Are you a GenY-er?

GenY, GenMe or Millenials… whatever you call them…they have some different views on the world than the previous generation. Tonight we will look at some of the characteristics of those who are the Millennials—from the age of 18-29.

What are some of the priorities of Millennials?
• Millennials define themselves as technology focused
• They define themselves by their music and pop culture
• They see themselves as liberal and tolerant
• They view themselves as smarter than past generations
• They see their work ethic as different than past generations

• Most GenYers are generally more confident, upbeat and open to change
What do you mean that their work ethic is different?
• The previous generation—the Xers who were born in the 1970s were seen as slackers, and the Boomers defined themselves by their jobs--but the Millenials value their leisure time
• GenY folks say they want a job with an easy pace and lots of vacation time
• GenY people don’t really want to work overtime
• They want jobs where they can make friends- which is very important to them
• GenY see work as less central to their lives yet they want to have big salaries and status (perhaps suggesting they want their cake and eat it too)

If you are working with a GenYer, what tips would you give?
• Realize that they are not defined by their job, so change your expectations or look for someone else who might have the job expectations that you desire
• GenYers are team players and work well in goods. You can use this to your advance by teaming them up to produce.
• GenYers need some assistance with personal communication skills and following procedures in an exact format. Take the time to teach them how to go through all the steps of a job and be specific.
• Remember that GenYers want something different than past generations and they will value time sharing, working part-time and being more flexible with work hours that might help you save money due to economic concerns.

GenY... are they different than you and me?

Are you in the GenY generation? That means you were born in the mid to late 1980s. If so, you may have a different philosophy about work and life that the GenXers or those of us who are baby boomers.

It seems you want more vacations, more leisure time, and substantial pay and promotions. GenYers see work as a means of "making a living" and not their whole existence (the philosophy of past generations).

GenYers are also more civic minded and want to help others.

To learn more go to http://psychcentral.com/news/2010/03/11/how-values-of-geny-workers-differ/12046.html

Quitting your job with respect and honor

From a mental health perspective when is it “time” to leave a job?
• Chronic or persistent physiological symptoms (stomach aches, backaches, migraine headaches, sleep disturbances, etc)
• When you are chronically experiencing depression or anxiety at your job on a day to day basis
• If you feel like your self-esteem and self worth is being compromised and diminished in your work environment.

What are some of the “quitting signs”?
• Do I find it hard to get up in the morning
• Do I sit at work and daydream
• Do I look at job internet sites at work?
• Do I do the minimum work required?
• Do I start to get ready to leave work way before quitting time?
• Do I call in sick when I’m not sick
• Do I dread going to work?

What are some suggestions for a positive exit from your current job?
• Be professional and advise your supervisor you are leaving before you tell coworkers
• Give your employer ample notice so they can try to arrange a replacement (2-4 weeks)
• Write a professional letter of resignation. State you are leaving for other opportunities or interests
• Don’t badmouth your company. Try to leave on good terms—you never know when you may need a recommendation, or who may know your old boss at your new workplace.
• Finish your task list before you go. Provide a list of projects that are in progress and review what needs to be done, if time does not allow you to finish a long-term project.
• Leave things in order. Make sure you leave your desk neat and tidy and unless you bought it, don’t take it
• Offer to train your replacement if time allows
• Send professional emails concerning your leaving to colleagues and customers, and give them a new contact information.
• Leaving with respect and grace will never hurt you in the long run!

Workplace Taboos...

We spend the greatest part of our week at our job, with some people spending between 40-60 hours per week at their place of employment. But, are there some key things we need to do to maintain our job security?

