Early, Prompt, Fashionably Late, or Rude? Punctuality as a (Slippery) Virtue

By Caroline M. Cole Colleagues walking into a meeting mid-discussion. Classmates strolling into a lecture in progress. Patrons looking for a seat once the movie or performance has begun. Patients checking in after scheduled appointments. Guests showing up as others … Continue reading

The Art of Introduction

By Caroline M. Cole Poking others on Facebook and sending connect invites on LinkedIn, we have more opportunities to extend our social and professional networks. Yet while connections and interactions increasingly take place online, there are times we need to … Continue reading

How to Stand Out Even Among the Best and Brightest

By Caroline M. Cole You’ve made it. Maybe you were accepted into your top-tier school, possibly you just landed your dream position, perhaps you survived the company’s latest reorganization, or maybe you were recently promoted. Basking in the moment, you … Continue reading

Document—and Celebrate—Your Contributions in the Sweet Spot

By Caroline M. Cole At this time of year, many of you may be embarking on a new professional adventure in the form of a full-time job, an internship, or a volunteer opportunity. Or, perhaps, you’re gearing up to change … Continue reading

The Best Advice You Can Offer

By Caroline M. Cole It can be a commencement speech. Perhaps a greeting card sentiment or yearbook inscription. Maybe it’s a banquet toast. Possibly it’s an informal conversation in the kitchenette or around the photocopier at work. It can even … Continue reading

Start Preparing for Your Performance Review Today

By Caroline M. Cole Many employees think about raises, bonuses, and promotions throughout the year, but few think about the ways they might build or make their case for merit-based compensation until they receive a formal notice of evaluation, and … Continue reading

Shake Hands with Sincerity and Confidence

By Caroline M. Cole Traditionally a sign of hospitality, trust, gratitude, agreement, congratulations, solidarity, peace, condolences, greeting, and sportsmanship, the handshake remains a gesture for establishing and maintaining a rapport with others. In the United States, studies have shown that … Continue reading