Think back to your last new employee orientation—not one you gave, one you actually had to sit through as a new employee.  Remember that special blend of bored, overwhelmed, and anxious that you felt while stuffed in that conference room?  Maybe you were alone or with a small group of newbies under the careful attention of a Human Resources representative.  By careful attention, we mean a ton of information throwing—breaks, leave time, employee benefits, dress code, mission statements, org charts—do this, learn that.  You name it, they covered it.  You might have even been subjected to a sexual harassment video wherein someone used the term “hot pants.”  All the while, there you were, praying to the new employee gods that there wouldn’t be a quiz. (more…)

Would you relay the gory details of your podiatrist appointment to a room full of your coworkers?  We didn’t think so.  But what you may not realize is you’re doing just that on your loud cell phone call with your mother—and your coworkers don’t like hearing about your feet. (more…)