What are some of American’s most common taboos occurring in the workplace?
SIT DOWN… YOU MAY BE SHOCKED BY THE STATISTICS REPORTED BY CAREER BUILDERS.
• 35% percent of those surveyed have puckered up with a co-worker
• 31 % have tipped the bottle while on the job.
• 42% have fallen asleep at work.
• 21% say they have stolen things at work
• 19 percent of workers who have spread a rumor about a fellow employee.
• 4% have lied about their academic background
• 2% report taking credit for someone else’s work


Career builders reports there are some key things you should NEVER do at work. What are they?
• BLAMING OTHERS. Own up. Take responsibility for your errors even though it is difficult and sometimes embarrassing.
• GETTING COWORKERS INVOLVED IN YOUR PERSONAL PROBLEMS. It is nice to have friendships, but bringing your home problems to work can be distracting and unprofessional. Remember your coworkers are not your therapists, and this type of relationship will only lead to complicated work situations.
• ABUSING OFFICE TECHNOLOGY. Be watchful of using work time for your personal emailing, internet shopping, personal phone calls or watching last night’s episode of that TV show you missed. Trust that eventually this will catch up with you, and your coworkers will most certainly mention it to higher ups.

Are there other things we should see as taboos?
• STEALING IS STEALING. You may think it’s no big deal to take home the storeroom pencils, pens, paper. Staplers, or zip drives but it all adds up, and if you are caught you can guarantee that it will lead to a firing.

• DON’T HIT ON YOUR BOSS. This is a disaster in the making! In fact, dating coworkers generally has poor results. You may think your relationship is a secret, but trust me; your coworkers are more astute than you think.

Looking For A New Job?

Looking for a new job? Are you anxious about what to say, and what you need to do to prepare for the interview? Tonight we’ll give you some tips and some cautions for that big interview day.

Many employers say they make a first impression within 30 seconds. Sometimes those impressions are lasting so what are some keys to a successful first meeting? Here are some great tips from CareerBuilders.com
• Be on time. Being late can be one of the worst errors so allow yourself plenty of time to get to the office. Also give yourself time to relax and get your composure before you walk into the appointment. Ideally, you should show up 5-10 minutes early
• First impressions are based on appearance. We may not like it, but your appearance composes a large part of first impressions. Try to look professional – tailored suits and generally the most appropriate.
• The handshake is important. Offering a limp handshake makes the employer think you are hesitant, and crunching the boss’s hand makes you look aggressive. Shake w/ a medium grip to convey confidence.
• Watch your posture. Your body language sends silent messages, so make sure you sit straight, try not to fidget and maintain eye contact.

What are some other tips for successful interviewing?
• Be prepared. Bring an extra copy of your resume. Research the industry or company so you know how your talents fit into the company
• Show your enthusiasm. It is important to stand out, and being enthusiastic tells the employer you are highly motivated.
• Sell yourself. Create a list of things you want the employer to know about you and be ready to do a good job selling yourself.
• Be honest and ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask about responsibilities of the job or ask about typical projects. It is important to engage the interviewer.

Are there some cautions for interviews?
• Never be rude to the receptionist. Many receptionists are the gatekeepers for the boss and their impressions are valued. Remember if you get the job, you may need the assistance of the receptionist.
• Never trash your former boss. This shows you left on poor terms and you want to keep the interview positive and upbeat.
• Never exaggerate your accomplishments or credentials. A skilled interviewer can see through fabrications and remember they may check out your story if they are interested in you.
• Make sure you always thank the interviewer. Shake hands once again, and be polite and make sure you write a thank you note stating how much you appreciate their time and how you are interested in the job.

Keep these things in mind, and you just might be getting that new job in nothing flat!

Are You Burned Out?

The best and the brightest among us are the most vulnerable to this mental health concern. It seems that those who are in danger of this stress-related illness are the dynamic goal-oriented men and women who give 100% to any project. Wonder what we’re describing… it is burnout.

Recent statistics show that 64% of Americans from the ages of 35-64 report burnout in their job setting. This staggering rate of burnout is commonly diagnosed when the employee notes:

• Feeling pressured, trapped or fatigued
• Has difficulty concentrating or remembering tasks
• Has a low tolerance for frustration and is easily angered
• Has feelings of being continually fatigued or is apathetic

But there are some simple solutions to intervene if you feel you are the road to burnout.
• Admit there is a problem. When you realize there is a problem, then you can take action steps to address the concern.
• Reach out and get support. Many companies have employee assistance programs, or seek a licensed mental health professional who works with burnout and stress management.
• Learn relaxation techniques and time management
• Find some balance in your life. Find time for your family and leisure, as well as your job.
• Let go of what’s not yours—set boundaries and stick to those guidelines. Learn to say “no.”
• Be realistic about your goals to assure success.

