Immediate Steps On Dealing With A Promotion

Several people are fortunate enough to receive a promotion. The glistening promotion is a chance to better yourself and your existing skill set. Higher roles entail more responsibilities and expectations. Some of your previous co-workers may be happy for you, while others may pull you down!

Consider these tips to guide you with the new challenge ahead.

#1: DO NOT WALK IN THE DARK

When I was given the coveted promotion, a series of thoughts ran through my mind. I was deeply concerned about my new supervisor. Keep in mind that the internal roles will shift due to this promotion. Budding relationships, such as the aforementioned, shall work smoothly if you keep the streams of communication open.

Aim to schedule an appointment between you and the supervisor (or the HR representative). Discuss your upcoming responsibilities and duties, especially the operating systems that you are not familiar with. You may be tasked to hire new employees, track the department’s invoices, deal with employee reimbursements, or document employee hours. No matter what your new tasks are, you need to be familiar with the protocol for each new responsibility. Do you need your supervisor’s approval before hiring and employee?

#2: TAKE A STEP BACK

Be honest with yourself as you contemplate on the type of leader that you aim to be. Do you want to be respected or feared? Do you want to build a bridge or a gap between you and your team members? You can be a great leader and a good friend by slightly altering your behaviors.

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Some experts suggest that you must totally disconnect from your team members (i.e., including in social media). This is due to the changing workplace dynamics. You do not want others to perceive that you favor a particular person due to the “preferential treatment”. You may still attend happy hours but, not often as before. Katy Tynan, the author of Survive Your Promotion!, suggests that you continue to spend time with your team members as you need to blow off steam sometimes. Furthermore, bonding experiences let them know that you can vent out whenever necessary.

#3: SET THE FIRM TONE

Changing the manner of your speech is crucial in your daily interactions. From making a stellar interview to filling a complaint, your tone needs to change as you dive in different scenarios. Being a loyal friend on one hand and a critical boss on the other is a challenging task. Thus, you need to set a firm and authoritative tone when you are in the workplace.

Ensure that your team knows that you have their backs. However, they can no longer vent out in a “gossipy” manner. Use your bond to find a concrete solution and move forward in a professional manner instead. Focus on a solution that values customer satisfaction and employee happiness.

#4: ESTABLISH A DIALOGUE

People react differently when it comes to internal promotions. As their new supervisor, you need to be emphatic with their initial thoughts. Actively listen to their feelings and do not be swayed by them. If you dive a little deeper into a conversation, they may start comparing themselves to you. Hurtful statements such as “my performance is better than yours” or “I have more experience than you”. Defending yourself may lead to damaging your professional relationship (e.g., by saying “the CEO did not see a great managerial potential in you”. That is not healthy! It is difficult to spend your days trying to repair the relationship while focusing on your new position.

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Work together to reach a beneficial solution. Communicate your desire to talk to each team member over lunch. Let the department know about your goals and how these will be actualized. It is important to cultivate a two-way feedback between you and them.

Sources: 1,2, 3, 4 & 5

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Top Tips on How to Write a Comparative Analysis Essay

Writing a comparative essay is one of the most common tasks for students in both colleges and universities. Although it usually doesn’t have a lot of special requirements, many classmen still face some difficulties in writing this type of essay. How to write a comparative analysis essay easily and quickly? Which paper structure should you choose? What are the key elements of any successful paper? Let’s find the answers!

What are the Typical Features of the Comparative Analysis Essay?

The comparative essay is a paper that should include the detailed description of the significant similarities and differences between the two facts, events or viewpoints. This type of the essay requires analytical skills, logic, as well as an ability to combine and match various facts. Furthermore, you should meet the basic requirements for all types of academic papers and follow the rules of formatting.

How to Start?

All kinds of academic papers including the comparative essay should start with an introduction. First of all, you should provide some basic facts on the main topic. Then you need to grab reader’s attention and lead to the main subject of discussion.

The second important thing that should be described in the introduction is whether you’ve chosen to write about the differences, similarities or both. Don’t forget to add some general facts about the issue: a couple of sentences for this purpose is just what you need.

