Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "work"

Real Relationships: The co-worker from hell

2011-08-08T15:48:16Z

Q: I have been working at the same office for nearly eight years. Our office dynamics are like most: pretty good but has issue sometimes. All that changed a month ago when the coworker from hell was hired.

This girl is one of the worst coworkers I have ever encountered. She isn't a bad person in general, but she is always late, she talks on her phone in the cubicles really loud, she plays music in her cubicle, she heats up smelly food in the community microwave, she is always asking to borrow change and never repays it, she is moody in the mornings and cranky in the afternoons. I think you get the idea.

Her attitude and quirky personality seem to bring the entire office moral down. What should we do? I am not sure how much more we can take.

A: I am pretty sure every office in America has "one of those people": The person in their office who makes it just a little bit harder for everyone to enjoy their workday.

So the question is, what can you do to curb her annoying habits? Well, there are a few things you can try, but no guarantees.

1. If she plays her music too loud, ask her if she has headphones or offer to loan her some. That is a common courtesy, and she shouldn’t be allowed to disrupt the work environment. You may need a manager to step in.

2. Gently alert her that she is talking too loud on the phone and that everyone can hear her. Cubicles are not soundproof, and sometimes people forget that when they are in a conversation haze.

3. The smelly microwave food: That is a touchy subject, and I am not sure you want to go there. Perhaps invest in some air fresheners to spray the area down with after she cooks up her food.

4. Find out why is is cranky during certain parts of the day. Does her blood sugar get low? Maybe she needs some mid-afternoon snacks or an extra cup of coffee in the morning.

5. Next time she asks to borrow change, just tell her you don't have any to loan her. Even if you do have change, it isn't for her.

Try to make the best of your situation. If you attempt pleasant conversation, you may find out you have something in common. You never know. That one thing can help you build a working relationship, and you might find that all those annoying habits aren't as annoying anymore.

Have a relationship question? Email sacpress@live.com. Questions will be featured every Monday in “Real Relationships.”

Organization monitors government actions

2011-05-18T07:12:17Z

Eye on Sacramento, a nonprofit Sacramento-based government watchdog organization, has recently been launched in the city of Sacramento to maintain a watchful eye on the policies and actions of the city government.

“We formed EOS because we believe that too little attention is paid to the broad public interest and too much attention is paid to special interests,” said EOS President Craig Powell. “The public has little inside knowledge of what really goes on in city government. We hope to change that.”

“Eye on Sacramento was started by a core group of about nine people who were active in the Campaign for Common Sense Utilities Rates (the group that sponsored Measure B on the November 2010 ballot),” Powell said.

Powell currently serves as the vice president of the Sacramento County Taxpayers League and is the league’s point person on city government issues. He is also the president of the Land Park Volunteer Corps (which cares for William Land Park) and writes the monthly “City Hall” column for Inside the City magazine.

“Six more individuals have joined the effort over the past five or six months, so the 15 key participants now comprise the initial Board of Directors of EOS,” Powell said.

Powell said EOS was formed for two reasons: to “shine a very bright light” on the actions and policies of local government in Sacramento and to develop and promote local government policies that advance and protect the broad interests of the general public.

“The three functions that form the core of Eye on Sacramento’s work is the watchdog unit, our policy incubator and our community unit,” Powell said.

The watchdog unit is composed of about half a dozen people amongst whom are several board members and whose responsibilities entail monitoring the role of the city government.

Powell explained that the watchdog unit is responsible for attending all City Council meetings, monitoring the actions of all City Council members and being able to follow up with the council by asking questions during public comment.

“We are actively recruiting volunteers who wish to serve in our watchdog unit, either as regular monitors of government actions, investigators of particular issues or government actions, researchers and writers,” Powell said. “Volunteers expand our capacity to scrutinize local government.”

The policy incubator is the process in which the board will review current policy issues on a regular basis in order to make a final agreement on creating a new policy.

Once the board has created a policy that they all can agree on, a recommendation of the policy will be proposed to the City Council.

“Sacramento residents should have every opportunity to feel confident in their local government. I appreciate anyone who sees priority in the importance of maintaining integrity and transparency throughout government offices,” said City Councilwoman Angelique Ashby.

Powell added that EOS is now focusing on the cellphone tower and billboard policy and recommendations to the current budget crisis within the city.

“Outsourcing is an alternative budget solution to mass layoffs and public service-level cutbacks, which have been the primary budget-balancing tools of the local government in the past few years,” Powell said.

The implementation of presenting awareness to the public about the actions of local government will be done through the EOS community unit.

“The city not only welcomes but encourages public input and participation during the budget adoption process,” said city spokeswoman Amy Williams.

