I have influence over the words people say about me and my work.

Although we can't control what others say about us, we can have an effect on what is said.

Establish a plan for each person you interact with on a regular basis.

• Your action/interaction: If you know Jim prefers phone conversations over email, then schedule a weekly call with him to discuss current work items.

• The effect: "We work very well together. You always make time to go over critical items for the week."

Create a process for the inputs and outputs of your work responsibilities.

• Your action/interaction: If you manage the recruitment cycle for a program or track registration numbers for upcoming events, then automate or schedule a day and time to report the stats to the team.

• The effect: "We can count on you to keep us abreast of what's going on."

Skim meeting agendas to identify areas in which you can offer support.

• Your action/interaction: If you know that a fellow team member provides a weekly update about volunteer signups, then share the names of three people whom you've recruited to volunteer.

• The effect: "You always find a way to help out others on the team."

So, what effect do your actions and interactions have on those around you?