Missed Promotion?
Have you ever been passed on a promotion and wondered what you could have done differently, or what your recently promoted colleague had that you didn’t? The answer very well may be that 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 could be significant.
Here are five simple characteristics to elevate yourself from just meeting expectations to exemplifying exceptional behavior and secure that next promotion:
Self-Motivation
Self-motivation is key. In order to succeed, you must motivate yourself on a daily basis. Adopt a personal mantra, “I will be better and do better than the day before.” Consider implementing daily competitions with yourself. For example, if you set 15 appointments today, then challenge yourself to set 20 tomorrow. Additionally, give no less than 100 percent in everything that you do. Even if the task is small and easy, give your full effort and the outcome may surprise you.
Team Player
Be a team player in the office. Participate in company events and employee engagement activities with a positive mindset. Encourage collaboration among your co-workers with an enthusiastic attitude. Your outlook 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 set yourself apart is by volunteering your time. Getting involved in your community is a wonderful way to exemplify your dedication to helping others. Invite your colleagues to participate as well. Donating your time to a community cause is a great way to grow and bond with co-workers outside the office while investing in your community.
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 about the ways to change. If you want to see and make a difference, you have to be willing to make it happen.
Professional Development
An easy way to begin your professional development journey is to consistently dress for the job you want, not for the job you have. This minor difference changes how you are perceived. Walking into a room looking prepared and sophisticated will definitely grab attention. In addition to dressing for success, attend leadership trainings and join professional groups. What better way to demonstrate your commitment to professional development than by participating in extracurricular activities that involve professional growth?
For most of us, we’ve spent much of our formative years trying to fit in and then as we mature, we realize it is more important to stand-out. In the words of our old friend Dr. Seuss, “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?”
Achieving career success is a journey. Chances are you are already on the path to victory and incorporating these five characteristics will be beneficial, no matter how small and simple they may seem. Remember, sometimes the littlest things have the greatest impact.
Original artwork by Katie Moorhead