“We want to create a strong communication system between ourselves and neighborhoods,” Powell said.

These efforts will be performed through the EOS representatives, whose role is to watch over particular communities within the city of Sacramento and attend neighborhood meetings.

“By attending neighborhood association meetings, EOS representatives will be able to connect with members of the community and report back to the EOS board as to what the issues or concerns of the community are,” Powell said.

He added that EOS will assess public priorities by receiving feedback from local communities and periodically conducting polls within particular areas of Sacramento that question residents on their attitudes toward government.

“Right now, improving the local economy is critical and ensuring that we don’t make cutbacks in the city’s public services,” Powell said.

“(On May 12), City Council directed staff to explore ways of restoring community centers and staff is working at reviewing all feasible options,” said Williams.

EOS will use email alerts, newsletters and TV interviews to voice to the public the actions of local government as it pertains to the concerns of the residents of Sacramento.

“The government performs better when they’re being scrutinized than when they know that no one is looking, “Powell said.

The members of the Board of Directors of Eye on Sacramento include Craig K. Powell, Greg Hatfield, Lisa Garcia, Carl Burton, James Felton, Ray Garcia, Diane Schachterle, Erik Smitt, Arnold Duplantier Sr., Karen Klinger, Sarah Foster, Katy Grimes, Phil Nails, Dennis Kellogg and Adam Willoughby.

Next year, EOS plans to focus its attention on the city’s school, park and fire districts, as well as the cities of Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova.

Changing Stereotypes about People with Developmental Disabilities One City at a Time

2011-03-24T21:26:30Z

There’s something unusual happening at the Orangevale Recreation and Park District. It’s not ballet classes or a magic show—although those things are happening. It’s something that has grown behind the scenes and yet is a key part of the parks we enjoy.

For almost 13 years, Orangevale parks have benefitted from a crew that does everything from waxing the slide at the pool, to chalking the baseball diamond. What’s unique about this crew is that it consists of three individuals who have a range of developmental disabilities.

You might not normally think that people with developmental disabilities would be shredding almond branches through a wood chipper, or driving giant lawn mowers across fields, but these guys do that and much more.

The crew was originally hired by Orangevale parks through a work and life skills program run by the nonprofit organization called InAlliance. Since 1952, InAlliance has partnered with local businesses to fully integrate and include people with developmental disabilities in their communities through work.

What would cause a large public agency like Orangevale Recreation and Park District to hire a crew of people with disabilities? According to Park Superintendent, Chuck West, he was hesitant at first for a variety of reasons. He had no knowledge of what developmental disabilities looked like, and was concerned what it would cost the parks in terms of additional energy and manpower to supervise a crew with developmental disabilities.

After watching the crew excel in every task they were given, West quickly changed his own limited expectations, and committed to giving the crew the opportunity to get involved in all aspects of maintaining and operating the parks.

According to West there has been no downside. He regularly gets compliments from park visitors and class instructors alike on how great the parks look. He attributes this to the incredibly detailed work performed by the InAlliance crew. “They show up everyday, rain or shine, and do their work with an incredible amount of commitment,” said West.

Crew supervisor, Fred DeLeon, is provided by InAlliance to ensure that West doesn’t have to worry about managing or overseeing the crew. According to DeLeon, “The crew hasn’t changed in 13 years, but the individuals have grown a lot.”

The men on the crew all live in the area, and thanks to their work at the parks, feel like they’re a real part of the community. Over time West has realized how important it is to include people with developmental disabilities in their communities. “I really think that public agencies have a duty to participate in these types of programs, after all, it is your community,” said West.

Act entrepreneurially when it comes to your career

2009-10-08T23:31:19Z

Today, 30% of the US job market, about 42 million workers, are independent contractors, temporary staffers, or self employed, according to the July 2009 issue of Money Magazine.

No longer just the realm of creative professionals like writers and artists, freelancing is spreading to accounting, engineering, health care, law and sales.

“Now’s the time to think and act entrepreneurially when it comes to your career.” (Money 59) And in Sacramento, as teachers, state workers, and others, face layoffs and furloughs, they have both the time and the inclination to turn towards this professional avenue.
Perhaps you have started researching freelance or self-employment options? Maybe you saw the trend a year ago and got ahead of the curve?

Where do you get experienced-based answers to your questions? Where can you network and meet people who run successful freelance businesses? How do you form partnerships and collaborations? How do you find clients?

According to Janna Santoro, a freelance writer who is organizing Sacramento’s first Freelance Camp, October 17 at The Urban Hive in Sacramento, Freelance Camps—whose motto is “In Business for Yourself, Not by Yourself”—offer a venue for freelancers and self-employed people to discuss and explore different approaches to running a successful freelance business or service company.

