements such as "I'm sorry for what I may have done to hurt you" or "I could be wrong."
   
10. Agree to disagree. If you personally dislike a coworker or boss, you can still learn from their opinions, viewpoints, and ideas. If you can find something to appreciate about them, comment on it in a favorable way. If that person senses your allegiance, they will be naturally drawn to you, and you may both learn to get along despite your differences.

Get more tips on career advancement and career development on AllBusiness.com. AllBusiness.com provides resources to help small and growing businesses start, manage, finance and expand their business. Copyright © 1999 - 2007 AllBusiness.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Two Words To Boost Your Career: Thank You.

Two Words To Boost Your Career: Thank You

By Rosalie Maggio

Beginning with the "thank you" for your first job interview and ending with the "thank you" for your retirement party, your career can benefit enormously from simple notes of gratitude written along the way. Frequent, well-written thank-you notes can foster professional success in unimaginable ways, and they are especially important after a job interview.

The Mechanics

Thank-you notes should be printed on letterhead stationery or personal-business stationery, or -- for a little warmer tone -- handwritten on fold-over note cards. You can simplify the process by sending an email thank-you message (more on this later), which is not as distinctive as a handwritten note but far better than no message at all.

As you're writing, don't worry about being creative or clever or profound. People are so charmed to receive thank-you notes at all that they are seldom very critical. "Thank you very much" are words that everyone likes to read.

After the Job Interview

An essential job-seeking technique as well as a gesture of courtesy is to thank the people who interview you. Write a note immediately after the interview and before a decision has been made.

1. State what you liked about the interview, the company, and the position.
2. Emphasize briefly and specifically your suitability for the job.
3. Address concerns about your qualifications that came up during the interview.
4. Mention any issue that you didn't have the opportunity to discuss. But primarily say thanks.
5. If you felt you had a particularly friendly interview, you might close with a sentence or two referring to something you talked about unrelated to the interview (like sports, common interests, or family).

Keep in mind that several people spent time setting up the appointment, doing the paperwork, interviewing you, and doing the paperwork again. They'll appreciate a little recognition.

A few letter-writing experts dislike the "thanks again" that concludes so many thank-you letters and notes. However, it is a popular and benign way of reminding the reader of the purpose of your note. If you like it, use it.

A Sample Note

A sample thank-you note for a job interview might look like this:

I enjoyed this morning's discussion of the research position you want to fill. I was pleased to know that my advanced degree is definitely an asset, and I was impressed by the team spirit among the other employees I met. Thanks so much for your time and for the congenial interview.

Other Factors To Consider

You can email your thanks, but in most cases, it's not as impressive. The point of a thank-you note is that it is personal and somewhat formal. However, if the company you're interviewing with tends to do business by email and if most of your contacts have been through email, then it's definitely the way to go.

Once you're hired, you'll want to send thank-you notes -- or notes of appreciation, which is almost the same thing -- to the interviewers, your new boss, and anyone else you dealt with throughout the interview process. Saying thanks is one of the least expensive, easiest strategies in creating a favorable environment for yourself wherever you go.

Harvey Mackay, founder and chairman of the Mackay Envelope Corporation and bestselling author of "Swim with the Sharks (Without Being Eaten Alive)," says, "Anyone too busy to say 'thank you' will get fewer and fewer chances to say it."

Be Gutsy at Work

Be Gutsy at Work

Tory Johnson, Yahoo! HotJobs

Every day I receive e-mails and phone calls from women and men who say they're having trouble reaching their career goals. They express serious doubt about their abilities to accomplish what they really want to do.

Each time I tell them an anecdote about a young Michael Gelman.

While in journalism school at the University of Colorado, Gelman solicited much advice from his professors. Most of them said that if he wanted a career in television, he'd have to start in a small market and hope to work his way up. He let it all sink in -- and then abandoned their directives.

Confidence Pays Off

Instead, armed with an abundance of energy and determination, Gelman headed to the Big Apple as an intern on an early version of what ultimately became the popular talk show hosted today by Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa. Gelman once told me he knew that "someone had to get those TV jobs, so why not me? I realized that these were ordinary people -- nothing to put on a pedestal -- and if they could do it, so could I."

That passion, guts and logic worked: In 1987, after freelance assignments and staff stints, Gelman became the youngest executive producer of a national talk show, and he proceeded to turn the program into a ratings powerhouse.

It could be argued that his talents in television are on par other people's skills in their chosen lines of work -- from administrative assistants to electrical engineers. But it's his can-do attitude that really sets him above and beyond many of us.

Your Attitude Adjustment

Most of us let "reality" squash our career dreams before they've even had a chance to develop. Instead of listing all the reasons you can't do something, just this once list all the reasons you can, and should. Positive thinking takes practice. We all have negative thoughts from time to time, but it's possible to turn your negative thoughts into positive ones by following these simple guidelines.

