Have you ever not gotten a promotion and wondered what you could have done differently or what the person who received the promotion had that you didn’t? More than likely, they stood out among the crowd because they exceeded expectations on a daily basis and always gave a little extra. If you continually show commitment to go above and beyond your job description, the impact is significant.
Here are five simple characteristics to incorporate in taking yourself from merely meeting expectations to exemplifying exceptional behavior by standing out and landing your next promotion:
Self-Motivation
Self-motivation is key; you must motivate yourself on a daily basis to succeed. Always say to yourself, “I will be better and do better than the day before.” If you are in a position where you have to set appointments, make it a daily competition with yourself. If you set 15 appointments one day, tell yourself you are going to set 20 the next. Additionally, give 100 percent (no less) in everything that you do. Even if the task is small and easy, give your full effort and the outcome will surprise you.
Team Player
Be a team player in all aspects of work. Participate in company events, team bonding and employee engagement activities with a positive mindset. Encourage collaboration among your co-workers with an enthusiastic attitude. This shows your boss that you work well with others and are committed to the growth of your team and company.
Volunteer
One of the best ways to stand out is to volunteer. Getting involved in your community is a wonderful way to exemplify your dedication to helping others. Invite individuals throughout your company to join you as well. This is a great way to grow and bond with co-workers outside of work while assisting others in need.
Innovate
Steve Jobs once said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” To stand out and grow personally and professionally, we must be open to accepting change and offering our own ideas on how to create change. If you want to see and make a difference, you have to be willing to do something that has never been done.
Professional Development
A huge portion of standing out is dedication to your own professional development. One easy way to begin your journey of professional development is to always dress for the job you want, not the job you have. This minor difference will change the way people perceive you in a major way. Walking into a room looking prepared and sophisticated definitely will catch everyone’s attention. Additionally, focus on attending leadership trainings and joining professional groups/clubs. What better way to demonstrate your commitment to professional development than participating in extracurricular activities that involve growing as a professional?
What’s funny is that for so long, we continually try to fit in, and then as we grow up, we realize that it is more important to stand-out. We should have listened to Dr. Seuss when he wrote, “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?”
Succeeding throughout your career is a journey and, if taken seriously with commitment and dedication, it will pay off tremendously in the end. Chances are you’re already on the road to success, but incorporating some of the characteristics above will be highly beneficial no matter how small they may seem. Remember, sometimes the littlest things have the greatest impact.
