Thursday, January 26, 2012

Workplace Decorum

While many of us find comic relief in Dilbert’s workplace sufferings, unfortunately in the real world these stresses decrease employee satisfaction and workplace productivity. Creating an atmosphere of respect and consideration is absolutely essential to foster a healthy positive environment and to ensure that work not only gets done, but gets done well.

Workplace decorum is not about strict rules, but rather behavioral guild liens employees are expected to follow in order to convey respect towards others and the organization. It is professional as well as courteous to speak at an appropriate volume, neither too loud too soft using the right vocabulary. Desks must be kept clean and neat at all times. It is advisable to avoid displaying fancy stationery items or other decorative pieces. This not only obstructs the work area but also lends a very unprofessional perception to customers.


Avoid eating at your desk. If you must eat at your desk, avoid eating foods with strong aromas, hot food, or those that require direct contract with fingers. Also ensure that the food is not placed directly in front of you but rather on the side. There’s nothing worse than an unexpected visitors to see a desk topped with food, dirty tissues and oil-tainted documents or enter an office that smells like a restaurant. This creates a bad impression and reduces professional’s credibility. Keep your cell phone on vibrate mode or set the tone to a low level as the ring can be disturbing not only to colleagues but also to a customer who might be in conversation with you on the telephone.

 It is impolite to barge into a colleague’s office and ask “Busy?” or begin talking without waiting for a response. Instead say, “I would like to tell you about the customer services project whenever you can make ten minutes for it today.” This shows consideration and respect for your colleague’s time and work. It is discourteous to peer at the computer screen of a colleague or browser any document on his or her desk. If a colleague is on the phone, it is polite to come back again in a few minutes or leave a note saying “need to talk” rather than hover around his or her desk or stand and wait for the conversation to finish. If you overhear a conversation, practices selective listening and do not chime in.

If a printer stalls or jams in the middle of your job, do take time to fix it or alert someone who can attend to it rather than just re-sending the job to another printer. If you use the last pins in a borrowed stapler, be sure to replenish it or notify the lender of the same. Always ask permission before using a colleague’s stationery is poor manners and annoying. Ensure you have your own supply. Sheared areas such as kitchens and washrooms must be considerately.

If supplies such as tissues, water or soap are low or running out, if the washroom is occupied, it is courteous to notify the attend immediately. Using a cellphone in the washroom is serious etiquette faux pas! Also, if the wash room is occupied, it is courteous to return again or seek other options, rather than stand wait for the door to open. Proper etiquette in the workplace helps eliminate distractions and creates a positive environment in which employees can achieve their full potential. Buy Carolynn Philips/The author is consultant and behavioral skills coach. She is also a member of the International Association of protocol Consultants® & Officers.

This article was released on “Times of Oman- THURSDAY- July 8-14, 2010

Square Crossword Puzzle Wall Clock in Black and White

Are you a fan of crossword puzzles? If so, take a peek at this crossword puzzle wall clock designed in a crossword puzzle layout. The contemporary wall clock is square in shape and features white squares upon a black background just like one would find in a typical newspaper puzzle. What’s more, instead of numerical figures for each of the 12 hours, the numbers are spelt out in word form as though previously discovered clues. This makes telling the time a lot more fun.

Crossword puzzles are believed to have first been created in England back in the 19th Century. A journalist by the name of Arthur Wynne from the port city of Liverpool created the first brain teaser for wide public enjoyment and this appeared in a newspaper on December 21, 1913. At first the puzzles contained no black squares and looked unfamiliar to today’s versions but soon designs changed and so did the popularity of the crossword puzzle. By the 1930s, puzzles were appearing nationwide and indeed, in publications across the world.

This square word puzzle wall clock will make an excellent decorative and functional addition for a crossword lover. It will be a reminder of a much loved pastime hobby and will bring some humor into the home when visiting friends and family come visiting. It can be placed on a kitchen wall to make sure the kids are on time for school or alternatively in a home library, study or bedroom. If you like solving puzzles whilst in the bathroom, then it will look great in that particular interior as well.