Identify your negative thoughts. Negative ideas can spring into your mind so fast and so often that you are hardly even aware of them anymore. Consider the last dream or idea you rejected. Maybe you thought about asking for a new assignment at work, for example. Write down all the excuses and problems you came up with to reject the idea.

Weigh each excuse for validity. Take each item on the list and think through whether they are really obstacles that could block you from achieving your goals ... or just excuses based on fear or procrastination. In the example above, not having enough experience could potentially keep you from getting the assignment. But fears about handling the extra workload or wondering if it has already gone to someone else will not prevent you from getting the assignment. Let's face it: They are simply excuses not to go for what you want.

Think of ways to overcome your obstacles. So you don't quite have the experience to take on the project. How can you overcome this? Maybe you are willing to cooperate with a coworker who does have the experience, so you can learn what you will need to know on this project and you can work independently the next time. Or maybe you can take on a smaller project until you build up to the one you want. If your dream assignment has indeed gone to someone else, try to develop a few main reasons why that person had the advantage over you. Perhaps there are areas for you to focus on going forward to improve your chances for the next opening.

Reclaim your dreams. Once you have successfully broken down all your excuses, re-imagine the dream. You are the savvy team leader of the most important assignment for the company. You handle it with expertise and efficiency. Is it still a dream that fits?

Instead of figuring out why you can't accomplish what you've set your eyes on -- there's way too much competition or you "just don't have enough time" -- turn the tables on that negativity. Figure out exactly what it'll take to get you where you want to go and start heading down that path. Get going today.

Tory Johnson is the CEO of Women For Hire and the workplace contributor on ABC's "Good Morning America."? Connect with her at www.womenforhire.com.

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Advance by joining a professional group
Four tips for interview follow-up
Dealing with an idea-stealing boss
Find a new job near you

Is Your Job in Jeopardy?

Is Your Job in Jeopardy?

Debra Davenport, for Yahoo! HotJobs, Yahoo! HotJobs

Sometimes even the greatest jobs can run amuck, no matter how much effort and passion we put into them. No one ever wants to be laid off or fired, but the reality is it can happen to the best of us. What's important is to be aware of the warning signs that your employer may be considering letting you go.

Some clues are more subtle than others, so use -- and trust -- your intuition. If you get the feeling that things are going awry at work, you're probably right. Fine-tune your antennae to pick up the following potential signals:

Changes in communication.
Your boss avoids eye contact, maintains distance, and chooses to communicate via email rather than your usual face-to-face conversations. Smiles become infrequent, and communication becomes impersonal and matter-of-fact.

Responsibilities are diminished or taken away.
No matter how it might be sugar-coated, if projects or responsibilities are reassigned to someone else, this should be a red flag alerting you that you're not indispensable.

You sense your replacement has just been hired.
Be cognizant of new hires and their areas of responsibility. A new employee who is unexpectedly sharing your duties, supervising you or working closely with your boss might be in training to assume your position.

You're excluded, kept in the dark.
If you're suddenly excluded from meetings, projects and communications in which you've actively been involved, you need to ask yourself -- and your boss -- what the reason is. Often, when employees are about to be terminated, they're ostracized so that they're no longer privy to company information.

Praise turns into criticism.
Of course, we can't please everyone all the time, and positive criticism is necessary to improve our game. But if it seems that, no matter what you do or how hard you try, your efforts are met with disapproval, your job may be at risk. Continual criticism can have a negative impact on performance, productivity, and wellness. Before your job becomes unhealthy, take a step back and honestly assess your situation. It may be time to move on and find a new job.

You're passed over for a promotion or raise.
While not always a sign that you're about to be let go, being passed over is a signal to evaluate your competencies and skills, and identify areas where you might benefit from some professional development.

You're placed on probation.
Probation is not necessarily the end of the world. In fact, it requires that your employer point out his/her specific concerns about your performance as well as detailed suggestions for improvement. In addition, probationary periods provide a timeline and typically some quantifiable measure to determine if you're meeting expectations. Knowing the details of your employer's expectations and where you might be falling short can empower you to make prompt, positive changes.

The best way to avoid the above scenarios is to be proactive. If you sense your position is on shaky ground, take immediate action. Communicate with your supervisors. Ask questions. Get to the bottom of any possible dissatisfaction, address the issue, and document the steps you take to resolve it.

Have a backup plan, just in case. Polish your resume and reconnect with people who have provided references in the past. And, if you do lose your job, don't hang your head. Getting fired may actually be a positive sign that you've outgrown your current position, and that's certainly nothing to be ashamed about.

