Authority isn't always linked to age; you can learn to communicate a sense of power no matter how old you are, what you look like, or which title you hold. Credibility is a crucial key to getting ahead, so learn to convey your competence by following these seven constructive tips. Know your stuff. The best way to gain respect is to become an information junkie. People look up to those who are Read more

Friendships with your co-workers are inevitable — and a great way to connect to your workplace — but it's important to set a few conversation boundaries. Avoid these four topics to maintain a sense of professionalism and keep your office relationships work-appropriate. Dollars and cents: It's no secret that salary talk should be avoided, but it's not just paychecks that ought to remain Read more

It's a new year and a new you! We're highlighting 12 helpful tips to start off the year right, from quitting your caffeine addiction tp mastering time management. Here's another way to start afresh in 2012. Public speaking is a regular — and regularly feared — part of life, so it's important to refine your skills. This year, challenge yourself by learning to lecture like a pro. Here are four Read more

Working 9 to 5 can feel like a nightmare if you don't like the person you report to, but it's important to navigate the situation carefully — for the sake of both your job and your sanity. Not a fan of your supervisor? Here are five tips to help you manage the circumstances. Keep it to yourself. First and foremost, don't gossip. Even if you're confident that a co-worker shares your Read more

This reader posted in our Ask Savvy group — she wants to know how to write an email to a possible mentor. OK, so I don't know if they are going to be my mentor or direct me to someone who can be but I was just having a conversation with a college professor and told her about my love for the arts. She has since asked me if I was in school and I said no. She said that if I like I could have Read more

When you're trying to establish a professional relationship with someone, it's very easy to turn a stranger off with professional no-nos. You can get away with a lot more once you develop a deeper relationship with the person and when you get a better feel of how that person works. Take heed of these rules when you're communicating with someone professionally: Try not to contact them after work Read more