The attributes required to get the job you want, does not stop at skill or ability. While you are at the interview, you are being “checked out” too! And after you get the job and start working, being confident, positive, well-groomed and capable are the ‘ must haves’ to enjoying a fulfilling career. Together, these will help you move into the leadership position you are aiming for!
As part of the conversation on ‘Practical tips for professional excellence’ you need to start by focusing on self, getting healthy, both mentally and physically and balancing life across all areas that are important to you. This is your internal world.
Here are some quick ideas everybody ought to know about the ‘ Complete You at Work ’… your external world.
Confident
Being confident is not about simply talking too much or being a show off. This becomes a case of empty vessels, making more noise. Be sure of yourself, believe in yourself and your abilities, and if you are very sure open your mouth. Don’t open your mouth to profanity. Some industries have an image built around a loose tongue and a loose ponytail. Don’t be abusive of anyone or anything if there is no need to.
Positive
According to me, being and becoming positive is not about platitudes and affirmations. Don’t get me wrong, they could be useful, but not thinking negatively is important. Again, it’s not being Pollyanna in approach, but accepting the situation wholeheartedly and adapting to the situation in a pragmatic way and not being a defeatist. Your attitude will motivate your followers and you’ll be the most sought after leader.
Well-groomed
Ever wanted to tell your boss that he should have not had too much garlic and onion at lunch or felt like handing your colleague a bottle of cologne or deodorant? There are many articles in cyberspace on grooming and you should read them, but the ones you should never ever forget are:
- A breath mint must be on hand always;
- Use deodorant if not an expensive perfume
- Carry a handkerchief at all times (don’t sneeze into your palms)
- Don’t pick your nose; we don’t want to see you doing that!
- Keep your fingernails neat and trimmed
As a leader, it becomes your responsibility to organize grooming workshops for your teams. And start with yourself. Like Gandhiji said “Be the change that you wish to see in the world”
Capabilities
Aim for continuous self-improvement through continuous learning by furthering formal education, learning from colleagues, by reading widely and being open to constructive criticism. Develop your potential. What you are capable of, is more than what you think you can do.
Anne Frank said “How noble and good everyone could be if, every evening before falling asleep, they were to recall to their minds the events of the whole day and consider exactly what has been good and bad. Then, without realizing it, you try to improve yourself at the start of each new day.”
Lessons:-
- Be confident
- Be non- negative
- Be well-dressed and well-groomed
- Be enthusiastic about self-improvement