TIPS FOR SUCCESS AT WORK!!

Tips for Success at Work
Current mood: contemplative
Category: Jobs, Work, Careers
In light of the challenging economic times we are facing, as well as senseless "issues" which are coming up at my job in particular, I feel it is a good time to point out tips to aid in success on the job to keep yourself on the job. I write this while thinking of times of hardship (layoffs, plant shutdowns, office politics leading to my own resignation, and sexual harrassment) I've come across over the past 9 years I've been working in my career as a scientist.

We need to take control of our careers to keep from finding ourselves one of the many faceless resumes flooding hiring managers' offices. Now, more than ever before, is the time to get serious about what you're doing! Communication and professionalism is the key.

1. Your attitude determines how far you'll go. Don't ever get yourself in a situation where people assume you "don't care". Bring enthusiasm. Be a person people look forward to seeing walk up. Time to time, check yourself. Always keep your humility! No one knows it all. Don't just say "I don't know." Go and find out!

2. Instead of communicating problems to management, focus on communicating solutions.

3. Always keep track of your performance, and if possible, place it on display. This will help others (coworkers and management) see that you are serious about your projects . It's also a nice wake up call for yourself.

4. Food definately works when trying to win allies and influence people!! Keep a bowl of pretzels or candy on your desk. You can also bring in food (breakfast chicken biscuits are a hit!) in the mornings. Invite people by for a break, you'll be surprised how quickly you cement your place in the company!

5. Never (NEVER) communicate negativity via email! Pick up the phone or set up a face to face. Only use email for positive messages! If you receive a negative email or someone tries to suck you into some fiery debate in your inbox, call them directly. Learned this one the hard way...

6. Look one level above the part. Even if you wear jeans on a regular basis to work, make sure you present yourself in such a way to show pride in what you represent. Coming to work in your pajamas with bedhead screams "I don't care!"

7. Show yourself to be a consistantly credible person of integrity. Walk it like you talk it. Set personal expectations and meet or better yet, beat them. Before you know it, you will be integral to your organisation's success! Be a go-to person! Take accountability and learn from mistakes.

8. Always look busy! Avoid a lot of idle chatter. Stopping by someone's office for a short break is fine, but keep it moving. People will thank you for valuing their time.

9. During down time, instead of surfing the net, get up and find a way to be productive. They hired you, you obviously have some marketable talent, put it to use!

10. Always be on time! This should go without saying. It is also good to be early because you can envision what you want to get out of the day.

There are more tips and please feel free to add to this list!