Freedom of Religion, Not From Religion

The holidays can be a time of good cheer and good food! However, a curious side dish has made its way onto the social buffet of our country…eggshells.

Many people walk on eggshells this time of year out of fear of saying something that might offend others, such as that egregious wish of a “Merry Christmas” that strikes fear and loathing into the hearts of some.

November and December host many religious and cultural holidays including Ramadan, Denali, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza, Las Posadas, New Year’s Eve and the Greek Orthodox Christmas, to name a few, with each holiday possessing their own unique and beautiful celebratory customs.

Communication is a critical component to understanding diverse ideologies, cultures and religious traditions. We should be working toward creating an environment where traditions and beliefs that differ from our own are respected, recognized and included, rather than conspiring to eliminate them from the public landscape altogether.
Inevitably, when we begin discussing information we know little or nothing about, mistakes can (and most likely will) be made. We should be patient and helpful with one another during this learning experience. Creating a consequence-free environment conducive to well-intentioned conversation can be a great step toward understanding and embracing cultures and philosophy’s that differ from our own.

Having the ability to confidently share appropriate holiday greetings with people of different cultures and beliefs can foster positive feelings among everyone. We all have a natural human desire for social inclusion. By opening up the dialogue to share and celebrate our differences, we also create an opportunity to share and celebrate our similarities.

Article also available on http://www.wkyx.com/

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Easier Said Than Done!

The Single Most Important Piece of Advice

...regarding public speaking?

Your audience wants you to succeed.

While most professional meetings do not require a 2 drink minimum (although sometimes we wish they would), remember, it's equally as painful to watch someone tank as it is to tank (well, in most cases anyway). Great information delivered with a shaky voice loses its greatness--we are focused on the delivery and not the information.

Pull your audience in! Engage them! Don't just read to them directly from your Powerpoint. Not only is it boring (and frankly, insulting), but it's a waste of time as the handouts could have easily been printed and mailed.

From a young age, we learn that when it was time to be read to, it was time to grab a blankie and lights out! Not exactly the climate you want to create for your fabulous speech!

To do a "dry run" for your next speech, contact me for an unbiased, professional critique.

http://www.donnmariawalker.com/

Lots of Grads, Few Jobs

The National Association of Colleges and Employers has reported that employers nationwide are planning to hire only 1.3% more college grads in '09 than they did in '08. When surveyed in August 2008, the same association had predicted a 6.1% increase in new hires. Yow-za!
This year, colleges and universities are projected to graduate 1,585,000 students with bachelor's degrees (up from 1,506,000 in 2005-06).

If you are a soon-to-be college grad, here are some ideas to help you get a job in tough economic times:

• Secure an internship now, if possible.


• Volunteer for an organization while you are still in college...this may lead to a job opportunity when you graduate in May. At the very least, you will have the opportunity to network with professionals you may not have otherwise had the opportunity to meet.


• Join a professional club or other networking organization.


• Get your resume together (make sure you're documenting all of those awards & accomplishments)!


• Graduate school (many schools offer online and evening classes should you be one of the many who must work AND attend college).

If you are a soon-to-be high school grad, here are some ideas to help you get into college in tough economic times:

• Attend your local community college. Stay close to home and save money!


• Apply to public colleges/universities. The sticker price of your education will be substantially less.


• Research private schools with mega-super-sized endowments (as many private schools are eliminating all need based loans).


• Save as much money as possible. If you can't seem to land a job, mow lawns, clean houses, rake leaves, shovel snow, and/or babysit to get some extra dough. This will not only add some sound experience to your admission application, but will help pad your wallet a little for those inevitable expenses.

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Chao's Dirty Secret

Read the article on the wkyx website to find out what Chao's dirty secret might be...

www.donnamariawalker.com

What is Your Leadership Style?

A client recently asked me to help her with a pre-employment screening tool which required candidates to complete a series of essay questions. One question asked her to define her "leadership style." Unable to lead herself to a place from which to start, here are the tips I provided to her which I hope you will find helpful as well:

1. Write the names of leaders you admire (former co-workers, bosses, family members, friends, etc.).
2. List the leadership qualities about those individuals which you find most impressive.
3. Look through the list and circle those qualities you feel you also possess.