Debra Davenport, PhD, is a career expert, Executive Professional Mentor and the president of DavenportFolio, a licensed firm with offices in Phoenix and Los Angeles that mentors entrepreneurs and professionals. She is the author of "The Ten Commitments of Highly Successful People" and can be reached at debra@davenportfolio.com.

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Triumph over a bad performance review
Put your career change in motion
Beat back boredom on the job

Using Tact With a Rude Interviewer

Using Tact With a Rude Interviewer

Carla-Krystin Andrade, for Yahoo! HotJobs, Yahoo! HotJobs

"Be courteous" is a fundamental rule of interviewing. But what do you do when the interviewer's behavior is offensive? You want to ace the interview and leave with your self-respect intact. Here are some strategies for responding tactfully to a discourteous interviewer.

Do a Reality Check

Sometimes we read more into a remark than the interviewer intended because of the pressure and heightened emotions of an interview. Before you take action, ask yourself: "Was that really disrespectful?" Some issues are clear-cut, such as age, religion, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Others, unfortunately, are not. If the interviewer's behavior is clearly disrespectful, then respond with the strategies outlined below. If you're unsure, then put it aside and continue with your interview.

Decide Whether to Salvage It

You worked hard to land your interview. Your priority is to keep the interview focused on what you have to offer the company. Take a deep breath and briefly consider some reasons to make the best of this challenging situation.

• You can decide about the company after you complete the interview.
• The interviewer doesn't represent the entire company.
• The job may not involve working with the interviewer.
• This behavior could be part of a "stress interview" in which they test your response to high-pressure situations.

Get Back on Track

Sure, it's a challenge to stay polite when you're dealing with less-than-polite behavior. Yet, there's a lot you can do to get your interview back on track.

• Be open-minded. The interviewer may recognize the problem with her behavior and try to fix it.
• Ignore the disrespectful comment and talk about your skills.
• Ask the interviewer a question that will shift the focus to an area of interest to him.
• Keep your sense of humor and make a light remark.
• Ask for feedback or clarification if the interviewer repeatedly contradicts or interrupts you.
• Use "I" statements and be polite when you give the interviewer your opinion.

Know When to Exit

Sometimes a graceful exit is a necessary last resort when you've done everything you can to save the interview. Thank the interviewer for her time. Then, politely excuse yourself from the interview without commenting on her behavior. If you must say something, be courteous.

Learn from Your Experience

Before you put this encounter behind you, identify what you've learned about this potential coworker. Then use this experience to improve how you respond to difficult people.

The final step is to practice dealing with negative interview situations with someone who'll give you honest feedback. In this way, you'll be ready to act with composure if you ever encounter another disrespectful interviewer.

Since 1989, Dr. Carla-Krystin Andrade has helped job hunters worldwide win jobs and achieve their career goals through her website, stressfreezone.com, books, and seminars. Her latest books are "Kick Start Your Job Search, Now!" and "How to Win the Job Search Game."

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Two Words to Boost Your Career: Thank You
Six Common Job-Interview Questions
The 10 Biggest Interview Killers

Office Gossip Can Be Productive

Office Gossip Can Be Productive

Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs, Yahoo! HotJobs

We've all heard the warning: Don't repeat office gossip. While that's generally sound advice, there are times when quietly passing on a bit of informal news can be good.

But when you've got a juicy story on the tip of your tongue, how can you tell whether you should pass it on or clam up?

Intent Is the Key

One measure, experts say, is your reason for doing it. If your intent is malicious -- if you're telling a story about someone else to further your own position, or to tear that person down -- then speaking up will likely do more harm than good, to your team and to your professional reputation.

But maybe you're just trying to save a colleague from a potentially embarrassing situation, for example, or to help a new coworker make a good first impression. This type of information sharing is a crucial part of most organizations, said Roy Lewicki, a professor at the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University. "People want to know what's happening."

Helpful Outcomes

This type of "good" gossip can produce the following favorable results.

* Help a new hire fit in. New employees need more than an orientation about their benefits and an introduction to the computer system. They also need to understand the culture of their new workplace, key events in their workgroup's past and the personalities of their new colleagues.

This can include work-related idiosyncrasies, said Rich Martinez, executive vice president and chief operating officer of IS2BE, a high-tech company in San Jose, California: "'If you bring a report in to the supervisor, make sure you've done this first,' or 'If you're going to this person's meeting, make sure you're on time.'"

* Alert management to problems. "You often hear about the grapevine being useful for finding out things that are going on that you need to address," said Carole C. Edman, a human resources consultant and coach in San Jose.

It can be helpful for managers to be tuned in to what workers are saying so they can respond to and clarify, if possible, the latest worries about layoffs or rumors about the company being sold.

* Prevent awkward situations. Sometimes sharing more personal information about a colleague can keep new coworkers from embarrassing themselves. If a coworker's mother is ill and the worker seems distracted, for example, it can be helpful for a colleague who knows about the illness to tell others who are complaining about the worker's performance, Martinez said.