LinkedIn It’s who you know

To some, it is the most drudgingly boring website since watching – grass- grow.com. To other, it is a razor- sharp recruitment tool transplanting workers from their current jobs into attractive new positions. Linkedin has certainly carved out its niche.

Whatever your view, the “grown up” social networking site Linkedin has carved out its niche. If bebo is the Volkswagen Beetle catering to the puckish trends of the youth market, Facebook a ford Mondeo, popular & reliable, & Twitter a Toyota Prius, beloved of techno – geeks, then LinkedIn is a Lexus – aimed at a small number of the business – minded.

Indeed mention LinkedIn to anyone in the media – an increasingly to anyone in the media – an increasingly closed – shop, cash poor industry - & they’ll look bemused. The website looks unattractive, featuring pages of contract & carrier information in black text on a plain white background. The site only allowed its user to upload profile pictures in 2008. But its founders claim this simplicity explain its success – over three million members in Britain, 65 Million members around the world & over 50 percent of Fortune 100 Companies are now using it as a recruitment tool.

“It’s designed to be functional and effective,” says Kevin Eyres, the network’s European managing director. “Namely, we want people to get what as quickly as possible. If you spend on it it’s not answering that challenge of making you productive. How can I quickly find that expert? How can I quickly find that source of expertise that will help me products, help my business or enable that opportunity? That what we’re aiming at.”


The website was founded in May 2003 in Mountain View, California by former staff form PayPal, Socialnet.com and Yahoo, where LinkedIn’s chief executive Jeff Weiner was one of the company’s most powerful figures. To begin, it took 477 days for it to acquire its first million members. It now at-tracts a million every 12 days, roughly one every second. In part, the site capitalizes on media scare stories that suggest employers check out the Facebook and Twitter profiles of people they are recruiting. LinkedIn creates an environment that is hermetically sealed in professional teams.

 It boasts a search facility so sharp you could open an envelope with it (search by sector, country, region, experience). The site makes money in three ways: through its premium service, in which companies pay to contact people on the site (email addresses are normally withheld). Its advertising reaches everyone form graduates to boardroom level. Lastly, it offers bespoke software solutions to recruitment companies, eager to tap into the 80 per cent of the job market not actively looking for a new role- those often best suited to certain positions.

“It’s aimed at professionals; it’s not Facebook, it’s a professionals business networking site. “Says Mike Butcher, the editor of TechCrunch Europe.

industry professional.”You can have a company pitching to publish then suddenly strike gold & need 50 experienced artists and five designers & seven codes. The project maybe lasts a year or two and then people move company again. The ebb and flow makes it a desperate hire and everyone wants experience workers. There are agency types who used to have to “Know” people have contracts – now they scan Linkedin and chance a spam mail. It’s good and bad news for both parties.

You have to join the world’s most boring social network site but come the day your game gets canned unexpectedly, everyone knows instantly and agents want commission, workers get introduction bonuses and the newly – unemployed want work.”Louise Wiseman, who works in IT, has similar feelings.”Like a lot  of people, I Joined Linkedin a couple of years ago, uploaded my profile and promptly forgot about it apart from accepting people’s connection request as they came through – I’ve never actively ‘used’ the site and I’m sure it has all kinds of features I’m sure it has all kinds of features I’m not aware of, “she says.”It’s not snazzy enough to make to make me want to spend time on it. It is purely functional. In the last few months, through, I’ve been contacted via Linkedin by four recruiters hiring for good roles with large, well-known companies. Unlike most approaches I’ve had in the past these people had done their homework by looking at my profile so they came to me with jobs that matched my experience and skill set.”

In fact, while Linkedin does not suffer from the ambiguity of purpose that vexes users of Twitter & Facebook and is thus, one would have thought, best kept separate from them – its founders have taken steps to increase its user – friendliness. – The independent.


