BOSS BETTER: Underperforming employees need your leadership and guidance, not your anger.

Managing employees in good times can be tough enough. But when they’re screwing up, it’s a special challenge to turn the heat up under them.

WORK SMARTER: Positive Office Politics

Practicing positive office politics is a much more effective way to enhance your career than more adversarial and calculating approaches.

WORK SMARTER -- BOSS BETTER: Follow the Platinum Rule

The Platinum Rule asks you to pay attention to what others want. By doing this, you will better be able to satisfy the needs of clients and co-workers.

WORK SMARTER: "Satisfice!"

Instead of squandering limited resources to pursue perfection, try to determine the level of effort required to produce quality work, and only commit to that level. Ask yourself "what level will suffice in order to satisfy my clients and co-workers?" In the process, you will get more done and make more people happy.

WORK SMARTER: AVOID MULTITASKING

Avoid multitasking and get more done.

BOSS BETTER: Generate Energy at Work

Before you demand that your employees bring energy to workplace, first ask whether you're doing it yourself.

CREATE A CAREER: ASKING FOR A RAISE

When asking for a raise, don't assume your boss knows why you deserve one. Come prepared and be specific.

WORK SMARTER: The second right answer

Sometimes the first solution you discover isn't the best one. Get other people involved and look for the "second right answer".

CREATE A CAREER: Ask for the Job

Many people get hired during their interview because they simply asked for the job.

CREATE A CAREER: Say "Thank You"

Sometimes the simplest advice is the best. Don't underestimate the power of a sincere thank you note after a job interview. Since so many people forget to write thank you notes, you'll make a good impression when you do.

CREATE A CAREER: Look Within

CREATE A CAREER: Most people look for work by consulting job boards. But job searches should start from the inside out. Begin your job search by first thinking about who you are -- your interests, your talents, and your passions...

BOSS BETTER: Just say "Yes"

All too often, bosses respond to new ideas by simply saying "no". To create more energy at work, try responding with "Yes, if..."

WORK SMARTER: Not To-Do List

Doing the work of three laid off co-workers? Join the club. That's why we offer a short video each week featuring a key work, career or boss strategy to make you more effective.

Think about your never ending To-Do list at work. No wonder most of us feel overwhelmed. This week's strategy is to create a NOT To-Do list. To free up time for the things that really matter.