In the world of technology you face new challenges each and every day. It’s a continuous learning curve where your knowledge is continually increasing. You might even consider yourself an expert in a particular area. Have you ever felt a burning desire to demonstrate your level of technical expertise to your peers, your organization, or even the world?

Office gossip is prevalent in every workplace today. Is a little innocent chit-chat a real cause for concern? It was a big concern, according to a 2007 ABC News report, for four New Hampshire employees fired for gossiping.

Do you know your most productive hours during the day? A May 2005 survey of US workers for Careerwomen.com, published on MBACareers.com, found that Tuesday mornings between 10 am and noon are considered to be the height of productivity. Interestingly, a survey of British workers conducted by the health supplement company, Bimuno, published in Telegraph.co.uk, found that Tuesday mornings at 11:45 am is the most stressful time of the workweek. Is there a correlation between the two surveys apparent contradiction?

Challenge: I’m a new Telecom Manager. One of my first tasks is to establish personal and department goals. Since I’ve never had to do this before, I need your advice.

Answer: Congratulations on your new position. It’s important that your personal and department goals are consistent with your organization’s goals. Before you plan your goals, speak with the person to whom you report. Ask the following two questions: