New Year’s resolutions seldom change. Lose weight, save money, exercise regularly and spend more time with the family are all great starts to our yearly goals. With the economy experiencing ebb and flow, it may be a good time to include some office resolutions as well. Here are a few suggestions for those that already have a job and other’s who may be looking for a one:
Have a Job
1. Get to work on time: Don’t take for granted the importance of starting the work day off on the right foot. The excuse, “bad traffic,” can only be used so many times before your boss and coworkers start catching on.
2. Get enough sleep: A tired worker is not a productive worker. You cannot be fully engaged at work with only a few hours of sleep under your belt.
3. Make an effort to network: Join clubs and associations that will further your career and your client base.
4. Don’t be a clock watcher: If you are working on an important project or have work piling up at your desk, consider getting to work early and staying late to get the job done.
5. Be a team player: Offer help in areas that are not normally your expertise. You will learn a new skill and show others that you are invested in the success of the company and your fellow employees. Your colleagues will be grateful and your employer will notice.
6. Organize your desk: Start 2019 with new supplies and a clean, orderly desk. You will be surprised how it will unclutter your mind.
7. Smile: It takes much less effort to smile than to frown. You will find that others will be more willing to help you, mentor you, hire you and forgive you.
8. Ask your clients for referrals: Don’t be afraid to solicit the help of those that you have built a relationship with. Your clients know your strengths and word of mouth advertising is the best kind.
9. Stay off your cell phone during business hours: Focus on your job and save the socializing for after work.
Looking for a Job
10. Update your resume: Don’t forget to include volunteer work and internships. Make sure your personal information, such as home phone, address and cell phone number are all current.
11. Learn a new skill: Take a speech class, update your technical skills or learn a foreign language. Keep your brain working and your knowledge current.
12. Go through your closet: Take care of any necessary repairs. Pay special attention to your hems, cuffs, sleeves and collars. Discard items you will never wear or those that have passed their prime.
13. Have your shoes professionally cleaned, polished and resoled: You can tell a great deal about a person based on the care of his or her shoes.
Diane Gottsman
Diane Gottsman, a nationally recognized etiquette expert, is the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in etiquette training for corporations, universities and individuals, striving to polish their interpersonal skills. You can reach Diane at 877-490-1077 or www.dianegottsman.com. You can also follow her on Twitter @: www.twitter.com/DianeGottsman.
