Published: The Hindu
On: March 24, 2010
At: Chennai & Vishakapatnam, India
Your mother always told you to say thank you and she is right. Sending a thank you message (email or letter) following an employment interview can give you an edge over others while displaying your professional attitude. It also allows you to express your appreciation for the employer’s interest in you while restating the value you can bring to the organization. It gives you the opportunity to re-affirm your enthusiasm in the job. View this as your final, last-minute effort to convince your interviewer that you are the best fit for the position.
Structure:
The structure of a thank you message is quite similar to a cover letter. Keep it precise, and to the point.
First paragraph: Begin with thanking the interviewer for taking the time out to meet you. Show your enthusiasm for the position. Cite the date, time and position you were interviewed.
Second paragraph: Underscore your relevant skills required for the job you have applied. Explain how your education and previous experience (if any) is suitable for this position. You can add something interesting that you have learnt about the company or something that you feel you will excel at within the company.
Closing paragraph: Reiterate your appreciation for being considered for the job and let the interviewer know you are looking forward to hearing from him or her soon.
Follow the KISS (Keep it Short and Simple) rule. About three paragraphs should be ideal.
Be prompt. Send the email within 24-hours after the interview.
Be specific. Refer to some point spoken in the interview. For example, a challenge that the company is having with their new system or their global expansion.
Use the thank you message as follow-up sales. Emphasize on your qualifications, and your successes in previous job experience. Show how you might make a significant contribution and express why you are a strong ‘fit’ for the company.
If you have forgotten to mention a key selling point during the interview that you like your interviewer to know, this is a perfect opportunity.
Any issues or clarifications that had come up during the interview can be resolved here. This is your last chance to make a positive impression on your interviewer.
Don’t oversell yourself. However desperate you are, focus on thanking the interviewer for his/her time and interest.
Proofread. Check for spelling errors and grammatical mistakes. If you are sending out an email, don’t rely on the computer’s inbuilt dictionary.
Be genuine. Instead of borrowing a thank you letter template from the web, put your words and feelings in the message.
Choose the method of communication sensibly. A thank you message after the interview can be sent via a handwritten/typed letter or email. It is best to keep in mind the company culture and the speed it is delivered.
When sending a letter, use the standard business letter format.
When sending an email, follow the general email etiquettes.
If you are interviewed by a group of people, send individual thank you messages. Modify it to send a personalized thank you to each interviewer. This adds a special touch. For example, a shared interest or an acquaintance can be referred. At the conclusion of the interview, make sure you ask each person for a business card – that way you have the contact information for your thank you messages. Incase you haven’t yet asked for it, call the office and get the information from the receptionist. It is well worth your time and efforts.
A thank you message is a great way to be ahead of the pack, and making sure the interviewer remembers your name. Send it even if you think your interview did not go well. Chances are it may have been more successful than you think. In addition, this shows your professionalism and attitude.
It also acts like a significant deciding factor when you are in par with someone else applying for the said job. So keep your spirits up, and remember your manners!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
To say 'No' ensure you have valid reasons
Published: The Hindu
On: March 31, 2010
At: Hyderabad, India
To read The Hindu's online version, click here.
“Yes, I will work this weekend and finish the spreadsheet”. “Yes, I will take on the new project”. “Yes, I will help the new employee get started”. Sounds familiar? Your can-do will-do attitude has finally hit a brick wall. Saying ‘No’ to a person in power of your employment can be daunting for any executive, manager or an intern. Most employees avoid saying ‘No’ to their boss because they fear that it could adversely affect their next raise. Or, they will be passed over for promotion or being downgraded on a performance review.
To enhance your job security, it’s important to be a supportive and cooperative employee. Just as important though, is to show your critical thinking and assertiveness. Chances are your boss will appreciate it. It is about saying ‘No’ without uttering the word.