The key to successful negotiation of job related stress is in your control…you can make a difference.

Preparing for a new job?

Most people would agree that going to a job interview can be one of the most intimidating and anxiety ridden events in their life. Tonight we will look at some tips for those of you who might be preparing for a job change and tips for attaining that new position.

Career coaches talk about the importance of “preparing” for an interview. What does that mean?
1. Experts suggest that you spend 3 hours preparing for an interview
2. Draft answers to the most common interview questions and practice answering
them aloud
3. Read up on the company and their mission
4. Make a dry run drive to the interview site so you know exactly how long it
takes, the just where the company is located.

What are some of the typical questions asked by interviewers?
1. Why should we hire you? (sell your qualifications and what you bring to the
company)
2. Why do you want to work here? (here’s where you talk about what you know
about the company and how you can fit in)
3. What is your greatest weakness (talk about a weakness and how you have worked
to improve that weakness to make it more of a strength)
4. What accomplishment are you most proud of ? (try to find something that
relates to the job position or something that demonstrates you can meet the
company’s needs)

What are the most common mistakes a candidate makes?
1. Answering questions with one-word answers or sounding like they are reading
from a script.
2. Being unprepared and not knowing about the company
3. Attending the interview improperly groomed
4. Being dishonest about your achievements or expertise

~Remember there are trained career counselors who can help you prepare for job interviews… but the most important element is to show your passion to work hard and be dedicated to giving all you have to a company.

Getting ahead at work

Is there really a gender gap as it relates to paychecks?
• The US Census Bureau reports that women make 25% less than men, and that Caucasian women make just 72% of Caucasian male coworkers.
• Black women make 82% of black male counterparts
• Hispanic women make 82% of their male counterparts

Does your occupation make a difference in the salary gender gap?
Yes, research indicates that women in the medical and health field make only 63% of what males earn. But, the counterpart is that women earn almost the same amount as men in engineering, police work, or legal assistants.

What are some Careerbuilder suggestions for winning a promotion?
1. Assess your potential. Do a self-assessment of your positives and weaknesses. Are there some areas that you might enhance to help you win that raise or promotion? Look at your abilities and increase your knowledge base
2. Step up. Volunteer for new assignments. Showcase your abilities and demonstrate your ability to take on a new challenge and meet the needs of the company
3. Be assertive. Show your enthusiasm, energy and passion for what you do. Look for opportunities to showcase your expertise.
4. Show your confidence. One way to do this is to speak positively about your accomplishments. There is a difference between bragging and gently blowing your own horn. Detail your accomplishments and pass it on to your boss in a weekly email.
5. Accept compliments gracefully. Don’t ignore compliments, but instead say thank you and that you are glad your dedication and hard work paid off.
6. Learn to just make small talk. Go to company picnics, get-togethers, and little informal things at the office. These are great ways to be seen, and to present yourself in a positive light.

Working in Tight Quarters at Work?

What are the most common annoying concerns of co-workers towards others in their group?
• Having a “know it all” attitude turns people off, and does nothing to bring people closer to you. It didn’t work for Cheers “Cliff Clavin, and it won’t work for you.
• Workaholic Wannabee. Do you show up late, take two- hour lunch hours, and then not get started really working until close to 3 pm? Workers who don’t pull their weight don’t make good co-workers
• The devil’s advocate. Do you always take the other side of every argument? Co-workers get tired of always having to deal with the challenge of working with you.
• The brown-noser. Laughing at the boss’s jokes, sucking up, and standing for nothing might seem to be appropriate, but it doesn’t help healthy work relationships.

