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Do You Blur Lines Between Your Work & Personal Life?

Margaret Page
Aug 13, 2014
Shutterstock.com | Sopotnicki
Shutterstock.com | Sopotnicki

Shutterstock.com | SopotnickiShutterstock.com | SopotnickiNot long ago, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. was work, and the rest was play. Today, the line between personal and professional time is blurred, but keep these tips in mind:

1. Good grooming is essential. It's great that you ran 5K with a client during lunch or nailed in a floor right before an estimate, but take the time to clean up.

2. Loud language lingers. Use bad language, and the effects linger; drop an "F" bomb, and credibility takes a hit.

3. Use the Platinum Rule. That is: "Treat others as they would have you treat them." Some people prefer e-mail, while others text or use social media and Skype. And, yes, some still prefer a phone call. Find out what is preferred for each business contact and use it. 

4. Don't overshare. Maintain professionalism when sharing personal information; spare clients details about marital problems or health issues. And when you are on the receiving end, be careful not to get pulled into personal drama.

5. Leave things better than you found them. Imagine if you approached life and business with a vision of leaving things better than you found them.

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