Remember, as a teenager when you asked your mom if you could go out with your friends for a late night party, and the answer was ‘maybe’ or ‘yes, but..’. It gave you hope, right? The same rule applies here. Though this response was just a polite way to say No, it was easier to hear than the actual word itself. Acknowledge your boss’s request so that he or she realizes that you are simply not dismissing it out of hand. For example, as a project manager you are asked to head a new project, begin your conversation with a yes, but ask which of your current projects can be kept aside. Ask help in reprioritizing your current responsibilities. Explain the details of all your projects in hand. Perhaps, he may not know you are handling a difficult client that requires a lot more of your time and efforts.
Ask for time to think it over. Provide an alternative, and be specific about it. Take care to communicate that you care about the company and are highly motivated to find another way. Give you boss as much information and as many options as possible. Suggest a colleague whom you know is eager to take on a new challenge. Be aware of your tone of voice. A calm and polite manner will help you be in control and avoid aggravating the situation. Watch your body language. Your postures should come across as pleasant instead of defensive.
As overbearing few employees may be, there are a lot that understand. It’s up to you how well you handle the situation. Ankush Ved, proprietor of Allied Agencies says, “I am willing to hear a ‘No’ from my employee if I hear a good reason why it’s in my best interest to pass on the task I wanted to assign him or her.”
If you are asked to do something that you just can’t do for the lack of resources or skills, you should say no. Perhaps the project can be moved to another department, you can collaborate with a colleague to complete the task.
If you do have to say yes, find out the details about your new assignment. Ask open-ended questions to understand the task. Be clear on expectations and responsibilities.
Maintaining a good relationship with your manager is always important. Learning what makes your boss tick can help you develop a great working rapport. There are ways to say no without that heavy burden of stress and anxiety. Nonetheless, if you are asked to do something illegal or that crosses your personal boundaries you have to express yourself firmly.
Find a role model in your network of friends or colleagues. Observe how this person communicates saying ‘No’ with ease.
William Ury’s The Power of a Positive No is a confidence-boosting book for anyone who has succumbed to saying yes and then being resentful. Ury says “No. The most powerful and needed word in the language today is also potentially the most destructive and for many people, the hardest to say. Yet when we know how to use it correctly, this one word has the power to profoundly transform our lives for better.”
There is however no assurance that saying no in these demanding situations will give a positive outcome. In the end, the task you have been asked to do needs to be completed. It is for the company’s and your benefit that the conflict be resolved at the earliest. Hiding them under the covers won’t make them go away. A good candid dialogue with your boss along with sincerity and professionalism helps in saving your face and the job!
On: March 31, 2010
At: Hyderabad, India
To read The Hindu's online version, click here.
“Yes, I will work this weekend and finish the spreadsheet”. “Yes, I will take on the new project”. “Yes, I will help the new employee get started”. Sounds familiar? Your can-do will-do attitude has finally hit a brick wall. Saying ‘No’ to a person in power of your employment can be daunting for any executive, manager or an intern. Most employees avoid saying ‘No’ to their boss because they fear that it could adversely affect their next raise. Or, they will be passed over for promotion or being downgraded on a performance review.
To enhance your job security, it’s important to be a supportive and cooperative employee. Just as important though, is to show your critical thinking and assertiveness. Chances are your boss will appreciate it. It is about saying ‘No’ without uttering the word.
Remember, as a teenager when you asked your mom if you could go out with your friends for a late night party, and the answer was ‘maybe’ or ‘yes, but..’. It gave you hope, right? The same rule applies here. Though this response was just a polite way to say No, it was easier to hear than the actual word itself. Acknowledge your boss’s request so that he or she realizes that you are simply not dismissing it out of hand. For example, as a project manager you are asked to head a new project, begin your conversation with a yes, but ask which of your current projects can be kept aside. Ask help in reprioritizing your current responsibilities. Explain the details of all your projects in hand. Perhaps, he may not know you are handling a difficult client that requires a lot more of your time and efforts.