This simple exercise provided a nice place to start.

We are naturally drawn to those whom possess qualities we admire and respect, and consciously or not, we begin to emulate those qualities and practice trying them on for size. Some fit, some don't, but ultimately, we make some form of them our own and find our unique style.

Conversely, you could make a list of those whom you least admire and the qualities about them that you least respect, and use this as a starting point. Sometimes the best way to know what we like is to know what we don't!

Selling ourselves isn't always the easiest thing in the world to do, but a must if you want that job or appointment!
Give it a try and let me know how it goes!
http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Quote for Your Day

"When you have only two pennies left in the world, buy a loaf of bread with one, and a lily with the other." --Chinese Proverb

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Mark Your Calendars!

According to the office of the Kentucky Secretary of State, October 24 (at 4 p.m.) is the last day to file a declaration of intent as a write-in candidate (not less than 10 days before election) as well as the last day to apply for mail-in absentee ballot (not later than close of business 7 days before election).

www.donnamariawalker.com

Ro, Rush and Me

The ever fabulous Ro Morse has asked me to write a column for the WKYX website. I can't imagine ever turning down an opportunity to work with this amazing woman, so of course, I jumped at the opportunity!

As we all know, Ro is famous for her scrumptious recipes...and her knack for putting together the right ingredients carries into her business acumen. Nothing half-baked here!

What's best? Newstalk 94.3 FM (570 AM) is now a Fox News Radio affiliate! Can you imagine? Sharing space on a website with Ro & Rush? No pressure! :)

Click here to view the latest editorial.

www.donnamariawalker.com

Que Syrah, Syrah

Sometimes in business, we have unique, completely coincidental opportunities for promotion and sales. This is the case with North Berkeley Imports. I’ve recently stumbled upon the “Palin Syrah,” a very complex, well-defined 100% organic red wine sold exclusively by North Berkeley Imports.

The nomination of Governor Sarah Palin for Vice President has fermented strong feelings on both sides of the proverbial aisle...we can all drink to that! But I'm still left wondering...does the Palin Syrah pair well with moose stew? I'll let you know!

The Right to Bear Arms

It's September and those tricky seasonal dress code changes are upon us. I'm thinking about lobbying for a few 'alterations' in the fashion legislature...at least for those of us in the Southern District of the United States!

While sleeveless tops may not be the most professional things in workplace attire, they are certainly very comfortable in steamy climates. This sounds like a job for Laura K at http://www.milehighstyle.blogspot.com/!

One thing's for sure...unless you are starring in an episode of COPS, I probably wouldn't go with this look...


I'm thinkin' a simple light sweater tied around the neck to cover shoulders with a strand of pearls...hmmm, I'm no Laura K, but I might be onto something! Laura, please advise...

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Warts and All

In efforts to save face, many organizational leaders downplay (or may honestly not know) some of the negative aspects of their business which are detrimental to success. Without properly addressing the issues, productivity and morale are sure to suffer.

Did you know?
The #1 complaint among U.S. employees is the failure of management (or HR) to appropriately address poor behavior in the workplace?

One of the most successful techniques in my tool bag? The ask. When we ask employees for input, we open ourselves up for anything...which can be a very scary (and potentially destructive) experience. To make the experience positive, meaningful and productive, it's often times a good idea to incorporate a third, neutral party, skilled in conflict resolution.

For more information, visit http://www.donnamariawalker.com/ or call me at 270-210-6645.

Talk Furbish to Me

Furby's speak "Furbish" until they are taught to communicate in English. Beginning a new job and learning the "lingo," or moving to a different geographic location and learning how to communicate can suddenly make you feel like one of these furry little guys.

Communication is only successful when both the sender and the receiver understand the same information as a result of the communication.

Some things to keep in mind...

1. What is your message?


2. Who is your audience?


3. How might the message be perceived or misconstrued (this is always a challenge because decisions are being made based solely on speculation)?


4. What are the circumstances surrounding your communications (such as cultural and situational contexts).

Visit http://www.donnamariawalker.com/ for more information or to schedule a motivational speech on effective communication in your organization!

