http://www.savvysugar.com/ It Makes Sense. en http://www.savvysugar.com/2513537 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/47_2008/aa909c56c328755f_instyle.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarger" height="379" width="300"></span>While being a supermodel is hands-down out of the question for most of us, Heidi Klum's business sense is something that can inspire and motivate any working girl. She's smiling on the cover of <a href="http://www.instyle.com/instyle/" target="_blank">InStyle</a>'s December issue and inside the magazine she spells out her <a href="http://www.instyle.com/instyle/package/general/photos/0,,20219137_20240419,00.html" target="_blank">five rules for success</a>. The rule below is my favorite. </p> <ul> <li><b>Be open to learning new things</b>: "It's not good to think you know it all—I don't think that's cool or smart. I think there's always more things that people teach you. Be confident and open to incorporating certain suggestions!"</li> </ul> <p>Her rule applies all year-round, but it's especially important advice given many companies are now in <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/tags/performance+review/" >performance review</a> mode. Notice valuable feedback when it's given to you, and you'll improve overall. </p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2513537#comment business Heidi Klum motivation The Grind work Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:30:31 -0800 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2513537 http://www.savvysugar.com/2486679 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/46_2008/5d6d837560957f8e_working-mom.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left xlarge" height="219" width="300"></span>Working moms are masters of multitasking and I admire their ability to juggle so many responsibilities. We all know at least one mom who manages to make it all work, and there are some countries that rely on the labor of working moms more than others. Can you guess which country boasts the most employed mothers? </p> <p><br clear=all><br /> <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/2486679">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2486679#comment How Money Are You quiz Savvy quiz The Grind work Tue, 11 Nov 2008 04:30:29 -0800 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2486679 http://www.savvysugar.com/2440841 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/44_2008/b1b51efc75ea6bbe_lunch.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right outline xlarge" height="300" width="300"></span>Look around. Are you and the majority of your co-workers stabbing at the salads on your desks? According to a recent survey by Robert Half International, senior executives <a href="http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-let_s_do_lunch_or_not-557" target="_blank">work through lunch three days a week</a> and take about 35 minutes for lunch on the other two days. Because employees are inclined to emulate the habits of their bosses, you can bet those without an office are spending at least three days working through lunch. </p> <p>Doug White of Robert Half offers tips on how to combat the disappearing lunch break, and there is one in particular that I fancy. In fact, since adopting this way of work, I've discovered more time during the day and have been able to fit in lunch-time workouts a couple days a week — something that was impossible before.</p> <blockquote><p>When planning your day, set a few early goals for yourself. In addition to your daily to-do list, consider creating a "to-do by noon" list, for instance. Meeting these deadlines will give you a sense of relief and accomplishment, setting the stage for a more relaxing and enjoyable lunch.</p></blockquote> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2440841#comment job The Grind work Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:30:33 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2440841 http://www.savvysugar.com/2398905 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/43_2008/9df18018f083141b_regis-and-kelly.xlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarge" height="320" width="289"></span>Maybe the person you spend all day with at the office has become close to you simply because you're forced to be around the person all day, but <a href="http://www.careerbuilder.com/share/aboutus/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=pr465&amp;sd=10%2f15%2f2008&amp;ed=12%2f31%2f2008&amp;siteid=cbpr&amp;sc_cmp1=cb_pr465_/" target="_blank">according to a recent Careerbuilder survey</a>, there is a 20 percent chance your significant other is jealous. The survey discovered that out of more than 6,000 respondents, 10 percent said they have a work spouse, and of those people who feel they might as well be married to their co-worker, 20 percent said their actual significant other is jealous of that person. Workers were asked to rank platonic couples we see working together on TV, and below is the final ranked list. Do you feel like you have a work spouse?</p> <ol> <li> Regis and Kelly</li> <li>David Letterman and Paul Shaffer</li> <li>Jay Leno and Kevin Eubanks</li> <li>Meredith Vieira and Matt Lauer</li> <li>Howard Stern and Robin Quivers</li> <li>Judge Judy and Petri Byrd</li> </ol> <p>See the other six platonic couples when you </p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/2398905">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2398905#comment co-worker job The Grind work Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:10:27 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2398905 http://www.savvysugar.com/2399829 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2399829"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2399829',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2399829');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/43_2008/3b704681d94872da_santa.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left xlarger" height="391" width="260"></span>The tradition of participating in Secret Santa gift exchanges has existed in every office I've worked, and it can be a fun way to bring employees together for holiday cheer. There's always a price limit set for the gift (the most I've heard is $25), but I'm wondering if companies should skip the gift-giving games this year. </p> <p>Most people are <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/2391121/" >cutting down on their gift budgets</a>, and I'm not sure workers would be excited to allocate some of their whittled down holiday money for a co-worker's Secret Santa gift. </p> <p><br clear=all></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2399829" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Should Workplaces Do Away With Secret Santas This Year?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, Secret Santa exchanges should be retired this holiday season. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, it's an inexpensive way to bring employees together.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Something else. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2399829" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/2399829#comment co-worker gift holiday poll Savvy poll work Your Two Cents Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:15:28 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2399829 http://www.savvysugar.com/2389600 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/43_2008/95ad83d3d61694cf_ivanka.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center outline preview" height="153" width="550"></span></p> <p>It's difficult to imagine the always-polished Ivanka Trump packing up leftovers for lunch, but <a href="http://blog.alunchtrade.com/post/2008/10/my-latest-ventu.html" target="_blank">she recently blogged about sympathizing</a> with the monotony of brown-bagging it. </p> <blockquote><p>With gas and food prices on the rise, more and more people are skipping the deli line and bringing lunch to work to save money. This is great, but all I hear is how boring a brown bag lunch can get and how people want something different, especially when they are stuck at their desks — something I completely relate to.