3 steps to pivoting during a career transition Career upheaval is undoubtedly stressful, but reframing transitions, whether they are personal, professional or mindset, is critical for career success, writes Cheryl Robinson. Focusing on a current job or future goals, rather than the past; taking risks despite fear; and developing strong relationships are three key strategies for navigating a successful career pivot, Robinson says. Full Story: Forbes (tiered subscription model) (12/14)
How to master "crucial conversations" Author and Crucial Learning co-founder Joseph Grenny explains several ways leaders can master the art of successfully navigating emotionally charged "crucial conversations." Consider the risks of not speaking up, convey respect for others to make them feel safe, invite people to disagree and work to change any negative emotions you feel toward others, Grenny advises. Full Story: Training magazine (12/12)
6 steps to lead effectively during layoffs Help employees affected by layoffs and those who remain by offering assistance, communicating clearly and openly about the decisions and looking for ways to streamline work, writes Karin Hurt. "Be sure your 'A' players know how much you value them and help them see the broader opportunities that are available to them, beyond their current role," Hurt adds. Full Story: Let's Grow Leaders (12/12)
The Landscape
Proposed NYC bill would end "at-will" hiring doctrine Most US employees must accept the "at-will" doctrine to obtain employment, meaning they can be fired at any time for any reason. NYC council member Tiffany Caban wants to change that with a bill prohibiting firings for anything other than "just cause" -- unsatisfactory performance, misconduct or eliminating the job because of economic hardship. Full Story: BNN Bloomberg (Canada) (12/7)
Large companies boost benefit offerings in 2022 A Benefits Institute survey showed 40% of US employers updated their benefit plans in 2022, with 42% adding remote work capabilities, 27% instituting employee assistance programs or behavioral health services, and 20% adding caregiver leave options. Amazon, Microsoft, Hilton, Marriott, PwC, JC Penney, Allstate, Walmart, MetLife, Cleo, EY, John Hancock, Kimpton Hotels and Haleon are among the large employers that expanded benefit offerings in recent months. Full Story: Employee Benefit News (free registration) (12/14)
Balancing Yourself
People in the know offer tips for handling holiday stress A New Jersey UPS driver, New York retail store manager and Illinois bakery owner -- three people who know what it's like to be stressed out during the holidays -- offer hints on how to create order out of year-end chaos. Dr. Neda Gould of the Johns Hopkins Mindfulness Program advises people with holiday anxiety and stress to gain perspective by reexamining priorities and relaxing the body with mindful breathing. Full Story: The New York Times (12/8)
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Bernard Arnault and Paul McCartney at a Stella McCartney show (David M. Benett/Getty Images)
Bernard Arnault, CEO of luxury goods maker LVMH, overtook Elon Musk as the world's richest person as Tesla stock declines and the future of Twitter remains uncertain. But to make this news less about Musk and more about Arnault, this development could signal that luxury brands are continuing to thrive despite the challenges of the pandemic. Full Story: CBS News (12/13)
SmartBreak: Question of the Day
POLL QUESTION: "Excuse me while I kiss this guy," is a misheard lyric in what song? Check your answer and other misheard song lyrics here.
