| How to Be Diplomatic with Your Boss Posted: 26 Sep 2021 01:00 AM PDT You've probably heard to be assertive in the work environment, but talking to your boss often requires a little more tact—especially if whatever you have to say isn't really "good news." In the world of international politics, diplomats navigate the complex and sometimes tense relationships between two countries with politeness and finesse. Here, we've compiled some tips you can use to channel that diplomatic nature into your dealings with your boss so you can get things done without ruffling any feathers. [Edit]Choose the right time and place for difficult conversations. - Your surroundings impact how your boss receives your message. Finding the right time and place to say what you want to say is a crucial part of being diplomatic. Choose a setting in which you're both comfortable, can easily be heard, and are less likely to be interrupted. Give critical feedback in private, rather than in public or in front of coworkers.[1]
- For example, you might invite your boss out of the office for a coffee and then raise your concerns there.
- If your boss is particularly busy, it's a good idea to ask them when would be a good time to chat. Keep it casual! Just say something like, "There's something I'd like to chat with you about for maybe 5 minutes. When would be best?"
- Tell your boss about something they're doing really well. This is less about buttering your boss up before delivering criticism, and more about giving them a balanced picture. Starting off with what's going right also helps set the tone and puts you on a constructive path.[2]
- For example, you might say, "I'd like to take a moment to thank you for implementing the new reporting system. Things are going much more smoothly on the floor and our productivity has increased."
- The comment should relate to the focus of your conversation as much as possible. For example, if you're going to discuss the problems you're having with a recent hire, you might start by mentioning the things that person is doing well.
[Edit]Emphasize your own perspective. - Speak in "I" statements to clearly express your thoughts. Present your thoughts or ideas as belonging to you without projecting them onto your boss or anyone else. If you frame your statement with "you," it can make your boss feel attacked—and that's hardly being diplomatic![3]
- For example, you might say, "I'm concerned that John isn't adapting to his new role." This is far less confrontational than saying, "you shouldn't have promoted John."
- Use "I" statements when you respond to your boss as well. For example, rather than saying "you're wrong," say "I disagree." This is assertive, diplomatic communication that leaves room open for discussion.
[Edit]Offer a solution to any problem you raise. - Explain anything you've already done and provide a couple of other options. Most likely, your boss is less concerned with the problem that exists and more concerned with how to fix it so that it doesn't continue to happen. Let your boss know that you've thought about this before you brought it to their attention and have some ideas.[4]
- If you have more than one possible solution, present the pros and cons of each. Then, let your boss know which you recommend. At the same time, you also want to reinforce that you're open to other options and will ultimately go along with whatever your boss decides.
[Edit]Focus on the good of the company. - Root your argument in the common goals you and your boss have. This helps your boss to see that you're looking after the best interests of the company, not your own selfish desires or interests. State how your idea benefits the company and back that conclusion up with hard data.[5]
- For example, you might say, "Doing away with TPS reports would increase productivity by 25%, which could increase sales by as much as 50%."
- You could also explicitly acknowledge this common ground. For example, you might say, "I know we both want to increase the productivity of this department. Eliminating some of these reports that aren't actually used by anyone would be a good way to do that."
[Edit]Rephrase negative statements in more positive terms. - Include words like "able" and "yet" to signal you're still working hard. This technique works especially well if you've hit a snag on an assignment or project. Using some form of "able" implies that you would have it done had something out of your control not intervened. Adding "yet" lets your boss know that it will be completed soon.[6]
- For example, you might say, "I'm afraid I've not been able to close the Dunder Mifflin account yet. I could use a few more days to wrap it up."
- Verbs in past-progressive tense indicate that you're still working, which is more positive than simple past tense. For example, "I haven't finished that project yet," rather than "I didn't finish that project."
[Edit]Use helping verbs to express possibility. - Verbs like "could," "should," "would," and "might" soften a demand. You want your boss to do something for you, but you can't just demand that they do it—after all, they're still your boss. Add a helping verb that indicates what you're asking is a possibility or suggestion, rather than a requirement.[7]
- For example, you might say, "It would help to have a little more time to finish that project," or "I could use a little more time to finish that project. It might also help to have someone else assist me with the final numbers."