“Freelance Camps are highly productive, yet informal gatherings where businesspeople can share their expertise with each other. They are a radical break from routine business conferences. Rather than sit back and be talked to, participants select topics they’re interested in and then break into discussion groups,“ says Santoro.

Freelance Camps are a revolutionary form of user-generated events—also known as “unconferences”—whose content is fully provided by the participants. Anyone with something to contribute or with the desire to learn is welcome and invited to join. To date, dozens of Freelance Camps have been held on three continents, with more cropping up almost daily.

Each camp is run by a local team of volunteers and is put on for the benefit of the community (not profit). Hosted by The Urban Hive co-working center in midtown Sacramento, the Sacramento Freelance Camp will welcome anyone who provides business services (or is considering it): designers, accountants, bloggers, journalists, realtors, lawyers, carpenters, engineers, financial advisers, marketers, salespeople, musicians, artists, inventors and more.

“Events like this jumpstart relationships and innovative ideas in the area’s creative community. At last year's SacBarCamp, [a participant-driven networking event for Sacramento techies held last April] I was shocked to see how many talented, creative and generally fun people are practically my neighbors. A year later, I’m still exchanging advice with them and have a fabulous pool of people I’d recommend to my own clients," says Jenny Koreny, founder of a freelance web and online video business (jennykoreny.com).

She adds that if people are out there building a business on their own, or want to position themselves as a leader in the Sacramento region, attending an event such as the Sacramento Freelance Camp is advantageous.

"Freelance Camp is a fortuitous way to make contacts, enhance your knowledge & showcase skills and trends to your peers," says Koreny, who plans to attend the October 17 event.

Enrollment in the Sacramento Freelance Camp includes a full day of informative seminars, networking and connection opportunities, breakfast, lunch, and an after party for participants.

According to Santoro, “This is the event that local freelancers, self-employed people and small business owners will not want to miss.”

Freelance Camps are not-for-profit, volunteer-run events. The Sacramento event is being sponsored by The Urban Hive (theurbanhive.com), Cassia Communications (cassiacommunications.wordpress.com), Sacramento Marketing Labs (sacramentomarketinglabs.com), Jennifer Basye-Sanders of Write By The Lake (writebythelake.com) and Jealousy Catering (jealousycatering.com).

The Sacramento Freelance Camp 2009 will take place on October 17, 2009, at
8 a.m. to approximately 5 p.m. at The Urban Hive, 1931 H Street, Sacramento, 95811

For more information: Janna Marlies Santoro, 916-837-1646
Website: www.freelancecamp.org
Twitter: #freelancecamp
Registration: http://freelancecampsacramento.eventbrite.com/

References: “How to Profit in the New Economy: The Rise of the Freelance Nation.” Money. July, 2009, 59

Editor's Note: Robin Martin co-works at the Urban Hive.

Managing transition

2009-08-11T02:51:02Z

What kind of change is impacting you right now? Are you laid off? Is your job changing due to "doing less with less"? Have you graduated college and trying to start your career? Are you preparing for retirement? And, how do you react to change?

In my conversation with Becky Shook, Psychology Practitioner who helps individuals and groups move through transition, we explored the difference between change and transition and the six types of transition styles each of us tends to experience.

Change and transition are not the same. "Although used interchangeably, they are different", says Becky. "Change is the actual event or situation that occurs ... transition is the emotional space people move through [in response to the change]". For example, your job or organization may be changing; how you react to this change is the transition.

Becky shared six transition styles. While each of us can experience all of them to some extent, we tend to experience one or two most often. Which one do you think is your dominant transition style?

Style #1: Attachment. Individuals who exhibit this style tend to have fear and concern that relationships are going to be disrupted in some way. For example, as a result of a job change, you may have strong feelings that you will not be working with an individual or group as much or at all anymore.

Style #2: Turf. This kind of response includes two dimensions - physical work space and area of responsibility. For example, maybe the change will require you to move your work location and/or significantly change your job duties, both keep you up at night.

Style #3: Future. This style includes a preoccupation with how the change will impact your career or life path, including retirement plans. Feeling in control of your destiny, whether real or imagined, is crucial for people who gravitate toward this style.l

Style #4: Structure. Individuals who tend to default to this transition style are concerned about how the change will impact their daily routines. Becky adds: "We set up mental structures to get through our day. When change happens, those structures are no longer relevant".

Style #5: Meaning. Not knowing why a change is occurring is a huge disruption for individuals who fall into this style. This also includes job fulfillment. Becky says: "If you change a job and it's no longer fulfilling, that's a huge disruption".

