“Personality can open doors, but only character can keep them open.” ~Elmer G. Letterman
What About Politics?
Political Astuteness are some things that you simply might not learn in school; however, it plays a big role in success in business.
“Man is by nature a political animal.” ~Aristotle
Take Control
It is important to keep in mind that you are responsible for your own career. Do not Expect the Human Resources Department to plan your career. In fact, don’t expect anyone else to worry or make decisions about it either.
There are times in my career when someone has taken an interest in my promotion; however, it’s always been in their own best interests to do so. Remember, companies are in business primarily to make a profit money.
Dress for Success
There is a transparent distinction between how a President, a Senior Vice-President, a Vice-President, and director dress. Whether you are in a uniform or a suit, you should dress just a cut above your current level. It may require a little time spent with an iron or dry cleaner.
Above Everything, Have Integrity
“If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.” ~Alan Simpson
You will find that the concentration of integrity increases the upper you enter a corporation .
Remember Who You Work For
Always Support the Company
It’s true that where your treasure is, your heart will be also. There will be ample opportunities daily to bash your employer. Resist those opportunities. Keep in mind that (1) you chose this company, (2) they pay you, and (3) you can leave if you would like. The leaders of the corporation will not be impressed by your ability to complain.
Who are the Leaders of the Company?
Find out the background of the company executives. What career path did they take? Chances are, they are going to value those credentials above others. Take note of great people within the company get connected to them. If possible, find a way to work for them or alongside them on a project. If not, establish a network with as many of them as possible. The best possibility is to ask one among them be your mentor. You will be surprised how many people will be interested in helping in this regard.
Learn the Rules
“Whoever gossips to you will gossip about you.” ~Spanish Proverb
Watch What You Write or Say. Assume that anything you write or say will be read or heard by everyone within the company. E-mail makes it easy to respond emotionally. Before you respond to an irritating e-mail, take a minute to calm down, then, write the e-mail. If your first response is to send harsh messages, save a draft and review it sometime later to make sure the tone is business appropriate.
A common practice amongst colleagues is Happy Hour – avoid it! There is a huge risk of saying something you should not say, getting out of control, or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time. You should stay out of office politics. Do not say anything bad about anyone, ever.
Arrive Early and Leave Late, but Not Too Late. You want the reputation of a tough worker, but not one that struggles to get their work done. This principle also applies to taking work home. Over the long-term, you would like to have a life outside of your career of choice. Work/life balance will keep you engaged in your job; therefore, more productive.
Find Out What Your Boss Wants and Deliver. Regardless of your personality, relationships, or good looks, you must be productive. For your boss, it means doing what they need, regardless of how silly it’s going to seem to you.
Always say, “Yes!” to a request from leadership. For your boss, there are ways to deliver better solutions without damaging the relationship.
“Always do more than is required of you.” ~General Patton
Give People Credit. Do not take all the credit for yourself. This is important for a variety of reasons. First, you need people to help you get things done. Second, when people recognize a team player, you get the credit also. Third, it’s the right thing to do.
Conclusion
When It Comes to Your Career
1. You are Responsible
2. Remember Who You Work For
3. Learn the Rules
As Bill Karnes put it, “Eagles don’t flock; they fly alone. And eagles soar above the rest of their world. So, too, do people who start things, who lead groups or who otherwise set themselves apart from the crowd.”