I was recently asked by a GenY-oriented magazine on my tips to young women looking to advance their career. Here is some of what I shared about what will get you noticed (for better or worse) at work.
Five things you can do that are guaranteed to (positively) get the attention of your boss.
- Do your homework. Today, to keep up in a competitive work environment, you may need to spend time (your own time) improving your skills. Are you reading books, researching online, listening to podcasts or attending courses that improve your skills and add value to the organisation? The more skilled you are, the more options you’ll have available to you.
- Play a big game. Most organisations are looking to improve their results in some area. This is your opportunity to play a bigger game than that outlined in your job description. See an opportunity for the business to do better? Ask to be involved with projects that will help you grow. You’ll learn, grow and add value at the same time.
- Be responsible. Responsibility means doing what you say you’ll do, by when you say you’ll do it. Small (and large) promises made and kept build trust. This includes being on time for work and for deadlines, but it also means knowing when your heart is no longer in a role and it’s time to move on (responsibly).
- Give it your best. Even if you are new in a role and on a steep learning curve, show that you’re really trying. And, know that not everything you do at work is going to be ‘exciting’. Running a business involves many tasks that aren’t glamorous, but they are important. Anything done well is a feather in your career cap. Ask questions, seek answers and make an effort that makes you proud.
- And then give a little more. Err on the side of being generous with your colleagues and with the organisation. Give ideas, suggest solutions and think ‘big picture’ – not just about your domain.
Mistakes that may hurt your career prospects (and just peg you as a problem).
- Don’t treat the boss like the enemy. They are rarely out to get you or to see you fail. Their success depends, in part, on your success. They’re not your friend either. Seek to have a real relationship based on respect and collaboration.
- Lying. This one shouldn’t need explanation, but pretending you’re working when you’re not, calling in sick when you are not or misusing company resources is not only reason to be fired, but really shouldn’t be tolerated by any employer. Lying can take many shapes, none of which are going to see you benefit long term.
- Grow up. You boss is not your parent. So, stop acting like a self-absorbed brat and blaming the company or your boss if your job or career is not working out. Set yourself career goals and then take action towards getting those goals.
- Me, Me, Me. Bosses are regular people, with challenges, feelings and aspirations. Often they want the same things you do – an enjoyable and rewarding time at work and opportunities to learn and grow. So, while you’re looking for pats on the back, give them the occasional acknowledgement when it’s due. It’ll go a long way.
- Burning your bridges. When it’s time to go, do so responsibly. No employer expects you to be with the company forever. A surprise resignation doesn’t ever go down well. When you speak up ahead of time and let someone know that you’re looking to move on, you stand to maintain a relationship that could come in handy later in your career.
Last month I was reconnected with a team of people I worked with 25 (yes, 25) years ago. We had so many good times together and many of us lost touch. It was great to remember some of those shared experiences. Many of us will work with a very diverse group of bosses and with many cohorts over our career. Use your time with any employer to have a good exchange of skills building and experience for you and productivity and advancement for the company.