</p></blockquote> <p>Today kicks off an advertising campaign that pairs Ivanka with ConAgra Foods <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/20/business/media/20trump.html/" target="_blank">to promote a new line of microwave meals</a> called Healthy Choice Fresh Mixers. Because the meals will last up to a year without refrigeration, the company is targeting busy young office workers that may be looking for an inexpensive and healthy lunchtime solution. If you are in New York or Chicago, samples of the meals will be available today at the Grace Building on 42nd Street in New York, and 1 South Wacker Drive in Chicago. </p> <p>ConAgra Vice President Michael Locascio explained the company's reasoning for selecting Ivanka as the spokesperson and said, “We wanted somebody who would appeal to a younger office worker who’s technology-savvy.” Do you think she was a smart choice considering the company is trying to promote the lines as budget-friendly? </p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2389600#comment advertising food Ivanka Trump work Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:00:17 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2389600 http://www.savvysugar.com/2381765 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/42_2008/6fa741f01007b20d_woman.xlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left xlarge" height="320" width="213"></span>Most of <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/2023246/" >our retirement dreams revolve around</a> a lot of R and R, but <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/10/17/octogenarian.waitress.ap/index.html" target="_blank">88-year-old Rosie Donaghey</a> came out of her retirement at age 70 to work as a waitress. This golden girl reentered the workforce after her husband passed away in 1994, and now has a loyal customer following that appreciates her wit and wisecracks. She currently works at the Wicked Wolf restaurant in East Bronx, NY, where she's locally famous for saying things like, "I'd rather be shot than eat clams."</p> <p>Rosie says that working isn't a necessity for her financially, but it's apparent that the job means just as much to her as it does to the customers that love her. Going after what we want doesn't ever have to end! She also has some advice for anyone striving to be a great waitress: "Be pleasant, and let them take their pick of tables." She later added, "I guess it's the blarney." </p> <p>Her last statement rings true in many professions — the gift of gab can go a long way. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2381765#comment job The Grind work Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:30:40 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2381765 http://www.savvysugar.com/2297655 <p>People always say there's someone out there for everyone, and perhaps the same can be said of people looking for work — one person's odd job might be exactly what someone else is drawn to. <a href="http://www.careerbuilder.com/share/aboutus/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=pr461&amp;sd=9%2f23%2f2008&amp;ed=12%2f31%2f2008&amp;siteid=cbpr&amp;sc_cmp1=cb_pr461_" target="_blank">CareerBuilder surveyed almost 9,000 workers</a> and gathered this year's list of the most unusual jobs held by the respondents at some point in their careers. The collection of unexpected jobs brings back memories of my days driving a snow plow. Just kidding! What's the oddest job you've ever had?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/41_2008/cat-nanny.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarge" height="300" width="300"></span></p> <ul> <li>A: Autopsy assistant</li> <li>B: Bartender at the Liberace mansion</li> <li>C: Cat nanny</li> <li>D: Donkey trainer</li> <li>E: Elf at Santa’s workshop</li> <li>F: FBI Fingerprint examiner</li> <li>G: Grave digger</li> <li>H: Hurricane hunter</li> <li>I: Ice sculpture carver</li> <li>J: Junk mail machine operator</li> </ul> <p>See more unusual jobs when you </p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/2297655">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2297655#comment job The Grind work Wed, 08 Oct 2008 11:00:57 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2297655 http://www.savvysugar.com/2304025 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2304025"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2304025',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2304025');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/41_2008/makeup.xlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left xlarge" height="320" width="253"></span>Some women feel the need to freshen up before leaving for happy hour or dinner out and that can mean more than applying fresh lip gloss.</p> <p>Does the ladies' room sink turn into your personal vanity when you have plans right after work? </p> <p><br clear=all> <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2304025" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Get Ready to Go Out at Work?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I do my hair and makeup in the ladies' room.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I'll touch up my makeup, but nothing that takes much time.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, I prefer to do my grooming elsewhere. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I don't do anything to get ready for after work plans.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> I don't usually go out directly from work.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="5" class="form-radio" /> Something else. See my comments below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2304025" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/2304025#comment office poll work Your Two Cents Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:00:42 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2304025 http://www.savvysugar.com/2137104 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/40_2008/lottery.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="300" width="300"></span>I've fantasized about winning the lottery, especially on particularly tough days at work, but when it comes down to it I think that I'd still want to work after picking lucky numbers. When <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/ilanac13/" >ilanac13</a> commented that it's hard to say whether or not her job is fulfilling but that she'd <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/2121451/" >still work if she won the lottery</a>, it made me curious to see how the rest of you would handle the situation. Would you keep your job, find another one that you'd like better and not have to worry about the salary, or quit altogether? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/2137104#comment I'm Asking lottery The Grind work Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:00:28 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2137104 http://www.savvysugar.com/2022106 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2022106"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2022106',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2022106');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/38_2008/lunch.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center outline preview" height="339" width="510"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2022106" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Has Your Lunch Ever Been Stolen From the Fridge at Work? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes! My lunch has been swiped from the office refrigerator.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, my lunch has never gone missing.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> I don't bring my lunch to work. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2022106" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/2022106#comment co-worker poll Savvy poll The Grind work Your Two Cents Tue, 16 Sep 2008 06:30:50 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/2022106 http://www.savvysugar.com/1954041 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1954041"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1954041',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1954041');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/37_2008/clock_0.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center outline preview" height="476" width="470"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1954041" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Your Two Cents: Are You a Clock Watcher at Work?