Style #6: Control. Individuals who place high value on autonomy will tend to experience this style. How the change is going to affect ones ability to direct his or her own activities is on the top of the list of concerns.

Understanding your dominant transition style and those of others you lead or work with is the first step. Then you can focus on compensating. For example, if the dominant style in question is future, those impacted can do scenario planning, considering alternative futures that may be possible. Or, if the focus is structure, create new mental structures, guidelines or routines. Often these activities can positively affect the other transition styles, such as providing more meaning and control.

You can see my conversation with Becky on Sunday night's episode of Good Work NOW! on Channel 17 at 7:30 PM (or streamed via www.AccessSacramento.org). A ten minute preview/highlights segment is available here.

Please leave your questions or comments. Becky and I will be monitoring the discussion.

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Good Work NOW! is a non-commercial, public access TV talk show focusing on finding a job, developing your career or business, or improving the workplace and is a volunteer effort by all involved.

Volunteering for your personal and professional development

2009-08-04T01:36:55Z

There is more to volunteering than you think. I sat down with Mary Lynn Perry, the coordinator for the City of Sacramento’s award winning volunteer program, and author of the free “Get Involved: A How-to Volunteer Guide for Parents, Teachers and Youth”. She shared the many benefits of volunteering:

1) Gain New Skills: You can acquire professional work experience, whether you have just graduated from high school or college, want to change your career, or transition into retirement. Mary Lynn says: “A lot of people come into a volunteer experience looking to switch a career … they want to try out something for future employment or a part time job”. Molly Lynch, volunteer crewmember at Access Sacramento adds: “I share my skill and technical abilities in exchange for complete creative control of what I want to do. I work in both radio and tv already … I guess it's good practice calling the shots”.

2) Live Your Passion: You can finally do something with that pent up talent you have. Have you always wanted to work in the classroom but have been in retail for years? Volunteering can be the way to use that energy. There are so many places to volunteer. You can find the right place to channel your passion.

3) Social Networking: Most jobs that become available are known via social networks BEFORE they are posted. Networking can give you a competitive advantage in today’s tight job market. Mary Lynn notes “Someone tells you about a job way before it is advertised”. Jemuel Johnson, another volunteer shares: “Access Sacramento has been a great way for me to meet helpful people and understand media.” Volunteering is particularly valuable for individuals who tend to be introverts - when left to their own devices they hide in their home. Networking is essential for the newly retired who no longer have daily social interaction. The sudden loss of an “identity” and daily relationships can be devastating. Volunteering is also a way to meet that special someone, such as “Singles for Service”.

4) Personal Achievement: By helping others, you feel like you have accomplished something. Making a positive difference is always good medicine.

Mary Lynn (mperry@cityofsacramento.org) shared many resources for more information:

• City of Sacramento Volunteer Website: www.cityofsacramento.org/volunteers
• Volunteer Center of Sacramento: www.volunteersac.org
• Hands on Sacramento: www.handsonsacto.org
• National: www.volunteermatch.org
• Mayor Johnson’s Volunteer site: www.volunteersac.com

I would like to offer a special thanks to my volunteer crew who work on “Good Work NOW!”: Daniel J. Lorenzo (director), Tony Frontino, Jemuel Johnson, Molly Lynch and Marge McCreary (lights, cameras and audio).

QUESTIONS FOR READERS:

Mary Lynn Perry and I encourage readers to respond to the following questions to keep the discussion going:

1) What benefits have you gained from volunteering? 2) If you don't volunteer now, how might you in the future? 3) Do you have any questions or comments about volunteering?

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Good Work NOW! is a weekly, local public access TV talk show to help viewers find and create good work. The interview with Mary Lynn airs on Sunday, August 9, 7:30 - 8:00 PM on Channel 17. A 10 minute preview/highlights segment is available at www.goodworknow.com.

Marketing makeover for your career or business

2009-07-14T02:57:10Z

Does your career or business need a marketing makeover? Executive coach Laura Perez (www.epiphanycoaching.net) shares eight of her marketing makeover “treatments” from her career coaching sessions and seminars:

1) Know Your C.O.B.S. Before you market yourself, be clear on what you want - the Career you want, the Opportunities that are available, the kind of Boss you want to work for, and the Salary you are willing to accept.
2) Be a Problem Solver. Clearly understand and communicate how you can solve problems. Laura says: “Today’s companies want problem solvers, money savers and out of the box thinkers”. Make sure your resume conveys that.
3) Conduct Informational Interviews. Interview others that hold positions or work in industries or companies you are interested in. Ask about the job or business requirements, challenges, work culture, and so on. Laura says: “People will be surprised on how helpful others want to be”. People generally enjoy giving informational interviews.
4) Brand Yourself. Branding is not just for a business or company, but for an individual as well. Laura says: “How are you going to stand out? What are your unique qualities?” She adds: “What you perceive you can conceive”, meaning self perception and confidence are essential for portraying a positive brand or image.
5) Prepare and Practice Your Elevator Pitch. Most job seekers or business owners have 2 minutes or less to convey their pitch, which is essentially your brand. It should convey your goal, skills and what you need (click here for a sample elevator pitch).
6) Network Yourself. Force yourself to attend business mixers, network events, conferences and professional association events. Also, create professional or business pages on all the social networking sites, such as Facebook, LinkIn, and Twitter.
7) Provide Useful Handouts. Customize and pass out helpful information and tips at mixers, presentations and network events. Find out what others need and give it to them in a concise, practical manner (click here for a sample marketing handout).
8) Explore Joint Ventures. Think about the needs of your customers or clients that you cannot serve; maybe you can connect with another business or professional that can. This will increase your network and cross referrals.

To learn more, you can watch Laura Perez on “Good Work NOW!” this Sunday, July 19, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute version of the episode is available at www.goodworknow.com

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Good Work NOW! Is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by all involved. Its mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore broadcast/streaming on Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column is to share key points and tips from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please email brianmoffitt@comcast.net.

Job Fulfillment

2009-07-08T01:25:56Z

On June 30, 2003, John St. John, CEO of Skill Tree, had a dream that would inspire a book and new way of thinking about job fulfillment: “I had a great career but something was missing, something didn’t feel right.” In what I called “a small book with a big heart”, St. John’s book, “The Gift Table” (www.skilltree.net), is an engaging metaphor that gave me a new perspective on job and life fulfillment.

In his dream, St. John was transported to a place with beautiful green hills and a picnic table that seemed to stretch around the world. People began showing up at the table; when they arrived at the table, a gift appeared before them. He explained, “Everyone has a gift to share with others. If you don’t share that gift, than life is not fulfilling.” So, the key to job fulfillment is getting your “giftedness in gear”. His book includes “Ten Gift Tenets” – we focused on four of them:

Expanding Your Comfort Zone: We need to venture outside our comfort zone; he adds: “Our comfort zone should be ever expanding”. For example, someone whose gift is writing can use that gift in new areas, such as starting a blog at work.

Quiet Reflection: St. John suggested: “In order to find out what’s inside you, you’re going to need to spend time reflecting”. We all leave ourselves clues about our gift. Think about those times you feel fulfilled in life or at work is a good start. Why did you feel fulfilled? What gift was at work? It’s like you're an onion and you're peeling the layers to get to the core.

Doing What is You: “For everyone, we have something we do that comes relatively easy compared to others who have to work really hard”, St. John said. Many of us have obligatory roles in life, such as parent, manager, worker, etc. However, each of us has at least one gift that is truly us and truly gives us joy. He adds there are two things you can do to achieve fulfillment: operating in your gift or drawing from someone else’s gift.

The Power of Charity: St. John transcends the idea of giving because a person is in need: “By giving your gift, you may be filling an entire group or community”. When we are in our “gift zone”, we become a magnet or attractor – people naturally like being around others that are in their gift zone. This results in new relationships, new ideas and new synergy.

You can watch my discussion with John St. John on Sunday, July 12, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on "Good Work NOW!" on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute version of the episode is available at www.goodworknow.com

Background / Disclosure:

The purpose of this article is to share key points and tips from my interviews and discussions with local residents and experts about work issues and invite readers to watch it on "Good Work NOW!" if they want more details. Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by Brian Moffitt, his guests and crew (Daniel Lorenzo, Jemuel Johnson, Molly Lynch, Marge McCreary, and Scott Trend). Brian Moffitt received his doctorate in education from the University of San Diego, is the Organizational Development Manager for the City of Sacramento and adjunct graduate faculty with the University of San Francisco. "Good Work NOW!" is a 30 minute talk show and its mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please email brianmoffitt@comcast.net.

Good Work NOW!: "Toxic Co-workers"

2009-06-30T00:10:59Z

According to the April 2009 edition of the Harvard Business Review, toxic behavior in the workplace significantly decreases work effort, quality, morale and commitment. We are seeing more toxic behavior at work as a result of more negative emotions associated with the recession. So, it's important we take some time to look at this issue.

Joining me on the next episode of “Good Work NOW!” is leadership consultant Steve Sphar. Steve and I discuss toxic behavior – what it is and why it’s important to address, explore some interesting insights about perception and demonstrate a four step process that anyone can use to make a positive difference.