"Then people understand, and they deal with that situation differently," Martinez said. "If you can give someone the benefit of some knowledge you might have and prevent an embarrassing or ugly situation, you should."

* Humanize the boss. Telling new hires about the time the intimidating boss burned the hamburgers at the barbecue could be a good use of informal storytelling, said Eric Marcus, a consulting social psychologist, based in New York, who works with organizations on dealing with conflict. "It can be useful when it exposes people's humanity," he said. "I think the intent is the critical thing."

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Is your job in jeopardy?
How to work without walls
Using tact with a rude interviewer

The Savvy Networker

Liz Ryan, Yahoo! HotJobs

I was at a networking event the other evening, and I met a woman as I was walking into the venue. She told me her name and asked me what I was working on. "Well," I said, "tomorrow I'm leading a management training course for a local company." I mentioned the company's name. "Wow, that is perfect!" she said. "I want to get a job with that company. How should I follow up with you?"

I wanted to say, "Follow up about what? I don't even know you."

Since the working population has glommed onto the idea of avid networking over the past decade or so, some people have really taken it to extremes. They don't even feel the need to introduce themselves before trying to jump on whatever professional coattails are in view, in order to advance their job searches or new-client development efforts.

Have Some Perspective

Now, most of us are familiar with the residential white pages -- the part of the phone book that lists the individual householders, their names and their phone numbers. Here's what we know about those people whose numbers are listed in the white pages: They have phones! And not only that, we know that they are willing to publicly list their names and numbers.

Still, we wouldn't pick up the phone book, dial a number at random, and say to the person who answers the phone, "Hello! I was hoping you could help me with my job search."

So why would we view every stranger we meet at a networking event (or online, via a networking site like LinkedIn) as a gung-ho partner in our professional endeavors, even without inquiring?

Manners Matter

I got a LinkedIn connection invitation from a person I've never met or heard of, with this introduction: "I hope you will connect to me on LinkedIn, which I hear is a tremendous networking tool. I want to make contacts at Bank of America." Talk about the direct approach!

This kind of me-first networking offers nothing in exchange for the valuable time and energy that my prospective contact hopes to hit me up for.

Now, I'm crazy about helping job-seekers and entrepreneurs. I am in active email correspondence with a dozen or so of them right now. I don't need or want anything in return for my thoughts and advice. But here is why I'm corresponding with these dozen people instead of the pushy lady at the networking event: because they asked me nicely. They showed an awareness that I, like every person on Earth, have other things I could be doing than assisting them. When it comes to networking, courtesy and tact make all the difference.

My eighth-grader daughter refers to certain people in her social group as "maybe a little WRAM." What does WRAM mean? I asked her. It's an acronym, she said: it stands for World Revolves Around Me. There are a few networkers I could affix that label to without much trouble. Don't be one of them: networking is supposed to be a two-way street, and the more you focus on helping your fellow networkers, the more good things will come back to you -- trust me.

Liz Ryan is a 25-year HR veteran, former Fortune 500 VP and an internationally recognized expert on careers and the new millennium workplace. She is the author of "Happy About Online Networking," creator of the Career Bound workshop, and founder of the global women's organization formerly known as WorldWIT. Contact Liz at liz@asklizryan.com.

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

The perils of being a go-getter
Office gossip can be productive
More networking tips

How to Have a Business Conversation

How to Have a Business Conversation

by Ben Stein

Posted on Friday, April 13, 2007, 12:00AM

In the course of climbing the corporate ladder, or of just managing the little corner of the world you occupy, you have to communicate with people. It's not always easy, but you have to do it.

Some of this communication amounts to simple conversation, and it's been dawning on me for a long time now that a great many young people don't know how to have one. In fact, a great many older people don't know how to have a conversation, either.

Ten Conversation Tips

Frankly, I don't see how people can advance in their careers if they don't know how to have a conversation. For most people, work -- not investments -- is their livelihood.

So I thought I'd offer up a few basic ideas on how to have a conversation with someone you just met.

1. Begin by knowing that the people you're talking to mostly want to talk about themselves.

They want to talk about their lives, their tastes, their views. To the extent that you let them do that, you facilitate conversation and good feeling.

A simple way to begin a conversation is to ask a person the most basic question: "How are you today?" The person will usually give a cursory answer such as, "I'm fine. How are you?"

If your conversation partner goes off on a long tangent about what she had to eat that morning, what she bought that afternoon, and how her mother treated her that evening, you're warned to simply terminate the conversation at once and go on to the next person.

Otherwise, you might continue by asking, "Where are you from?" This usually allows for the next rule of conversation:

2. Establish common ground.

For example, if your conversation partner is from Idaho, talk about how often you've been to Idaho and how beautiful it is there. If you've never been to Idaho, talk about how you've heard it's beautiful there and how much you've always wanted to visit.

