Teryl @ Work

Resignation – avoid burning those bridges It has been a great pleasure working with a colleague like you. Now, you are off to your next big challenge! Good luck and farewell! Isn’t that what we all want to hear when we leave?  We were appreciated and we will be missed. The need for all parties to maintain professional conduct in the event of resignation is critical, particularly now when we are working within an unsettled socio-economic climate. Employees should avoid damaging relationships, and employers need to adopt a neutral approach and ensure that there are policies and processes that enable the separation to be objectively handled.  For example: ·        A formal resignation letter is required ·        A formal acceptance of resignation is issued confirming any special conditions ·        An exit interview takes place ·     ...

Wow, this is really something people want to do, and do well!   So a little bit more about the how to's. Some things that have worked for me at networking events are: If possible, go with a colleague Stick together for the first half an hour or so Split up once you are both comfortable (maybe not at the first event) If you are on your own, look for a small group or another single, and join them If there is a theme for the event, read up about it in advance Prepare a few questions and comments about the topic or topics Prepare your "elevator speech" - 30 seconds about your company and what you do Read or listen to the news before the event, and be ready with a few topical comments or questions about current affairs Confirm the dress code Circulate, but not too much, and really focus on the people you are with Ask for business cards, and then make a connection within 24 to 48 hours of the event It is also important to attend events that are aligned with you...

While we celebrate the whole month as Woman's Month in South Africa, with numerous events and celebrations, it really is about August 9th, 1956 when approximately 20 000 women marched on Pretoria to deliver a petition to JG Strydom, the Prime Minister. Led by Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Albertina Sisulu and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn, some carrying the children of their employers on their backs, they stood in silence for 30 minutes, in a powerful objection to the "pass" that black South Africans had to carry at all times. A frequent question is why do we still need a woman's day and woman's organisations.   And I guess it is because much has changed since 1956, but there is still a long way to go. There is a view out there that successful women don't help other women grow.   Sure, not every successful woman is a natural mentor or sponsor, but a lot are.   In South Africa, women are being offered many opportunities to meet, and build relationships with, to...