DISTINGUISH YOURSELF

"Think of some new approaches to existing problems and ask if you can implement them," says Dr Marie McIntyre, the author of Secrets to Winning at Office Politics. "Most managers appreciate employees who want to do things better, faster or smarter." Career coach Dr Rachelle Canter, author of Make the Right Career Move, suggests looking for gaps in your skill set and trying to fill them for this job - or the next one.

CUSTOMISE YOUR SCHEDULE

If you want to work from home some or all of the time, consider management's point of view, suggests McIntyre. Will it cause problems for your office manager? Show your boss the way around roadblocks before being asked.

ASK FOR A RAISE OR PROMOTION

"If you sit at your desk hoping for opportunities, you're going to wait along, sad time," cautions Canter. Her suggestion: look at who's being promoted and why. Then clarify performance expectations with your boss. Don't be an unsung hero; make sure he or she knows what you've done, says Canter.

TAKE A 10-MINUTE WALK AT LUNCHTIME

Exercise can help change your attitude towards your job."Short walks can improve energy levels," reveals Dr Robert Thayer, author of Calm Energy. In his research, Thayer found that a brisk, 10-minute walk raised energy levels for 120 minutes afterwards.

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