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, because my day goes so slowly!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Yes, because the day flies by and I never have enough time!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, I'm not a clock watcher.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1954041" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1954041#comment job poll Savvy poll The Grind work Your Two Cents Tue, 09 Sep 2008 14:00:27 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1954041 http://www.savvysugar.com/1922071 <div id="guesswho-view-1922071"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/guesswho/view/1922071',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var guesswho=$('guesswho-view-1922071');guesswho.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p>"They say don’t date your costar, but that’s who you’re around. If you’re in an office, and you see someone everyday and you click well, you’ll start dating. It’s the same thing." </p><p><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/36_2008/guess-who1.jpg" alt="Guess Who? Work Romance" title="Guess Who? Work Romance" class="image preview" /></p><p><form action="/1922071" method="post" id="guesswho_guess"> <div><div class="guesswho_form"><div class="form-item"> <input type="text" maxlength="128" name="edit[guess]" id="edit-guess" size="20" value="" class="form-text form-autocomplete" /> </div> <input class="autocomplete" type="hidden" id="edit-guess-autocomplete" value="http://www.savvysugar.com/taxonomy/autocomplete/47" disabled="disabled" /><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1922071" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Guess" class="form-submit" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="I Give Up" class="form-submit" /> <input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="guesswho_guess" /> </div> </div></form> </p></noscript> http://www.savvysugar.com/1922071#comment celeb Guess Who job work work romance Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:30:51 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1922071 http://www.savvysugar.com/1920968 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/36_2008/career.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="245" width="310"></span>A career is a work in progress, and it may take several steps before you can say that you consider your work a career. It is more of a path, whereas a job might be seen as simply a means to an end — like a paycheck. How would you describe your work situation; are you on a career path or is your work just a job to you?<br /> <br clear=all></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1920968#comment career job The Grind work Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:00:53 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1920968 http://www.savvysugar.com/1915270 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/36_2008/job.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="300" width="300"></span>Just for fun, let's pretend your boss approaches you out of the blue and offers you eight weeks' severance including medical benefits. If you don't accept the offer, you keep your job, and if you accept, you'll be jobless in eight weeks and back on the market. </p> <p>What would you do — take the money and run or keep your job?</p> <p><br clear=all><br /> <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1915270#comment I'm Asking job money The Grind work Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:00:29 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1915270 http://www.savvysugar.com/1910543 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/36_2008/boss.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="400" width="263"></span>In honor of hard working citizens who deal with irrational bosses daily, Working America, the community affiliate of the AFL-CIO, ran a contest asking for <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Business/CareerManagement/Story?id=5686243&amp;page=1/" target="_blank">submissions of bad boss stories</a>. The worst boss story award went to a woman from Kansas named Joan, who was demoted for planning a company outing to a baseball game that happened to fall on a day when it rained. </p> <p>Although she planned it two months in advance, Joan's boss blamed her for purposely choosing the day because she knew it was going to rain. She was punished with a demotion from manager to assistant manager, pay-cut and all. Later, the boss requested that Joan organize the company picnic, and when she declined the boss told the board that she refused to take on the responsibility. </p> <p>Do you have a worst boss story that rivals Joan's? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1910543#comment boss job The Grind work Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:30:49 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1910543 http://www.savvysugar.com/1910382 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/36_2008/student.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="360" width="239"></span>Some consider dedicating yourself as a full-time college student a full-time job in itself, but going to school and living away from home is expensive and might require the income of at least a part-time job.</p> <p>I worked throughout my four years, earning money working on-campus and waitressing off-campus. Did you work during college? </p> <p><br clear=all><br /> <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1910382#comment I'm Asking job student The Grind work Wed, 03 Sep 2008 11:00:46 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1910382 http://www.savvysugar.com/1900558 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/35_2008/labor-day.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="242" width="331"></span>Labor Day is a United States federal holiday that was developed in the 19th century to acknowledge the social and economic achievements of working Americans. <a href="http://www.dol.gov/opa/aboutdol/laborday.htm" target="_blank">According to the US Department of Labor</a>, the holiday "constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country."</p> <p>There's nothing not to love about holidays that cause our employers to lock the office doors. Hopefully all of you hard-working girls are spending the day with your feet up and not catching up on work during your day off. Are you taking time for yourself today or will you be attending to some work issues? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1900558#comment Labor Day The Grind work work-life balance Mon, 01 Sep 2008 05:00:30 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1900558 http://www.savvysugar.com/1894457 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/35_2008/SO001591.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="390"></span>Munchausen is a psychological disorder in which people seek attention for themselves by making up an illness or inducing sickness. Business professor Nathan Bennett <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121960882331467103.html" target="_blank">coined the term "Munchausen at work" to describe</a> people who fabricate problems to make themselves look better when they solve the issues they created in the first place.</p> <p>For example, Bennett says the behavior was at work in the case of a manager who made up layoff rumors so he could be the hero a few weeks later and tell workers he'd saved their jobs. Another case involved an employee who told a co-worker she'd smoothed the strained team environment, when she was the one who caused problems by telling her team members they shouldn't trust her. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1894457#comment co-worker job munchausen at work Savvy Vocab The Grind work Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:30:46 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1894457 http://www.savvysugar.com/1883958 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/34_2008/74226666.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview"width="330"></span>We all need to rant about our daily grinds once in a while, but it's also important to consider what we appreciate about our jobs. The good stuff can be overshadowed by the stress and complaining, so let's send some positive vibes today! It is Friday, after all. What do you like about your job?