This helps to establish the next rule:

3. Say kind, generous things to your conversation partner.

Talk about how beautiful his home area is. Talk about how you have seen the mountains there and how fabulous they are. Talk about how bracing the air there is.

Or, if you can't think of anything to say about the person's home, offer compliments about something else. Talk about how nice her hair looks or how nice his suit is. People like to be complimented. If they don't like to be complimented, they're not well in the head and you ought to leave them well enough alone.

If they react negatively to compliments, again, move on to the next topic or the next person.

4. Keep your comments brief.

Don't respond to a question about where you're from with a long, detailed answer about all the places you've ever been. Talk about how you are that day in a short, punchy way. Answer in detail only if your partner asks in detail.

You know how you don't like to be bored by long answers? Everyone else on the planet feels the same way. Brevity is a good way to make friends. You never want to be so brief as to be rude, but again, brief is good.

5. Get back on common ground again as soon as you can.

Ask what your colleague or neighbor does for a living. If he or she does anything at all, say how interesting that is. Ask for an explanation of what it is if you don't understand.

I've had some of the most interesting, revealing conversations of my life just by asking people what they do. What does a "chemical engineer" do? Just by asking that I learned volumes about how the energy business works. What does a petroleum geologist do? What's sedimentary rock and how do you get oil out of it? I learned all this just by asking people what they do and then asking for more explanation.

People want to talk about their lives, and you oblige them, make them like you, and learn from them by allowing them to talk.

This is especially true in job interviews. You want to allow your interviewer to do a big chunk of the talking. In so doing, you learn where to make your points, where to keep quiet, and how to explain yourself so you fit into the interviewer's world.

6. Don't brag unless you do it in a funny way.

Don't tell people how much money you make. Don't tell people how cool you are. No one likes a braggart. No one likes to feel small compared with anyone else.

Just be modest about your achievements. Even if the person you're talking to brags, don't brag yourself.

7. Unless you're specifically asked about it, don't talk about religion at all.

You're very likely to make enemies and not at all likely to make friends if you bring up religion. Most people have different views about religion from yours, and you can scarcely conceive of a better way to alienate people than trying to press your religious views on them.

8. The same goes for politics.

You can hardly hope to meet someone whose political views exactly match yours, so you can easily offend by pressing your views on someone else. Just smile and listen quietly and go on to the next thing.

Unless you meet someone who says, "I know you and I totally agree with you," don't get into politics at all.

9. If you talk about current issues, do so in a genial, friendly way.

Don't start fights about Hillary Clinton or George Bush or anyone else. Just smile and laugh about it, and if the person you're talking to insists on saying provocative things, change the subject.

If the person persists, say you have work to do and, with a smile, go on to something else.

10. Make whatever points you need to make in a hurry, and then leave.

Don't feel your time and your conversation partner's time have no value. Time is everything in life, and you oblige people by saving their time.

In a job interview, for example, make whatever points -- always complimentary -- you care to make, answer questions, and then leave. But leave with a smile and a firm handshake.

You'd be amazed at how many people don't know any of these rules. If you do, you're way ahead of the game.

Ten Tips on Preparing for a Job Interview

Friday, March 23, 2007

Your hard work sending out all those cover letters and résumés has finally paid off -- you've been called in for a face-to-face job interview. Congratulations! But now is not the time to sit back and think about how you're going to spend your fat new salary; you've got a lot of work to do. The better prepared you are beforehand, the better your chances are of walking out of the interview with a confident smile on your face that says "I think I got the job!"

Keep in mind that in the competitive business world, there are sure to be dozens of other highly qualified candidates going after your job. It's important to make yourself stand out as someone special. Now is the time to practice exactly how you will sell yourself to a prospective employer during that crucial first meeting.

Here are 10 important tips to help your next interview lead to your next job:

1. Do your homework. Research the company beforehand so that you can showcase that knowledge during the interview. This will boost your credibility with the interviewer and will help you to formulate intelligent questions to ask him or her.

2. Know where you're going. Make sure to find out where the office is and how to get there. Do you know how long the trip will take? Do you have the name and phone number of the person you'll be meeting with? Do you know how easy it is to park? Save yourself time and unnecessary stress by figuring these things out before heading to the interview.

3. Look the part. Your clothing should be neat, pressed, and professional looking. As it can be difficult to know the culture of the office environment beforehand, err on the side of conservative. Even if everyone's wearing jeans when you arrive, you're still probably better off having shown up in a suit. However, don't be afraid to inject some personality into your look, and don't neglect the details: make sure to have a fresh haircut and clean, manicured nails.