[Edit]Soften forceful statements with polite language. - Add an apology or a qualifier to make your statement less harsh. While being direct is typically important in business communication, a little politeness can go a long way when you're talking to your boss. Use this to show empathy for your boss's position.[8]
- For example, you might say, "I'm so sorry that I won't be able to attend the meeting. Could I have someone else go in my place?"
- Don't be afraid to include a statement acknowledging your boss's work as well. For example, you might say, "I know you've put a lot of work into this presentation. I'm so sorry I haven't been able to compile these numbers yet. Would it be okay if I got them to you on Friday?"
[Edit]Ask questions to gain a better understanding. - Listen actively and get clarification when necessary. Part of being diplomatic is making sure you're both on the same page. Asking your boss questions shows that you're listening to them and making an effort to understand them. It also shows that you're interested in their viewpoint and value what they have to say.[9]
- For example, you might say, "I'm sorry, but why is the CEO so concerned about the Stanton office? I thought everything there was under control."
- If you don't have any questions, you might also restate something your boss said in your own words. That helps you make sure you understood them correctly. For example, you might say, "Am I hearing you right? You think that Avery would do better if you transferred them out of my department and into sales?"
[Edit]Control your own emotions. - Stick to the facts and keep the discussion professional. Discuss your concerns in a calm manner and avoid lashing out at your boss in frustration. Keep a cool head and look towards solutions for whatever problem you have, rather than harping on about the problem itself.[10]
- It can be hard not to take things at work personally—especially if you have a complaint! Just try to remember that you and your boss both have the same overall goals to help the company succeed.
[Edit]Maintain positive and assertive body language. - Sit or stand straight with your shoulders back and make eye contact. This body language communicates to your boss that you're confident and open to them. Avoid crossing your arms and legs, which will make you seem closed off.[11]
- Keep a positive or neutral facial expression. An angry or frustrated facial expression can make your message come across far more negatively than you intend.
- If you have a hard time with assertive body language, practice in front of a mirror or get a friend to help. With some time, it will become second nature.
[Edit]Listen actively to your boss's response. - Make eye contact and ask clarifying questions to show that you're listening. Being diplomatic isn't just about what you say—paying attention to what your boss says in response is equally important. Lean forward a little as they speak, perhaps mirroring their body language or facial expressions.[12]
- Before you say something in response, briefly summarize what they said in your own words. This ensures them not only that you were listening but also that you understood what they were saying. And if you happened to misunderstand, you've given them an opportunity to correct that.
[Edit]Be open to criticism from your boss. - Turn negative statements into ways that you can improve. It can be all too easy to beat yourself up when your boss gives you negative feedback. Take a few deep breaths if you need to and remind yourself that all feedback is intended to help you become better at your job. Your boss wouldn't give you feedback at all if they didn't believe you could improve.[13]
- For example, if your boss mentions errors in your report, you might reframe that as "I need to give my reports an extra round of editing before I submit them."
- It can also help to ask your boss about what you came up with. For example, you might say "Would it help if I edited my reports one more time before I submitted them?" They might also give you other ideas you can use to correct whatever problem they've raised.
- Try to understand the reasons that your boss made the comments they made. Ask questions if you're not sure! It's important that you understand their expectations so you can fulfill them to the best of your ability.
[Edit]References |
| How to Plant Trees to Fight Climate Change Posted: 25 Sep 2021 05:00 PM PDT Climate change is one of the biggest issues in the world right now, so you may be wondering what you can do to help. If you want to give back to the environment and help reduce greenhouse gases, planting trees is a great natural solution. We have the answers to some of your most pressing questions, so keep reading to learn how you can go green and keep our planet safe for years to come! [Edit]How does planting trees help the environment? - Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air. When trees go through photosynthesis, they take in carbon dioxide and convert it into energy to grow taller and make more leaves. They then store the carbon inside their trunks before producing oxygen.[1] Since carbon dioxide is one of the main greenhouse gases that makes our planet warmer, trees play an important role in controlling the climate.[2]
- Trees hold onto carbon for as long as they're alive. Since many trees live for around 50–100 years, they can be great long-term solutions.
[Edit]What are the best trees to plant to combat climate change? - Broad-leafed deciduous trees trap more carbon dioxide. Deciduous trees lose their leaves every year, but they absorb a lot of carbon when they're in the growing season. Since their leaves are larger, they absorb a lot more sunlight and carbon dioxide to convert to energy.[3] Fast-growing trees like maple, oak, and catalpa are great options since they'll start trapping carbon dioxide sooner than slower-growing trees.[4]
- Look for trees that are native to your location since they'll grow better in their natural environment. Visit a local plant nursery and ask the employees for their recommendations.
