If you’ve ever employed an overachiever, you know that they need special attention so that you can take advantage of what they have to offer. Constant communication works best, but be inspirational, not commandeering. Overachievers don’t like to be told what to do. Managers get the best results from them if they involve them in decisions and planning whenever possible. If there’s a problem with their work, rather than telling them how to fix it, ask them what they think the solution should be.
Praise them for a job well done, tap into their creativity, and be sincere. Remove obstacles and help pave the way to success. Weblog BNET suggests tips on how to identify these overachievers if you don’t know which of your employees have taken that initiative and how to turn them into a team player. While overachievers may demand more, their output often goes much higher than that of other employees. How to Manage Overachievers [BNET]
Not every product you purchase gives you a best when used by date, so when can you expect to toss out that bottle of unopened ketchup or that dish detergent? Real Simple has compiled a list of 77 everyday products with their recommended trash times. A chocolate bar, for example, will last up to one year after purchase. Maple syrup is also good for only one year. White rice has a shelf life of two years. Most alkaline batteries can be used up to seven years after purchase, and shampoo usually can last for two to three years. Guess what? Nail polish remover lasts indefinitely. Beer drinkers aren’t as lucky. Your unopened cans and bottles last for only four months until they go bad. Have you cleaned out your cupboard yet? Surprising Expiration Dates [Real Simple]