Ask for time to think it over. Provide an alternative, and be specific about it. Take care to communicate that you care about the company and are highly motivated to find another way. Give you boss as much information and as many options as possible. Suggest a colleague whom you know is eager to take on a new challenge. Be aware of your tone of voice. A calm and polite manner will help you be in control and avoid aggravating the situation. Watch your body language. Your postures should come across as pleasant instead of defensive.
As overbearing few employees may be, there are a lot that understand. It’s up to you how well you handle the situation. Ankush Ved, proprietor of Allied Agencies says, “I am willing to hear a ‘No’ from my employee if I hear a good reason why it’s in my best interest to pass on the task I wanted to assign him or her.”
If you are asked to do something that you just can’t do for the lack of resources or skills, you should say no. Perhaps the project can be moved to another department, you can collaborate with a colleague to complete the task.
If you do have to say yes, find out the details about your new assignment. Ask open-ended questions to understand the task. Be clear on expectations and responsibilities.
Maintaining a good relationship with your manager is always important. Learning what makes your boss tick can help you develop a great working rapport. There are ways to say no without that heavy burden of stress and anxiety. Nonetheless, if you are asked to do something illegal or that crosses your personal boundaries you have to express yourself firmly.
Find a role model in your network of friends or colleagues. Observe how this person communicates saying ‘No’ with ease.
William Ury’s The Power of a Positive No is a confidence-boosting book for anyone who has succumbed to saying yes and then being resentful. Ury says “No. The most powerful and needed word in the language today is also potentially the most destructive and for many people, the hardest to say. Yet when we know how to use it correctly, this one word has the power to profoundly transform our lives for better.”
There is however no assurance that saying no in these demanding situations will give a positive outcome. In the end, the task you have been asked to do needs to be completed. It is for the company’s and your benefit that the conflict be resolved at the earliest. Hiding them under the covers won’t make them go away. A good candid dialogue with your boss along with sincerity and professionalism helps in saving your face and the job!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Why do you do that? A book about Tourette Syndrome for children and Young People
Published: Green Leaflet (Newsletter - Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada)
On: September 2006
At: Toronto, Canada
Why do you do that? A book about Tourette Syndrome for Children and Young People
“Why do you do that?” is a good resource for children and young people with Tourette Syndrome, and their siblings. Written by two highly experienced doctors, this book describes Tourette in plain language with key information prominently listed, to allow you to refer to it with ease. The book has been designed to provide all the support that you need by means of:
• Clear, easy-to-use design;
• Child-oriented medical definitions and examples;
• Progressive building of key concepts as you move from level to level; and
• Short amusing poems at the end of each chapter that crystallizes important points.
Every section helps you to understand, Tourette Syndrome is about much more than tics. It guides readers step-by-step through the research done, treatments, and associated conditions of TS such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Depression, and, it does so in a supportive style that is simple to understand.
There is a special chapter that deals with how to cope with life in school. Commonly asked questions such as, should the people at school be made aware if the child has TS, to dealing with homework, exams, and bullies are clarified superbly.
What makes this book unique is that it provides first person accounts of children and adults with TS as well as their siblings. Many will identify with the personal experiences shared by the children and young people.
The authors’ through their vast knowledge recognize and validate the frustrations that the loved ones of someone with TS may experience; while skilfully manages to dispel the myths that abounds the hidden aspects of TS.
Helpful references and further suggested readings are also included at the end of the book. The authors’ upbeat approach and skilful explanation make this an invaluable companion for children, young people and their siblings.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Create your own style!
Published: The Hindu
On: January 24, 2004
At: Hyderabad, India
Create your own style!
It’s your life
Style is all about being comfortable with what you are. A particular personality trait can make a person stylish, an accent, a deep baritone voice, or simply the way one laughs.
Style is about discovering yourself – who you really are, what you really feel, what really matters to you. To dress with taste, elegance, distinction and style. There’s more to a wardrobe than a wide range of clothes. Labels alone do not guarantee elegance. Learning how to mix and match to make the most of what you have is an art.