An Attitude of Latitude

Employee roles and responsibilities should be clearly defined, however, effective leaders recognize the importance of giving individuals (and teams) latitude on their approach to problem solving.

Interested in leadership training?

Email me today!

The Ultimate in Organizational Communication

I make my living training organizations how to improve internal and external communications to increase organizational efficacy.

I would be remiss if I let 9/11 go by without paying a humble tribute to the men & women who instinctively exercised many critical factors essential to effective organizational communication.

Response efforts between seemingly unrelated agencies in the face of extreme confusion, fear, physical exhaustion and technological failure(s) was (and is) nothing short of amazing.

God Bless America.

Cheers to a Three-Day Weekend!

Return to work on Tuesday refreshed and ready! Some suggestions for a weekend close to home:

1. Try one of Ro Morse's fabulous recipes of the week (visit http://www.supervalufoods.com/).


2. Visit http://www.ilistpaducah.com/ to learn about all of the fun events planned in our community.


3. Check out http://www.milehighstyle.blogspot.com/ as you begin to think about transitioning your closet for fall (remember, no more white pants/shoes after Labor Day).


4. Enjoy a cold one with a good friend. Roof Brothers on Park Avenue is one of my favorite spots! Helpful & knowledgeable staff, including the fabulous Denny Roof (as featured on http://www.ilistpaducah.com/ )


5. Take a walk or grill out with your family at our very clean (and very fun) Noble Park!

www.donnamariawalker.com

Sail On Silver Girl

Bridges are often used as positive symbols in everything from motivational posters to music. However, burning bridges can be a powerful tool in the strategic direction of your personal and professional life. Reckless actions can be damaging at best, while a skillfully planned deconstruction can prove to be a highly constructive, positive, esteem building experience.

Often times, the energy needed to maintain unhealthy relationships is grossly disproportionate to the energy needed to start over.

Fear is a common denominator in that complex bridge-burnin'-esteem buildin'-decision-makin' process. Fear of hamstringing future career opportunities, bruising social networks, etc.

While every situation is unique, the common question, regardless of circumstance, needs to be, "Is it worth it?" Only you can know for sure.

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Suggested Readings

Diversification of Your Human Investment Portfolio Can Yield Great Returns

Organizational leadership should employ strategies for diversity to leverage the strength of their organization in the globalized marketplace. The success of a business hinges on the success of its diverse human investment strategy.

To develop effective working relationships with diverse individuals, start with similarities not differences. By acknowledging our similarities and likenesses, we create a starting point for understanding and appreciating diversity in the workplace.

Research suggests that employees (regardless of age, gender, race, education, marital status, religion, etc.), agree on what inspires their commitment to a particular employer and cited the following top 3 factors as being most important:

Belief in organizational mission & business plan
Opportunity to utilize individual strengths and skills on the job
Reward package is competitive

Protect your organization from human and financial losses during this turbulent economy. Turnover is expensive, but attitude is a free way to market and grow any business.


http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Article also available on www.wkyx.com

Tab! You're It!

One of the most common forms of payment when dining with several people is to split the tab evenly. While this is an accurate mathematical scenario, often times, this is less than fair. Must we be Nobel Prize winning Physicists to successfully split a bill?

I was inspired to research and write about this topic following a phone call from a client I will call “Fran” regarding a recent dining experience. Fran ate 1 piece of bruschetta from a common appetizer tray. Some guests ordered entrees and split premium bottles of white wine. The bill was evenly split and everyone was asked to contribute $42. That’s right; Fran paid 42 bucks for a piece of toast.

My research hypothesis:
Fran is not the only person who has experienced the pitfalls of this common system of payment.

My findings:
Fran is not the only person who has experienced the pitfalls of this common system of payment.

Several notable economists have theorized that if 8 people are dining, each item ordered contributes 1/8 to your total cost and 7/8 to the cost of the others at the table.

My suggestion? If the restaurant permits, ask for separate checks. This system is less efficient on the part of the wait staff, but with the money you’ll save, you can afford to give them a generous tip for any inconvenience.

