If 
you are looking to move up in your career field then you know there is more to a job then just doing your work. You have to make a good impression on your boss so they can see you are capable of handling more responsibility and deserve that promotion or seat at the table. However, you don’t want to come across as sucking up to the boss, that won’t go over well. The impression you make on your boss can also impact whether or not you are the one they let go if there is a need for budget cuts. So how can you make a good impression? Glad you asked! Start by being a productive, valuable member of the team. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Initiative. Be aware of trends that may impact the organization. Identify needs and propose solutions before anyone asks you to look into a situation. Take on assignments that know one else wants to do. In doing so, you will not only show your initiative, but the desire to stay relevant and commitment to the success of the organization.
Accountability. Hold yourself accountable, especially when it comes to the little things we often overlook. Don’t be late for work. If you are always arriving ten, fifteen minutes late people will notice. Strive to arrive at least fifteen minutes early and when possible, arrive before the boss gets there. If you are supposed to be at a meeting at a certain time, do not be the one walking in right when the meeting is supposed to start. Make a mess in the break room? Clean it up! Assume responsibility for your actions. Be prepared to explain your decisions and accept the consequences.
Continuous learning. Take advantage of opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. Sign up for webinars, teleseminars or workshops that keep you in the know for your industry. Look for opportunities that will enhance your leadership skills. Learn what I call and teach are the power skills needed to be successful in any organization. These are skills such as time management, emotional intelligence, communication, etc.
Deliver results. Have you heard the saying, “Over promise and over deliver”? If you really want to stand out, that’s what you need to do. Meet deadlines, if possible turn in assignments before the deadline, and exceed expectations. Develop a reputation for high quality performance. Your boss’s confidence in you will grow as you prove that you can work independently and deliver results.
Drama free zone. Leave the personal problems outside of the office. In other words, keep your personal life personal. Do not spend hours on the phone talking to or emailing friends or family. Try not to blame poor performance in personal problems. Yes, personal problems can impact performance but your boss won’t want to hear that. Learn to separate the two so it does not hinder your reputation. If emergency arrives attend to it as an emergency but not everyday should be an emergency.
Starting with these few things can begin to shift the perception your boss and co-workers have of you. You will earn their trust and they will begin to give you more responsibility and consider you for opportunities when they become available. If you find yourself needing assistance on how to address the challenges of the office environment, consider working with a career coach or joining a inner circle group coaching program, such as the Infinity Coaching Inner Circle, that can assist in these areas. Feel free to email me at cowens@infinitycoaching.net with any questions you may have. Until next time, here’s to your success!
