What No One Tells You About Work (10 Tips to Succeed)

For many of us, landing our first “real” job is the result of a big investment. Whether we have spent thousands on a college education or we spent years working our way to the position we desire, being happy and engaged at work is a life-long goal. It isn’t enough to simply land the job you want. We have to grow as employees and as professionals to feel fulfilled and earn promotions.

10 Tips to Succeed at Work

1. Be a problem solver

Employees can readily identify “problems”. But problems don’t offer solutions. Prior to going to your boss to share an issue, think of a few solutions of how to address, and keep in mind to consider the cost of those solutions. Do research as to what other companies are doing, research the costs of your solution. Why? You will earn their respect by presenting options and showing that you were diligent enough to consider the big picture.

2. Don’t always ask for a raise, earn it!

Frequently employees will ask for a raise because of personal finances without ever tying the request to performance outcomes or value to the organization. By putting forth the effort prior to asking for a raise and being able to show why a raise is reasonable, this shows you have earned it. Keep in mind, sometimes the budget simply isn’t there and that is not a personal reflection on you.

3. Accept criticisms

While I can’t predict how a criticism may be delivered, you will be viewed as more of a loyal employee and a team player if you accept the criticism and immediately offer a way for you to improve. Why? While on the one hand this may invite more feedback, it will also help you grow and develop into a more valuable team member.

4. Accept blame, maybe even when you are not at fault

Finger-pointers are rarely promoted nor valued; they can be viewed as difficult employees. It is always better to accept responsibility than to blame others. Why? It can diffuse the anger, it can help you succeed!

5. Accept additional responsibilities with a smile and eagerness

In today’s world many hats are worn by everyone, the more responsibilities you have, the more valuable you are. Why? When people are true team players, sometimes we just have to do what it takes to get the job done.

6. Share information!

So many times I see people hoard information, as if they are protecting their job. The reality is, people who share become more valuable. Why? Sharers are teachers, motivators and people who are willing to give versus only take.

7. Never let your boss be blindsided

This is different than sharing information and accepting responsibility; there are times when you must tell your boss about a mistake or an issue with a customer, so when they receive the information from someone else, the boss can cover for you or smooth the issue over. Why? Sometimes the issue is not yours, but for the boss to know about it prior to learning from someone else, it looks like the right hand knows what the left hand is doing.

8. Prioritize and meet deadlines

The ability to prioritize and meet deadlines is critical. Be good at asking, when is this due, when do you need it and negotiate then if you know you may be pressed for time. I have put undue pressure on myself making up self-imposed deadlines, when the project didn’t need attention for several more days. Why? Things won’t fall through the cracks.

9. Make your boss look good!

Understand your boss’ goals and objectives not only for them but for you also, work hard to meet and exceed those; be the first to ask, is there something I can do for you today!! Why? Who wouldn’t want to be the bosses right hand!

10. Honor commitments

If you say you will do something, do it and do it on time! Why? You earn trust and respect!

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Kristin Scott

President at Scott Human Resources

Your enthusiastic HR expert! After more than 20 years in the human resource industry, Kristin is motivated by providing real solutions for HR challenges and building relationships that last.

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