If an employee is engaging in erratic or out-of-character behavior: Don’t ignore the behavior. Unusual behavior is often the first sign that an employee is having difficulty with meeting performance expectations. Document the behavior. If the frequency of incidents is increasing, or if you see a pattern forming, consult with Human Resources. Review company policy.…
Alcohol and drug use, whether on the job or not, has a significant impact on the workplace. Common ways you might see its impact on your team include: Use of alcohol, marijuana, or illicit drugs while working, either on site or from home Behavior or performance that is impaired by legal prescription medications taken to…
Are you drinking more than you used to? People who struggle with managing their alcohol intake, or who engage in binge drinking (having five or more drinks on one occasion) are more susceptible to a variety of illnesses. In addition, problem drinking may have significant life consequences, such as: Changes in personality or appearance Isolating from…
Have you ever thought about your shopping habits? When, where, and how you shop can have a big impact on how much you spend and whether you achieve good value for your money. If you would like to increase your smart shopping skills, these tips may help: Avoid retail therapy. There’s an old saying that…
Does a member of your team have a body odor or other personal hygiene problem? Keep these points in mind. Steps to Take If you receive a complaint from one or more team members, say that you will address the situation. Remind the complaining person(s) to avoid saying or doing anything that their colleague might find…
For some people, anxiety is an occasional occurrence. For others, it is a constant condition. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) occurs when a person has recurring worrisome thoughts on a persistent basis for six months or more. Sometimes, these thoughts are about things that are unlikely to happen or that are outside the person’s control. Additional…
Seasonal allergies occur when outdoor molds and plant pollens from weeds, grasses, and trees become active. This is known as “hay fever,” and typically occurs in the spring. Common symptoms include sneezing, a stuffy nose, and watery, itchy eyes. While seasonal allergies are common, some people have symptoms that occur throughout the year due to…
Every job requires a certain amount of problem solving. Figuring out what a customer or colleague needs and coming up with a solution that keeps the transaction or project moving forward is the primary objective of many positions. For managers, understanding common approaches to problem solving may provide insights into the best ways to address…
Relationships, whether romantic, familial, or platonic, are the backbone of social wellbeing. Connections with friends, family members, and romantic partners bring meaning and richness to our life experiences. Key elements in maintaining strong, healthy relationships with the important people in your life include: Mutual respect. Respect for the other person’s time, money, and personal obligations…
If you are planning to take a trip this year, saving in advance will help to manage costs and avoid credit card debt. Here are some tips for planning your dream vacation: Determine the cost. Before committing to a destination, research the price tag. In addition to transportation, food, and lodging expenses, factor in costs…