Blog

Conflict Resolution & Management
Chances are, you've had to deal with conflict at some point in your life, and in your career. You might even have to cope with it on an ongoing basis. But it's not all bad!
General
Dear Orna: I haven't had a raise in 3 years, but I work really hard and I know I am doing a terrific job. How do I get my boss to give me a raise?
~ Signed: I am worth more!

Dear I Am Worth More: There are only two good reasons your boss will give you a raise: (1) You make him look good by adding value to his work, or (2) You help improve the company's bottom line. If you believe . . . .
General
Dear Orna: My plate is full, but my boss constantly hands me additional projects. I always say YES because I don't want him to think I'm incompetent. But I am overwhelmed. How can I say NO without sounding like a loser?
~ Signed: Burned Out

Dear Burned Out: Many people today are paranoid about losing their job so they are afraid to say, "No" to their boss. But keep in mind, if you're stressed and burned out, the quality of your work will suffer . . .
General
Joan Rivers died recently at the age of 81. And since her passing, there has been a lot of talk about the impact she made on our lives and our society. So, what have we learned from the comedian who made us laugh . . . and built an empire, all at the same time?

Joan Rivers broke all the rules and somehow managed to turn her stand-up comedy routine into . . .
General
Dear Orna: I have a tattoo on my back and I am thinking of getting a couple of more tattoos on my arm and hands. I just graduated from college and my girlfriend says more tattoos will prevent me from getting a good job. Is the right?
~ Signed: INK the Deal

Dear INK the DEAL: Although tattoos were once associated with sailors and laborers, they have become a lot more popular and "fashionable" these days. In fact, the tattoo industry has ballooned into a $2 Billion business and continues to grow. However, your girlfriend makes a valid point . . .
General
Dear Orna: Why does it seem that so many people lie at work? They lie about little things, big ideas, personal issues and work-related matters. How can an honest person cope?
~Signed: Tell Me Sweet Little Lies

Dear TELL ME SWEET LITTLE LIES: I'm not gonna lie to you. The truth is, we are all liars. The lying begins with the job interview and never stops. Because I want you to believe me, I'm going to quote some real statistics: A University of Massachusetts research study found that 81% of job interview candidates lie and extroverts are most likely to . . .
General
Dear Orna: My boss is a bully. She rolls her eyes and displays obvious signs of irritation. She can be very mean to me in front of other people, too. I work hard and try to do the best I can, but her attitude is hurtful and demoralizing. Please help!
~ Signed: Tired of Being Bullied!

Dear TIRED OF BEING BULLIED: My heart goes out to you. When it comes to managers, there are all types: demanding, micromanaging, hands-off or even relaxed. But the worst kind to deal with is the bully . . .
General
Posted on May 5th in Honor of Mothers Day 2014.

Moms were smarter than we realized. Their practical advice was as relevant in 1964 as it is 50 years later in 2014! Wear clean underwear, clean your room, don't be a know-it-all . . .
Business
Dear Orna: Last week I made a big mistake at work; fortunately I caught it before it went out the door. But what if I didn't? What is the best way to handle a mistake when you know it's your fault? - - Signed: DOING MY BEST.

Dear DOING MY BEST: There's an old saying: "It's not the crime that kills you, it's the cover up!" Everyone makes mistakes. It's called being human. But mistakes can be detrimental to your career if you don't handle them properly . . .