Top Security Threats of 2008

SANS has released the following information. One of them is social threats and I worked a lot on this aspect of security at AOL and helped deliver weekly presentations and training to AOL's newcomers on Social Engineering that may be conducted through IM, Email or Phone. We even taught the newcomers on how to set secure passwords and how to keep themselves physically safe. It sure was good & exciting times!

http://www.itsecurity.com/features/Top-IT-012308/

Here is a good lesson for PM's - Don't Assume!

A number of these assumptions have happened to me. Take heed and don't repeat the same mistakes. Take a look at this great article on what not to Assume when you are putting a team together.

http://www.pmi.org/eNews/Post/2008_01-25/TIPS_InSelectingTeamMembersDoNotAssume.html

Awesome ways to make LinkedIn work for you

I love LinkedIn. In the recent months it has allowed me to find old friends and stay connected with them. I just love this reconnection and find it comforting that they are all now just an email away. Here are some great ways to make LinkedIn work better for you! Enjoy!

http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2007/01/ten_ways_to_use.html

The Value of a friend @ work

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/11/12/the-value-of-a-friend-in-the-next-cubicle/

Can you play this game?

Here is a fun tool to test your knowledge of PMBOK's Project Life Cycle! Have fun...

How to Write a Cover Letter

This is the one that always stumps me! Here is a great link to remind you what needs to go into that cover letter to set you apart: http://chronicle.com/jobs/2002/06/2002061101c.htm

Going the Extra Mile -- and a half!

Growing up and listening to career advices I always heard "go the extra mile!" I'm listening to Cathie Black "Basic Black: The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life)" And she has a real funny story about going the extra mile (& 1/2) and how to be creative.

I always like to go the extra mile. Whenever I can think of doing so, I'll do it. I wish I could give an example but I can't think of any right now.

Cathie Black became president and publisher of USA Today when everyone had written it off and look where USA today is. I was also fascinated to learn that she persuaded Oprah to launch the O magazine. It seems so simple and a no brainer but not until Cathie had suggested it did anyone think of it.

I highly recommend the book where she demonstrates how any woman can seize opportunity in the work place.

See: http://www.amazon.com/Basic-Black-Essential-Guide-Getting/dp/0307351106/ref=sr_11_1/102-0263796-5381703?ie=UTF8&qid=1187741212&sr=11-1

Taking Care of Yourself as a Brand

Recently, I've come across the idea of branding myself more and more often. I read somewhere that in the 50's the idea was relayed as "Image is Everything" and in the 70's (which I happen to remember) it was called "Dress for Success."

So I'll be in the pursuit of branding myself and discovering what it means and how I can get myself onto the next level. I no longer want people to think of me as just a project manager. I want people to talk positively behind my back and say to each other that She is the following at whatever she touches:

- consistent
- reliable
- a problem solver

I'll also work towards being identified with my company's goals. I believe that would be another great branding to add to myself. That way I will remain unforgettable to my co-workers and my mangement.

Just remember that as in every aspect of one's life, in your career, you must take care of yourself first. We can not rely on the company we work for, or our managers to do it for us. Go ahead and create that "Pick ME!" identity.

I believe, if we all work towards those qualities that we need in a co-worker, manager or subordinate such as: Being reliable, trust-worthy, producing high-quality work, being excellent at what we do and be an expert in our subject matter - you'll acheive that special branding!