Ever wonder why some people zoom up the corporate
ladder while others climb at a snail’s pace? Ok, so some people PAY (i.e., Lori Loughlin) for it - but most of us don't have $500k to slip someone to further our career (so sad!).
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 five 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”. If you find yourself in the position of
delivering the news, do not shift the decision-making responsibility 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.
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. 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. If you work
from home, allocate a few days a month to visit the office. 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. Other people may have different work ethics,
personal situations or, simply put, expectations. Therefore requiring other may 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.
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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