</p> <p><br clear=all></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1883958#comment I'm Asking job The Grind work Fri, 22 Aug 2008 11:00:38 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1883958 http://www.savvysugar.com/1880930 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1880930"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1880930',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1880930');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>The other day <a href="http://www.petsugar.com/" rel="nofollow">PetSugar</a> shared a story with me about her ex-employer who was notorious for putting employees through hoops. In this particular case, there was a position open that would be considered a step up, and the office required workers to apply and interview for a move rather than simply offer a promotion. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/34_2008/dv1923015.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center preview" height="368" width="464"></span></p> <p>One of her coworkers was vacationing on the East Coast and when he got wind of the open position, he expressed interest in the job. Rather than allow the employee (who had been working for them for more than two years) to interview when he returned from his trip, the employer said he had to buy a web-cam and interview while on vacation. </p> <p>Pet's co-worker purchased the equipment and ended up getting the job. Would you have bought the web-cam if you were in his position?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1880930" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Would You Jump Through This Hoop For a Promotion?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I would if the benefit outweighed the cost.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Maybe, but I don't agree with the employer's demands.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, I wouldn't spend money knowing it may not be worth it.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Something else. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1880930" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1880930#comment career job poll promotion Savvy poll The Grind work Your Two Cents Thu, 21 Aug 2008 06:30:28 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1880930 http://www.savvysugar.com/1878666 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1878666"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1878666',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1878666');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/34_2008/stk128314rke.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="350" width="330"></span>Self-employment is a goal that many workers strive for: Setting your own hours, making the big decisions, and controlling your work life are appealing parts of being your own boss. </p> <p>While those aspects excite some, the prospect of self-employment causes stress in others who would rather leave the risk taking to somebody else. Would you want to start a business and be accountable for its success or failure? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1878666" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Your Two Cents: Would You Want to Be Your Own Boss?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I'd love to have my own business and be my own boss.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, I wouldn't want to be self-employed.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> I'm already my own boss!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Something else. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1878666" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1878666#comment boss career job poll Savvy poll self-employed The Grind work Your Two Cents Wed, 20 Aug 2008 06:30:37 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1878666 http://www.savvysugar.com/1870358 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/33_2008/82365573.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview"width="320"></span>Many of Wall Street's employees may have enjoyed enviable salaries and big-time bonuses during their careers, but now that about <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&amp;sid=a6h1pur72rok&amp;refer=home/" target="_blank">33,300 finance jobs will be cut</a> by June 2009, some of those workers are finding other ways to continue paying their bills. </p> <p>In such a troubled market many of them are earning money in jobs unrelated to finance and making much less in doing so. One ex-Bear Stearns employee started a company that teaches kids to cook, a Bank of New York-ex moved to Omaha with his wife where they opened a hair salon, and others are trying their hands in jobs like bartending and real estate to make enough money to live. </p> <p>These workers are doing what it takes to support their families and find happiness doing something else, often after working in one profession for the length of their careers. Losing a job is definitely one of the biggest stresses that can fall upon us, but it's also a chance to show what you're really made of by hunting down open doors and creating your own opportunities. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1870358#comment career job loss job search The Grind work Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:30:25 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1870358 http://www.savvysugar.com/1870422 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/33_2008/dv380124.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="399" width="300"></span>Workers on the CNN National Desk are <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/08/14/cnn.workweek/index.html" target="_blank">embarking on a week long</a> experiment working 10-hours a day four days a week. <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1759534/" >Utah has already introduced</a> the four-day work week to its public employees, but by-the-clock public service jobs have much different requirements than a 24/7 news environment. </p> <p>Most of the workers are optimistic about the experiment helping them save on gas and commuting time, but there is some concern about how the arrangement would affect scheduling in the unique news environment. Eighty-percent of you said that a <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1684591/" >four-day work week would suit you</a>. Do you think your boss would go for an experiment of implementing the longer hours, less days schedule? Would it be worth a shot to ask? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1870422#comment gas job The Grind work Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:00:20 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1870422 http://www.savvysugar.com/1868594 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1868594"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1868594',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1868594');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>Just 28 percent of you said your workplace <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1796702/" rel="nofollow">promotes casual Fridays</a>, but how strict are they about your exit time? I've found many offices are a little more relaxed about when workers head home for the weekend than their departure times on other days. What's the deal at your office?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/33_2008/AA000700.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center preview" height="450"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1868594" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Your Two Cents: Do You Leave Work Earlier on Fridays?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, most Fridays I leave earlier than other days.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Sometimes, but only when my boss initiates it.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, I stay just as late on Fridays as any other day.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Something else. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1868594" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1868594#comment poll Savvy poll The Grind work Your Two Cents Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:00:24 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1868594 http://www.savvysugar.com/1862843 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/33_2008/BU004711.