Getting ahead in your career takes more than doing a decent job or holding steady in whatever role you have. If you want to have a bright career, you will have to do better than just being a safe pair of hands. You’ll need to be steps ahead of what’s expected of you and that takes more than skills and hard work.
Speed:
Demonstrate speed in getting results, in cutting through complexity, in transitioning new roles or settling into bigger responsibilities. line is many Always think ahead.
Wisdom:
We are fed with a lot of information these days. Learn to make good decisions even when you don’t have all details you require. Don’t operate on the basis of assumptions, speculation or your own opinions or interpret behaviours of colleagues.
Initiative:
Seize opportunities and stay ahead of problems. Show initiative to improve things. Show you are dependable and that you are a self starter who gets things done without anyone standing over your shoulder.
Talent:
The mark of a good professional is one who brings something concrete to a role but also has room to grow. Don’t be limited by the boundaries of job specifications. Bring not just your skills, but your energy, passion, your common sense and be relentless in your quest for excellence.
Character:
Performance alone is not enough. Diligence and integrity are key. Don’t do anything that will undermine your credibility. Face difficulties and challenges squarely, be gracious to your colleagues and have course to act even when you are caught between a rock and a hard place. Be reasonable in your interactions with others.
Heart:
You can never really do your best unless you care about what you are doing and the difference it will make. Working with heart means you don’t give up despite challenges; you go the extra mile because your take pride in you work.
Now take action:
Where in your career do you need to go one gear up?
