Three ways to help your family use technology safely Page 2

Planning for college just got easier: College Coach Page 4

Make it a summer to remember: How to choose a summer camp for your child Page 5

FEATURE

PLUSDear Jo: Expert answers to your workplace questions Page 6

Coach's corner: Workplace strategies from the playing field Page 8

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InterPersonal BestTools for the work of life

Curb mobile phone use while drivingMobile phones have revolutionized many things in the past decade, including how we navigate roadways, how we communicate with people when we aren’t home, and how we get recommendations about places we want to go or things we want to do. According to Pew Internet Research:

• 81 percent of cell owners use their cell phones to send or receive text messages

• 60 percent access the Internet

• 52 percent send/receive email

• 49 percent get directions, recommendations, and other location-based info

• 21 percent use video call or video chat

These functions are very handy in most situations and can even be life-saving in emergencies, but when used at the wrong time, mobile phones can be dangerous.

In 2011, National Youth Risk Behavior Survey, an anonymous poll, found that 58 percent of high school seniors and 43 percent of juniors had texted or emailed while driving (CDC). Many adults are guilty of the same. Some drivers may think it’s okay to text or dial as long as they can see the road, or if they’re stopped at a red light, but U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood calls distracted driving “a deadly epidemic that has devastating consequences on our nation’s roadways” (distraction.gov). Distracted driving makes car crashes two to three times more likely to happen.

To use technology safely while on the road, try hands-free headsets or other devices to help you make emergency calls without taking your eyes off the road. Turn off notifications while driving to

reduce the temptation to check the phone when a new text or call is coming in. Wait until you are parked somewhere safely to do things like texting, Internet browsing, video phone/chat, or viewing any type of content on a screen.

Supervise your children’s online timeIt’s important to involve all family members in the technology safety conversation – including very young people. Teach them to use the Internet safely just as you would teach a young child how to be safe when crossing the street or playing on the playground.

According to The Youth Internet Safety Survey (University of New Hampshire), 20 percent of young Internet users received unwanted sexual solicitations, and 3 percent to 5 percent received solicitations that made them feel “extremely upset” or could be described as “aggressive solicitation involving offline contact.” These situations often go unreported by children because they feel embarrassed or guilty.

To keep your children safe, limit their technology use to the times when they can be supervised (NetSmartz). Keep any gadgets that connect to the Internet in high-traffic areas of the home. Use software that blocks inappropriate sites and content for young viewers, and monitor all devices that kids use including cell phones. Use the Internet with your children and ask them about the people they talk to online. Keep the tone of conversations nonjudgmental and ask questions like “What are your favorite things to do online?” or “What would you do if anyone online asked to meet you face-to-face?”

Technology gives people of all ages many opportunities for entertainment, organization, education, and communication. And now – more than ever – it’s important to be aware of the dangers. Use the ideas in this article to start an ongoing conversation with your family on how to enjoy technology safely.

Three ways to help your family use technology safely

“20 percent of young Internet users received unwanted sexual solicitations.”

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Protecting yourself from online predatorsPeople of all ages can run into predators online. While social media and forums are a great way to connect with people around the world, remember that not everyone has the best intentions. And now that technology is used in so many daily interactions, it’s especially important to keep your private information safe. Take the following steps that can help keep you safe:

• Adjust your privacy settings on social media sites for maximum privacy.

• Learn how to recognize SPAM, phishing, smishing, and other online fraud.

• Only use trusted websites that are secure – especially if you are entering personal information.

• Never share private information like your Social Security number, credit card number, passwords, or photos that may appear to be inappropriate.

• Update your passwords frequently, using a combination of upper and lowercase letters and numbers to prevent hacking. Avoid using the same password for every site you visit.

• Use good judgment when chatting with strangers online or inviting them to contact you offline.

• Report all incidents of abuse or suspicious activity online at report.cybertip.org and www.staysafeonline.org. In cases of criminal activity including identity theft, threats, or harassment, contact the police or call 911.

Contact your Work-Life Services by phone or go to www.accls.com for other articles and resources that will help you and your family stay safe. By speaking with all members of your family about how to use technology safely, you are helping create lifelong good habits that will allow you and your loved ones to enjoy the benefits while avoiding the dangers.

Sources:

pewInternet.org/Commentary/2012/February/Pew-Internet-Mobile.aspx

www.cbsnews.com/news/cdc-majority-of-older-teens-text-while-driving/

www.distraction.gov/content/press-release/2013/04-23.html

www.unh.edu/ccrc/pdf/YISS%20Trends%202011.pdf

www.netsmartz.org/InternetSafety

www.wisegeek.org/how-often-should-i-change-my-password.htm

www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/post/5-ways-to-teach-kids-to-use-technology-safely/2012/07/30/gJQAbEClLX_blog.html

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Planning for college just got easier:

College CoachIn today’s world, college or other post-secondary education is a major factor in the success and well-being of our children. Advanced education provides not only information, but also emotional, cognitive, interpersonal, and technological skills that are needed in the workplace and in all aspects of life. As a parent, you may want to begin talking about the importance of college (including junior college or trade school) to your child at an early age.

