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The
first step in having a successful
career is understanding what
success mean to you. Is it more
freedom, more money, power or
position? Determine what
dictates success and plan the
steps needed to get you there.
One problem I have with many of
the "Success Gurus"
today is they emphasize the
planning yet forget the next
step - the work. Sure you
need goals, and a 12 step
success plan may sound great but
the plain fact is, you have got
to do your job. A good
aggressive work ethic will make
up for a world of shortcomings
including, intelligence, ability
and even talent. Contra wise
absolutely nothing will make up
for bad work habits. So
step two is - do what is
expected of you.
Finally
learn what type of environment
and culture you have landed in.
Is it a casual free flowing
atmosphere? Possibly a very
rigid structured organization.
Learn what your manager expects
and what style of boss they are.
Then take appropriate steps to
meet then exceed there
expectations. A good mental game
here is to learn to view your
boss as the customer and you as
the salesman. It is your job to
figure out what they want and
need (even when they may not
know). Want a few tips on
handling that difficult client
(boss)
The
Micro-Manager (controlling,
overly involved)
Sales Strategy: Your boss
needs to develop more confidence
in you. Begin by asking for
complete responsibility on
smaller tasks and then work your
way up to bigger tasks. Be sure
to deliver consistently
excellent work or you may lose
that trust quickly.
The
Non-Manager (indecisive,
hesitant, vague)
Sales Strategy: Instead
of asking open-ended questions,
give him a few choices and one
clear recommendation. Counteract
vagueness by asking for
clarification. Avoid
procrastination on your boss's
part by communicating your
deadlines and following up on
what you need.
The
Unreasonable Manager (crushes
you with work)
Sales Strategy: Schedule
a meeting to discuss priorities
and options for what you can and
cannot handle. Suggest bringing
in a contractor to help during
peak periods.
So
Step 3 is treat your manager
(and company) as if they are
your best customer. One other
page borrowed from the sales
mentality -- the Art of Self
Promotion. In some
workplaces it is not only smart,
but crucial, that you learn to
blow your on horn. Don't forget
that a healthy sense of pride
for your own accomplishments is
a good thing. Always recognize
excellence and extra effort in
everyone else. Give honest
praise to you other team
members, when deserved but don't
downplay your own contributions.
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