Burnout is a problem that just won't go away, new research from global talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half shows. In a survey of 1,132 professionals, 36 per cent of respondents reported being more burned out now than a year ago. Workers said the most common factors contributing to burnout today are: Heavy workloads (54 per cent) Lack of communication … [Read more...] about Feeling burned out? You and 40% of professionals
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The competent jerk: Managing a top performer who alienates his coworkers
By Lynne Curry Question: My top producer, “Luke,” out-performs any three employees. I love him to death. I wish I had more employees with his energy and drive. I also want to wring his neck. He alienates other employees with his brash “my way is the only way” attitude. When others are speaking in company meetings, he talks over them and cuts them off, using a condescending … [Read more...] about The competent jerk: Managing a top performer who alienates his coworkers
8 NSFW (not safe for work) topics to avoid
When engaging in conversations at work, it's important to maintain a professional and respectful environment. Here are some conversation topics that are generally considered inappropriate at work: Personal or Intimate Relationships: Discussing personal relationships, romantic encounters, or intimate details about one's personal life can create discomfort and be seen as … [Read more...] about 8 NSFW (not safe for work) topics to avoid
Take it down a few notches with semi-retirement option
By Lynne Curry Question: I turn 65 in September. I have a small savings account, a few investments and have done the math. With what I’ll receive from social security, I’ll be financially able to retire. I won’t be rich, but I’ll be comfortable. Although everyone tells me I should retire and “live the good life,” I don’t know what I’d do all day if I retire. When I ask my … [Read more...] about Take it down a few notches with semi-retirement option
How to handle a scamming, scheming staffer
By Lynne Curry Question: I run a small firm. When I advertised for a new hire, I didn’t find anyone who had the right skill set. “Will” applied. Although he lacked the skills I sought, he interviewed well and said he was willing to learn everything necessary to become my No. 1 employee. I took a chance on him and invested months in training him. He shadowed me, developed … [Read more...] about How to handle a scamming, scheming staffer
7 ways to support mental health in your office
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a good time to devote some thought to how you can support mental health in your office. Here are some ideas for advancing mental health in the workplace: Encourage open communication: Encourage your employees to speak openly about their mental health and provide a safe space for them to do so. Encourage managers to be approachable and … [Read more...] about 7 ways to support mental health in your office
‘It was just a joke’: Jokes and social media posts gone wrong
By Lynne Curry Question: During the Christmas holidays, I attended a social event where my wife and I told a series of jokes to and about each other. Several others at our table were equally rowdy, and everyone enjoyed our jokes. While I knew individuals at other tables were watching the fun we were having, I didn’t realize one of them was recording us. The recording made it … [Read more...] about ‘It was just a joke’: Jokes and social media posts gone wrong
Every bully has a weak spot
By Lynne Curry He’s smug, arrogant and has bullied you for months. Before you he bullied a string of good people, each who had the good sense to quit before he destroyed their work lives. You’ve thought about quitting but don’t want to. That leaves you one option. You need to know how you can take him down before he takes you out. Here’s what you need to know: Bullying rests … [Read more...] about Every bully has a weak spot
5 ways to improve your job search
It doesn’t hurt to have a plan in case you find yourself looking for a new job. Although the demand for skilled talent remains strong, professionals need to be increasingly strategic and intentional when making career moves, says David King, a senior managing director with Robert Half, a global talent solutions and business consulting firm. “Workers should make a point of … [Read more...] about 5 ways to improve your job search
Praise is nice but a year-end bonus is better
A year-end bonus can be a powerful tool for reminding your staff their hard work and commitment and the company’s overall growth and success are closely intertwined. And according to a survey of employers, 50% of companies plan to award year-end bonuses in 2022. While this is down from 63% last year, it’s a sign that staff retention remains top of mind for many … [Read more...] about Praise is nice but a year-end bonus is better