Monday, April 28, 2008
Develop Winning Attitude
The job market has traditionally rewarded those who have made the extra effort in school with higher compensation and better opportunities for advancement.But, there are signs that this attitude may be changing. As the expression goes, "one's qualifications (ability) get one hired, yet one's performance (attitude) results in one being fired".
It is crucial to understand that possessing good qualifications is a prerequisite for any career to soar.
But it is your attitude towards your job, colleagues, clients and superiors that is a far more important and accurate determinant of performance and advancement.The lack of professionalism at work is not easily raised and discussed as it involves the emotional intelligence of the person.Superiors generally gloss over these issues and simply do not promote the individual.
Reality check
To take your career sky-high, your first challenge is to do a reality check. Ask yourself:
* How much am I doing to keep abreast of developments in my field?
* How much am I investing in my own development?
* How competent am I when engaging with others?
* What is my overall attitude to those whom I serve, work with and report to?
Benefits of work
The workplace offers intrinsic benefits like career development, in terms of skills learned, social interactions, financial discipline plus other core skills such as computer literacy.It also offers opportunities for personal development. Ask potential employers about their attitudes and practices toward training, promotions, exposure to travel and new situations, job rotation and performance appraisals.These aspects of employment will develop your skills and nurture your character. Together, these will ultimately help you carve a career that "knows no limits".Seek out companies with a great working environment as it cultivates in you a sense of respect and dignity, irrespective of your rank.
Career or job?
What differentiates a career from a job? A career is viewed from a long-term perspective. It involves making an investment that over time is expected to yield rewards.On the other hand, a job is more transient and refers to the role you currently occupy. It is driven by the attitude of "what's in it for me?"Great careers create a sense of passion and pride in people. When you make the size of the wage packet a priority, you usually sacrifice other important and beneficial aspects of the job that are crucial for your development and progress.
Taking risks
If you are looking for a career that has no limits, you must be willing to take some risks.Careers that are fulfilling and exciting involve challenges, taking responsibility, being empowered, being accountable and, where necessary, taking appropriate risks.Many people look for positions that are secure and pay a reasonable wage, and are then content to go with the flow. The trouble with most streams is that they flow downwards.Instead, look for employment that forces you to swim against the tide, make you think, and allows you the opportunity to engage with others who are different and even difficult.
What's your vision?
Write down a three-year plan of how you want to develop.* Your career - what are your personal aspirations and hopes regarding promotions and increased authority?* Academic skills - what courses and types of training will further enhance your hard skills?* Social skills and network - how will you expand your circle of friends and contacts as well as enhance your relationship-building skills?* Your finances - what are your objectives and how will you achieve them?
Look into the future.
Finally, to turn your hopes and dreams into reality, you need to reflect on where you want to see yourself in the next three years. Your plan provides a road map of the way forward - you have to do the driving.Not everything will work according to plan, but at least you have a blueprint that tells you when you are going off course. This gives you a head start over others who do not have a clue where they are going.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
How do I get a raise?
By Christopher Jones
I usually get this question about 24 hours before the person plans to march into their boss' office and demand more money.
First, let's get our terms straight. Most people write to me about merit -- as opposed to cost-of-living -- increases.
Merit increases are often more substantial than cost-of-living increases and, thus, harder to get. This week's series is focused on merit increases.
Back to our job seeker who wants a drive-through raise. I say: The road to getting a raise is not traveled in a day.
Why? Because, contrary to what some career counselors will tell you, it's not only how you ask for a raise, but what you have to back up your request.
If, for example, you're a bad employee, no amount of smooth talking is likely to convince your supervisor to push for a raise.
Master the Basics
Some employees mistakenly believe that they can ignore job basics: Showing up to work on time, following instructions and being professional to name just a few.
Failing to master the basics is a monumental roadblock to salary increases and, more seriously, career advancement.
There's another interesting thing about the basics of holding down a job: If you master them, no one is likely to notice.
This may not make much sense until you compare job basics to society's basics.
Take stealing, for example. Now, if you don't steal something, chances are the police won't drop by your house and say: "Hey Mabel, we just wanted to thank you for being such a great citizen." But, if you do steal, you're likely to have an extensive encounter with the authorities.
The basics are the given of the employee/employer relationship. They are the fundamental rules without which companies could not survive. Flout them at your own risk.
Prepare Your Supervisor
When it comes to deciding who gets a raise, it's "deserve" that matters -- not "desire."
A raise goes through an approval process all it's own. In many cases, your supervisor has to get the approval of her supervisor before you'll see an extra dime.
Supervisors need more than a string of "really"s to make an effective argument for granting a raise. "I really, really, really need more money," will really, really, really fail in most cases.
Instead, back up your request with hard proof.
Bring along a copy of your performance review if it will help your case. If it's not a great review, be prepared to show how you've shown improvement.