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="350" width="330"></span>Some employers are combating lower profit margins by combining two jobs and advertising for one position with all the responsibilities. The repackaged positions are usually offered with a salary that reflects the half of the job that was more junior. Recruiters acknowledge that more companies are seeking jack-of-all-trades types to wear multiple hats for one bargain salary. </p> <p>The jobs are often mislabeled or too demanding for one person, and some employers have been taking advantage of eager and often uninformed entry- and lower-level candidates. <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121848000146630543.html" target="_blank"><b>The Wall Street Journal</b> offers these tips</a> on what to do if you've applied for a position that seems like it's two jobs combined. </p> <ul> <li>Ask what position has been eliminated to see if you can handle all the duties.</li> <li>Know the going rates for various jobs and expertise levels, so you can negotiate a fair salary. Don't sell yourself cheap.</li> </ul> <p>Have you seen evidence of this trend in your own company or in jobs you've come across? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1862843#comment career economy job The Grind work Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:30:19 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1862843 http://www.savvysugar.com/1860238 <p>Maybe there's nothing holding you back from moving to your favorite vacation spot except for that little thing called a paycheck. Fear not, CareerBuilder has developed a list of <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/08/11/cb.jobs.travel/index.html" target="_blank">ten jobs in travel and tourism</a> that help keep vacationers happy. And, they say, leisure and hospitality are projected to increase by almost 2 millions jobs in 2006 and account for 15 million jobs in 2016. </p> <p>CareerBuilder acknowledges that most of these jobs don't offer much in terms of money, but suggests their benefits lay in the flexible hours, enjoyable atmosphere, and opportunities to meet new people. Any other ideas for other jobs that might be more lucrative monetarily? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/33_2008/71080068.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="404"></span> <ul> <li>Amusement and recreation attendant</li> <li> Concierge</li? <li>Cruise ship director</li> <li>Curator</li> <li>Gaming dealers</li> <li>Lifeguard</li> <li>Information clerk</li> <li>Recreation worker</li> <li>Taxi driver or chauffeur</li> <li>Tour and travel guide</li> </ul> <p><br clear=all><br /> <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1860238#comment career job The Grind travel work Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:30:56 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1860238 http://www.savvysugar.com/1850935 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1850935"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1850935',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1850935');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/32_2008/yhst-89556633729283_2011_2364990.jpeg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="422" width="310"></span><b>Savvy says: Brilliant!</b></p> <p><a href="http://cityclipsnyc.com/index.html/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cityclips</a> ($36) are a working girl's dream come true. We take care in building our work wardrobes and spend a pretty penny in doing so, and cityclips are the answer to saving our perfect-fit pants and hard earned cash. </p> <p>Held together by magnets, the clips protect your pant-hem from fraying by lifting your pant leg when wearing your commuter flats. They are even available in various fabrics to closely match what you're wearing! </p> <p>The item will eventually pay for itself by extending the life of your pants. What do you think of these; are they brilliant or baffling?</p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1850935" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Brilliant or Baffling: City Clips For Your Pants</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Brilliant!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Baffling!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Undecided. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1850935" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1850935#comment Brilliant or Baffling commute poll Savvy poll work work attire Fri, 08 Aug 2008 06:30:07 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1850935 http://www.savvysugar.com/1819961 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1819961"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1819961',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1819961');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/31_2008/200247413-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="373"></span>A recent <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/07/28/cb.happy.hour/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CareerBuilder survey found</a> that 82 percent of employees go to happy hours to bond with co-workers, while 11 percent go to spend quality time with the boss. Which is a stronger factor in driving you to office happy hours?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1819961" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Attend Happy Hours For Your Co-Workers or Boss?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> I mainly go to bond with co-workers.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I attend happy hours to try and get in better with the boss.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> I don't go to happy hour with people from my office.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Something else. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1819961" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1819961#comment boss career co-worker job networking poll Savvy poll The Grind work Your Two Cents Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:00:45 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1819961 http://www.savvysugar.com/1820470 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/31_2008/200285741-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="408" width="300"></span>As much as most of us would like to believe we're invincible super workers who don't require a day off here and there, the truth is that we need some time away from the office to collect ourselves. </p> <p>There's just something satisfying about not being in the office and doing whatever we please (even if it means doing nothing at all) when we're supposed to be working the day away. Not counting your regular weekend break from the work week, when is the last time you took a day off? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1820470#comment career I'm Asking job The Grind vacation work Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:35:02 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1820470 http://www.savvysugar.com/1814361 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/30_2008/81778223.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center preview" height="352"></span></p> <p>As California Democrats and Republicans struggle to find a satisfactory compromise and seal the deal on a new and overdue state budget, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's frustration has risen to the point of making threats. He's considering an executive order that would reduce 200,000 state employees' salaries to the <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1772708/" >$6.55 per hour</a> federal minimum wage, which <a href="http://www.citizensugar.com/1809589/" >CitizenSugar</a> points out is $1.45 less than the state's minimum wage. </p> <p>A good friend of mine happens to be a hard-working California state employee, so I asked him for his thoughts on the governor's threat and how it would affect him should the order go through this week. </p> <p><b>SavvySugar</b>: How would something like this affect the public sector?</p> <p><b>State Employee</b>: I think it is a fair assumption that state employees do not jump into the public sector expecting some great financial windfall as a result. No, most people are doing it for a sense of security. Every month you are going to get your paycheck and you are going to get it on the first or the 30th and that's it. Likewise, you are going to have not just financial security, but job security. In general terms a concept such as the one which Arnold is proposing would overthrow one big benefit of being a public sector employee.