5 Tips on How to Cope with the Basic Structure of the Comparative Essay

  • Frame of reference. Being the first element of the comparative essay, frame of reference is considered to be one of the most important parts of your essay. Here you will need to provide and group the things you are going to compare. You might choose a couple of facts, ideas, theories or problems. The main idea of any frame of reference is to focus on two specific issues and provide their detailed description. Note: Avoid writing your own views and observations in this part of the essay. Use only reliable sources, investigations and studies. Adding your own theories is a common mistake of hundreds of students.
  • The grounds. Comparison grounds should be provided to inform your readers on the main reasons of your choice. Here you will need to write a couple of statements to prove your main topic was not chosen randomly.
  • Strong thesis. A successful thesis is usually connected to the comparison grounds. It is a good idea to outline the relationship between the two chosen facts in your thesis. Moreover, you will need to decide whether these issues contradict, complicate or extend each other.
  • Main text. There are two simple techniques on how to write a comparative analysis essay. The first method is to write a couple of paragraphs about the first subject and then move to another one. The second method is to write one paragraph about the first issue than gradually move to the second issue using comparison arguments. This way, you will need to repeat the trick until you describe all your similarities and differences. Both options are usually successful, so choose the easiest one for you. However, don’t leave the most necessary facts for later. Start with the most important issues and then move to simpler ones.
  • Conclusion should contain a brief summary of the previous parts of your essay. Note that you shouldn’t choose any of discussable points or add your own views and ideas. Your personal preferences should never be described in the comparative analysis essay. The only thing you need is to emphasize some basic differences and similarities of both ideas described in your paper.

Don’t forget to proofread your comparative analysis essay. This simple trick will make you avoid the majority of mistakes and misprints. Be careful with citing all your sources and double check you used the needed style (APA, MLA or any other required by your professor).

The last tip for beginners: read a few examples of comparative analysis essay to understand the main subject and the style of writing. Don’t be afraid to talk to your teachers, if you have any special questions about your essay. All this prompts will give you a clear picture on what you should right and get the highest grade with minimum efforts!

 

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You Must Adapt These Habits Of Wealthy People

#1: IMBIBE A MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA

In the hustle and bustle of the city, it is easy to absorb the load of the tasks at hand. Getting distracted with other elements lets you lose the connection between what you are doing and what you are feeling. Many people combat this by practicing Mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of purposeful directing your attention to the present and accepting everything without any judgment.

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Motivate yourself during the practice by following a mantra. Firstly, you must search within to uncover what inspires you. Secondly, you must create a positive statement that you will repeat (to yourself) every morning. Lastly, you must breathe deeply and relax.

#2: THE EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE EARLY WORM

Admit it! You may be experiencing an endless cycle of clicking the coveted snooze button. Trying to escape the alarm clock may lead to waking up late. Imagine rushing to work because you only have 20 minutes left! This habitual procrastination is costing you. Not only are you at risk of coming late, but you are diminishing your sense of control. Furthermore, you tend to forget things when you are rushing.

According to Tom Corley, the author of “Change Your Habits, Change Your Life”, nearly 50% of his wealthy participants get up at least 3 hours before their work starts. Having extra time to prepare allows them to set a right frame of mind.

#3: MAXIMIZE YOUR BRAIN’S BANDWIDTH

The luxury of having multiple options can lead to exhausting your brain’s bandwidth. If you used up your energy on a series of small decisions then, it would be harder for you to process big decisions.

As an avid follower of the Silicon Valley, you probably noticed that Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg is mostly into grey shirts. His primary reason for his limited closet is to minimize his decisions each morning. Similarly, Apple’s Steve Jobs wore his renowned black turtleneck top and jeans. Influential people focus most of their energy toward productive elements.

Another upside of keeping your wardrobe simple is its ability to help you save money. You do not have to wear the same shirt or same outfit everyday! Just avoid hefty designer clothing by purchasing basic clothes from thrift shops or year-round sales.

#4: BENEFITS OF A BOOKWORM

It has been long accepted that reading books can bring excellent benefits. Said benefits include widening your vocabulary and exercising your imagination. Incorporating literature into your bedtime routine is healthier than scrolling thru the sea of social media.

Before you pick the latest romantic or crime novel, I have a tip for you! Mr. Corley suggested that 85% of his wealthy participants prefer books that focus on self-improvement. They read at least 30 minutes per day. Achieve more by reading about helpful skills, rather than reading solely for entertainment.

#5: TURN YOUR FANTASY INTO REALITY

Research showed that spending at least two minutes for goal-oriented visualization and positive thinking can improve your mood and focus throughout the day.

I am a firm believer of meditation and its ability to shift your thoughts. Spare some time for this and your “quiet reflection”. During this reflection, you must map out your week and contemplate on your future goals. Do not limit yourself to financial goals! Take notes, if necessary. Follow these notes to ensure that you will be more efficient.

#6: SET SMART FINANCIAL GOALS

Wealthy people develop a habit of financial goal setting on their own or through professional help. Apply the same ideal by writing down your financial goals with a witness (e.g., spouse or a close friend) and contemplate the monetary milestone you would like to accomplish in the next 2 to 5 years.

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Do not forget to track down your monthly progress!

Sources: 1 &2

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Don’t Share These Personal Issues In The Workplace!

