You probably are aware already that hard work pays off. However, have you ever felt that your hard work has meant being taken advantage of or you are still passed up for various opportunities? Well, translating that hard work into a situation where you are valued, respected and taken seriously takes a little more thought.
Think before speaking.
In conversations with co-workers and employers, listen very carefully to their opinions and ideas before responding. If you need time to consider it, say so. Avoid allowing emotion to dictate your response. Formulate a response that respects their ideas, provides constructive criticism where merited and acknowledges their strengths.
If you are asked to answer a question, listen carefully to what is being asked of you and don’t be afraid to ask for time (as the situation may allow) to respond. On team efforts, don’t speak about other team members behind their back or in a discouraging way.
Do your research
If you do not know what you are talking about and have not bothered to try to learn it – then forget it. You will never be taken seriously and will almost certainly be overlooked for any opportunity. If you are bringing a suggestion forth, explain how this will benefit the workplace or the business and offer examples of your research. This applies equally well to issues of staff relations as it does to issues of business relations.
Don’t be afraid.
Face up to your problems in the workplace. If you screw up, deal with it immediately. Bring it to the attention of your boss or supervisor. Explain the origin of the problem but take responsibility directly. Do not attempt to deflect the blame onto others if it is your fault. What people do not realize is that facing problems head on earns respect fast. Even if the error was so substantial as to merit termination of employment, your employer will be more likely to offer a positive, respectful reference than if you tried to hide the problem and were caught.
Don’t kiss ass
We all know these guys and they are the talk of the office. They stick out like a sore thumb and rarely get very far. Respect your employer but don’t patronize them. If you are over-worked or working to a deadline, explain that to them if asked to take on something else that will interfere. Ask for priorities and deadlines and be prepared to explain why such demands cannot be met, if they cannot be met. Recognize the difference between occasional demands, which are acceptable, and ongoing, constant demands. If you try to accommodate every whim under the guise of hard-work, you will soon find that you are being taken advantage of. Employers do not promote people who allow themselves to be taken advantage of.
Represent your employer.
At events, seminars, meetings, functions, etc., don’t disparage your employer publicly. Be well spoken and respectful. Talk about the things you like about the company and the positive things the company is doing and, where appropriate, plans on doing.
Look your best too. Always dress appropriately and, err on the side of conservative, if unsure. Be clean, neat, organized and hygienic.
Acknowledge
Don’t take credit for work done by others. Acknowledge everyone’s contribution to a project or idea. Send an email specifically crediting the work of others to your supervisor, boss or co-workers. Let everyone know that you appreciate and respect the work of others.
Conversely, if you have a problem with another co-worker, don’t advertise it or discuss with others. Always approach the individual directly first and explain the problem. If you feel uncomfortable about it – explain that to them as well but also explain that you would prefer to discuss it with them first directly to avoid any unnecessary escalation of the matter.
Respect yourself and respect others and you will find that your value to the company will rise exponentially.
