Some argue feedback is constructive only when it focuses on our strengths, writes Meghan Moravcik Walbert. Research has found negative feedback significantly slows our ability to learn, while positive comments encourage us to build on our success.

Asking questions helps you reevaluate your position and career trajectory. Start by considering which projects give you the most satisfaction and then move on to what skills you need to develop to move your career forward.

Introverts tend to thrive during one-on-ones and often find it's easier to initiate conversations at networking events by arriving early or staying late, when the energy is calmer, writes Michelle Tillis Lederman, CEO of Executive Essentials. Volunteering at these events helps less-outgoing people by providing them "purpose and permission to talk with people."

A survey of recruiters and students enrolled in either college or a credential program shows recruiters want potential employees to possess technical skills, know the industry they're entering and be good at networking, whether they hold a college degree or a credential. The data also show that 62% of recruiters are confident potential hires have the skills they seek, while only 39% of students felt "very prepared" for the workforce.

LinkedIn profiles reflect poorly on users when they fail to feature quality photos, career summaries, searchable keywords or invitations to connect, writes brand strategist Rachel Weingarten. Users are more approachable when they tone down self-promotion and post only positive comments about others.

People who are in a rut at work might be reinvigorated by learning new skills in another department, writes Julianne Pepitone. Lateral moves often require patience as pay may decrease initially but new opportunities for advancement arise.

People experience improved brain function and less stress when they clear their schedule a couple times a day for two to five minutes of silence, writes nurse practitioner Ingrid Forsberg. They also need to clear their mind of noise, focusing only on breathing and a calming phrase.

While his grandmother was asleep, five-year-old Iziah Hall in Wyoming, Mich. called 911 and asked the dispatcher to bring him McDonald's. The dispatcher contacted police officer Dan Patterson, who went to check on the boy and he even brought Iziah some food because "I figured hey I'm driving past McDonald's on my way there and I might as well get him something," said Patterson.