Personal issues includes your family drama, emotional difficulties, boyfriend problems, and even your outstanding debt. These private issues can impact your ability to advance in your career. Thus, it is ideal to keep things on a balance beam. Put your “private life” on one end and the “work life” on another end.

It is inevitable to experience a crossover between these two, but you must deal with it in a healthy manner. Remember that oversharing is not always a good strategy!

#1: VARIOUS FINANCIAL WOES

As a financial writer, I respect the financial transparency between a husband and wife. I highly encourage open communication in a domestic setting. However, you must draw a thick line in a professional setting. Your co-workers do not want to hear about your financial woes as much as you do not want to hear theirs!

It is possible to earn similar salaries as your co-workers. Thus, you may perceive them as your allies who will emphatize with your financial circumstance. This is not always the case. Being in the same situation does not guarantee that they can provide decent advices to you. Seek professional help.

#2: PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT TURMOIL

Workplace dramas spread like wildfire. To prevent this, employers do their best to maintain group harmony. It goes without saying that you should skip stories revolving your previous workplace termoils. I can vividly remember staying away from my co-worker who was utterly open about her unhealthy sexual encounters.

Yes! Stories such as a cheating boss, a dishonest co-worker, and a crazy office party are juicy. However, employers and other individuals tend to frown upon staff members with these type of past. Letting out your dramatic past will affect other people’s perception of your character and your worth ethics. Are you willing to risk those?

#3: DEEPEST DARKEST WEAKNESSES

In the animal kingdom, a dog manifest its submission by rolling over and exposing its belly. The dog freely reveals his weakness to other trusted beings. You may unintentionally doing the same thing when you share too much about yourself.

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Some of your subordinates may take advantage of your weaknesses by giving you tasks that are beyond your capabilities. Furthermore, it may influence your employer’s decision when considering you for a promotion. Seek to do the opposite by demonstrating your strengths. Demonstrate your worth to the company today!

#4: SERIOUS RELATIONSHIP DISASTERS

Let us face it – no marriage is perfect! Just listen to Beyonce’s “Lemonade” album. Not even Queen B and legendary Jay Z were spared from cheating scandals. A cheating party, a messy divorce, and a harsh breakup are all parts of life. You are bound to fight with these tides and thrive soon after.

No matter how seemingly acceptable these serious subjects are, you should not blurt out these issues to the workplace conversations. Digging up your relationship disasters communicates that you have a difficulty in separating your workplace and personal lives. This inability to discriminate between the two is a career-limiting trait.

#5: STRONG RELIGIOUS OR POLITICAL VIEWS

While I was in a recent reunion with my ex-colleagues, our random topics led to sharing our personal views. It was the first time that we talked about our political and religious stances. You see, we usually steer away from these hot-button topics that trigger distinct reactions. Our current social positions allowed us to be more open about these topics. However, sharing our thoughts may have a different impact back when we were in the same workplace.

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It is easy for a casual comment on a particular religious sector to turn into a negative commentary. The negative effect may affect your professional opportunities. As much as possible, you must exercise religious sensitivity and political correctness. Keep these strong beliefs out of the workplace!

Sources: 1& 2

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The Ultimate Guide To Making Extra Income

The start of 2018 sparks new opportunities for growth and prosperity. As we usher in a new year, you must not box yourself to the usual 9 to 5 jobs. Your potential to earn extra income is beyond the conventional choices. Contemplate on these creative ideas:

1. Gone are the days when employers rely on the physical presence of their assistants. Virtual assistants (VA) help ease the workload of business owners through remote support. Become a home-based VA by applying at upwork.com.

2. If you are a skilled driver who seeks an income-generating activity, look into the responsibilities of an Uber or a Grab driver. Your spare time can be spent in this flexible working environment.

3. My father wanted to sell his complete golf set, but he does not know where to start. I decided to post his listing on Craigslist. To his surprise, his inbox blew like wildfire. Selling your items online is a great way to earn income on the side. Be careful during personal meet-ups.

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4. For people who are utterly fond of domestic animals, it is a good idea to consider dog walking or pet sitting. Positions like these enable you to mix business with pleasure. You can either stay at the client’s home or take care of the pet in specific times of the day.

5. One of the easiest ways to make money as a tertiary student is to rent your textbooks to the next batch of students. Embody the process of online rental companies by providing a minimum number of rental days at fixed rates. You may sell the reference books too!

6. Offering tutorial services in a subject that you are skilled with is another way to earn as a tertiary student. You can either help them with their research papers or with their important exams. The possibilities rely on your available set of skills and knowledge.

7. Lastly, you may become an effortless mystery shopper. Mystery Shoppers are paid by the company’s marketing department to report about their experiences as they try the said company’s products, eat at their restaurants, or buy their goods.

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If you accepted a “mystery shopping” job, you will be paid for your time as well as be reimbursed for anything you bought.

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