The best way to be recognized as an expert in your field is to focus on gaining the respect of clients before worrying about being liked, says author Alan Weiss. Managers should also avoid trying to close the gap between their strongest and weakest team members and work instead to close the distance between their strongest and second-best performers, Weiss said. The Globe and Mail (Toronto) (tiered subscription model) (7/10) How to improve your critical thinking skills Avoid the kind of belief bias that keeps you from sharing your ideas or confirmation bias that prevents you from challenging your perspective, writes Theo Tsaousides. Considering the possibility that your emotions may not lead you in the right direction can also lead to better critical thinking, Tsaousides writes. Entrepreneur online (7/8)
Making the Connection
Proven techniques for making a better impression The most successful professionals tend to research people before they meet and learn to put others at ease when greeting them, writes Erik Sherman. Concentrate on what the other person has to say and don't let an initial conversation drag on too long, Sherman writes. Inc. online (free registration) (7/11)
Employers added 287,000 jobs in June, a turnaround from a disappointing 38,000 added in May, according to the Labor Department. Hourly earnings increased, while unemployment climbed to 4.9% from 4.7%. The New York Times (free-article access for SmartBrief readers) (7/8)
Your Next Challenge
Be ready to roll with job market changes The modern job market requires professionals to establish their brand and keep learning new technology in order to stay relevant, writes Ariella Coombs. By working steadily to expand your network and taking courses or participating in workshops, you can be ready for surprising career changes in the future, Coombs writes. Careerealism.com (7/8)