You should be able to wear your attitude on your sleeve. Putting together the look you want to flaunt is all about getting the details right. The details needn’t be the safety pin of your sheath dress but can be your perfume, the man on your arm and perhaps most essentially you’re own personal signature. Style is all about being comfortable with what you are.
A man with torn jeans and a kurta can be stylish. It is all about coming to terms with one’s personality and attitude. A teenager cannot be called stylish, because he/she is still growing and exploring and trying to find out what her/his personal style is.
Style comes with maturity and it can be safely said that a mature person is definitely classier says Divya Baldev of Indulge, a high -end fashion boutique. She also avers that style is attitude, highly personalized, and unique. Fashion trends are cyclical in nature and what’s in vogue today may not be in vogue tomorrow.
A lot of people are under the misconception that following the latest fads can make one more stylish. Nothing could be more further from the truth. In fact nothing is more off putting than seeing a person dress ridiculously just because it is in vogue. Moreover style is not only about how one’s dressing up, it runs deeper.
A particular personality trait can make a person stylish, an accent, a deep baritone voice, or simply the way one laughs. Why restrict something so varied and subjective to just the way one dresses. Surely, it can’t be purely superficial!
Ritu Raj, a well known fashion designer who does a lot of shows abroad expresses that NRI’s are highly influenced by Bollywood because that’s the only way they are connected with India and Indianness.
It may be summarized that style takes on a lot of dimensions, as Lady Diana was considered an icon in her time, so is Arundhati Rai or even M.F Husain who with their sheer talent manage to be called stylish without Versace dressing them up.
It is the person who has traveled the road of self-discovery, and quite comfortable in just being themselves and charm the world with their personality and talent. Stylish, yes, most certainly stylish!
On: January 24, 2004
At: Hyderabad, India
Create your own style!
It’s your life
Style is all about being comfortable with what you are. A particular personality trait can make a person stylish, an accent, a deep baritone voice, or simply the way one laughs.
Style is about discovering yourself – who you really are, what you really feel, what really matters to you. To dress with taste, elegance, distinction and style. There’s more to a wardrobe than a wide range of clothes. Labels alone do not guarantee elegance. Learning how to mix and match to make the most of what you have is an art.
You should be able to wear your attitude on your sleeve. Putting together the look you want to flaunt is all about getting the details right. The details needn’t be the safety pin of your sheath dress but can be your perfume, the man on your arm and perhaps most essentially you’re own personal signature. Style is all about being comfortable with what you are.
A man with torn jeans and a kurta can be stylish. It is all about coming to terms with one’s personality and attitude. A teenager cannot be called stylish, because he/she is still growing and exploring and trying to find out what her/his personal style is.
Style comes with maturity and it can be safely said that a mature person is definitely classier says Divya Baldev of Indulge, a high -end fashion boutique. She also avers that style is attitude, highly personalized, and unique. Fashion trends are cyclical in nature and what’s in vogue today may not be in vogue tomorrow.
A lot of people are under the misconception that following the latest fads can make one more stylish. Nothing could be more further from the truth. In fact nothing is more off putting than seeing a person dress ridiculously just because it is in vogue. Moreover style is not only about how one’s dressing up, it runs deeper.
A particular personality trait can make a person stylish, an accent, a deep baritone voice, or simply the way one laughs. Why restrict something so varied and subjective to just the way one dresses. Surely, it can’t be purely superficial!
Ritu Raj, a well known fashion designer who does a lot of shows abroad expresses that NRI’s are highly influenced by Bollywood because that’s the only way they are connected with India and Indianness.
It may be summarized that style takes on a lot of dimensions, as Lady Diana was considered an icon in her time, so is Arundhati Rai or even M.F Husain who with their sheer talent manage to be called stylish without Versace dressing them up.
It is the person who has traveled the road of self-discovery, and quite comfortable in just being themselves and charm the world with their personality and talent. Stylish, yes, most certainly stylish!
- What on earth is Style?
