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Use your power wisely

Everyone has power.  Some people appear to have more power in a company than others, but the truth we all have power over ourselves and how we treat others. Those who are insecure use their power to make others feel small or incompetent…
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You can’t negotiate with terrorists

Trying to negotiate with that inner critic- the voice that says you're not capable or smart enough or whatever- is a waste of your energy.  That inner critic is loud and stubborn and only wants to tear you down.  It's like trying to negotiate…
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Setting boundaries

People (your boss, an empowered coworker?) will take advantage of you unless you set boundaries.  Every time you jump like a bunny to respond, you're reinforcing their view of you as a scared rabbit willing to work late, always be available,…
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Do the politically smart thing

If the company culture values socializing, but it’s not your thing, do it every now and again.  Even if you have a pile of responsibilities waiting at home and you’d rather not spend more time with work associates, putting in the time is…
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2 sides. Always.

There are always 2 sides to a story.  Consider this scenario – Supervisor : “She is so confused and can’t follow direction.  I say the same thing over and over.” Associate: “Every time I suggest a new way to do things I get…
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Reciprocity

Don’t miss the nice moments just because someone may not be able to receive it.  Give the compliment.  They’ll appreciate it even if they can’t show you.
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Benefit of the doubt

It always feels better if your boss starts with giving you the benefit of the doubt.  It gives you breathing room to explain your experience and also consider the possibility that you may have made a mistake or could have handled something…
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Corporate speak

I find it confusing, misleading, distracting and condescending.  And I’ve been known to use it with fervor. Sometimes you need to play the game.  I’ve used “navigate” to refer to relationships, project management databases, sailing…
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Moving from tactical to strategic or Getting Promoted

I asked my boss what I needed to do to be promoted and she said I needed to move from pure tactical to a more strategic role.  What the heck does that mean? It means coming up with ideas that answer logistical needs as well as have a positive…
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Silence is powerful

Silence speaks volumes when using it as a response to a question that both you and the questioner know the answer to.  Answering the question would put you in a difficult position and yet you don’t want to lie.  Looking at the questioner…