- Plant a diverse mix of trees rather than only planting one species. That way, you also promote biodiversity and are less likely to spread tree-specific pests or diseases between them.
- Coniferous pine trees absorb less carbon dioxide, but do it all year. Since pine trees have smaller needles, they don't absorb as much carbon dioxide. However, they can still be effective to help fight against climate change since they don't drop their needles in the winter. Some conifers you can try planting include blue spruce, white pine, Hispaniola, and Ponderosa.[5]
- Try planting your trees around September or November when they're dormant. This helps them establish a large and healthy root system.
- It takes about 1,025 trees to offset 1 person's emissions. On average, you create a whopping 16 tons of carbon dioxide during the year. Since a large tree can absorb about of carbon dioxide every year, you'll need quite a few trees to completely get rid of your emissions. Even though 1,025 trees sounds like a lot, planting 8–9 trees a month for the next 10 years can help you reach that goal.[6]
- Trees can get a bit expensive and take up a lot of space. If you don't have the room or budget for your own trees, donate to an initiative and non-profit organization that can plant trees in your name.
- Do what you can to reduce your own carbon footprint at home, such as turning off and unplugging electronics, biking or taking public transportation, and limiting how often you use single-use products.
[Edit]How many trees do we need to plant to stop climate change? - A half-trillion trees could reduce carbon dioxide by 25%. That's about equivalent to half of the carbon we've emitted to our planet since 1960. While that's a lot of trees we need to plant, it's not impossible to do since we have a lot of areas where we can restore or plant forests. If we all put forth the effort and plant a few trees, we can help close the gap and make our planet safer and healthier.[7]
- There's a lot of conflicting research between scientists about whether or not planting enough trees is possible or will actually help the environment. Many of the arguments state trees need to grow to maturity before they're fully effective and climate conditions keep changing.
[Edit]How can we save trees? - Limit how much paper you're using. Trees get cut down to make new paper, so try to use the paper that you do have as efficiently as you can. Buy paper made from recycled products and be sure you write on both sides of the sheet before getting rid of it. Rather than wasting new sheets, use scrap paper to take notes, sketch, or make crafts.[8]
- If you pack lunch in a brown paper bag, consider getting a reusable lunch box instead.
- If you're a bookworm, shop at used book stores or borrow books from your local library rather than buying new copies. You can even donate old books that you don't read anymore.
- Recycle paper and cardboard so trees don't need to get cut down. Recycling reduces emissions from production and prevents deforestation to make new products. Rather than tossing old paper products with the rest of your trash, separate it into a separate bin to take to a recycling center instead.[9]
- If you put paper in the trash, it will go to a landfill and could contribute to methane emissions, which is a greenhouse gas 21 times worse than carbon dioxide.
- Put out fires completely before leaving them. Forest fires damage a lot of healthy trees and contribute harmful chemicals to the atmosphere. If you're having an outdoor fire, completely extinguish the flames and embers so you don't risk it catching and spreading. Similarly, throw away lit cigarettes in proper containers rather than tossing them on the ground.[10]
- If you see any unattended fires, immediately contact your local fire department to put them out.
- Check the fire conditions in your area before lighting anything. If there's a drought or severe burn risk, don't start any fires since it's more likely to spread.
