Monday, February 9, 2009

Friction Between Generations in the Office

One source of tension between office co-workers might just be a good old-fashioned generation gap.

Younger workers are more tech-savvy, while older workers stick with ways of doing things that are familiar and comfortable, but not necessarily the most efficient ways of getting things done.

Older workers sometimes resent younger workers for their use of certain technologies (which in the minds of mature workers equate to goofing off), and their relatively casual approach to things like dress code.

How might differences between the generations be causing tension in your office?

Sometimes a little perspective and understanding goes a long way. Read more here.

Friday, February 6, 2009

Girl Scout Cookie Rules for the Office

Remember when the girl scouts used to take cookie orders door-to-door? Maybe you even remember being one of them.

That era is long-gone, as parents worry about the safety of their kids approaching the homes of strangers. Instead, many parents of scouts are taking on the responsibility of selling their daughters' cookies themselves, and usually at work. But it can sometimes be a sticky situation.

What are the ethical issues of selling girl scout cookies in the office? Check out CNN before you buy -- or sell -- another box of Thin Mints.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Hate the Idea of Office "Cliques"?

Think you'd never see a clique again once you graduated from high school? For those of us who work in offices, the phenomenon continues. More than 85% of people say they see cliques in their workplace, and 66% say they feel left out of an office clique.

Arguments exist for and against cliques. Some actually say they can be a positive force in a work environment -- "team spirit", we suppose. But others argue that cliques only foster gossip and inevitably make the outsiders feel just that -- left out.

Does the thought of being considered part of an office clique make you sick? Would you much rather be seen as someone who's friendly with everyone?

Or, do you belong to an office clique and like it, but wish you could be seen in the most favorable light possible without departing from your circle of friends?

This article addresses how to avoid being cliquey, and how to be the nicest person in a clique if you insist on staying.

Yoga Enters the Office

If your employer has introduced an employee wellness program, or is just thinking about it, maybe you should encourage them to incorporate yoga.

They might be interested to know that yoga improves the immune system, which means fewer sick employees and fewer absences.

If you need more ammunition, check out this article. You might even send your boss to the link.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Revolutionize Your Office -- One Chat at a Time

From Minneapolis, we've discovered a great little list of advice on how to revolutionize your workplace one conversation at a time. Absolutely everyone should read this.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Tappan Zee Bridge Repairs to Continue

Use the Tappan Zee for your commute?

The New York State Thruway Authority announced that routine repairs on the Tappan Zee Bridge will continue today, Monday, February 2 through Friday, February 6, during off-peak travel times.

Get the whole story here.

Improving Fulton St. Station

Ever complain to yourself (or for that matter, someone else) that the Fulton Street subway station makes you feel like a rat in one of those cheese mazes?

Ah! But change is coming! Read it in the New York Times.