Steve defines toxic behavior as “a type of behavior that causes strong negative emotions in others”. He adds that there is a continuum - sometimes we perceive others’ behavior as simply annoying; it becomes “toxic” when it generates strong negative emotions in us, such as fear and anger. Typical examples of toxic behavior include bullying, gossiping, taking credit for others’ work, and victimhood (chronic complaining, whining and persistent negativity).

He emphasizes that perception plays a critical role: “If we define toxic behavior as something that generates negative emotions … emotion is a factor of interpretation”. For example, let’s say a co-worker slams a book on a table during a staff meeting. One colleague could perceive that behavior as enthusiasm, another could perceive the same behavior as aggressive.

Steve shares four steps for assertively communicating with co-workers that you perceive to be exhibiting toxic behavior:

Step 1: State Your Intention. Tell the co-worker that you would like to talk with them: “Joe, can I have a few minutes of your time to talk with you about something that I’m concerned about?”

Step 2: State Objective Facts. Describe the behavior in terms that Joe is likely to agree with: “This morning at the staff meeting when you slammed the book on the table …”

Step 3: State the Impact on You. Describe how you felt when you observed the behavior: “…it made me feel uncomfortable”.

Step 4: State Your Request. Ask for something different in the future. “I would like to ask that in the future you not slam your book on the table.”

Steve adds that we cannot control other people. But, we can control how we act. He adds: “A lot of the time the person doing the [toxic] behavior doesn’t know they’re doing it and when you call them on it, they’ll stop. Sometimes people just don’t know; they don’t get the feedback”. By being assertive, individuals can neutralize toxic cycles in the workplace. If we ignore it or mirror it back, we may be contributing to the toxic cycle and becoming a toxic co-worker ourselves.

You can watch Steve conduct a perception test and the two of us role play his four steps on Sunday, July 5, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute archived episode is available for free at www.goodworknow.com.

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Background / Disclosure:

Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by Brian Moffitt, my guests and crew (Daniel Lorenzo, Jemuel Johnson, Molly Lynch, Marge McCreary, and Scott Trend). This 30 minute talk show features local experts and our mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column is to share key points and tips from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please contact me at brianmoffitt@comcast.net or visit our website at www.goodworknow.com.

Good Work NOW!: Emotional intelligence

2009-06-24T13:34:55Z

Are you aware of your emotions at any given moment? And, how effective are you at managing them at work? Dr. Mitchel Adler, author of “Promoting Emotional Intelligence in Organizations”, joins me, Brian Moffitt, this week on “Good Work NOW!” for a discussion of emotional intelligence, what it is and why it’s important at work.

Unlike general intelligence (ie, “IQ Scores”), emotional intelligence can be learned and improved over time. Dr. Adler shares some tools that anyone can use to improve his or her emotional intelligence. We begin the show by exploring the four domains of emotional intelligence:

• Self Awareness is “knowing our own internal state”. Dr. Adler adds that there are four basic emotions – sad, glad, mad and scared. Our feelings consist of one or some combination of these four emotions. Jealousy, for example, is some blend of mad, sad and scared. Self awareness, which is the foundation for EI, means knowing at any given moment what you are feeling. For example, how do you feel when you receive negative feedback at work?

• Self Management is the “ability to manage our impulses”. This also includes self control, adaptability, taking initiative and having achievement drive. How many times have you impulsively acted on your emotions at work , committed "career suicide" and later came to regret it?

• Social Awareness is “ones ability to be aware of others’ needs, feelings and concerns”. The foundation for this domain is empathy. Not just the ability to sense the state of an individual, empathy also means the ability to sense what is going on in the organization. For example, employees with strong empathy are able to “read a room and know who has power”, says Adler. They can also sense the proverbial "elephant in the room".

• Social Skills means “having influence, the ability to induce desirable behavior in others”, explains Adler. This is essential for leadership, conflict management and collaborating with others.

Dr. Adler cites his own research that proves that emotional intelligence can improve the bottom line, such as increased productivity and decreased absenteeism, grievances, worker’s compensation claims and health problems. He also shares many tools that employees can use to strengthen their emotional intelligence.

The complete 30 minute episode will air on Sunday, June 28, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute archived episode is available for free at www.goodworknow.com.

Background / Disclosure:

Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by Dr. Brian Moffitt, his guests, and crew. Brian earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the University of San Diego, is the Organizational Development Manager for the City of Sacramento and teaches for the University of San Francisco's Master's in Organization Development program. This 30 minute talk show features local experts to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column is to share key points and tips from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please contact Brian at brianmoffitt@comcast.net or visit www.goodworknow.com.

