FaithRalston.com

Dear Dr. Faith,

My MBA hasn't helped me define my talents. How do I recognize what my real gifts and talents are?

Dear ‘Perplexed,'

Here are four quick questions to ponder that will help you discover your true talents,

1. What are your favorite projects or activities? At work? At home? This question helps you identify where you're naturally talented. Remember your talent shows up everywhere you do.

2. What do you choose to do even when no one is paying you to do it? At home? At work? This question helps you define activities you love..

3. What do others consistently ask you to do? This question helps you see where others need your abilities.

4. What do others say you do well? This question helps you recognize what others value about your unique abilities.

Spend time exploring what you love - and you'll soon discover your talent.

Dear Dr. Faith,

We're in the middle of finalizing a business merger. In these meetings, there's lots of tension. How do we make sure things stay calm - so we reach agreement without a blow up. There's a lot at stake. I'd like to see this happen.

Dear Mattie

When the stakes, tense reactions can become trip wires that blow up the deal. You already know there's more to closing the deal than the finances. Egos must be kept in check. No amount of money can dull the pain of "losing."

Stay focused on your desired outcome and be respectful towards each other. The slightest hint of disregard can blow the deal.

Here are guidelines to keep emotions calm:

- Find ways to agree early and often. Successfully negotiations are built on a series of "yes's."

- Instead of saying "No," become curious about what the other side really wants. Genuinely listen and ask questions about their point of view. Recognize and acknowledge feelings and fears.

- Use questions to get the real issues on the table.

- Curb your anxiety about whether you're going to close the deal or not!

- Simply stay focused on your end goal and keep finding areas of agreement.

- And finally, take a break. When negotiations get tough, back off and give each other room to breath. Even five minutes away gives you time to regroup, put issues in perspective, and keep you out of deadlock.

Dear Dr. Faith,

I'm a new supervisor. I want to get off on the right foot with my employees. How do I ensure my success?

Dear Jazzed,

What you say to employees will ensure your success. Here are 12 Statements Every Supervisor Should Say to Employees:

1. I need your help.
2. I value your expertise.
3. I appreciate your dedication..
4. I welcome your ideas
5. It's safe to tell me what you think and feel.
6. I value what you're accomplished.
7. I'm proud to be your supervisor.
8. I don't know everything.
9. I care about you.
10. My door is always open.
11. I know we can do great things together.
12. Your career is important to me.

Topics

• Managing Talents and Career