Walking the line between best and worst practice in terms of career growth is a very fine one. Some people try too hard while others don’t try hard enough. Here are some tips on getting the balance right.
When it comes to the workplace, good relationships are often as important as being good at what you do. It’s not uncommon for some to become so involved in excelling and surpassing, they fail to realise they’re neglecting the human element which exists in all industries.
Some may deny it, but it’s largely true that being liked as a person has significant relevance to your success as an employee. Put it this way, if you are disliked because you’re anti-social, unhelpful, rude or perhaps cocky or arrogant, people will very quickly know about it.
You might be brilliant at your job and smarter than all your colleagues put together, but if the questionable reputation of your personality precedes you, you don’t stand a chance.
However, before you head out and start trying to become besties with the boss, remember the keyword balance.
First of all, it’s important to be liked for the right reasons such as warm greetings, a friendly smile, occasional banter and willingness to help, and learn from, your colleagues. Baking the boss his or her favourite treats, brown nosing and boasting every chance you get are a sure fire way to get on others’ nerves and an indication you’ve gone overboard.
Of course, vital to the recipe of ‘please like me’ is being a decent employee. Popularity will actually get you nowhere if you don’t have your work ethic also in check.
Some employees become so caught up in the social aspect of the workplace they start neglecting their positions, taking liberties and becoming lazy and careless.
So again, that keyword is balance. In addition to being great at what you do, you’ll need diligence, punctuality and a strong work ethic.
If you can combine these things with maintaining healthy public relations, you are well on the way to career growth. Just remember not to go too far in any given direction.