Archive for February, 2011
How to Master “Matrix Boss Madness”
24February 2011
Matrix management – where supervisors with related skills are pooled for a more productive project outcome – can actually create a lot of chaos for you if not orchestrated well. In my recent article on PsychologyToday.com, I show how you can take action in mitigating some of the madness.
As we emerge from fuzzy job descriptions where responsibilities haphazardly crossed over each other during the recession – to a gradual recovery – some supervisors may be looking to aggressively take you under their wing. Consequently, you may be at a loss as to whom to please and when.
Therein lies the opportunity for you, the employee, to stop your supervisors from tripping over each another to manage you – so that you can produce results. It’s empowering, and a valued, long-term career tool.
To learn how to spot the signs of Matrix Boss Madness and develop Matrix Mastery, check out the complete article on PsychologyToday.com.
Turn Yourself into an Office Diplomat
18February 2011
I always emphasize the importance of interpersonal skills. As I mention in my book, Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant, the ability to understand your fellow co-worker and maintain open communication is the basis for humanizing the workplace.
I recently addressed this issue in my article for BusinessWeek.com where I discuss “office diplomacy.” We’ve all observed managers with a knack for making people feel included, gently persuading others to cooperate, and generally inspiring others. Today’s most sought-after leaders never stopped displaying these qualities during the recession. Poise, transparency, and tact will also help any job seeker. In the article I offer suggestions on how to handle office relations, keep communication clear and to the point and make good impression at job interviews.
Read more on how to be an “office diplomat” on BusinessWeek.com.
Acing a Job Interview: The Art of Proper Follow-Up
5February 2011
Often a job interview is like playing poker – you have to know how much to reveal, how much to conceal, and when to call for all cards on the table. If you play your hand right, the game is yours. But what to do when you’re across the table from an interviewer with the world’s best poker face?
You can succeed at the interview game if you’re good at reading people. You’ll need to decide how much or how little communication is right with the particular hiring manager, time your moves perfectly and watch for signals and the feedback you’re getting, or not getting.
With good interpersonal skills and an upbeat approach you can beat the odds in the interview game. But like in everything else, there are some dos and don’ts to remember. I offer tips on how to excel at “job interview poker” in my Psychology Today article.