Are there any general courtesy rules for creating a healthy work environment in close quarters?
• Never barge in unannounced. Pretend that cubicles have doors and signal or ask if you can disturb your co-worker (or should you come back?)
• Use your quiet voice. It’s hard enough to work in a close environment, and there is nothing more annoying than trying to work around someone who is distracting you with their loud voice.
• Ask before borrowing. Respect people’s areas and ask before you borrow a stapler, or take someone’s supply of paper clips. And remember, just because they have food on their desk, it doesn’t mean it is open game for everyone’s indulgence.
• Watch your conversations. Not everyone wants to hear about your fight with your significant other, your sex life, or your frustration with your children. Keep private phone conversations away from the office. If you must make a private call, take a break and take your personal call out in the hall.
• Cell phone interruptions. If you keep your cell phone with you, make sure your ring tone isn’t playing a whole refrain of a song every twenty minutes. If you keep your phone in your pocket, turn it to vibrate so you don’t disturb others
• Remember that being a good neighbor at work is just as important as being a good neighbor at home. These tips will help create and enhance a healthy working environment.

Office Romances: Beware!

With employees spending more and more hours at work, co-workers often have the opportunity to build stronger relationships at work than at home. In addition the “perks of power”-- travel, fine dining, camaraderie, and unquestioned authority, can be very seductive and exciting compared to what’s waiting at home.

What are the 6 rules to remember in office romances?
• Realize there is no such thing as a secret office affair or relationship.
• Realize you only see one side of the person at work. Too often romantically involved
employees forget that people tend to act differently outside the office setting.
• Never get in a relationship with an employee before knowing more about the person. Too
often new hires date other employees without knowing the history of relationships within
the facility.
• Avoid relationships with people in your own department. If something goes wrong the
lowest person on the totem pole will suffer.
• Never finance an office romance on your expense account or allow others to use the
company budget for enhancing their love life.
• Generally the junior level person is more damaged by alliances which fail. Remember that
few romances survive one partner’s departure.

If you can’t resist an office romance…here are some helpful tips for success?
• Be prepared: Realize that co-workers may be hostile and there can be difficulties in the
workplace. Create a plan if things don’t go well in the relationship.
• Be direct: If the attraction is serious, speak directly about your interests and intentions.
Make every effort to keep your personal relationship from interfering with your work
relationship.
• Maintain appropriate behaviors: Keep romantic gestures and intimacy away from
workplace
• Watch favoritism toward your partner and never bring fights to the office.
• Be professional: Continue to maintain a high level of work performance, and don’t lose
sight of your professional responsibilities.

Lying in the Workplace

A recent survey of 2050 employees investigated the issue of lying in the workplace. The CareerBuilder survey indicated that 19% of workers admit they lied at the office at least once a week according to the “Honesty in the Workplace” survey.

What are the common underlying reasons that people lie?
• Fear-people are trying to avoid punishment for something they have done or perceived they have done.
• Habitual fear- in this case people are in constant fear of being punished and it becomes a reflex or habit. In this case they insist the lie is the truth. This is what we call compulsive lying
• Modeling- someone sees another person lying and getting away with it, and they become more prone to lying.
• Reward- in this case the truth won’t get you want you want, so you use a lie to get the reward or goal.

When workers lie at work, what do they say are the reasons for the deception?
• To appease a customer (26%)
• To cover up for a mistake (13%)
• To explain being late or an absence (8%)
• To cover up for a co-worker (8%)
• To get someone in trouble or to make themselves look better (5%)

What are the most common things workers say when they lie?
• “I don’t know how this happened” (20%)
• “I’ll have another call or I’ll call you right back (16%)
• “I’ve been sick or out of town” (10%)
• “ You look great (8%)
• “I didn’t get your email, voicemail, fax” (8%)

85% of managers say they will not promote someone who is caught lying. Remember honesty is the best policy and being deceitful can impact your career and your co-workers ability to trust you in everything you do or say.

Do you think lying in the workplace is as common as this research reports?