4. Rehearse beforehand. Prior to your interview, prepare answers to common questions the interviewer is likely to ask, such as What are your strengths and weaknesses? Why do you want to work here? Why should we hire you? and the ever popular Tell me about yourself. Conduct a mock interview with a trusted friend as practice.

5. Secure your references. Find at least three key people -- former supervisors, colleagues, or instructors -- who are willing to serve as your professional references. Be sure to secure their permission beforehand, and be certain that they will speak highly of you if contacted by a potential employer.

6. Arrive early. Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the interview. Visit the restroom and check your appearance in the mirror. Announce yourself to the receptionist to let him or her know that you have arrived and that you have an appointment. Turn your cell phone off so it doesn't ring during your meeting.

7. Bring necessary documentation. Make a checklist of documents you will need for the interview and make sure you have them in your briefcase before leaving home. These documents may include extra copies of your résumé, a passport, driver's license, Social Security card, or portfolio of writing samples or other professional work. If you are a recent graduate, you should also bring along your college transcripts.

8. Sell yourself. The interview is your chance to shine, so now is not the time to be humble. Develop a 25-second sales pitch that sings your praises. In business this is called an "elevator speech," a compelling overview of why you? that can be recited in the time it takes to ride the elevator. It should include your strengths, your abilities, and what sets you uniquely apart from other applicants.

9. Don't neglect to ask questions. Based on your earlier research, ask how the responsibilities of the open position relate to the company's goals and plans for the future. Interviewers are often favorably impressed by candidates who show they've done their homework and are knowledgeable about the organization.

10. Follow up. After the interview, don't forget to send a handwritten note or friendly email thanking the interviewer for his or her time and consideration, as well as restating your interest and commitment to the position. If you don't hear anything after one week, call to politely inquire when they will be making a final decision.

Remember to keep this in mind: Every interview is a valuable learning experience. Even if you don't get this particular job, when the next interview rolls around, you'll be much better prepared and more at ease with the whole process. All of which can go a long way to boosting your confidence and improving your chances of being offered the next job. Good luck!

Copyright © 1999 - 2007 AllBusiness.com Inc. All rights Reserved.

The 10 Biggest Interview Killers

The 10 Biggest Interview Killers

By Joe Turner

When you're on a romantic dinner date, you try to avoid "mood killers" -- talking with a mouth full of food, cursing an ex-lover, or complaining about a foot ailment. During a job interview, you have to avoid similar spoilers if you want to make a good impression.

Here are 10 of the most common "advantage killers" and how you can steer clear of them during your next job interview.

1. Not knowing your aim. Too often candidates think their purpose in an interview is simply to ask for a job. Your goals are to demonstrate how you are a good fit for the organization, and to assess whether the job is really right for you.

2. Being too needy. Neediness is probably the No. 1 advantage-killer in an interview. Remind yourself before walking in the door: you do not need this job. You do need food, you do need air, and you do need water. Keep things in perspective.

3. Lousy nonverbal communication. This is about demonstrating confidence. Your first impression makes the difference. When you enter the interview room, stand up straight, make eye contact, and offer a strong handshake with your interviewer. If necessary, jot their name on your notepad as soon as you seat yourself. Do the same for any other individual you are meeting with.

4. Compromising your position. You should always participate in the interview as an equal, not a subordinate, of the person conducting the interview. Often this is a subtle matter of self-perception, so remind yourself before the interview.

5. Falling into the answers-only rut. An interview is a conversation. Don't just answer their questions. That's why you've prepared stories to highlight your accomplishments, which will be your moments to shine. When you do answer any questions, make sure that you answer immediately and follow up with a question of your own, if at all possible.

6. Rambling. Telling your interviewer more than they need to know could be fatal. Your stories should be 60 to 90 seconds long and they should have a relevant point. Focus, focus, focus. Stick with your rehearsed stories, your research, and the questions you need to ask. Don't fill up the silence with unnecessary talk.

7. Being overly familiar. A good interviewer will be skilled enough to put you at ease within the first 10 minutes of the interview. That doesn't mean that they have become your best friend. Don't let your guard down. You're there to interview them and get answers to your questions. Treat this from start to finish as the professional business meeting that it is.

8. Making incorrect assumptions. Points are not deducted at the interview for asking questions when you don't understand something. Don't guess at what your interviewer means. Effective interviewing is all about collecting information in real time, taking good notes, and responding only to the actual facts you've collected. If you find yourself making assumptions or guessing about something that was said, stop and ask for clarification before you answer.

9. Getting emotional. At times the interviewer may hit a nerve or consciously try to provoke you into an "outburst." Don't fall for it. Clear your mind of any fears or expectations, so you can maintain a calm, open-minded perspective at all times. When emotions enter into an interview, failure follows.

