Portray yourself as a specialist when it comes to knowledge in your field, but as a generalist in terms of your ability to handle various workplace situations, writes Caroline Ceniza-Levine. "At senior levels, the jobs are complex enough that you need both a depth of expertise and a range of skills," she writes.

Regain a sense of purpose at work by researching new ideas and challenging yourself to get out of your comfort zone, professionals say. Have a positive mindset, and find inspiration in the things around you.

Narrow down your job search by considering which companies you want to work for and making your choices known to others, writes Kara Cutruzzula. Engage in social media, and even reach out via email to people who might be a lead to your next career opportunity.

You can deliver the same message while tailoring your approach to include what the intended target likes to hear, writes Anett Grant. For example, team players might respond to pep talks, whereas others need to discuss new ideas in visual terms.

It's best to be honest with a prospective employer about why you have a gap in your resume when you weren't working, says career adviser Amanda Augustine. Point out what you achieved during that time without going into too much detail.

Keep hand sanitizer and Lysol at your desk during flu season, and encourage co-workers to stay home when they're feeling under the weather, Alyse Kalish writes. If your office is being hit particularly hard by the flu, ask whether you can work from an alternative workspace.

Police found nearly a half-ton of undelivered mail in the garage of a 56-year-old postman in Italy. The mail came from as long ago as 2010 and will be delivered to its proper owners, according to police.