Frank, a brilliant project manager, was demoted. His colleagues and clients thought he was abrupt, critical and aloof. Effective communication nurtures relationships, increases career advancement opportunities, strengthens confidence and helps manage stress. When we communicate effectively and feel understood, life and work are satisfying. We feel in control, valued, trusted and respected. When communication breaks down,...

In celebration of our veterans on Veterans' Day in Canada, US and elsewhere, I am dedicating this article to our brave, selfless veterans who gave their lives for world peace. May they rest in peace. In Flanders Fields by John McCrae In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below....

Maintaining a positive, self-confident attitude when letters and phone calls are not returned or interviews bring rejection letters can be disheartening, particularly during prolonged job search. But perk up. There are ways you can stay enthusiastic and optimistic. - Know what you want. It’s very important that you have clear career goals that represent your passion, not what others think you should be doing. It&...

Are you considering a career transition? Are you unemployed? If so, you'll need to manage money wisely. Here are some tips: Prepare. Planning and the willingness to live on less temporarily will stretch the time you can go without a full-time job. You'll not only have more time to fin that ideal position, you'll also eliminate a financially controlled deadline. Before making a career shift, determine how...

Referring to our ability to succeed at any life endeavor, Aristotle once said, “Good habits formed at youth make all the difference.” At the root of any successful person, is self-discipline. Whether it’s success in their personal, professional or other life activities, it starts with an intention to be self-disciplined. Thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and habits, must all be kept in check! Successful...

Do you like working for your current organization? Does it enable to express your purpose, satisfy your needs, and use your interests, skills and other characteristics? Do you know what kind of company culture would best fit you? Organizational culture is defined as the underlying beliefs, assumptions, values and ways of interacting that contribute to the unique social and psychological environment of an organization....

Do your attitudes toward your career advance your career development? Are your beliefs and behaviors positive, growth-oriented, or negative, constraining? Are they in harmony with the real you, and the 2030s? Career Advancement Attitudes Answer 'yes' or 'no'' I learn from my mistakes. I'm too old to compete with younger job applicants. I know and accept myself. I prefer the tried and true ways of...

Are you unemployed? Has your partner been laid off? Do stories about layoffs worry you? Don’t despair. Unemployment can be a blessing in disguise. Regardless of age or occupation, people who have positive attitudes, work hard, and take time to reevaluate goals usually come out ahead. They become stronger, wiser, more confident and fully employed. Weathering unemployment 1. Understand basic psychological...

The telephone is the most common business tool and its proper use is essential for career advancement. Talking with a potential client, customer or colleague on the phone can sometimes be challenging. Without seeing an individual’s face, messages can become muddled and meanings misinterpreted. To strengthen telephone communication skills, ace the following: Make a great first impression Show the caller yo...

Are you wondering whether you should make changes in your career - and life? Are you satisfied with your job? Responding “yes” or “no” to the following questions, may help you get a clearer picture of whether you should consider a job shift. 1. Is your body sending you messages? Do you have lingering colds? Trouble getting out of bed on a work day? 2. Are you constantly thinking, “I can...