Good Work NOW!: Generations in the Workplace

2009-06-17T13:11:13Z

Disclosure: Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by me, my guests and crew. This 30 minute talk show features local experts and our mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column in Sacramento Press is to share key points from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please contact me at brianmoffitt@comcast.net or visit our website at www.goodworknow.com.

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For the first time in history, there are now four generations working side by side in the workplace. Each has been shaped by significant events resulting in distinct influences, values and motivations. Whatever your role at work, understanding each generation closes the gaps and helps improve your communication and working relationships. That, in turn, makes for a better work environment.

Author and consultant Terri Bianco joins me this Sunday for a review of these four generations and how their diversity can impact and benefit your work. We look at the events that influenced their values, what motivates them, and what drives their behaviors – in short, what makes them tick. Terri offers guidance for how to best approach individuals from these various generations and addresses the value they bring to the workplace.
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• The Traditionalists, born 1900 – 1945, 77 million. Influenced by the Great Depression and two world wars, this generation’s respect for authority, patriotism and financial conservatism are paramount. Although only about 3% of this generation remain in the workforce, their legacy policies and infrastructures prevail. Terri adds that traditionalists “love to be asked their advice”.

• Baby Boomers, born 1946 – 1964, 80 million. This generation was influenced by the post- war economic boom as well as civil unrest resulting in shared values to expand, consume, challenge and change. Their imminent retirements are expected to leave a significant talent gap in the workplace. Many will probably not retire completely, opting to work part time or serve as consultants. Like the traditionalists, Terri notes, “they also like being asked how to do things”.

• Generation X, born 1965 – 1980, 46 million. This generation was exposed to Watergate, Chernobyl, and corporate scandals resulting in skepticism and questioning of authority: “They don’t necessarily respect authority since they have seen it screw up too many times,” says Terri. Typically, Gen X grew up with both parents working and so became known as “latch key kids,” coming home to an empty house. Consequently, “they developed a strong sense of independence. As a generation, they tend to be flexible, and want portable careers,” Terri points out. They prefer to work independently since that is how they grew up.

• Millenials, born 1981 – 1999, 76 million. This generation has been exposed to technology 24/7. Terri indicates they are “hopeful and want to give back and make a difference.” As with Generation X, Millenials crave more work/life balance. Technologically savvy, they also have a keen desire to give back. Managers would do well to give them challenges and, as Terri recommends, “Ask them what they know. Listen and learn what they have to say. “

The complete 30 minute episode will air on Sunday, June 21, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute version is available now at http://www.goodworknow.com/Video_Segments.html

A peek into The Sacramento Press office

2009-06-08T22:36:06Z

Ever wonder what other peoples' desks look like? Well at The Sacramento Press most people have a Kings bobble head on their desk because my wife decided she no longer needed them in our shed.

This Week on Good Work NOW!: "What it Takes to be an Entrepreneur"

2009-05-27T01:53:45Z

Are you laid off? Are you in a dead end job? Is it time to put your passion to work? If you answered yes to any of these questions, maybe it’s time for you to become an entrepreneur and start your own business. But do you have what it takes?

Entrepreneur and “mergeronomist” Larry Mandelberg joins me for an insightful conversation Sunday night on “Good Work NOW!” on Channel 17 at 7:30 PM.

Larry says that an entrepreneur is “someone that sees something that others don’t - they bring new ideas to old ideas and create something that hasn’t existed before”.

He adds that successful entrepreneurs are “curious and always learning” and “have a high tolerance for risk”. One point that he made during the taping of the show that still resonates with me is that your passion or vision needs to be strong enough to carry you through the time times - being an entrepreneur or small business owner is replete with challenges.

During the show, Larry also shares his perspectives on the benefits of being an entrepreneur, challenges, common pitfalls, keys to success, funding and other resources to help you start your own business or improve the one you have.

Good Work NOW! is a weekly television talk show that focuses on finding or creating good work, produced at the Access Sacramento studios. It airs every Sunday night, 7:30 – 8:00 PM, on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or steamed at www.AccessSacramento.org). More information is available at www.goodworknow.com.

This Sunday on "Good Work NOW!": Yoga and Meditation at Work

2009-05-22T04:05:03Z

The next time you find yourself unable to stop worrying about something at work, try doing some yoga or meditation right in your workspace. That’s right – you don’t need to go to the gym, take numerous classes, or have a private office or yoga mat! You also won’t feel awkward doing it at work.

Yoga and meditation instructor, Shakti, joins me this Sunday on “Good Work NOW!” on Channel 17 at 7:30 PM.

I first met Shakti in 2004 when I took a yoga class as part of my grief recovery when my partner died suddenly in 2003. That class was a positive, healing experience. The words that come to my mind that best describe Shakti are calming, centered, peaceful, uncomplicated and wise.

