1. Identify what you need to maximize your effectiveness at your job and be willing to articulate it clearly to your boss so you can develop strategies together on an ongoing basis.

2. Don't be afraid to ask for small accommodations that might enable you to make big changes.

3. Speak up: if you are suddenly flooded with too much information, don't hesitate to ask the person to please repeat what they said. I learned to say, "Would you please repeat that? I'm a slow thinker." No one has ever refused or laughed at me for asking!

4. If you say you are going to do something do it or let your boss know why you aren't doing it. This minimizes frustration all around.

5. Write everything down 24/7 and review it incessantly. Some might call it compulsive... for me it is freedom! Fall in love with your calendar and refer to it constantly.

6. Clarify when you feel confused. Take the risk even if you think that you "already asked once." You'll be glad you did.

7. Start smiling at people as often as you can remember to do. The results are so sweet!

Nancy Snell, CEC, is a certified professional business coach with a broadcasting career that spanned 25+ years. She specializes in workplace issues and coaches professionals who are ready to get unblocked, unfrustrated and on track. Nancy served as a Director on the Board of the NYC – ICF in 2005.