This article was released on “Times of Oman- THURSDAY- July 8-14, 2010



Narcissus-like Statues Gazing into Antiqued Mirror Bookends

Figurative bookends are a popular decorative item for bookshelves that need an interesting aesthetic enhancement. These mirrored statue bookends which show a human figure kneeling before their own reflection is a great example of how book props can really begin to define a décor scheme. In this case, the mirrored bookends are reminiscent of the story of Narcissus from Ancient Greek mythology and later Roman literature.

In Greek mythology, Narcissus was a handsome young hunter known for his outstanding good looks. He was also very arrogant and proud, and disdained the people who loved him the most. Surprisingly, Narcissus had never seen his own reflection and knew only of his fine features from those around him. One day, Nemesis, the goddess of revenge, led the youth to a pool whereupon he saw his reflection for the first time. He fell in love with his reflection and was unable to leave, thereby dying beside the waters.

Countless artists, writers and poets have portrayed the story of Narcissus which was brought to life in the epic Latin narrative poems ‘Metamorphoses’ by the Roman poet Ovid. This pair of Narcissus-like statue bookends will make a great addition to a bookshelf where classical literature is stored and appreciated. People familiar with the story will know immediately the connection between the books on the shelves and the statues gazing into the mirrors.

Regardless of what books you have however, the mirrored bookends provide a functional and attractive feature to book displays. Both have been given antiqued appearances which will match well with a wide variety of different décor schemes. The meaning behind the figures looking into the mirrors can also be described as that of humanity looking upon itself through the words that writers have passed on to us for many hundreds, and indeed thousands, of years.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Friday, January 13, 2012

Mordern Architect for Kitchen









The FBBed – Facebook Logo Shaped Bed and Computer Desk All-in-One

Are you so addicted to Facebook that the first thing you do upon waking in the morning is rush to see what’s new in your Facebook wall? Although most people won’t admit to it, more and more people are becoming addicted and indeed dependent on the famous social networking site created by Mark Zuckerberg. If you are one of these people then the Facebook logo-shaped bed and computer desk all-in-one furniture design concept will be something to “Like”.

If and when created, the FBed will provide a furniture treat for social networking addicts. The iconic “F” is known worldwide and is instantly recognisable when seen in the picture above. The main body of the toppled-over “F” is where the person sleeps whilst the upper portion is to be made into a computer desk and seat. When you wake up, you only have to walk a couple of steps and you’re ready to sign-in and begin updating your followers about the strange dreams you had, who you slept with and how comfortable it was sleeping in the FBed. Whether anyone will care, at least concerning the first two points, is another matter.

One symptom of too much computer use is insomnia. Unfortunately, this FBed might contribute further to sleepless nights, migraines and unsocial attitudes the next day. However, it is rather an interesting design and will be a fantastic decorative addition to a young person’s room, regardless of how long they spend on the internet each day. The famous logo and the unique design mean it will be a popular piece of furniture for many of the more modern generation. Put a photo of you sleeping on the FBed on Facebook and you’ll likely get a lot of approving votes of confidence in the form of “Likes”.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Company Rules & Regulations

To all Employees
 Effective January 2012 (Original January 2007)


(A) Dress Code

1.0    It is advised that you come to work dressed according to your salary. If we see you wearing Prada Shoes and carrying a Gucci bag, we assume you are doing well financially and therefore do not needs a pay rise.

2.0    If you dress poorly, you need to learn to manage your money better, so that you may buy nicer clothes, and therefore you do not need a pay raise.

3.0    If you dress just right, you are right where you need to be and therefore you do not need a pay raise.

(B) Sick Days

We will no longer accept a doctor’s certificate as proof of sickness. If you are able to go to the doctor, you are able to come to work.

(C) Holiday Days

Each employee will receive 104 personal days a year. They are called Saturday & Sunday. (If GCC Thursday & Friday)

(D)Compassionate Leave

This is no excuse for any missing work. There is nothing you can do for dead friends, relatives & co-workers. Every effort should be made to have non-employees attend to the arrangements.

