A lot of people are feeling out of control in the work place these days.  Rumors abound, and most of them are reinforcing our private fears of lay-offs, pay cuts, and subsequent financial ruin.  What’s an employee to do? 

 Try these simple techniques:

 Focus on the here and now. There’s no way that we can predict tomorrow.  Focus on what you can do today, right now, in the next meeting, during the next phone call.  How can you better serve the client?  What “extra mile” can you go to bring in new business? 

The Customer/Client is #1!  Your Customer/Client is your only focus when you’re involved in interaction with them.  Other employees, phones, emails… it doesn’t matter. The Customer/Client wants and needs your complete attention.  Give them their money’s worth!

Save the company money.  If you’re on an expense account, review your spending habits.  Is it all really necessary for you to perform your job to the best of your ability?   “Sell” your company, not an expensive lunch that will be forgotten by tomorrow.

Eco-friendly saves, too.  Turn off the lights when you leave the conference room.  Use paper from copier “disasters” for scratch pads.  Beverages really do taste better in glass or ceramic (no more paper cups… or plates and bowls for that matter).

Tele-commuting, an option?  Studies have shown that telecommuting not only saves corporate budget dollars, but also employee funds.  Discuss the possibilities of tele-commuting with your boss.

Brainstorm, brainstorm, brainstorm. Initiate informal discussions with co-workers.  Discuss marketing techniques, economizing in the work place, client retention.  Open discussions with people in other departments.  Let creativity flow.