- Provide hard copies of positive e-mails you've received from your supervisor, other employees or customers.
- Provide a list of major assignments that you've gotten good feedback on.
- Use a salary calculator to see how much people who share your job title and location are making at: http://salary.hotjobs.com/
- Have some idea about how your role feeds into the bottom line. Do you attract customers, who in turn spend money? Do you support teams that generate revenue for the company? Do you constantly look for ways to save the company money?
- Avoid issuing an ultimatum -- unless you're prepared to stand by it. Employees will often say, in so many words, that either they get a raise or they will quit. If you're just bluffing, be prepared for your supervisor to call your bluff. It happens more often than you might think.
Timing Is Money
The ideal time to ask for a raise is during the course of a performance review or promotion. Promotions that include title changes are usually accompanied by merit increases.
Don't approach your supervisor at a bad time. Wait until you and she have time to sit down and have a leisurely conversation. Don't trap your supervisor at the watercooler.
If you schedule a salary discussion with your supervisor ahead of time, chances are she will be keeping an extra close eye on your work to see if you really deserve more money. It's a critical period to prove you're valuable. The job basics we discovered earlier this week may be more closely monitored than usual.
As for new employees, they should generally wait a year before requesting a pay increase.
When Things Go Wrong, Understand Why
A bad performance review does not bar you from getting a raise -- at least in the long term.
But, you'll have to do some work.
A while back, I got an e-mail recently from someone who said he had been demoted, but didn't know why.
Demotions are ugly things, and sometimes -- though they shouldn't -- they come as a shock to the employee. But, your most important responsibility upon the news that you have been demoted or are underperforming is to understand why.
As the wise saying goes, "Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it."
Avoid being defensive. Instead express your regret and willingness to improve. It might sound something like this: "I'm upset that I haven't been meeting your goals. I want to understand where I have underperformed, so I can focus on improvement in those areas."
Get specific examples from your supervisor. Write these down and constantly work to improve.
Money, as it has been said, does not grow on trees. But it also doesn't grow on magic beanstalks that spout up overnight without being carefully tended and nurtured. Getting a raise is not a short- term process, but it is one that can pay off. The good work you do in order to get a raise can also result in promotions and -- if you do eventually decide to move on -- great references.
Getting a Raise: The Negotiation
By Alexandra Levit
Once you've done some careful planning about the raise you want and why, you're ready to focus on the actual meeting with your boss.
Start by scheduling a meeting time when your boss' stress level and workload are manageable. An informal setting like lunch often works because it allows you and your manager to relate on a more personal level. Make sure to articulate in advance, however, what the meeting is about, so your boss can prepare. Also bring notes or materials that support your accomplishments, in case your boss wants to discuss them during the meeting.
The next five steps will help you with the actual discussion of your raise.
1. Set a goal and practice.
Before you meet face to face, decide on a number that you'd be satisfied with and prepare how you'll respond if you don't get it. You also may want to practice your tone on a family member or friend prior to the meeting, because there is a fine line separating the assertive/sincere and boastful/arrogant approaches.
2. Stay positive.
Now, on to the actual discussion. If you're underpaid and you know it, don't complain. Instead, remain calm, positive and professional. Tell your boss about what you enjoy working at the company. Talk about your performance in a factual manner and provide concrete examples of how you add value to the organization. When it comes time to pop the question, use the word "compensation" rather than "raise" or "money." In the event that your boss declines your raise, don't close your ears to the rest of the discussion. She may be willing to offer you other perks instead, like extra vacation time, flexible hours, or a nice dinner with your significant other on the company.
3. Negotiate.
Despite your best efforts, you may not get the compensation you've earned. Sometimes the only way to get a serious pay increase is to switch to a new position. Or, you could ask your boss what you need to do to receive an increase, and if it's possible to revisit the issue in a few months. Do not give an ultimatum, unless you are prepared to walk out the door. Even if you have another job offer in hand that pays more, you cannot assume that your manager will make a counteroffer.
4. Escalate the matter.
Your boss may tell you that she would like to give you a raise, but her hands are tied. If this is the case, ask her if the two of you can schedule a meeting with the higher-up responsible for the decision. Do not go over her head without her knowledge, and make sure she is kept on the loop on all matters concerning your compensation.