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Article also available at http://www.wkyx.com/

Waiting for Your Turn to Talk Isn't "Listening"

In honor of the Olympics, I thought I'd import an idea from the Chinese. Active listening is a term many people toss around like a chalk bag, but few can actually stick the landing.

Active listening is a critical skill that can really set one person apart from another (in every aspect of life).

Chinese Symbol for Listen

Schedule an active listening training for your group today!

Speechless Speeches

'Tis the season! Wedding season, that is! Which brings to mind memories of my brother's wedding reception and his best man's speech, which ultimately landed a spot on America's Funniest Home Videos.

The best man tried to propose a toast to the bride & groom, only to become overwhelmed with emotion. Each time he raised the microphone to his mouth, he would drop it back down to his side choking back his feelings and words. Ultimately, my brother grabbed the microphone and toasted to himself and his new bride!

Insofar as weddings are concerned, September is the new June. Some toasting tips:

1. This is a TOAST not a ROAST...do not berate or embarrass friends on their special day
2. Begin with a strong, heartfelt opening
3. Avoid negativity
4. DO NOT apologize ("I'm not good at giving speeches")
5. DO NOT hesitate ("Gosh, I don't know what to say")...chances are, you've had several weeks (or months) to plan and practice your speech
6. DO email me dmw@donnamariawalker.com to review and provide a professional critique of the most important public speech you will ever give!

Funny Findings

Research has shown that humor in the workplace can:
1. Facilitate communication
2. Build relationships
3. Reduce stress
4. Energize co-workers

Tips to keep in mind when being humorous:
1. Know your audience
2. If you doubt, leave it out
3. Keep your politics to yourself (which can be hard in an election year!)
4. Avoid heavy topics
5. What is your point? Is there a message...and what is that message?

And remember, unfortunately, some humorless people actively seek disparaging messages even when there is no intent on the part of the speaker. Just a heads up...so you don't face plant.

However, research has also shown that humorless individuals experience greater stress levels and are at a substantially greater risk for heart disease & stroke...so, hang in there!

www.donnamariawalker.com

It's Monday...

Show 'em whatcha got!

www.donnamariawalker.com

Credit Check...Check!

If you are seeking employment, know that some employers will want to check your references...and your credit.

Visit http://www.annualcreditreport.com/, the only federally mandated & authorized source for obtaining a free credit report. You'll be able to instantly view your credit report from Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. Should you find any discrepancies, you'll be afforded the opportunity to dispute incorrect claims.

Good thing I did! Who in the heck is "Donna-Marla?"

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Need to clean up that resume? Contact me today!

"I was going to buy a copy of The Power of Positive Thinking, and then I thought: What the hell good would that do?"
--Ronnie Shakes



http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Like, Ahhh, You Know?

"Like" "ahhh" & "you know" are highly popular words that many, many people may not realize are seriously compromising the efficacy of their message(s).

Think of the great orators and greatest speeches in American history and imagine if they had said...

"Like, the only thing, you know, we have to fear, is like, ahhh, fear itself."

or

"Ahhh, Mr. Gorbachev, like, tear down this wall!"

Several of my clients are professionals who wish to improve their public speaking skills. If you would like for me to attend and provide gentle, yet constructive and useful feedback at your next speech, contact me today.

www.donnamariawalker.com

Not as Easy as 1-2-3!

Communication at it's roots can be broken down into 3 "simple" components.

1. Thought
Information (concepts, ideas, feelings, etc.) is formulated in the mind of the potential sender.
Many instances of communication should stay in this phase. I don't know anyone who has acquired a taste for shoe leather!

2. Encoding
Message is sent to receiver in the form of words and/or symbols.
A critical phase in the communication process. Select those words and/or symbols wisely!

3. Decoding
Receiver translates words/symbols into information they can understand.
This is the most unpredictable phase. Regardless of how carefully we select our words/symbols, we cannot control how others receive and interpret information. And, believe it or not, there are many people who intentionally seek problems or offensive information in any/all communication regardless of the intent of the sender.

Tip: When we absolutely must communicate with this type of person, try to manipulate the situation so they are the "encoders." You'll save yourself a lot of time, effort and needless stress.

