Let me share a few things I've learned over the years of my career that helped me gain a stellar reputation and earn job opportunities without even interviewing for them. It's a great feeling to be recruited over other applicants - who may even have been more technically qualified.
1. Smile. Smiling goes a very long way. You open yourself up to meet new people and smiling puts people at ease. It makes them want you around.
2. Keep a neat work area. Your work area reflects your thought process and organizational skills. People also assume that your work area reflects your home life, as well. Don't let a junky work area give the idea that you are stressed, unorganized, and overwhelmed.
3. Engage in small talk. Especially when meeting new people, engage in a bit of chatter to get to know people. I used to hate small talk. I thought it was a waste of time. I am a person who is comfortable with silence, but I've grown to realize you must interact with people on a personal level for them to remember you. Just remember, try to stay away from religion and politics when it comes to talking to new people. Keep the topics shallow such as the weather, company news, and complimenting items on display at a desk.
4. Do not be the office gossip. Yes, you should be aware of what's going on, but make it a point not to be the one spreading the gossip. Trust me, the more you keep your mouth shut, the more you'll find out. It'll make you a better person for it, as well.
5. Volunteer for extra responsibilities. Just saying you want extra responsibilities isn't always enough. Volunteer to help people, but make sure not to overcommit. You want to show your superiors that you can handle more without sacrificing the quality of your work.
6. Be dependable. Don't be that guy or gal that calls in sick every week. That is not the reputation you want and is the fastest way to not get promoted. Make sure you are where you are supposed to be when you're supposed to be there.
7. Don't be above the menial tasks. You have to pay your dues somehow. Don't ever think you're above anything. People are watching you so always remember that. After doing a few things, ask for something a bit more challenging.
8. Train others. If you are ever offered to lead or train anybody in anything TAKE IT. I had to e-scream at you on that one. :-) Giving presentations and going to training classes develops public speaking and training skills. What a great bullet on your resume.
9. Become a subject matter expert. Do your job and do it well. If you're so inclined, do a little more research and learn what you can about your position. You'll be able to say you used your own resources to learn more about your duties. Be the person people come to for answers.
10. Don't be a brown-nosing snitch. That's the fastest way to have your coworkers lose all respect for you. No one will want to work with you, nor would they respect you if you were moved into a position of leadership. Contrary to popular belief, managers do not respect snitches, they use them for information. Remember that.
11. Never burn bridges. Once you move on to another position or company, don't forget about important contacts. Keep in touch with managers and others who have helped you along the way. Even when resigning, give a notice out of courtesy, it will be remembered. You always want to be able to comfortably place a good reference on your application without fear.
12. Ask for feedback. Don't wait until your review time to get feedback. Show independence in your daily tasks, but occasionally check in to see if there are areas of improvement they feel you can work on. If you get a good bill of health, ask for more responsibilities or share ambitions for advancement. Tell your boss you admire their journey and ask for their tips.
13. Don't care too much. What I mean is that do not waste time or energy getting upset about a decision you don't agree with. If you are not in a position to change anything, do what you've been instructed to do and keep it moving. Your goal is be supportive and cooperative, not to be combative. If you are able to bring up points, do so respectfully, but back off if you sense you can't change things. Remember, it's not your decision, it's not your mistake, and you're not accountable.
14. Become aware of your online presence. If you like to cuss and fuss on your Facebook and Twitter, I strongly suggest you make your page private. Avoid adding coworkers or place strong privacy filters for them. I can almost guarantee HR will scope out your e-life and it will have a great influence on your professional life. True story: A friend of mine interviewed a young woman for a position. She aced the interview and everyone liked her...until. They looked up her Facebook and she had booty-tooting bathroom pics up and was talking reckless. They passed on offering her the job. That's all I'm going to say about that.
What are your other tips? How did you advance?
2 comments:
Thanks this helps me out soooooo much. I am already acing your list. I could work on number 12 though. I sit right next to my boss;(I am training her with student lending); so I'm going to take advantage of #12 during our small talk. I'm also getting ready to train about 20 people including 2 managers and a coach on student lending. Honestly I think my issue could be some of the wording in my resume. Now I'm off to google myself to see what comes up. I try to remain cautious and choose my words carefully online. Annitra01 aka Lulu
That's awesome! Definitely use the close access you have to your boss to your advantage. Be Pleasant Patty all day everyday. :-) That sounds like it can be an excellent addition to your skill set.
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