Q: Jill, I’ve got a great idea for a new project at work, but I’m nervous to approach my boss. She’s a little protective of her ideas and not always open to other people’s suggestions. Any ideas?
A: Your success will depend on your approach. Try not to present your idea as a ‘take- over’ of hers, but more as an enhancement. What you’re presenting is a possible collaboration, a consideration, or an additional perspective — these are key words you might want to work into your pitch.
The key to offering overly protective people suggestions is to do so after they’ve had a chance to test drive their idea. If you jump in too soon they can read this as your distrust of their capabilities, but if you don’t jump in at all you miss out on opportunities to be recognized for your creative ideas at work.
Still nervous? I’d recommend a friendly e-mail first thing in the morning, outlining some of your ideas. It’s more of a way for you to applaud her ideas before mentioning briefly how yours might compliment them. Then at the end ask if you can chat about it. Good luck.
Q:
A: First step is to breathe. Second step — which might sound crazy since time is of the essence — is to take a break! Force yourself to socialize. Once that “you time” is over, spread your assignments over your desk. Prioritize each assignment based on how hard the assignment is, when it is due, and the percentage it is worth. Consider what your marks are in each class and which assignments require more time. After that — and this took me a while to master — you’ve got to learn to focus on just one assignment at a time. Since some deadlines will overlap, you should get into the practice of starting well in advance.
If you find yourself in a panic that disrupts your sleeping or eating habits, you should discuss this with your parents, teachers, and maybe your doctor.
Jill Andrew CYW, BA (Hons.), BEd, MA ‘08 is an award-winning journalist and educator with additional expertise in the performing arts, public speaking, PR, media literacy/awareness, fundraising and entrepreneurship.
www.jillandrewmedia.com
, or
www.curvycatwalk.com
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| jill’s tip of the week |
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Your first day on the job can be daunting. Besides reading your employee manual, step out of your shell and connect with as many colleagues as possible, from various departments. As much as business matters to the bottom line, personable employees who can also get the job done are the most memorable.
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