5. Follow up.
Discussing a raise may be difficult for your boss, too. He may tell you what you want to hear simply to get you out of his office. Make sure that you follow up appropriately on any verbal promises he makes, and if possible, secure an effective date for your increase. You can also summarize your agreements via email after the meeting. Remember the issue is not closed until you see the change on your paycheck.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Restoran Sate Kajang Hj. Samuri @ Damansara Uptown
Hazreen and Me.. *perhaps we should encourage one another to slim down rite, go slimming class? Haha*
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Ming Tien Foodcourt @ Taman Megah
Address: Lot 10991, Jalan SS 24/8, Taman Megah, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Tel: 03-7806 4991
Business hours: Open 24 hours (for beverage section); most stalls between 7am and 3am
When talked bout Ming Tien, the superb Shark's Fin Noodle will always come into my mind. For the very first visit, I ordered a small bowl which cost bout RM4.30. After tasted it, well, I enlarged my stomach's capacity and ordered a Large one, cost bout RM5.30.. =P *I'm freaking fat now! HELP ME!!!*
So, this is my favorite stall at Ming Tien...
And this was my favorite shark's fin soup... *the shark's fins are fake, so don't say that I'm cruel, killing more sharks!*
I always love ikan bakar.. As you know, I always post bout ikan bakar. Indeed, I tried to cook once, unfortunately, it turned out *no comments*!!! *sigh*
This ikan bakar stall was quite special, their way of cooking was totally different from the other mamak stalls. It seems like they marinated it with kunyit and deep fried it. Well, this was my first time trying this style of ikan bakar. Not bad.... you should try one too!!
This was Large, so cost bout RM16.
Inside Out
Have you ever thought about the fact that man is the only creature God created who has to wear clothing to cover himself? All the other creatures grow their own coverings. Some grow fur, some feathers, others scales, or leathery hide. But all are clothed from the inside out!
When man was first created, he was covered with the very glory of God. It radiated from his inner being outward. That's why he had no sense of nakedness until after he sinned and the glory departed from him.
It was a tragic day when man lost that glorious covering. But I want you to know something today. It's not lost forever. The Word of God says we can gain it back. You see, when you put your faith in the blood of Jesus and were born again, the glory of God once again took up residence in you. It may be well hidden right now, but believe me, it's in there.
And the Bible says that as you gaze into the Lord's face by studying the Word and fellowshiping with Him, as you renew your mind to understand who you are in Christ, you'll be changed into His image on the outside as well. As you learn to hear His voice and obey it, you'll start giving outward expression of the glory within you. Little by little, you'll be turned inside out!
Instead of simply staring into your closet every morning, spend some time gazing at Jesus and beholding His Word. Let Him clothe you in His radiant presence. Once His glory starts shining through, anything you wear will look beautiful on you.
Adopted from Kenneth Copeland Ministries
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Good Evening Bangkok @ 1 Utama, Rainforest
We were really semangat in the beginning... and ........
Super bored, waiting for more than 30 mins and the food was still In Progress... T___T We were so hungry!
Finally, the food arrived!!! Fuhh....
Thai Name : Hor Mok Talay Nai Ma Prow Onn
Msia Name : Thai seafood otak-otak served in young coconut
Price : Rm20.90
Thai Name : Tra Ka Sawan
Msia Name : Stir-fried chicken with dry chilli and water chestnut served in Yam Basket.
Price : RM 15.90
This dish was really different from the Chinese style of cooking especially the main difference is the Yam basket.. You can try this, quite special especially the yam basket.
Thai Name : Tom Yam Talay
Msia Name : Spicy Tom Yam Seafood
Price : RM10.90 (one bowl)
P/S: The waiter will ask you whether you want this dish for one or two persons, we said two, and then it came in two separate bowls. So, total = RM10.90x2 (bowls).
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Wai Sek Gai @ SS2
And this is the shop! Hunt this and don't get cheated by another small stall whereby the sale is not laku... :P
This was Thai style ikan bakar.. cost bout RM10 for medium size, just nice for 2 ppl.
And this was Justin's favorite char kuey teow. Tasted good as well...
And my prawn mee..
Monday, April 21, 2008
Inspirations for something big!!
First of all, think of a theme you would want your wedding to look like. Garden? Pink and purplish? Fairytale like? So, set a theme and then you can slowly decide all the decorations that you want to have.
The picture above is the fairytale kind of look. Some girls just like disneys and guess this will suit them huh? Anyway, I still prefer a theme that layout a grand/stylish yet pure and loving atmosphere!
Wedding car. I don't think we have to rent one, cause Justin's parents already have nice looking cars. So, why waste money?? Hehehe...
Wedding cake! Don't have to waste much on wedding cake as well. Just a simple one will do!
The decoration for this yam seng session was good. Maybe because I like fairy lights.. Haha.
I took the picture of this gown cause currently, I'm into this style. :P
So, after few months, not sure I will still like it or not.. dangerous huh? Hehe...
The Garden style of bridal table..
Red & Pink theme.... like it??
This style is too green.. not for me tho!
And this is for Malays, Selamat Pengantin Baru!!!
That's all for all the inspirations that I have. There were several counters whereby most of the Bridal House will catch you to their booth and expect you to sign up with their so-called packages. Anyway, we were smart that we will not get too excited and terburu-buru to make unwanted decision! Hehehe....
