If you are thinking about asking for a raise in salary, there are several things to keep in mind. First, consider whether you deserve a higher salary. 【小题1】 Sit down and make a list of your job accomplishments. Be as specific as possible. For example, think about important projects you have worked on, things you have done to improve the organization of work in your department, or how your efforts have brought more money to the company. Also include any professional development opportunities you have taken advantage of recently and be ready to explain how they have improved your performance on the job.   【小题2】   Bear in mind that salary levels are based not only on performance but also on the market for your particular skills. Before you ask for a raise, you need to do some research. You should investigate the industry standards for salaries for people in similar positions with similar levels of experience. 【小题3】 Your initial request should actually be slightly higher than the amount you want in order to leave some room for negotiation. Then, if you have to go lower than this amount, you still end up with something close to what you want.

【小题4】 If you have recently been given new responsibilities, it makes sense to ask for a higher level of compensation. On the other hand, if the company is going through financial difficulties, a request for more money will probably not be met with a favorable response. It would be better to wait until the company is in a better financial position. Finally, never give personal reasons for wanting a higher salary. Your need to pay your child's college tuition or buy a bigger house is of no concern to your boss. 【小题5】 That is where you need to keep the conversation.

Packing Tips for Travel

Packing smart and light is quite necessary for a comfortable trip. Light baggage ensures trouble-free travel. Here are some essential packing tips to help you enjoy your travel.

Regular use/handy items. Regular use or your personal handy items need to be taken instantly or separated from the luggage whenever required. 【小题1】. And then start packing them after clothes and valuables. Include some useful items such as ear drops, eye masks, medicines, a small towel, and scissors (less than 6 inches).

Vacuum(真空) and space bags. It is not surprising that the entire packaging may be done just with vacuum bags, space bags, and plastic bags. Being airtight and waterproof, these bags provide great room for storage. They can fit in stuff three to four times greater than conventional bags. 【小题2】.

Family packing tips. Often those travelling with kids tend to believe that they might require a whole range of products for their kids. 【小题3】. Try to carry only the essential items and leave the rest that can be bought outside. You can download apps for kids that do not require the Internet connection. This will keep them engaged on the route without carrying a range of toys.

【小题4】. When it comes to clothing for women, having a choice of common colors is great, as they can mix and match outfits. A set of lightweight tops and jeans is ideal for both indoor and outdoor. Bring a set of waist coats, long sleeves, and pants for formal wears. 【小题5】, as they tend to be heavy. Instead, try fashionable sneakers, which give good comfort to your feet.

Following these tips will help you in managing your travel in an efficient way. Enjoy your trip! Bon Voyage!

Dealing with conflicts with friends

Great friendships are characterized by a mutual (相互的) understanding that you will support each other through the highs and lows of your lives. When you get into an argument with your friends, it may have a bad influence on you. 【小题1】. Here are some helpful tips for dealing with conflicts with friends.

Don’t be quiet.

【小题2】. If you have had a serious argument, it may get worse if you choose to keep quiet and not talk about it. Keeping things to yourself and not being open about it creates misunderstandings. Talking about the causes of the argument will help you figure out whether it is just a misunderstanding or something serious. Once you talk about issues, you get a fair idea about how to resolve a particular conflict. 【小题3】.

Think before you speak.

When you have decided to talk about your issues, you need to keep the anger aside and talk peacefully to each other. 【小题4】. So, you should choose your words wisely while you are trying to resolve conflicts with friends.

【小题5】

Communication is necessary, but it is only fruitful when it is two-way. If you are dealing with conflicts with friends, there must be communication as well as listening and understanding from both sides. If you have an argument or you have different opinions that lead to a conflict, try to find out what the other person finds offensive. Let your friend speak about things that don’t seem right to them. Apologize if you need to for being wrong on your part or explain to them your point of view to help them understand you better.