10. Not asking specific questions. You want to find out more about what this job is really about and whether you want it. Arrive with a list of several prepared questions about the company, the position, and the people who work there. Ask questions that begin with "what," "how," and "why." Avoid simple yes/no questions. Get your interviewer talking as much as possible, then take notes. Most interviewers are unimpressed by someone who has no questions.

The First 10 Minutes Are Top Priority

The First 10 Minutes Are Top Priority

Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs, Yahoo! HotJobs

First impressions are critical during the hiring process.

In fact, many executives said they form an opinion about hiring a candidate within 10 minutes, despite spending nearly an hour in the actual interview, according to a recent poll by Robert Half Finance & Accounting.

"The job seeker needs to remember that he or she is being assessed from the minute after walking in the door of the company," says Julie Jansen, career coach and author of "You Want Me to Work with Who?" "The receptionist could make an impromptu comment later to the interviewer about something the candidate did or said."

Experts recommend the following tips to make the best impression during the opening minutes of a job interview.

Before the Interview

* Ask someone close to you to assess you for body language, appearance and overall demeanor, says Jansen. "Maybe you don't realize that you twirl your hair on your finger when you're nervous or that you lick your lips or forget to smile."

* Dress the way the boss or interviewer would dress. "Any dressier makes you look like you're trying too hard or are out of sync with that workplace's culture," says career expert Marty Nemko, author of "Cool Careers for Dummies." "To find out what the boss wears, simply ask the person who contacted you to schedule your interview."

* Get to the interview location early. "Sit in your car and mentally visualize or 'rehearse' how you'll greet the interviewer," says Richard Phillips, career coach and owner of Advantage Career Solutions in Palo Alto, California. "This is the same thing that slalom skiers do before the race. Envision yourself making a good impression, and chances are you will."

* Do your homework. Research the company, and learn about its products and services. Read the job description very carefully and know specifically what you have to offer, says Phillips. "Interviewers will quickly write off a candidate as lazy when they don't have basic and easily available information."

During the Interview

* Convey enthusiasm. "If the interviewer asks how you are, reply, 'I'm well and really looking forward to learning about the job and the company,'" says Phillips. "Never tell the interviewer you feel nervous."

* Ask a wise question early in the interview. "For example, 'In the end, what is most important in doing this job well?'" says Nemko. "That shows your intelligence and self-confidence in being willing to ask questions early. It also essentially gives you the answer to the test -- it tells you what to stress in the rest of the interview."

* Tell a "PAR story." Nemko advises candidates to look for an opportunity in the first few minutes to tell a three-part story. "In a PAR story, you tell of a Problem you faced, how you Approached it, and the positive Resolution."

* Stick to basic etiquette rules. "Sit up straight, don't fidget, smile politely, and speak when spoken to," Phillips concludes. "And don't fall into the trap of thinking that just because the interviewer is informal, you can follow suit. Remember that they're in their own environment, and you are a guest."

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

"American Idol" and your job interview
New job: Impress them within 90 days
Five soft skills you need to succeed
Find a new job near you

'American Idol' and Your Job Interview

'American Idol' and Your Job Interview

Joe Turner, for Yahoo! HotJobs, Yahoo! HotJobs

If you are interviewing for a better job, try watching "American Idol," the huge money-making singing contest from Fox these days. Love it or hate it, "American Idol" (and its country equivalents) is a good metaphor for life on a number of different levels, which is one reason why it's so popular. Job seekers could definitely learn a lot by watching this show.

Branding Gets the Edge

"American Idol" sometimes feels like some weird group interview where each candidate makes his or her case to three fickle interviewers and is either advanced or "let go." Aside from the constant reminder that this is a "singing competition," we all know it's more than that. It's about that elusive quality called a "total package." Ditto the job interview.

Here's the reason why all job interviewees should take heed of the show: It's about a process called "differentiation." Some candidates understand this early, while a few just get lucky. Too often, we'll see a very weak singer retained while a much stronger performer gets cut. Some may call this an injustice, but it's not so. What's happened is that the "total package effect" came into play. A singer may win more votes, not for singing ability, but for that fact that the candidate's "brand" differentiated him or her from the pack. No one else is similar by a long shot, and that brand triggers visibility, memorability, and votes.

The moral of the story: you don't have to be the best singer, just the most remembered decent singer. Same for the job interview. You don't always have to be the best candidate with the top skills. You do have to find a way to be the most remembered, hirable candidate.

Know Who You Are

On "Idol," almost everyone who begins the show is a decent singer. Those who know who they are early in the show always enjoy a huge advantage over those who haven't a clue, even though they may be better singers. Those who understand this principle include Chris Daughtry, Bo Bice, and Taylor Hicks, to mention three.

They knew their strengths, and they stayed with them, often maddenly so. And look where they are now.