[Edit]Will planting trees stop global warming? - Planting trees won't stop global warming by itself. While trees will help control some carbon emissions in the air, we still produce a lot more than what forests can absorb. Stay aware of your carbon footprint and do everything you can to bring it down. If we can all lower our emissions as well as plant trees, we have a better chance at saving the planet from climate change.[11]
[Edit]References |
| How to Season Brown Rice Posted: 25 Sep 2021 09:00 AM PDT Seasoning your brown rice makes this already yummy food into a delicious addition to a number of dishes! While there is no "right way" to season brown rice, there are a few tried-and-true methods. You can toast your rice to bring out a nutty flavor, cook it in a broth for a rich and salty tang, or add various herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles. After you get these basics down, you can change up your seasoning methods however you like in order to make your brown rice exactly how you like or match it with different dishes to build incredible, restaurant-worthy meals. [Edit]Ingredients [Edit]Toasting Your Rice - 1 cup (175-185 grams) of rice
- of cooking oil or melted butter
- ¼-1 teaspoon (1-4 grams) of herbs and spices like oregano, pepper, parsley, or turmeric
- 1 tablespoon (14 grams) of aromatic seasonings like shallots, garlic, or ginger
[Edit]Cooking Your Rice in Broth - 1 cup (175-185 grams) of rice
- of broth
[Edit]Seasoning Your Rice with Herbs and Spices - 2/3 cup (115-125 grams) of rice
- of water
- of soy sauce
- of dried basil
- to of ground ginger
- of cayenne pepper
- 1 bay leaf
[Edit]Toasting Your Rice - Combine your rice with cooking oil or melted butter in a pan. Put 1 cup (175-185 grams) of rice into a pan and pour enough cooking oil or butter in to evenly coat it, usually . Toast the rice in the oil over medium heat. You'll know it's starting to toast once you smell a nutty aroma.[1]
- Avoid grapeseed and canola oil. Instead, use fattier oils like sesame oil, coconut oil, or olive oil to get more flavor.[2]
- Mix in the herbs and spices of your choice. Your choice of herbs and spices will depend on the specific flavor profile or ethnic cuisine you're interested in making.[3] Regardless of what seasonings you choose, sprinkle them over your toasting rice a little bit at a time until they are at the strength you like based on your own tastes.[4]
- Seasonings like oregano, pepper, parsley and turmeric go well with brown rice, usually in amounts between ¼ teaspoon (1 gram) and 1 teaspoon (4 grams) depending on your tastes.[5]
- Adding aromatic seasonings in small amounts (a single shallot, a clove of garlic, or 1 tablespoon (14 grams) of chopped ginger) will give your rice tons of flavor.[6]
- Add of boiling water to the pan. While your rice is toasting, boil water separately in a pot or kettle. When it has reached a boil, pour it over your seasoned rice in the pan.[7]
- Simmer the rice for 20 minutes. After adding the boiling water, stir the contents of your pan and then cover it with a lid. Cook the mixture on low for 20 minutes.[8]
- Once the rice is cooked, let it stand for 5 minutes, then uncover it and fluff it with a fork.[9]
[Edit]Cooking Your Rice in Broth - Put the rice and broth in a large pot. Mix 1 cup (175-185 grams) of rice and of broth together in a pot. Make sure to use a pot with a wide base, so that the heat from your stove disperses as evenly as possible.[10]
- You can also consider using a liquid mixture of half broth and half water to add some flavor to your rice without making it too rich depending on your tastes.[11]
- Bring the broth to a boil. Cook your rice and broth mixture on high heat until the broth begins to bubble. You should stir the mixture regularly during this stage to prevent the rice from sticking to your pot.[12]
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 40-50 minutes. Turn your stove down to low heat and cover your rice and broth mixture with a lid. Let the mixture simmer until the rice has absorbed most of the moisture and has a tender texture.[13]
- Stir your rice occasionally to keep it from sticking to your pot.[14]
- Let your cooked rice stand for 5 minutes covered and then fluff it with a fork.[15]
[Edit]Seasoning Your Rice with Herbs and Spices - Bring rice and water to a boil. Combine your rice and water in a small saucepan at a ratio of 2/3 cup (115-125 grams) of rice to of water. Cook the rice and water on high heat until it begins to bubble.[16]
- Simmer the rice for 35-45 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and cover your rice. Cook the rice at a low simmer until it has absorbed all of the moisture in the saucepan. The rice should be tender but not mushy.[17]
- Mix your seasonings into the rice. Add of soy sauce, of dried basil, to of ground ginger, and of cayenne pepper to your cooked rice. Allow your rice to sit covered for 5 minutes and then fluff it with a fork[18]
- You can also season your rice with other herbs and spices according to your tastes. The herbs and spices you use will depend on your own personal tastes and the cuisine you're trying to prepare.
- Whole spices will give your dish a more subtle flavor, while ground spices will help bring out the flavor of your rice.[19]
- Adding a bay leaf to your pan will give your dish an earthy flavor that will complement almost any rice dish.[20]
[Edit]Things You'll Need [Edit]Toasting Your Rice [Edit]Cooking Your Rice in Broth [Edit]Seasoning Your Rice with Herbs and Spices [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
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