For more information, contact me today!

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

The Birds & The Bees

Strong identification with either of these pictures says a lot about an office culture.

Which image reminds you of YOUR team?

Do your team members work together toward a common goal? If so, team members and the organization as a whole likely enjoy sweet golden rewards.

Is your organizational progress crippled by the "What's in it for me" mentality?
If so, those employees will NEVER be satiated and they'll NEVER voluntarily leave the nest (for various reasons).

Schedule a teambuilding training for your organization today!

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Mark Your Calendar!

My next speaking engagement will be with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) on July 22nd in Paducah, KY. Topic: "Beyond Compliance: Understanding the Competitive Advantages of Diversity in the Workplace."

Email dmw@donnamariawalker.com for additional details.

I will be teaching 2 sections of Public Speaking and 1 section of Interpersonal Communication at WKCTC in the Fall semester. Please contact the college for scheduling and tuition information! Classes begin soon...reserve your spot today!

I'll resume regular "blogcasting" on July 15th (due to family emergency).

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

It's Monday

Brainstorming

So, my good pal Mary Thorsby of iListPaducah called the other day and asked if I'd like to get together with she and Grace Clemency of The Stranded Cow to help brainstorm for an upcoming fundraiser.

Before I could say yes, Mary threw in the magic word..."Margarita!" That's code for "Please" in our universe.

Nothing is more counter intuitive to ideas & creativity than fear. It's imperative that brainstorming take place in a relaxed fashion...storms by nature are very random and intense events.

So relax, encourage everyone to participate, record ideas, be open to random, intense thought(s) and watch your business cup begin to runneth over!

For more information, visit http://www.donnamariawalker.com/, Margarita!

Generation Nation

For the first time in American history, four generations are working side by side in the workplace. This creates many unique challenges (and opportunities) for organizational leadership.

The 4 Generations (& common characteristics) include:

1. Veterans or "Traditionalists" (born 1922-1945); loyal to employer, fiscally and socially conservative, strong work ethic


2. Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964); most educated generation, loyal to employer, strong work ethic


3. Generation X (born 1965-1980); independent (former "latch key kids"), self-motivated, self-reliant, highest # of divorces compared to other generations, saw parents lose pensions/retirement after 30 years of service and are not overly loyal to employers


4. Generation Y (born 1981-2000); Parents use non-tactile forms of discipline (e.g., "Time out"), highly protected by parents, accepting and tolerant of cultural, sexual, and other individual differences, "what's in it for me" mentality highly prevalent (entitlement)

When leading multi-generational workplaces, remember this:

• Focus on common experiences
• There is no right or wrong
• Respect that different generations have distinctly different approaches to problem solving
• Employees may not be technologically proficient
• Communicate information through a medium that is easily accessible and understandable

Learn how to effectively recruit, manage, retain and motivate 4 generations of employees in your organization!

Schedule a multi-generational speech for your office today!

Crash Course in Internet Security

If this guy reminds you of your Internet security...


Perhaps it's time to tighten up Internet security measures (particularly in medical offices, where sensitive patient information, the world wide web, and strict HIPPA regulations co-exist).

A more costly reminder could be...


The choice is yours! John Truitt and Anna Berlekamp of Kalleo Technologies are very helpful and informative. Contact them today!

Know Your Worth

John Odom, a minor league baseball player, was traded to another team in exchange for 10 baseball bats.

So, my free little agents, listen up! Knowing & effectively communicating your worth are critical factors to receiving your worth. Not sure what your job should be paying? Visit http://www.salary.com/ to learn more.

Suggestions:

1. Earn more education
2. Meet with your employer to discuss additional projects you have initiated & seen to completion
3. Do your homework--document your accomplishments and clearly communicate HOW you have increased sales, customer service standards, or anything that would merit a raise
4. One of the best times to initiate this type of conversation is soon after the employer offers praise for your capabilities
5. In today's economy, a pay raise may not be a possibility. So ask for the gift of time instead. Additional vacation days are a great reward for a job well done.