In many ways, this is not about finding and molding raw talent, it's about finding and marketing talent that's already well-branded. The interview process is much the same. The branding should occur long before you walk into the interview room. Too many job hunters try to get through the interview by merely giving the "right" answers. The real issue is they haven't a clue about who they really are or what they bring to a company.

As a job seeker, you must define your strengths and hone a message (your "unique selling proposition"). This is called branding. Branding is a process that clearly defines who you are and what clear benefit you bring to an employer.

If you can't do that, then please watch "American Idol." You'll see what awaits the next fallen "idol" who failed to learn this message in the singing world.

As a recruiter, Joe Turner has spent the past 16 years finding and placing top candidates in some of the best jobs of their careers. Discover more of his job interviewing insights by visiting his site.

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Using tact with a rude interviewer
Job interview: Balancing skills required!
Addressing "skeletons" in the interview
Develop your personal brand

10 Mistakes Managers Make During Job Interviews

10 Mistakes Managers Make During Job Interviews

BNET Staff, Yahoo! HotJobs

Career advice from BNET: Hiring is one of the hardest parts of managing a team. A lot is riding on the initial meeting, and if you're nervous or ill-prepared -- or both -- it can make you do strange things. The following mistakes are all too common, but they're easy to avoid with some advance preparation.

1. You Talk Too Much

When giving company background, watch out for the tendency to prattle on about your own job, personal feelings about the company, or life story. At the end of the conversation, you'll be aflutter with self-satisfaction, and you'll see the candidate in a rosy light -- but you still won't know anything about her ability to do the job.

2. You Gossip or Swap War Stories

Curb your desire to ask for dirt on the candidate's current employer or trash-talk other people in the industry. Not only does it cast a bad light on you and your company, but it's a waste of time.

3. You're Afraid to Ask Tough Questions

Interviews are awkward for everyone, and it's easy to over-empathize with a nervous candidate. It's also common to throw softball questions at someone whom you like or who makes you feel comfortable. You're better off asking everyone the same set of challenging questions -- you might be surprised what they reveal. Often a Nervous Nellie will spring to life when given the chance to solve a problem or elaborate on a past success.

4. You Fall Prey to the Halo Effect (or the Horns Effect)

If a candidate arrives dressed to kill, gives a firm handshake, and answers the first question perfectly, you might be tempted to check the imaginary "Hired!" box in your mind. But make sure you pay attention to all his answers, and don't be swayed by a first impression. Ditto for the reverse: the mumbler with the tattoos might have super powers that go undetected at first glance.

5. You Ask Leading Questions

Watch out for questions that telegraph to the applicant the answer you're looking for. You won't get honest responses from questions like, "You are familiar with Excel macros, aren't you?"

6. You Invade Their Privacy

First of all, it's illegal to delve too deeply into personal or lifestyle details. Secondly, it doesn't help you find the best person for the job. Nix all questions about home life ("Do you have children?" "Do you think you'd quit if you got married?"), gender bias or sexual orientation ("Do you get along well with other men?"), ethnic background ("That's an unusual name, what nationality are you?"), age ("What year did you graduate from high school?"), and financials ("Do you own your home?").

7. You Stress the Candidate Out

Some interviewers use high-pressure techniques designed to trap or fluster the applicant. While you do want to know how a candidate performs in a pinch, it's almost impossible to recreate the same type of stressors that an employee will encounter in the workplace. Moreover, if you do hire the person, they may not trust you because you launched the relationship on a rocky foundation.

8. You Cut It Short

A series of interviews can eat up your whole day, so it's tempting to keep them brief. But a quick meeting just doesn't give you enough time to gauge a candidate's responses and behavior. Judging candidates is nuanced work, and it relies on tracking lots of subtle inputs. An interview that runs 45 minutes to an hour increases your chances of getting a meaningful sample.

9. You Gravitate Toward the Center

If everyone you talk to feels like a "maybe," that probably means you aren't getting enough useful information -- or you're not assessing candidates honestly enough. Most "maybes" are really "no, thank you's." Likewise, if you think the person might be good for some role at some point in the future, then they're really a "no."

10. You Rate Candidates Against Each Other

A mediocre candidate looks like a superstar when he follows a dud, but that doesn't mean he's the best person for the job. The person who comes in tomorrow may smoke both of them, but you won't be able to tell if you rated Mr. Mediocre too highly in your notes. Evaluate each applicant on your established criteria -- don't grade on a curve.

Copyright 2007 CNET Networks, Inc. All rights reserved. BNET offers managers the solutions and tools they need to solve the most pervasive day-to-day business challenges and perform with excellence in today's demanding professional environments. For more information, visit BNET.com.

Also on Yahoo! HotJobs:

Top 10 interview killers
'American Idol' and your job interview
The first 10 minutes are top priority
Find a new job near you