</p> <p>See his thoughts on the concept of Arnold's threat and how he'd personally be affected when you </p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1814361">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1814361#comment Arnold Schwarzenegger California income job minimum wage salary Savvy interview state employees work Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:51 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1814361 http://www.savvysugar.com/1811698 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/30_2008/stk321213rkn.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="414"</span>There are certain responsibilities in every job which the person holding the position considers to be grunt work. This is one situation where the meaning is in the eye of the beholder — one woman's trash is another woman's treasure, if you will. </p> <p>Something you might deem a waste of time might be a dream come true for someone else. What aspects of your job would you call grunt work? </p> <p><br clear=all><br /> <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1811698#comment I'm Asking job The Grind work Fri, 25 Jul 2008 11:01:56 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1811698 http://www.savvysugar.com/1803047 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/30_2008/200401959-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="424"></span>For the first time since the 1960's women's movement, the number of women in the workforce has started to decline. The weak economy has caused job loss all around and government data shows that women are losing their jobs for the same reasons as men. According to <b>The New York Times</b>, downturns, layoffs, outsourcing, stagnant wages or the discouraging prospect of an outright pay cut are factors that have been <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/22/business/22jobs.html?pagewanted=1/" target="_blank">reducing the percentage of women</a> in the workforce for the past few years. </p> <p>The Joint Economic Committee of Congress led the Congressional study, and senior economist Heather Boushey commented, "When we saw women starting to drop out in the early part of this decade, we thought it was the motherhood movement, women staying home to raise their kids. We did not think it was the economy, but when we looked into it, we realized that it was." Median pay for women workers aged 24 to 54 had fallen from $15.04 in 2004 to $14.84 an hour in 2007, and economist Nancy Folbre thinks women are reluctant to accept these terms because they'd gotten used to seeing wages at least stay the same. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1803047#comment economy news news flash women work Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:09:53 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1803047 http://www.savvysugar.com/1796702 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1796702"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1796702',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1796702');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/200393380-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="433"></span>Here at Sugar HQ we're lucky to dress as we please every day of the week, but I didn't always have it so good. My old office had me buttoned up day in and day out, though on Fridays most employees interpreted our business-casual dress code on the more casual side. </p> <p>Men would wear khakis and a more colorful button-up shirt, and women might wear a sweater or a more comfortable dress than usual. There was nothing in our extensive code saying that we could tone it down on Fridays and we simply established the habit for ourselves. The majority of you <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1732841/" rel="nofollow">have business-casual dress codes</a> at the office, but does Friday mean you dress more casually? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1796702" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Dress More Casually on Fridays?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, there's nothing that says it's allowed but I dress more casually, anyway.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Yes, my office has casual Fridays.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> My office is pretty casual every day!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> No, the way I dress doesn't change on Fridays. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1796702" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1796702#comment career job poll Savvy poll The Grind work work attire Your Two Cents Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:05:24 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1796702 http://www.savvysugar.com/1793788 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/71041107.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="404"></span>Most of us have had our fair share of issues with co-workers, ranging from petty annoyances to backstabbing antics. Confronting a colleague may have its own challenges but when it's the boss that needs talking to job security comes into play. A reader wrote to Slate's Dear Prudence asking for advice on <a href="http://www.slate.com/id/2195483/?from=rss/" target="_blank">whether to confront a boss</a> (who has the charming tendency to "fly off the handle") about her constant anti-Semitic remarks. </p> <p>Prudie recommends the employee mentions that she doesn't share the same beliefs and would appreciate if the boss didn't discuss them any longer. This is definitely an easier said than done type of response. While I don't think I'd last working under that boss more than the time it took me to find another job, I'd like to think I could muster up the courage to make my feelings known.</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1793788#comment boss co-worker I'm Asking job The Grind work Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:35:59 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1793788 http://www.savvysugar.com/1791374 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/200325171-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview"width="306"></span>Confidence is key when asking for a raise, and the strength in your argument and poise in presentation should come from your accomplishments and conviction that it's the right move. Listing your personal financial hardships should be <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1623445/" >left out of the equation</a> when approaching your boss; if you really do need more money and are ready to take on more responsibility, find out what you can do to make yourself more valuable. </p> <p>While I think the point is pretty clear, Michael Zwell author of <b>Six-Figure Salary Negotiation</b> <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/07/16/cb.salary.talk.traps/index.html" target="_blank">said it best</a>: "When we were young, our parents told us that if we wanted money, we had to earn it. So, we mowed the lawn, did house chores or watched younger siblings to earn a buck. Similarly, if you need more money per paycheck, ask your boss how you can contribute to earn a little extra."</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1791374#comment career job raise salary The Grind tip work Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:32:58 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1791374 http://www.savvysugar.com/1791567 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1791567"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1791567',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1791567');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/wallet.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center preview" height="358" width="477"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1791567" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>How Often Do You Get Paid?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Once a month.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Twice a month.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Every other week.