On Sunday’s episode of “Good Work NOW!” she demonstrates several simple yoga poses and stretches, which will make you feel revitalized. This is much better and cheaper than grabbing junk food to get some energy, particularly during the afternoon or before and/or after a stressful meeting or customer interaction.

“Meditation should be simple; if it’s not, you’re not doing it right”, says Shakti. “Don’t try to fight negative, compulsive thoughts”, sbe adds . Rather, allow the thoughts; but at the same time take in information from your other senses, such as smells, sights, sounds, and tactile sensations. Eventually, “your compulsive thoughts will simply fade”.

I tried this myself and my rumination about a stressful work situation did in fact fade. She shares another meditation technique on the show that is equally, if not more, effective.

"Good Work NOW!" is a new television talk show that focuses on finding or creating good work. It is on every Sunday, 7:30 – 8:00 PM, on Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or steamed at www.AccessSacramento.org). More information is available at www.goodworknow.com.

Removing "Unnecessary" Stress

2009-05-12T23:46:27Z

Many of us feel trapped or victimized by our stress. In fact, however, "most of our stress is unnecessary - it can be removed", says consultant and wellness advocate Lynn Belzer. She adds that "we should save our energy for managing the stress we can't remove from our lives". Join Lynn and host Dr. Brian Moffitt discuss what is stress, how to remove unnecessary stress, and how to manage the stress "we are stuck with", such as "giving stress less air time". One technique they discuss is making a list of all the things that are causing stress in your life. Then review the list and determine which stressors you actually have a choice about - therein lies your control. To learn more, including Lynn's "Stress Management Improvement Guide", tune into "Good Work NOW!" on Sunday, May 17, 7:30 - 8:00 PM, Channel 17 (Comcast, Surewest, AT&T or live stream at www.AccessSacramento.org, encore streaming on Monday, May 11, 11:30 AM - 12:00 Noon).

Hundreds of construction workers protest budget impasse

2009-02-10T20:58:35Z

Several hundred hardhats gathered at the southwest corner of the Capitol grounds this morning to protest the budget deadlock that has thrown hundreds of labor brothers out of work.

In fact, said Jarad Donabedin, a member of Laborers Local 185, “Everyone here is out of work. This is real life.”

Called by the California Alliance for Jobs, speakers from operating engineers, carpenters and laborers locals spoke in a highly-charged atmosphere to repeated cheers from those gathered.

The most common chant was “What do we want?” “A budget!” “When do we want it?” “Now!” chanted as the protesters circled around the area, holding picket signs reading “LEGISLATORS DO YOUR JOB SO WE DON’T LOSE OURS!”

Carl Goff, the vice president of the Operating Engineers Local 3, noted that “CalTrans has announced they’re shutting down 140 road projects in the state of California,” and one speaker later added that work on the Lincoln Bypass project was stopping.

Goff also noted that construction workers and engineers were suffering a double whammy in this dire economy, saying that his local had an 18 percent unemployment rate, more than double the statewide average. The drop off in jobs from the slowing of new housing construction had made things bad, but the evaporation of infrastructure jobs due to the tied-up budget made the financial hurt much worse.

Jim Earp, executive director of the California Alliance for Jobs confirmed that, saying, “Our industry is already on the rocks - the only game in town now is public works projects.”

The biggest construction projects in Sacramento’s central city the new Bank of the West office tower at 5th and N Street, and the new central plant for heating and cooling many of the state buildings downtown. The latter was still under construction as of yesterday, but workers there are unsure how long the project, due to finish in May, will continue. And Donabedin said that many at the Bank of the West project have been let go.

Donabedin also said that CalTrans work on the Sheldon Road bypass in Elk Grove had stopped for lack of funds, and that he and his friends were feeling the pain.

“My wife has a state job, and she’s been furloughed,” he said. “But at least she still has a job, and benefits. I don’t, and I have 30 friends in construction who are sitting home with no work. It’s bad.”

Donabedin also noted that he had looked on craigslist at job listings for construction, and while few were listed for Sacramento, Tennessee had lots of jobs listed, he said, “And you can buy a house there for $130,000. People are going to start leaving Sacramento if this continues.”

“Just last month, we had 800 people out of work,” he added. “People have to support their families. This is bad times.”

A member of Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg's office distributed a statement saying in part, "We are on your side and we will not let another week go by without action from the legislature. I am committed to bringing a vote to the floor this week."

Meanwhile, Governor Schwarzenegger's office announced just before 1 this afternoon that he would have to lay off more than 20,000 state workers this Friday if the legislature failed to reach an agreement on the budget.