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7 Steps to Success
The preparation for that session got me thinking that what has helped me, may be helpful to others so here are my 7 steps to career success.
1. Play to your strengths. Know your strengths and how your strengths have contributed to your success. Your strengths are the reason people like working with you, the reason your boss gives you particular roles/challenges and they also underpin your greatest achievements. When you are in an environment where you can play to your strengths, work doesn’t feel like work. My experience is that people have difficulty understanding and appreciating their strengths – ask those close to you, they know.
2. Value your cheer squad. We all have one but we don’t always value it the way we should. Know who are your biggest supporters, trusted advisers and constructive critics. Be aware that not everyone close to you can be these things. And make sure you support your supporters – remember, it not all about you.
3. Have a professional network. Build your network throughout your career and support others in your network. Engage with people in your network in a genuine way that fosters mutual benefit. Your network is not for pursuing your self-interest. And you don’t need hundreds of LinkedIn connections or to exchange the most business cards at a networking function. Look for a mutual connection, a purpose, and/or a next step to pursue.
4. Build a positive reputation. Your reputation is the result of the things you value as demonstrated by your behaviour. People connect with you based on your reputation. Your reputation is built progressively over your career and can be adversely impacted by one inconsistent action. Protect it.
5. Know what you want from your career. Sometimes it is easier to start with what you don’t want – that is OK as long as it helps you articulate the other side of the ledger. Remind yourself of your wants on a regular basis.
6. Keep pace with technology. Your professional productivity will be greatly enhanced if you make a conscious effort here. Also, professional marketing is very much based on social media so take steps to ensure you don’t get left behind.
7. Be proactive. Waiting for others to decide your future is very un-empowering and frustrating. Take charge.
Apply some effort to these steps and I am sure you and others will notice the difference.