Choosing which courses your child should take to prepare for college, which standardized college admissions exams are required, and which educational options are right for your child’s academic strengths or to fulfill his goals can be confusing and time-consuming. And sometimes thinking about the finances of college can be overwhelming. But don’t panic – there’s help available at no cost to you and your family members.

College Coach to the rescue

The ACCLS provides College Coach, an educational counseling benefit that can assist you with your child’s college prep experience including:

• Choosing the right college savings plan

• Finding the best way to pay for college

• Navigating the complex college admissions process

To get started now:

1. Click the “College Coach” link under “Education” on the ACCLS home page (www.accls.com) or go to passport.getintocollege.com

2. Click on “Signing Up Is Easy. Start Today”

3. Enter the one-time corporate passcode: acclscoach

4. Complete all required information under “Your Account Profile/Student Info” if you want to have access to events registration

Once you’re registered, take advantage of these great services:

• Live webinar events – 60- to 90-minute presentations that highlight important admissions and finance strategy topics

• Personalized assistance – Admissions and finance experts provide personalized answers to specific questions during scheduled appointments

• Essay review and critique – Review by admissions experts of college application essays and activity resumes

• Customized college list development – Personalized list of colleges that are well-suited to your student, compiled by admissions experts based on answers to a detailed questionnaire, high school transcripts, and standardized test results

• The Learning Center – Access interactive videos and other resources on topics like saving for college, scholarships and loans, financial aid, selecting the right college, preparing college applications, and more

For more information, contact College Coach directly by emailing accls@getintocollege.com or by calling 866-467-2903.

Get your child expert help with homeworkLive Homework Help provides professional, online guidance for students in kindergarten through early college years. Students have access via computer or mobile app, seven days a week from 2 p.m. to 1 a.m. Eastern Time. To start, click on “Live Homework Help” under “Education” on www.accls.com or go to www.accls.com/homeworkhelpSurvey.php

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For millions of American children, summer vacation includes summer camp. If you think a camp experience is right for your child, it’s important to choose one that will provide a positive and memorable experience.

Step one: What types of camps are there?

• Sleep-away or residential camps

• Day camps

• Smaller “hybrid” camps combine residence during the week with coming home on the weekends

Step two: Decide if your child is ready for sleep-away camp

• Is your child comfortable being away from home?

• Does your child make friends easily?

• Does your child like the outdoors?

• Does your child have special interests he/she wants to pursue?

• Does your child prefer a sleep-away camp or a day camp?

All camps vary by size, types of activities, duration, and atmosphere. For example, some camps are co-ed, and others are single sex. You may also find smaller specialty camps planned around a theme or interest, versus a larger camp that has many different types of activities. Here are some other important factors to consider:

• Camp quality – Look for adequate supervision and guidance with a good adult-to-child ratio, a camp director with an administrative background, well-run activities, friendly and caring staff, and a clean and safe environment. You may want to check the camp’s accreditation at www.acacamps.org.

• Affordability – Some camps offer need-based scholarships or use a sliding fee scale. If you’re interested, apply early and ask about financial options.

• Location – Consider a location that is close enough for you to visit your child during his stay at sleep-away camp, or, if choosing a day camp, consider one conveniently located for transportation.

Step three: Find camps that offer what you want

The Internet is a great place to begin your research, but you can also talk to other families, attend camp fairs, or check local newspapers. Here are three sites to get you started:

• My Summer Camps directory: www.mysummercamps.com

• Camp Channel website: www.campchannel.com

• Student Camp and Trip Advisory helps families find suitable camps: www.campadvisors.com

Step four: Select the best camp for your child

• Look at the website.

• Ask the camp for references, then call the references and ask specific questions about the camp.

• Visit the camp and arrange to meet the director or a head counselor. The staff is one of the more important aspects of the camp.

Remember to include your child in the process. After all, the camp is where your child will be spending time. When chosen wisely, camp offers opportunities to learn new skills, make new friends, build self-confidence, develop independence and responsibility, and have fun.

Sources:www.parenting.com/article/summer-camp-kids?page=0,0 www.acacamps.orgwww.campexperts.com/sleepaway-camps.aspxwww.CampParents.com

Make it a summer to remember: How to choose a summer camp for your child

Having a child care emergency? Back-Up Care saves the day!When your regular child care or school options aren’t available, or when your child is sick and can’t attend his or her usual program, you might not have to call in sick. Back-Up Care Advantage is available to help. Get more info at accls.com/backupcaresolutions.php, register by calling 877-BH-CARES (877-242-2737), or go to backup.brighthorizons.com (username: VerizonIBEW password: backup1)

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Dear Jo,I just received a friend request from my boss on Facebook. I like my boss, but I’m uncomfortable with a work supervisor getting a view of my personal life. On the other hand, I don’t want to offend anyone with my rejection. What should I do?

Anti-Social Media

Dear Anti-Social Media,

Facebook is a great way for people to reconnect with former classmates and to stay in touch with friends who may not be a part of their everyday lives. However, it has opened up opportunities for social awkwardness. I agree that you should be careful about friending colleagues or superiors, as they will be able to see things you might rather keep private and

separate from work. At the same time, refusing a friend request could cause tension.