For the record, I'm not picking on John Odom. Who knows? Perhaps he's worth 9 bats...in which case, way to go, man!

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Organizational Yoga

Managerial overconfidence, complacency, and taken-for-granted assumptions, can be the biggest barriers to future organizational success.

The market can (and will) provide managers with all of the environmental feedback necessary to make critical decisions regarding future organizational direction(s)/business models.

Increase your flexibility by practicing organizational yoga...or you can kiss your business goodbye.

1. Analyze external exceptions to rules
2. Analyze past trends to predict future needs
3. Fall out of love with ideas that aren't working
4. Create a consequence-free environment where employees feel safe to share "bad news"

Motorola was a leader in the analog world...until digital technology came to town. Oooops.

Slap Me Some Skinner!

SCENARIO:

• Employee presses lever. No pellet dispensed.
• Employee presses lever. Still no pellet.
• Employee presses lever. Nope. Nada.

• Employer presses shock button to encourage desired response.
• No response.
• Employer presses shock button to encourage desired response.
• Nothing.
• Employer presses shock button to encourage...hey, wait a minute? Where are you going? Come back here!

The cost of living has increased exponentially while payrolls remain the same. Even if employers cannot afford to promote an increase in payroll, FREE reinforcements do exist to promote an increase in morale:

1. Personally thank an employee for a specific job well-done.
2. Include employees in the decisions. Often times, employees understand operations in a different way than management--this communication can benefit the organization.
3. Offer opportunities for employees to learn new skills.
4. Celebrate successes!
5. Give the gift of time (free time is a great reward for a specific accomplishment).

www.donnamariawalker.com

Just the Worm, Ma'am

The early bird catches the worm. We've all heard it, but it's garbage. The early bird gets up early. That's it. Perhaps a more accurate statement may be, "The early bird, who leaves its nest and takes an active role in hunting, catches the worm."

Don't you just hate those people who brag incessantly that they get up at 5am each day?

Each week, the CEO of Xerox asks employees:
1. How many sales events did you attend this week? What did you learn?
2. How many customer service meetings did you attend this week? What did you learn?

Not, "What time did you get up today?" He's interested in "The Worm" NOT the time of day you caught it.

Learn YOUR prime time for productivity and then go get that worm. Trust me, they're there...I see robins in my yard from sunup til sunset. http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

POW (Prisoner of Work)

Your Not-A-Cog Blog, a supplement to my consulting business, brings you our 100th blog entry! Thank you for your fabulous emails and inspirations throughout the past several months!

Are you a POW?


Do you lack interest in a job you once enjoyed? Are your co-workers more annoying than they've ever been before? Are goals meaningless? Is your work product a pale shadow of what it used to be?

If so, you may be suffering from burnout. Communication can be a great tool to help get you out of this slump. Contact me today for your free 1-hr. initial consultation.

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Got Chicken?

(Caution! Video clip contains "foul" language!)

Leeroy Jenkins, an Internet phenom & member of a team of World of Warcraft players, left his computer to get some chicken while the rest of the team communicated their detailed plan to enter into battle.

When Leeroy finally returns, he prematurely runs past his team (still meeting outside of the castle), and into battle screaming "Let's do this! Leeeeeeroooooy Jenkins!" His stunned teammates follow him into battle. Leeroy, the weakest link in the geek brain trust, facilitated a fatal ending for the entire team.

Sound familiar? We've all worked with a Leeroy at some point in our careers. Listening is a fundamental component to effective communication and teamwork. Increase your team's 32.33% chance of survival. Schedule an Active Listening training today!
http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Schoooooool's Out For Summer!

Unless your kid has a sweet internship set up with Nintendo, you may want to consider unplugging the video games this summer.

Internships, work experience, and volunteerism are all critical aspects to an individuals ultimate success in college, career and life.

Some common traits among successful young adults:
1) Have experience working as a part of a team
2) Exercise judgment (can think quickly and make good decisions)
3) Possess self-confidence
4) Exercise discipline (can resist temptation)
5) Awareness of, and respect for, individual differences (ethnic, demographic, etc.)

