Monday, July 27, 2009

RESEARCH-RESOURCE IT'S EVERYWHERE

Unless you work for a government agency or a secret product development department in your company, you are free to talk about your job at any time with anyone.AND GUESS WHAT?? Have at it!! You will never find a better way to bounce ideas, opinions, or direction relative to your position and gain new ideas than to speak with those around you. Talk to friends, neighbors,social acquaintances,family. Solicit their thoughts but be prepared to hear differing views. I used to attend strategic/planning meeting and made it a point to ask everyone in attendance about ideas and opinions on the subject at hand. I would also ask how they thought the general public or our customers felt . Most often I heard about focus group sessions and market intelligence but I most enjoyed feedback that came from personal experience(eg. "my neighbor told me"). It's important we know how those around us feel about what we do. ASK THEM!

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

BUSINESS CASUAL___BE CAREFUL

I remember when business casual came to be. I was mortified.I had always thought that the Business Suit was part of career growth. The suit or type of suit was proof of success or position. I never thought the way one dressed had anything to do with their comfort at work but BUSINESS CASUAL came to be. If you work in a casual environment DO NOT FORGET THE TERM"BUSINESS". This is not the beach. This is not a party. This is not a sports bar. This is BUSINESS. The best rule to follow is to pay attention to what MANAGEMENT is wearing. If they wear blazers-wear blazers. If they wear skirts-wear skirts. Don't show up in jeans and loafers without socks. Always be mindful that you are representing your business. Your appearance is important. BE CAREFUL!