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Every week. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1791567" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1791567#comment income job money poll salary Savvy poll The Grind work Your Two Cents Thu, 17 Jul 2008 09:36:11 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1791567 http://www.savvysugar.com/1791450 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/EXE_063.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview"width="316"></span>Many US employers have been requiring their male and female workers to attend sexual harassment seminars to help prevent nasty lawsuits surrounding the issue. China's companies <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/jul/16/china.gender?gusrc=rss&amp;feed=networkfront/" target="_blank">aren't responsible for harassment</a> among staff, but the country has taken a huge step in the right direction to address the crime of sexual harassment. </p> <p>The country passed laws banning harassment and domestic violence three years ago, and the first arrest has just been made under these laws. An office manager swayed a new female employee into his office under the premise of discussing work matters, and once behind closed doors he admitted that he wanted to be her boyfriend.</p> <p>The manager reacted to being turned down by grabbing the woman's neck and kissing her. A scream led co-workers to call the police, and the man has been sentenced to five months in jail. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1791450#comment China lawsuit news sexual harassment work Thu, 17 Jul 2008 04:09:36 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1791450 http://www.savvysugar.com/1788299 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1788299"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1788299',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1788299');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>Adding to the onslaught of employer efforts that promote a healthy workforce, an office furniture maker <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20080714/lf_afp/lifestyleuslaborhealthtechnology;_ylt=Aqa2U1.hvrxoLmfQ5jYpAMwDW7oF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">has begun churning out</a> "Walkstations." The machines move slowly enough that workers can walk while completing computer work, and while two miles an hour seems like a piddly amount, proponents of the device say it's beneficial. </p> <p>This is the latest development in a flurry of health related office changes: Some <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1752345/" rel="nofollow">employers are banning</a> their workers from smoking, Japan's employers have <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1134558/" rel="nofollow">introduced flab checks</a>, workers with bad health habits are increasingly <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/958969/" rel="nofollow">being charged more</a> for health insurance, and it's becoming more common for workers to undergo annual screenings to evaluate overall health. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/81918013.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center preview" height="384"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1788299" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Would You Use This Treadmill Workstation?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I'd take advantage of this in my office.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I'm not sure. Walking and typing is a new level of multitasking!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, I get enough exercise and think this would be unnecessary.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1788299" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1788299#comment health health insurance poll Savvy poll treadmill desk work Your Two Cents Wed, 16 Jul 2008 06:29:42 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1788299 http://www.savvysugar.com/1785931 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/stk147465rke.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview"width="300"></span>Sitting through a sex ed class is probably something you've never done with co-workers, though it could be offered during future lunch breaks. Mark Schuster's program, "Talking Parents, Healthy Teens," has already made its way to <a href="http://www.usnews.com/blogs/on-parenting/2008/7/14/sex-ed-for-parents--at-the-office.html/" target="_blank">13 workplaces and 569 parents</a>. Together they discussed how to best communicate with teens about sex, including how to teach them to use a condom (with the condom-on-the-finger lesson). </p> <p>Schuster began by contacting major employers in Los Angeles and most of them welcomed the idea of offering a lunchtime program. He points out that an evening class would attract few parents who need to get home after work, and notes one reason employers have been cooperative is they are paying health insurance for the kids, too. Parents that completed the eight-week program reported increased communication with their kids because of it. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1785931#comment co-worker job kids office work work-life balance Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:32:40 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1785931 http://www.savvysugar.com/1785739 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1785739"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1785739',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1785739');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/29_2008/BCO_062.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="413"></span>Just as your ninth grade geometry teacher favored the cute boys in the corner, your boss may very well play office favorites among employees.</p> <p>It's one form of complicated office politics, and author Louellen Essex advises to <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/07/14/cb.office.politics/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">consider your boss's rationale</a>: "Is he or she supporting high performers they're grooming for advancement? If so, step up your performance and get yourself in that inner circle. On the other hand, if the boss is playing favorites due to friendships with employees, stay clear." </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1785739" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Your Two Cents: Does Your Boss Play Favorites? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, it's obvious my boss plays favorites.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I'm not sure if there's favoritism in my office.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, everyone is treated equally.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other. I'll tell you in the comments below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1785739" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.savvysugar.com/1785739#comment boss career job poll Savvy poll The Grind work Your Two Cents Tue, 15 Jul 2008 06:34:12 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1785739 http://www.savvysugar.com/1785513 <p>Last I checked there wasn't a skins option for office attire — shirts are mandatory! And pants for that matter, unless you're the woman in this video! An offended worker wrote to Slate's Dear Prudence <a href="http://www.slatev.com/player.html?id=1664436772" target="_blank">about her exhibitionist co-worker</a>, and they appreciated the story so much her letter was brought to cartoon life. Would you handle the situation by taking it to your boss or confronting the woman yourself, or would a co-worker flashing her assets be no big deal? </p> <p><center> <div style='width:455px' id="spi_tabs_container"> <div id="spi_tabs_top"> <div id="spi_tabs_topL"></div> <div id="spi_tabs_topR"></div> </div> <div class="panel chatter_chatter fbceleb " > <center> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://images.teamsugar.com/static/js/swfobject.js"></script> <p style=margin:0px;padding:0px id="player_1785509"><a href="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer">Get Flash</a> to see this player.