About personality, not about trends
A classic look within which you can have fun
Balance, wit, taste and harmony
Quiet confidence
Purely personal
Comfort
Versatility
Effortless, natural and easy
An old favorite T-shirt
Subtle jewelry
Eschewing rice pearls and rhinestone
A timeless black dress
A fitted white shirt
A tailored jacket in lightweight wool
Silk next to the skin
Lace under it all
Sensual not sexy
Trim not tight
Pastel not neon
Acting your age but not looking it
Looking dressed up when, in fact, you’ve dressed down
Clean smelling hair
A pair of chocolate brown stilettos
Simple. Simply elegant
Understated individuality
Inner grace, rhythm
Going with your instinct
An eye-catching statement
Bold not brassy
Restraint
Fashion is a fad and it doesn’t stay for long but style is unique and is here to stay. Each person makes his/her own personal statement about their style says Anuj, another student of ICFAI. He says that style must suit one-self. Style is knowing what to wear and when. It is a graceful interpretation of the fashionable. True Style is understated but classy, unassuming but mesmerizing. A woman with Style coordinates her accessories, understands balance and wears proper cuts, color, and fabric. Style is about psychological identification and that’s what impacts your persona says Jignesh Zanora, a student of ICFAI. Stylish clothes are cut well, have clear lines and add to their wearer not distract. One needs confidence to be Stylish. It is essential that a man or woman feels beautiful and confident for the ensemble to be a success. Variety is the spice of life. Anyway, folks, get to it! Turn some heads! Go!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Showers of Blessings
Published: www.yash.ca
On: November 19, 2008
At: Toronto, Canada
There will be many memorable moments from my first pregnancy - moments that I will smile and laugh for years. Always looking for ways to surprise people on their birthdays and anniversaries, I was truly surprised on my baby shower.
It all began when a friend of mine, Nivi emailed another friend, Shabnam (and copied me) saying "we are all coming to your new house one of these Saturdays." I instantly jumped in with a commitment of being there in their new home on the next Saturday (July 7, 2007). My husband glared at me and stated authoritatively, "we will be there only for a while, and will refuse for dinner." I was disappointed, but I wasn't in the mood to argue with him. I was excited at the thought of going to my friend's new home.
With my due date nearing, my hormones were playing havoc within me. I was getting more and more upset. Day by day I awaited my son's arrival. I was counting every moment.
A summer day, Saturday came in as usual. My mother insisted on me wearing something fancy. I yelled back saying, "we are not going to a big party. It's just us!" I was getting annoyed at their stubbornness. Finally after much insistence I wore a colourful Indian dress - kurti (short top) with a long skirt. We finally left home, and reached Shabnam and Hardeep's home at approximately 7 pm. Santosh guided me towards the backyard. While I was still questioning why were we going through the backyard, I pushed the strong wooden door, and entered in.
I gasped when I saw all my friends lined up together to sing a cheerful SURPRISE! I was so touched and happy. The beautiful decorations, assortment of food, games, noisy chatter, and above all the melodious sound of everyone laughing and smiling will remain etched in my heart forever. I was absolutely overwhelmed seeing my loved ones spending hours in planning, preparing with excitement, cooking and decorating the home to make me feel special. Though I heard it all my life, that day I experienced that the littlest things can make a big difference.
As I sit at my desk today typing this blog, I smile and think, what a privilege motherhood is. The emotions, the closeness, the new beginnings, and importantly, always surrounded by loved ones is a blessing, and how very lucky I am.
On: November 19, 2008
At: Toronto, Canada
There will be many memorable moments from my first pregnancy - moments that I will smile and laugh for years. Always looking for ways to surprise people on their birthdays and anniversaries, I was truly surprised on my baby shower.
It all began when a friend of mine, Nivi emailed another friend, Shabnam (and copied me) saying "we are all coming to your new house one of these Saturdays." I instantly jumped in with a commitment of being there in their new home on the next Saturday (July 7, 2007). My husband glared at me and stated authoritatively, "we will be there only for a while, and will refuse for dinner." I was disappointed, but I wasn't in the mood to argue with him. I was excited at the thought of going to my friend's new home.
