Success is defined as the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. When it comes to your career, what factors lead to success? Is it education? Hard work? Or could it be luck? There are too many factors to talk about, so here are my top six.
1. Keep your word.
If you say you are going to do something, do it. People will remember your integrity no matter how big or small the commitment. Make your deadlines, keep your promises. Under-promise and over-deliver. This is number one for a reason.
2. Dress for success.
While dress codes have changed over the years, and are now less predictable than the traditional suit and tie, there are still some rules to follow regardless of the norms at your office. Whether it is a formal environment or a casual environment, you can still dress professionally. Here are some general rules to follow. Don’t show too much skin — this includes fashionable holes in pants or sheer clothing. Brush your hair. Wear shoes, not slippers, and don’t wear pajamas. Make sure your clothes are clean and not wrinkled. You should dress for the job you want, not for the job you have.
3. Say Yes.
It may be cheesy, but did you ever see the movie Yes Man with Jim Carrey? Things were not going his way until he went to a seminar and began saying Yes to literally everything. You do not have to go that far, but the more you know about your position and your department and your organization, the more valuable you are. So, say Yes to projects and teams that may not seem like they’re up your alley. It will increase your network and could increase your promotion potential.
4. Learn more.
This does not mean you have to go back to school and get another degree. You can learn more and open your perspectives by listening to podcasts, watching YouTube videos, reading books and magazines, joining a professional organization, and seeking a certification. There is much information available at your fingertips — find what interests you that also expands your horizons.
5. Meet people — network.
Most successful people have a large network. Get to know people in your field and outside of your field. This is easier than it sounds. You really just have to get out of your physical or virtual office and meet other people. Within your organization, this could be as simple as walking down the hall and popping into someone’s office or making conversation with someone in the break room. Outside of your organization, attend professional meetings or webinars. Be engaged in the conversation. Growing your network could lead to the next opportunity or simply build your resources for your current position.
6. Be flexible.
I sometimes feel like this is the most important. Not every situation is going to end in your favor. There are jobs you are not going to get, and there are promotions that are going to go to someone you feel is less qualified. Keep in mind that advancement does not always mean promotion. Lateral moves can be just as important. Sometimes the next opportunity comes in a hidden form.
Always remember that success comes in many forms. The proverbial corporate ladder is not as straight as it used to be. Define what your version of success looks like, and then go for it.