</p> <script type="text/javascript"> var so1785509 = new SWFObject('http://images.teamsugar.com/static/flash/mediaplayer.swf','mpl','425','350','7'); so1785509.addParam('allowfullscreen','true'); so1785509.addVariable("file",'1785509.flv'); so1785509.addVariable('height','350'); so1785509.addVariable('image','http://images.teamsugar.com/media/cooked/thumbs/1785509.jpg'); so1785509.addVariable('width','425'); so1785509.addVariable('logo','http://images.teamsugar.com/static/imgs/watermark/savvysugar.png'); so1785509.write('player_1785509'); </script> </center> </div> <div id="spi_tabs_bot"> <div id="spi_tabs_botL"></div> <div id="spi_tabs_botR"></div> </div> </div> </center></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1785513#comment co-worker office The Grind work work attire Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:03:15 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1785513 http://www.savvysugar.com/1781973 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/28_2008/stk307037rkn.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="399"></span>Even if a woman doesn't get cold feet about getting married, she may experience them when it comes to changing her name. Toying with this decision can be tougher for some than tying the knot, and there's a lot to consider besides the fact that you're giving up the name you've always had. </p> <p>Depending on where you are in your career, changing your last name can be complicated beyond all of the paperwork. Check out some last-name options when you </p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1781973">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1781973#comment career job marriage wedding women work Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:03:13 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1781973 http://www.savvysugar.com/1780506 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/28_2008/71017552.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="386"></span>We celebrated Bastille Day with a variety of flaky croissants this morning, but it's likely many French citizens are enjoying their long Summer vacations and traveling over the holiday.</p> <p>We might all have a little more joie de vivre if we had as many days off as the French. Do you know what the law says about how much time off French workers are entitled to? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1780506">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1780506#comment benefits France guess how much How Money Are You quiz Savvy quiz vacation work Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:29:19 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1780506 http://www.savvysugar.com/1783470 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/28_2008/200238425-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="364"></span>Maybe you're not in love with your current job, but are there any jobs of past that make your present one look appealing in comparison? Thinking about how you're better off may just make you like your current job just a little bit more. So, what's the worst job you've ever had? </p> <p><br clear=all><br /> <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1783470#comment career I'm Asking job The Grind work Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:35:55 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1783470 http://www.savvysugar.com/1779180 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/28_2008/medfr16189.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center preview" height="346"></span></p> <p>The need for a second income source is becoming so common that some primary <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1772433/" >employers are shifting workers' schedules</a> around their outside obligations. Freelancing can be a good option for bringing in some extra money aside from your principal paycheck and for anyone who wants to keep their skills fresh while taking time off work or pursuing a job in a field unrelated to their training. </p> <p>When I asked a Sugar employee that used to do freelance work where to find the best gigs, she said, "You gotta pitch. Just get out there and pitch stories." While writers should keep that advice in mind, there are some websites that dedicate their listings to freelancing and contract jobs catering to a number of jobs not limited to writing. Find out some recommended sites for a variety of freelance and contract work when you </p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1779180">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1779180#comment home office job savvy links self-employed The Grind work Mon, 14 Jul 2008 08:04:16 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1779180 http://www.savvysugar.com/1772433 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/28_2008/rbrb_2206.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="416"></span>There are too many employers out there convinced that employees don't have a life outside of their office walls. Going above and beyond our jobs is what it takes to make an impression, but nothing goads me more than when a boss fails to recognize that butt-in-the-seat time isn't the most important aspect of managing employees — that attitude can provoke the undesired effect of reducing worker productivity and motivation. </p> <p>3 Dog Agency, a Washington, DC-based public relations firm, says that flexibility is one of the <a href="http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D91QG1500&amp;show_article=1&amp;catnum=0/" target="_blank">ways they're able to attract the best candidates</a>, and the company's president acknowledges that their policies actually increase productivity. This company and others are being flexible by accommodating workers' outside activities like pursuing graduate degrees, working second jobs, and doing charitable work. </p> <p>Owners of companies that embrace flextime maintain that their practices make good business sense. Do you agree? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1772433#comment boss career job The Grind work work-life balance Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:33:14 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1772433 http://www.savvysugar.com/1773016 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/28_2008/81032139.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="453"></span>The term "young professional" never really sat right with me, and it still doesn't, but I'm not sure what should be used in its place. Any ideas? Forbes has released its list of the best cities for young professionals (hey, they said it, not me), which isn't to be mistaken with the <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1661260/" >best cities for new grads</a>. </p> <p>Their <a href="http://www.forbes.com/home/2008/07/09/cities-professionals-young-forbeslife-cx_mw_0709youngprofessionals.html/" target="_blank">rankings of the 40 biggest cities</a> in the US adjusts each category for population, and Forbes clarifies the purpose of the list is "to gauge which cities are attracting the next generation of top business talent." Drumroll . . . discover the top ten when you </p> <p><a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1773016">read more</a></p> http://www.savvysugar.com/1773016#comment best cities for young professionals Forbes housing work Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:06:06 -0700 SavvySugar http://www.savvysugar.com/1773016 http://www.savvysugar.com/1770184 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1770184"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1770184',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1770184');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/10/104165/28_2008/AA017953.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="320" width="320"></span>Temp (as in temporary) jobs can be a good option for people in various situations: those who can't find full-time work or don't want it, workers who have been laid off and need a paycheck, those considering a career change, and new grads or anyone else looking to get some office experience on their resumes. Sometimes, if the shoe fits, a temp worker will be offered a permanent position with the company.</p> <p>Have you ever worked a temp job? If so, let's hear about your experience in the comments — I've heard mixed reviews from friends and would love your insight! </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1770184" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Your Two Cents: Have You Ever Worked a Temp Job? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" />