 In rare cases where employee involvement is necessary, the funeral should be scheduled in the late afternoon. We will be glad to allow you to work through your lunch hour and subsequently leave one hour early.

(A) Toilet Use

1.0  Entirely too much time is being spent in the toilet. There is now a strict three minute time limit in the cubicles.

2.0  At the end of the three minutes, an alarm will sound, the toilet paper will retract, the cubicle door will open, and your picture will be taken.

3.0  After your second offence, your picture will be posted, on the company notice board under the “Chorionic  Offenders” category.

4.0  Anyone caught smiling in the picture will be sanctioned under the company’s mental health policy.

(B) Lunch Break

1.0  Skinny people get 30 minutes for lunch, as they need to eat more so that they can look healthy.

2.0  Normal size people get 15 minutes for lunch to get a balanced meal to maintain their average figure.

3.0  Chubby people get 5 minutes for lunch, because that’s all the time needed to drink a Slim-fast

Thank you for your loyalty to our company. Remembering we are employer of choice and we here to provide a positive employment experience.

 Therefore, all questions, comments, concerns, complaints, frustrations, irritations, aggravations, insinuations, allegations, accusations, contemplations, consternation and input should be directed elsewhere.

(Thanks for USman)

Friday, January 6, 2012

Family Photo Frames within a Standing Metal Tree Sculpture

The tree of life is ever growing and from one generation to the next its branches increase in width and length. This is the basic philosophy behind this beautiful metal tree sculpture which doubles as a family photo frame holder. Within the four picture frames can be placed photographs of your family and loved ones where they will be seen by all who enter into the room in which it is situated. The smiling faces of relatives together with the attractive framework of the tree make it a great decorative accessory for any room.

A tree of life is symbolic in a wide range of religions, cultures and societies, and is even mentioned in the Bible, most notably in the Books of Genesis and Revelation. In the Book of Proverbs the tree of life is associated with wisdom whilst in the Book of Enoch, it states that in the time of the great judgment God will give all those whose names are in the Book of Life fruit to eat from the Tree of Life. The tree can also be seen in the cultures of Ancient Egypt, Assyria, China, Western Europe, India, Turkey, South America, Japan, Ancient Greece and even amongst the Native American Iroquois.

 Whatever your cultural background and whatever religion you ascribe to, a tree of life philosophy will likely be a part of your heritage, whether distant or near. This beautifully intricate tree of life photo frame sculpture will add decorative appeal to a bedroom, living room or dining room interior and will, in particular make a great gift idea for parents or grandparents. Fill each of the four picture frames with a photo of a relative or loved one and watch the ambiance of the interior lighten and become more cheerful. There’s no better decorative accent that a room can have than that of an image of a loved relative or spouse.

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Thursday, January 5, 2012

Pink Egg-Shaped Pet Pod Bed for Cats and Small Dogs

Your cat or dog is no ordinary cat of dog. They are an inherent part of your family and have been pampered, preened and spoilt to within an inch of pet heaven. They are therefore discerning creatures and expect only the best when it comes to pet accessories, including their sleeping quarters. That’s where the exceptional pink egg-shaped pet pod bed comes into the picture and is ideal for the sophisticated cat or dog that likes to snooze in style.

Those nasty, smelly and flea-ridden dogs next door sleep in mere open baskets but your pooch will instead be sleeping in his or her own luxury pod. They’ll be shielded from prying eyes when it’s time for a good lick and they can survey the interior room where the pod is placed from the comfort of a cushy modern pink pillow. The curvaceous sleeping room is unique in design and will also add a touch of decorative style and interest to the space in which it is situated.

The pod is also ideal for cats who always like a quiet, discrete and tidy place in which to dream of catching mice and eating birds. It’s a perfect size for placement in just about any room of the home although it is likely to clash with some types of existing décor schemes. A kitchen interior is a primary spot whilst a bedroom or living room are also suitable locations. Visiting friends and family will immediately be drawn to the cute pet pod and it might take all your effort to dissuade their own pet dogs not to set up home in the egg-shaped pet palace.