With my due date nearing, my hormones were playing havoc within me. I was getting more and more upset. Day by day I awaited my son's arrival. I was counting every moment.
A summer day, Saturday came in as usual. My mother insisted on me wearing something fancy. I yelled back saying, "we are not going to a big party. It's just us!" I was getting annoyed at their stubbornness. Finally after much insistence I wore a colourful Indian dress - kurti (short top) with a long skirt. We finally left home, and reached Shabnam and Hardeep's home at approximately 7 pm. Santosh guided me towards the backyard. While I was still questioning why were we going through the backyard, I pushed the strong wooden door, and entered in.
I gasped when I saw all my friends lined up together to sing a cheerful SURPRISE! I was so touched and happy. The beautiful decorations, assortment of food, games, noisy chatter, and above all the melodious sound of everyone laughing and smiling will remain etched in my heart forever. I was absolutely overwhelmed seeing my loved ones spending hours in planning, preparing with excitement, cooking and decorating the home to make me feel special. Though I heard it all my life, that day I experienced that the littlest things can make a big difference.
As I sit at my desk today typing this blog, I smile and think, what a privilege motherhood is. The emotions, the closeness, the new beginnings, and importantly, always surrounded by loved ones is a blessing, and how very lucky I am.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Ria or Tamanna? Raj or Srinivasa?
Published: www.yash.ca
On: September 9, 2008
At: Toronto, Canada
I came across The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri (winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Interpreter of Maladies), which evokes in me a lifelong balancing act to meld to a new world without forgetting the old. Just as the protagonist of the novel, American born Gogol, son of Indian immigrants, wants to find his place in the world, I hope that this cultural conflict is less pronounced with my son.
With strong Indian ties, I clearly want an Indian name for my baby boy. A name is not only an important thing in his new life, but also it represents my thoughts and feelings. It is a fun process, and at times frustrating. The name is going to help shape his personality, and it's definitely going to help if the meaning of his name is positive and lovely to sound.
In my nearly three years living in Canada, I have met a few Indians who have modified their name to spell it differently or even changed it to more Canadian! I don't like doing so, yet to each his own.
I rather keep a simple and sweet name from the start.I flip through various name books for inspiration. Yet, it seems elusive. Of an infinite pool of names, how do I select one that truly sum up my baby? To avoid my little one being subjected to a lifetime of sniggers, we have spent hours running through lists, shortlists, and definite no-no lists of baby names. I have made a list of things that I want and don't want in my baby's name:
Creative spelling
I definitely will not use my creativity to spell my son's name with a twist. I don't want him to spend a lifetime spelling his name to others, or worse, despise his name later. A name no one can pronounce can bring attention he would rather avoid.
Celebrity names
Even though it's fun to name a child Mallika or Mihir, I certainly don't want their celebrity status to affect my little one. What happens when a hot star turns into a flop star? Or worse, some aunt expecting my son to dance like Hrithik? Being inspired by a celebrity, and naming a child after him or her is treading on dangerous territory.
Short and sweet
The name should be easy to spell and pronounce. I plan to take a test - I will ask my Canadian colleagues/ or friends to pronounce it. Imagine a beautiful name like Poorvi is pronounced as Poor - vi!!!
Positive meaning
A name with positive meaning and energy will bring out the best in my child. When he grows up, will he not be flattered to know that his name means strong or wise?
Clashing with family name
Since my last name is a tongue twister, and middle name (i.e. my husband's name) is long as well, it is best to choose a short name. Follow the KISS rule - Keep it simple stupid. Often, longer first names work better with shorter last names, and vice versa.
Running out of time
Don't panic! In most Canadian provinces (I can speak of Toronto for sure) we get 30 days after the baby is born to register his name. So if I am planning to name him knowing his birth date and time, I have some time to decide.
However, none of these are hard and fast rules. The most important criterion is that hubby dear and I should like it! Once I have met my baby Krish, Arnav, or Aryan, it doesn't matter what his name is, and means. Because it will soon become my favourite name in the whole world.
On: September 9, 2008
At: Toronto, Canada
I came across The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri (winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Interpreter of Maladies), which evokes in me a lifelong balancing act to meld to a new world without forgetting the old. Just as the protagonist of the novel, American born Gogol, son of Indian immigrants, wants to find his place in the world, I hope that this cultural conflict is less pronounced with my son.
With strong Indian ties, I clearly want an Indian name for my baby boy. A name is not only an important thing in his new life, but also it represents my thoughts and feelings. It is a fun process, and at times frustrating. The name is going to help shape his personality, and it's definitely going to help if the meaning of his name is positive and lovely to sound.
In my nearly three years living in Canada, I have met a few Indians who have modified their name to spell it differently or even changed it to more Canadian! I don't like doing so, yet to each his own.
I rather keep a simple and sweet name from the start.I flip through various name books for inspiration. Yet, it seems elusive. Of an infinite pool of names, how do I select one that truly sum up my baby? To avoid my little one being subjected to a lifetime of sniggers, we have spent hours running through lists, shortlists, and definite no-no lists of baby names. I have made a list of things that I want and don't want in my baby's name:
Creative spelling
I definitely will not use my creativity to spell my son's name with a twist. I don't want him to spend a lifetime spelling his name to others, or worse, despise his name later. A name no one can pronounce can bring attention he would rather avoid.
Celebrity names
Even though it's fun to name a child Mallika or Mihir, I certainly don't want their celebrity status to affect my little one. What happens when a hot star turns into a flop star? Or worse, some aunt expecting my son to dance like Hrithik? Being inspired by a celebrity, and naming a child after him or her is treading on dangerous territory.
Short and sweet
The name should be easy to spell and pronounce. I plan to take a test - I will ask my Canadian colleagues/ or friends to pronounce it. Imagine a beautiful name like Poorvi is pronounced as Poor - vi!!!
Positive meaning
A name with positive meaning and energy will bring out the best in my child. When he grows up, will he not be flattered to know that his name means strong or wise?
Clashing with family name
Since my last name is a tongue twister, and middle name (i.e. my husband's name) is long as well, it is best to choose a short name. Follow the KISS rule - Keep it simple stupid. Often, longer first names work better with shorter last names, and vice versa.
Running out of time
Don't panic! In most Canadian provinces (I can speak of Toronto for sure) we get 30 days after the baby is born to register his name. So if I am planning to name him knowing his birth date and time, I have some time to decide.
However, none of these are hard and fast rules. The most important criterion is that hubby dear and I should like it! Once I have met my baby Krish, Arnav, or Aryan, it doesn't matter what his name is, and means. Because it will soon become my favourite name in the whole world.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Bargain Hunters - Be aware!
Published: http://www.yash.ca/
At: Toronto, Canada
On: August 25th, 2008
The thrill of having a baby and going for shopping is alike. Both are exciting experiences, and the excitement lasts till you see the bills!! Now is the time to start my shopping before I am too tired. As I browse around the shops and websites for my little baby, I am overwhelmed at the sight of the myriad products on display. It is impossible to resist buying those pint sized stretch suits with Disney characters all over or the booties and the adorable little knit cap. Ohh! The fuzzy blanket will surely keep my baby warm. And, what about the baby's crib and changing table with lots of storage space? Woefully I lament, wont I need all of these for my adorable munchkin?
Disappointed that I can't have it all; I am looking out for various options. My friend suggests that I look for garage sales and classifieds. At times, you do find great deals with gently used products. The classified site that pleases me the most, and is popular is the http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/ and http://www.kijiji.ca/.