Saturday, April 19, 2008
The great bout Nissan
I can say that this is Justin's favorite car. Whenever he drove passed a Murano, his eyes will bling-bling! Haha..
Let's see the specification of his favorite -_-
Production : 2008-
Assembly : Kyushu, Japan
Platform : Nissan D platform
Engine(s) : 3.5L 265 hp (198 kW) V6
Transmission(s) : CVT
Length : 188.5 in (4788 mm)
Width : 74.1 in (1882 mm)
Height : 66.9 in (1699 mm)
Nissan skipped the 2008 model year with the introduction of the next generation Murano – as a 2009 model. The 2009 Murano made its public debut at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show in November and sales began in early January 2008.
For 2009, the width-spanning chrome grille gets much more aggressive with pronounced vertical slats and headlights that are more FX45 than 35oZ. The front fenders rise above the hood and blend smoothly into the A-pillars, while Murano's standard 19-inch and optional 20-inch chrome wheels are also wrapped by more muscular rear fenders that give the vehicle a bit more visual strength.
Out back, designers took the hatch glass angle even more extreme, and the old vertical taillamps are replaced with horizontal ones that mimic the headlights. The dual exhaust set up remains, as does that aforementioned sliver of a spoiler above the glass.
Inside, fans of the old Murano will find some welcome improvements. Upgraded materials cover every surface, and are especially appreciated on the instrument panel and center console. Softer plastics are found everywhere one might reasonably be expected to put a hand, and good-looking, double-stitched leather is also available. The new orange-lighted instrument cluster is a welcome improvement, as is the more ergonomic and eye-pleasing center stack.
If you can afford for a Murano, you can definitely afford a million house in Tropicana. For Murano 2007, it costs bout RM370,000. Guess this Murano 2009 will cost you half a million? I dunno.. haha. :P
Selamat Pengantin Baru @ Dewan Guthrie
semekar senyuman seikhlas hati.
Congrats to this newly wed, Semoga berkekalan until the end of life. (my BM berkarat already, so half a sentence consider good tho? :P) It has been real long since I last attended a Malay's wedding. And I just love the concept whereby the bride and groom will be sitting on the stage; real outstanding from the guests!
Friday, April 18, 2008
New Paris Restaurant @ SS2
New Paris Restaurant
62, 64, 66 Jalan SS2/72, 47300 Petaling Jaya
Tel: 03 7955 9180, 03 7955 0186
P/S : We drove bout 1 hour, round the square landscape of SS2, finally we found this shop hidden behind a JEJANTAS and few shops next to REDBLISS bridal house. If you know RedBliss, then you can see New Paris just few doors away!
The New Paris Restaurant...
Look at the number of workers waiting EAGERLY to serve you in this restaurant. Service was pretty good, effective and efficient. They even have ppl finding parking for you and when you stepped into the restaurant, you were served immediately. Besides, food were served within 5 mins. Geng!!
Vietnam Sotong ~~
Rice in the pot~~
Arak Chicken with watermelon~~
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Steven Curtis Chapman @ This Moment Album
With nearly 10 million records sold, 15 studio projects, and 41 career #1 radio singles, Steven Curtis Chapman has made an overwhelming impact on Christian music. This year finds Chapman releasing his first new album in 3 years, centered around the theme of celebrating every moment of our lives. His unmistakable voice and signature songwriting style is woven throughout each song on his 16th studio release, This Moment.
My heart was touched when I listened to the song CINDERELLA and THIS MOMENT. Really a meaningful song that indeed every moment in your life, God is always there for you, concerned about your daily life and open doors for you! Basically, this new album is all about moments whereby you must treasure all the moments in your life, regardless what you are doing, knowing that God is always by your side!
THIS MOMENT :
As the clock strikes midnight, remember...Each moment we have to spend with our children is a blessing from above. But as we cherish this chapter of life, we realize the pages of time will keep turning. Alternating between the voices of a father and his daughter, Cinderella celebrates the blessings of childhood, family, love and life. You will be enchanted by this modern fairytale that teaches us how to hand our own Cinderella her glass slippers and let her go.
Penang trip coming soon!!!
It has been almost 1.5 years since I last went back to Penang (my grandma's house). Even this year CNY I wasn't there as well due to KK trip. And because of KK trip, I got lots of scolding fr relatives.. lol, next time better be home for CNY!!!
Do you believe that she can eat more than me?? Hahaha...
Lolz, really nasty little looking face!
A really fair little girl!
The three sisters!!
Lolz, so small also ai mei?? Do you know why her hair so little? Cause of COMB!! :P
Anyway, these pics are all my cousins. Some of them really cute, but if you were to be with them for 2-3 days, you will eventually fed up with their noise/shout/cry.. Really can pening kepala!