If you feel your boss is sensitive and/or punitive, or if your employer’s work culture is a place where everyone has friended one another on Facebook, accept the friend request – but only on the Restricted list. The Restricted list is a privacy feature of Facebook, which allows you to control what your boss sees from your profile. Another option is to ignore the friend request, but then invite your boss to connect on another social network that is focused more on networking for business.

If you want to discourage other coworkers from finding you in the future, don’t add your company as a network on Facebook. Also, under your Friend Settings, you can choose “Only friends of friends” to be able to friend you, instead of “Everyone.”

DEAR JoPlease email your workplace questions to Dr. Fine at

newslettereditor@hriworld.com.

Expert answers to your workplace questions

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Jo Renée Fine, PhD, is a trainer and educator with more than 30 years of program development and management experience in both the private and nonprofit sectors. She holds a BA in sociology from Smith College and a PhD in human relations and social policy from New York University, where she taught as an adjunct assistant professor in the Graduate School of Education.

Dear Jo,One of my friends was Facebook friends with a coworker of hers who kept posting weird things, like depressed jokes. He’d write, “Is life really worth living?” and a friend of his would write, “U ok?” and he’d write, “Just kidding” – and make another depressed joke. My friend decided to talk to this guy’s boss. I don’t know what happened afterward. Do you think she did the right thing? When is it being helpful and when is it just sticking your nose in someone else’s business?

Concerned, But Wary

Dear Concerned, But Wary,

Situations like this are always challenging. It may be that your friend’s coworker was furious that she spoke to his boss; it may be that she saved his life; it may be both!

In general, people should keep the following guidelines in mind:

• If a person seems to be seriously considering causing harm to himself/herself or others, someone must be notified. If the danger seems real and immediate, call 911. If you’re not sure, call the EAP.

• Another option is to suggest that the person seek help (such as the EAP, if he or she has these benefits, or a support group). You could say something like, “I notice that you’ve seemed preoccupied recently. Is everything okay?” (If you’re not comfortable, you can call the EAP first for advice.)

Whatever the circumstances, it’s better to call the EAP than to speak to someone’s boss, since the EAP is a confidential benefit. It’s good that your friend did something to help her coworker, but letting his boss know what was going on put the coworker in a professionally awkward position.

Dear Jo,

I was browsing through LinkedIn, and I noticed that a coworker of mine is looking for a job. Here’s the thing: She and I are up for the same promotion. Should I let the higher-ups

know that she has one foot out the door?

Wants the Promotion

Dear Wants the Promotion,

No! That is not a good idea for a number of reasons. First of all, it is not really ethical. Second, the higher-ups might think less of you for “tattling” on her. Third, for all you know her LinkedIn info is left over from years ago – many people don’t update their profiles. Fourth, perhaps you’ll get the promotion because you deserve it. Fifth, if she gets the promotion and then leaves, you get another chance.

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COACH'S CORNERWORKPLACE STRATEGIES FROM THE PLAYING FIELD

Positive leadership

It can be easy for employees to express negativity when the workload gets heavy or mistakes are made; however, as a manager you can lead your team to a more positive, more productive attitude.

• Praise and thank your team – frequently. Sometimes a manager will say, “Oh, I don’t need to compliment my team. They know they’re doing fine.” Wrong. Pretty much everyone needs recognition, praise, and appreciation; and for many, a manager’s silence is actually nerve-wracking. Are your team members putting in extra hours? Thank them. And if someone does a particularly good job, say so.

• Listen. Your team members will feel more involved in a project if you listen to their ideas and concerns. Be welcoming, and don’t interrupt – it will make them feel disrespected, and you might stop them from saying something helpful. Thank them for talking to you and tell them that you will think about what they said.

• Focus on solutions. Inevitably, someone will make a mistake. Immediately focus on finding a solution. Try to solve the problem together, as efficiently as possible. If the person is always making mistakes, you will have to address that, but if the person is generally reliable and hard-working, there is no reason to focus on the mistake once it is fixed, other than what can be learned from it.

• Model a positive attitude. Thanking people, listening, and focusing on solutions are powerful ways to be a positive leader, but what happens when you yourself are feeling overwhelmed or in a bad mood? Go for a walk; call a friend; take deep breaths; make a list of what is annoying you and rip it into tiny pieces. Whatever you do, show a positive face to your team. Leader negativity can be very unsettling.

My responsibility is leadership, and the minute I get negative, that is going to have an influence on my team.

Donald Shula (born 1930), NFL coach; Shula led the Miami Dolphins to two Super Bowl victories and to the only perfect season in NFL history. Shula holds the NFL record for most career wins with 347.

Sources:

blogs.hrhero.com/oswaldletters/2012/09/24/dont-mistake-activity-for-achievement/

www.marcandangel.com/2013/10/17/9-warning-signs-youre-on-the-wrong-track/

www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/volunteer-join-or-start-a-project/start-or-fund-a-project/

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