So, even if you can play Alice Cooper's famous song on Legends of Rock at the Expert Level, I can guarantee you, that will not win over a potential employer or college admissions officer.

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

MJ in Your PC

Remember that Rockwell/Michael Jackson song..."I always feel like somebody's watchin' me! Can't I get no privacy? Nooooo!"

Computer systems and equipment (including any email sent or received), are the property of the employer. Personal privacy, real or implied, does not exist...even after business hours when you're off the clock.

Most policy & procedure manuals clearly outline terms and conditions for computer & Internet usage. Many companies classify personal use of computers as grounds for dismissal.

We interrupt this blog entry to bring you a message from Bill Gates:

"I'M NOT SENDING YOU $100!"

My policy? When in doubt, throw it out. The delete button is a fab feature. Unless, of course, you think that forwarding that chain letter to 6 friends will bring you a better job with better benefits...in which case, I'm all for it.

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Trump Your Hiring Slump

Sometimes new hires don't work out despite hours of exhausting resume reviews, interviews, reference checks, personality tests...you get the point.

This is natural and it happens. Neither the employee or the employer should feel badly.

Food for Thought:
Perhaps "The Donald" has it right. Not that a 14-week interview process is a good idea, but perhaps there is something to having a 'hands-on' interview where the employee actually performs the duties of the job for a day (or a week). It may be less expensive than advertising, interviewing and a potential wrong hire.

http://www.donnamariawalker.com/

Vulture Culture

Like buzzards circling a carcass, many co-workers are circling waiting for a colleague to fail (rather than helping them out); waiting for a position to be eliminated; waiting for someone to falter so they can pick the bones clean.

Sick to think about, but it happens all of the time.

Negativity and conflict in the workplace is detrimental to the overall "success" of an organization.

To schedule a conflict resolution training in your office, contact me today.

LoTo BB with BB

The Mayo Clinic promotes the following tips to reduce stress:

1. Plan each day.
2. Prioritize your tasks.
3. Delegate.
4. Get plenty of sleep and exercise.


5. Attend D.J. Urban Kobbb's Lowertown Band Brawl
   May 10, 3-6:30 p.m.
   Texaco station (7th and Madison Street)

(Okay, so #5 is my professional tip...but music has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and increase work performance)!

Hope to see you there!
www.donnamariawalker.com

I Ain't Stewart Smalley

Some consultants offer you little more advice than to look in the mirror and say...
And then they look at you and say..."That'll be $3,000!"

Donna-Maria Walker, LLC is committed to helping organizations achieve higher levels of satisfaction through the implementation of strategic communication and employee/volunteer training & development.

While trainings are fun, they are also hard work.
While speeches are motivational, they are also highly educational and results-oriented.

You're good enough and smart enough to know when it's time for some serious training in your organization. Contact me today.

www.donnamariawalker.com

More Morale

Low morale in the workplace can be a result of many contributing factors including
employee terminations, promotion of incompetent co-workers, unresolved conflict, unstable organizational and/or financial health, unreasonable and relentless workloads, demanding supervisors, unengaged/non-supportive supervisors, poor environmental conditions...and the list goes on.

Let me assure you of one thing...low morale is VERY costly to an organization either in the form of lost productivity or turnover. Have the courage to look at yourself and your organization objectively.

Contact me today to schedule your free 1-hour initial consultation. Let's create a customized plan to increase morale in your organization!

Suggested Reading

Negotiating salary, job duties and other critical aspects of your job can be a daunting task. Typically, organizations provide 6 month and/or annual reviews which usually include opportunities to communicate performance objectives, duties, salary and other critical aspects of your job.

This book is filled with some good tips and ideas that can help.

www.donnamariawalker.com

Tip for Tips

"Why tip someone for a job I'm capable of doing myself? I can deliver food. I can drive a taxi. I can, and do, cut my own hair. I did, however, tip my urologist, because... I am unable to pulverize my own kidney stones."
Dwight Shrewt, NBC's The Office

I have recently received some emails from service-related professionals regarding tips (or the lack thereof). In defense of the patron, many people just don't know what is acceptable.

As a general rule, we should tip 20-25%...even if you are capable of performing the service yourself.