January 2005

Michigan News

High school and college students around the world are working together to report and comment on current events, thanks to Highestwire, a Web-based wire service operated by the University of Michigan. Highestwire users can submit articles on various topics and even start their own online publications. Computer services donated by the University keep the system going. The site, which was started as a news service for high school newspapers four years ago by a U-M undergraduate, was recast as a site aimed at young adults in general last fall.

In the Know

It’s not too early to start thinking about your taxes. April 15 may be months away, but the earlier you get started on those 2004 forms, the less stress you’ll encounter. If you have a reasonably simple return, consider filing your forms online. You’ll get a refund faster, you’re less likely to make math mistakes, and filing online is cheaper than buying tax preparation software or hiring a professional to help you. But don’t wait until the last minute to e-file—the forms you complete online don’t go right to the IRS. They first go to the firm that provided you the online service. Check out Smartmoney.com for more advice on filing your taxes online.

Did holiday indulging result in jeans that are a little too snug and the frequent use of baggy sweatshirts in your wardrobe? It might be time to join a gym—if you can afford it. If your new year’s resolution is to shed those extra pounds, there are ways to stay active and meet people without spending the big bucks:

• Check your local recreation centers or city clubs to see if they offer sports programs.
• Join the YMCA or YWCA and get involved.
• Join your city’s social club.
• Start a sports league with your co-workers or against other departments.

Association News

Start the new year off by connecting with old friends. Visit inCircle, the online directory and networking community for Alumni Association members. With inCircle, you can get in touch with college friends, make connections in your industry and find alumni who share your interests. To get started, visit www.umalumni.com.

Career

If you want to climb the career ladder, you’ll need more than just brains and hard work. You will also need “career charisma,” the ability to attract people and promotions like a magnet. Debra Benton, author of “Executive Charisma: Six Steps to Mastering the Art of Leadership,” offers some advice on how to develop the all-important charisma that might just provide the edge for your next promotion:

• Expect to be treated as an equal. If you don’t expect it, you probably won’t get it.
• Optimism and charisma go hand in hand. Be optimistic and charisma will follow.
• Good posture is vital to exuding confidence.
• Think before you speak, and speak purposefully.
• Don’t be bullied. When you’re unjustly criticized, instead of getting into an argument, calmly ask what the person means.