Be yourself at all times, as you never know when a random encounter can develop into an opportunity. These opportunities could be personal or business related, but they often workout when least expected from random meetings and very casual conversations. Treat all those around you fairly, be positive and optimistic and keep living your life centered around who and what …
Say it with me: I don’t know
Saying that you don’t know something makes you human and that’s what we are best at being. Not having immediate answers to questions is OK as long as you go out to find the answers and follow up with those who have asked. Saying I don’t know builds your credibility as no one wants to be lied to and fed …
All teams need business sensibility and awareness
Whatever your functional area of expertise is you need to be aware and involved in supporting what your organization is all about. Simply performing your operational functions in isolation is no longer enough to be a valuable contributor. Additionally, by staying away from the organizational core function you are limiting yourself in access, contributions and ultimately career advancement.
Work shouldn’t be a prison sentence
Most of us will spend a third of each of our days (most of them at least) at work so you better make sure it’s not a place that brings out the worst out of you. You deserve to be happy, positive and enjoy what you do so focus on finding what you love and are passionate about, put a …
When the answer is no, provide alternatives
We have all been there, at times, you just have to say no. What happens next matters a lot more as it is up to you to understand the need at hand and provide valuable alternative solutions. If an organizational need (no matter how small it may seem to you at first) is not being addressed take a leadership role …
Build relationships and partnerships with vendors
Build relationships and partnerships with vendors providing services for your organization. No matter how large they may be they should never have an upper hand on your organization; you should work together towards a mutually beneficial relationship so don’t allow to be in a subservient position. Start your selection process by focusing on the needs of your organization, then research …
Focus on core competencies, outsource the rest
Perform a complete review of your operations and realign appropriately to ensure competitiveness, value and success. All business are doing things they shouldn’t and are not doing those which would bring them much needed value and quality. Focus your talent, people and effort into products and services you are good at, want to be better at and want to be …
Know your audience
Yes, it sounds like a cliche, but it is an extremely valuable piece of information as you advance through your career and have opportunities to work with people of different backgrounds, experience and knowledge. Make it about them, make your presentations and pitches make sense to them and bring them value.
Periodically reassess performance and customer service
It is extremely valuable to have a pulse on what is happening with your clients, your partners, your suppliers so that you can readjust and act accordingly. Knowing what they think and have experienced with you and your staff is of great value in moving forward and establishing trust in those relationships. This is why a periodic reassessment of both …
Speak now or forever hold your peace
When you get an opportunity to share your ideas and suggestions with the leadership of your organization, please do yourself a favor and speak up. If you are really good at something don’t you think others deserve to know that?