As part of my organization’s graduate program, a variety of
speakers were brought in to help us succeed in our roles. The list below was
given to us by one of the speakers. Please only use it as a starting point for
reflection and remember that it’s just one person’s point of
view.
Visualize working in business as a game and these are the
rules…
1. Never ever
take it personally
If it hasn't happened already, you are going to encounter
criticism throughout your career and you'll need to find a way to learn from it.
I respond by trying to separate my self-worth
from my skills and performance. If I were told that I have horrible management
skills, then that’s just an area for improvement and not a reflection on me as
a human.
2. Nothing beats sheer
competence
This one is reasonably self explanatory and a key driver of building your personal brand.
3. Lower your
expectations of leadership
Leaders are just people who use their skills and experience to
try and figure out how best to succeed.
When I first started in the corporate world, I thought that
the senior leaders were smarter and wiser than the average employee... hence
their seniority. In some instances this might be true, but in most instances
leaders are in positions of power due to a combination of desire and fortune.
Setting realistic expectations of leaders will help you to
understand why they make certain decisions and how you can add value.
4. The game is not
fair
The leaders of public, for profit companies are legally
required to act in the best interest of their shareholders, which can sometimes
be at odds to the best interests of their current staff members.
It’s worth remembering that the rules of the game will
change based on many things outside of the organization (competitors, industry,
government etc.), but you will still be held accountable.
5. It’s what
you know, who you know and who knows you
6. You always have a
choice (including the way you think)
This statement applies to so much more than just business.
How do you respond to the opportunities and challenges in your life?
7. Remember that all business
is a game
I find it useful to keep business in perspective; it’s one
aspect of your life, along with many others.
8. You get what you
settle for
Although connected to goals and motivation, I don’t
entirely agree with this one as I feel that the speaker intentionally chose
wording to generate an emotional response from the audience.
9. Remember to enjoy
it
I love this concept and try to apply it in all the elements of
my life.
10. Make your own
rules.
If you can find a way to improve business, or the above list for that matter, then seek approval and go do it...especially if you can involve others in the process!