There is no dead end!

I put my head down and get on with it. Pushing to do a job better than my best is my motto. Like the weary traveller who slows down in his path, I could easily afford to take a break or two to revive. But I could argue here that hard work never killed, it is the stress that does.

Today’s world of work is tough. With hard work comes, more than the normal trials and tribulations. With individual differences and complex business issues, there is a lot to deal with here. The job is a package deal.

We need to continuously perfect our performance on the stage that is our workplace. Along with doing more than a flawless job, we must make big wins with all our stakeholders and be adept at resolving issues. Even the CEO calls his shots in different ways. He/she may be assertive, direct, encouraging or aggressive as appropriate. Whether managing up or down, one ends up devising ways of tackling niggling thoughts that occupy brain space for a longer time. My manager once said, “Be soft on people and hard on issues”: The underlying theme remains to be tactfully assertive rather than non-confrontational at all times.

Managing difficult people at work is a part of our lives. I once needed to liaise with so easy-going Senior Executive from time to time to meet his hiring needs. I was faced with a few challenges: meeting his expectations, his tendency to buck the process, reverse joint decisions and point fingers when he was under pressure. In a conscious effort to understand him, I had to reflect on the best solution to deal with him, without causing friction. Close to stalemate, I resolved to not just walk half-way, but all the way on "my side" of the relationship. I began gauging his mood at the outset, resorted to a calm and straightforward approach when he was abrupt and maintained all evidence of written communication. As a result of adopting a logical and assertive approach, preempting his doubts, responding promptly and proactively to meet his requirements, I managed to break the ice. Gradually, conversations were interspersed with humour. I showed understanding when he appeared stressed. Due to “rising above it”, so to speak, the Executive relied on the advice offered and considered recommendations provided.

I believe we can turn around most people and situations. This coupled with an inimitable style, we would be able to develop lasting relationships.Product reviews are great if you want to compare products or gear for your readers. They'll keep coming back to you for your expertise and real world examples.