Research indicates that those who start their day with a positive mantra or by handling important tasks instead of their email are more productive. Visualization techniques and pairing up with partners and mentors are also effective ways of improving your performance, writes Jeff Haden.

If a colleague is regularly unprofessional toward you, consider speaking with the person one-on-one to relay your concerns, writes Liz Ryan. Use an even tone and suggest that the treatment you're receiving isn't benefiting anyone.

When sending a "cold email" to a prospective employer, Robert Pearson, who is with the Office of Graduate Studies at the University of Texas at Arlington, recommends keeping it short and asking for one specific action, such as an informational interview. Resend the request within two weeks if the hiring manager does not respond, he advises.

One major contributor to the gender pay gap is that women are much less likely than men to be promoted into managerial positions, according to a report from PayScale. "Equitable pay and promotion practices are not just good for employees, they can also have a serious impact on talent retention for both genders," said Lydia Frank, the company's vice president of content strategy.

Job searching becomes less stressful if you prepare yourself for predictable parts of the hiring process, such as common interview questions, Robin Madell writes. Gain confidence by researching prospective companies thoroughly before interviewing with them.

When buying gifts this holiday season you're better off getting someone exactly what they asked for, writes John Tierney. Gift-giving can go wrong if you focus more on the moment of giving than whether the recipient will actually use the gift.