I am amazed at the great bargains I can find here. A monitor for $60, Evenflo Exersaucer is for $40, and, a stroller for $30. Wow! That's quite a saving. Now before I get too excited let me recall Health Canada's guide to be careful about buying (and selling) used baby gear.So if I am buying a Baby Gate, Crib or a Playpen it must be accompanied by the name of the manufacturer, model no. and the date of manufacture and assembly instructions. Oh, Baby Walkers, they are illegal to sell in Canada since April 2004. I wasn't aware of it at all. I did a little more research and discovered that most injuries are caused by falls when the baby walker tips and the baby is thrown downstairs or crashes into furniture. That's scary!
Car Seats must meet the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. (Oh, I need to buy this right away as the hospital will not allow me to take my baby without a car seat). Playpens must have all locking mechanisms working and set-up instructions included. Strollers must come with a safety harness that is solidly attached to the seat or frame. The brakes, as well as locking mechanisms on folding models, should be in working order. The wheels need to be securely attached. Recently, there has been an increased number of recalls on toys with paint containing lead. I have to check that toys have not been recalled before buying them in the Health Canada Web site, http://www.healthcanada.gc.ca/cps-recalls
Buying Infant Bath Seats and Bath Rings is not recommended because the suction cups or other means to attach the product to a tub can be ineffective. These products are NOT safety devices.
For more information, contact Consumer Product Safety, Health Canada: 1-866-662-0666, email cps-spc@hc-sc.gc.ca ,or visit www.healthcanada.gc.ca/cps.Now that's quite an exhaustive list from Health Canada. Nevertheless useful if I choose to go for mildly used products for my baby. Think Shopping, Think Safety!
At: Toronto, Canada
On: August 25th, 2008
The thrill of having a baby and going for shopping is alike. Both are exciting experiences, and the excitement lasts till you see the bills!! Now is the time to start my shopping before I am too tired. As I browse around the shops and websites for my little baby, I am overwhelmed at the sight of the myriad products on display. It is impossible to resist buying those pint sized stretch suits with Disney characters all over or the booties and the adorable little knit cap. Ohh! The fuzzy blanket will surely keep my baby warm. And, what about the baby's crib and changing table with lots of storage space? Woefully I lament, wont I need all of these for my adorable munchkin?
Disappointed that I can't have it all; I am looking out for various options. My friend suggests that I look for garage sales and classifieds. At times, you do find great deals with gently used products. The classified site that pleases me the most, and is popular is the http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/ and http://www.kijiji.ca/.
I am amazed at the great bargains I can find here. A monitor for $60, Evenflo Exersaucer is for $40, and, a stroller for $30. Wow! That's quite a saving. Now before I get too excited let me recall Health Canada's guide to be careful about buying (and selling) used baby gear.So if I am buying a Baby Gate, Crib or a Playpen it must be accompanied by the name of the manufacturer, model no. and the date of manufacture and assembly instructions. Oh, Baby Walkers, they are illegal to sell in Canada since April 2004. I wasn't aware of it at all. I did a little more research and discovered that most injuries are caused by falls when the baby walker tips and the baby is thrown downstairs or crashes into furniture. That's scary!
Car Seats must meet the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. (Oh, I need to buy this right away as the hospital will not allow me to take my baby without a car seat). Playpens must have all locking mechanisms working and set-up instructions included. Strollers must come with a safety harness that is solidly attached to the seat or frame. The brakes, as well as locking mechanisms on folding models, should be in working order. The wheels need to be securely attached. Recently, there has been an increased number of recalls on toys with paint containing lead. I have to check that toys have not been recalled before buying them in the Health Canada Web site, http://www.healthcanada.gc.ca/cps-recalls
Buying Infant Bath Seats and Bath Rings is not recommended because the suction cups or other means to attach the product to a tub can be ineffective. These products are NOT safety devices.
For more information, contact Consumer Product Safety, Health Canada: 1-866-662-0666, email cps-spc@hc-sc.gc.ca ,or visit www.healthcanada.gc.ca/cps.Now that's quite an exhaustive list from Health Canada. Nevertheless useful if I choose to go for mildly used products for my baby. Think Shopping, Think Safety!
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