Ryan McVay
This is the latest news and information for workers and managers from across the Web universe, brought to you by Monday Morning Manager writer Harvey Schachter. Follow us on Twitter @Globe_Careers or join our Linked In group.
Research collected by psychologist Jeremy Dean indicates the ideal workplace has lots of curves rather than just straight edges, a calming view to the outside environment, plants, and attention to decorations. It's also not open plan. – PsyBlog
Last-place finishers deserve recognition
Modern organizations focus on winners, but entrepreneur Seth Godin says you can encourage success by honouring the dedication, perseverance and hard work marked by the Red Lantern – the prize given to the final finisher of the gruelling Iditarod dog race. – Seth's Blog
Focus your networking on those you know
Blogger John Corcoran suggests following the 80-20 rule for networking. Spend 80 per cent of your time connecting with people you know (they are likely to be a gateway to others) and 20 per cent with new people. – Dumb Little Man
Tips to improve your listening skills
When listening, maintain your calm to be sure you're not in a rush, advises trainer Dan Rockwell. Ask at least three questions before making one statement. Test and explore, rather than defend. And forget your answer but explore theirs. – Leadership Freak
Guard credit cards with a smart wallet
The Ping is a smart wallet for credit cards that can be synced to your smartphone and alert you when a credit card has been lost by keeping tabs on which credit cards have been removed but not returned in a short period of time. – Springwise.com
Harvey Schachter is a Battersea, Ont.-based writer specializing in management issues. He writes Monday Morning Manager and management book reviews for the print edition of Report on Business and an online work-life column Balance. E-mail Harvey Schachter
Harvey Schachter