Bad Ideas  |
Our Society  |
A Calling?  |
E.T.'s Career  |
People: Problems, Possibilities
One of the “dirty little secrets” about our careers is the fact that they can be influenced so greatly by others – and that, in many cases, the “others” turn out to be damaged souls just looking for someone to aggravate.
The others can also turn out to be fabulous people who wind up being assets to your career and in many cases become good friends. The trick is knowing the difference, protecting yourself from trouble while remaining receptive to the good ones.
Here are some stories of some of the different kinds of people I’ve encountered throughout my career, with some comments about each. With the luxury of hindsight I see many situations where a different approach might have worked better; I include these observations as well.
Ruby in Houston
Ruby was somewhere in her 60s when I first met her; one of those seemingly ageless Southern women that can pretty much do whatever needs to be done. Even better: she had the most delightful attitude and overall approach to things – people liked her, trusted her, and respected her. read more »
The "Molly" Story
"So, Molly, I hope you see where this leaves me - for the customers' sake, which means for the business' sake, I have to get this to change. I'm hoping you'll be willing to change this because I enjoy working with you and I think you're a great worker; but if you don't I'll have to replace you." read more »
E.T. -- Get a Job!
I’ve long believed the right career can help our love lives. Years ago I read a wonderful science fiction story that cleverly (if inadvertently) demonstrated this idea. read more »
Do You Have a Calling* ?
Maybe you wonder if there is a specific place in the world for you, with your particular personality, skills, talents -- everything that makes you, you... here is a way to encourage this bit of hope that's trying to take hold in there. read more »
You Don't Have to Outrun the bear*
You don't have to be 100% perfect in every way.
You just have to be the most desirable alternative available to your potential employer, client, customer, or investor.
Or employee.
Understanding the key concepts in Career Sanity is a great way to do just that. read more »
