Ever wonder why some people zoom up the corporateladder while others climb at a snail’s pace? Do you feel as though you are consistently passed over for promotions? Receiving promotions requires more than
raising your hand. You can’t just ask
for it. You need to constantly reinforce
the message that you deserve it. You
want to be the first person that comes to mind during promotion
discussions.
Scaling the corporate ladder includes more than just
doing a job well. Being perceived as
effective, a team player, and business leader requires more than getting the
job done. HOW you get the job done matters.
A lot.
There are subtle things people do EVERY DAY that – if
eliminated – would improve their workplace perception. You want to exude behavior that screams “I AM
A LEADER”.
Here are 5 potential behavior pitfalls to avoid at all costs:
1. The Blame Game
Can you recall the last time you made a reservation,
went to a restaurant on time and then were told you had to wait 45 minutes to 1
hour for your table? When you asked
about the delay, you may have heard something like “that is our company policy”
or “are manager suggests you have a drink at the bar”. Does it seem like no one is taking responsibility for the mismanaged reservation? Well, that's because no one wants to deal with an angry customer.
If you find yourself in the position of
delivering the bad news, do not shift the decision-making responsibility (the blame!) to someone
else. In other words, use the “I”
word. Take responsibility for the
message you are delivering. Be the one
in charge. Learn how to handle difficult
conversations without pointing the finger someplace else. People don’t want to work with someone who
always says “my manager says we need to do it this way so let me know if you
have any questions.” Delivering
decisions are as difficult as making them and you have to be able to do both.
2. The Waiting Game
Consensus building is important in the workplace. And times exist when many opinions need to be
solicited and considered. Of course, this can drastically slow down the decision-making process. But if your M.O to decision-making constantly
involves telling people “I will let you know in a few days”, then you are
creating a poor perception regarding your decision-making skills. People tire of hearing “hurry up and
wait”. You need to balance the decisions
that need to be made right away with those that require more time and
thought. If your role requires making
decisions, then do not constantly seek other people’s advice and input. Take charge.
3. The Bull in a China Shop
Perhaps you know what needs to be done – and how and when. And the process is so slow you could scream. You want to take the bull by the horns and get something done. Now.
But some
situations require more political finesse.
How you recommend and execute ideas is just as important as the idea
itself. Survey your surroundings,
consider your approach and then suggest your ideas appropriately. You may need to allow others time to “get on
board” before proceeding. You will achieve
the same end goal, but without alienating other people.
4. Face Time Avoidance
Whether your challenge is work-life balance, a
terrible commute or awesome personal life that drives you to leave the office
on time, every time, every day, face time is critical. Sometimes the most influential bonding and
decisions occur after hours or during lunch. If you work
from home, allocate a few days a month to visit the office or to engage via Facetime. If you can manage drinks or other after-work activities,
select a few events to attend. Career
progression and development relies on more than just the quality of the
work. Your peers and managers need to
know who you are – intimately. They
can’t get to know you as well as possible if you aren’t present. Face time – to some degree – is a must.
5. High Expectations
Without a doubt, some personalities are natural
go-getters. They work 24/7 and demand
perfection and excellence from themselves – and everyone around them. But demanding the same level of excellence
and dedication from others can be a potential pitfall. Have you ever worked with someone who asked you to work on holiday or when you really needed to be attending to personal matters? Maybe called you at 9am on Saturday morning and expected you to be working instead of with your family?
Other people may have different work ethics,
personal situations or, simply put, expectations. Therefore requiring others to behave in
the same manner can result in tension and turmoil. They may resent you for placing “unrealistic”
demands on them and instead of viewing you as a leader, they view you
negatively.
The Point
Knowing what “not to do” is just as important as
knowing what to do. Put yourself in a successful position by understanding
your work culture and how best to navigate the politics and social
interactions.
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