How to Succeed in the Workplace

You have been successful in your job to this point. You may have even won a few promotions, or pay rises along the way, but can it continue? What sets you apart from everyone else? The following tactics in the workplace may just assist you in moving up the corporate ladder:

People Pleaser: take on the jobs that no one else in the office wants. Volunteer to do some of those "not so nice" jobs that everyone else rejects. Not only does this display your enthusiasm for your work, but it also shows that you are not afraid to get your hands dirty ... you may even learn something at the same time;

Ask questions: the dumbest question is the one that wasn't asked. As you become used to your new role and learn new experiences, it is important that you ask questions along the way, seek clarification, obtain advice and opinions and never make a tough decision without the confirmation of a senior staff member, or manager;

Prioritiser: as you move up the ranks, filing, fixing broken photocopiers and stacking shelves is not good value for dollar ie: if the company is paying you a higher wage, they will expect a greater output and better return for their money. Learn to delegate. Prioritise the things that actually require your level of skill and expertise to achieve, and delegate the more mundane duties to a junior member of staff.

When delegating, remember to include a clear outline of the task, an approximate timeframe for completion and a thank you never goes astray. Also explain to the employee that by taking on these new responsibilities they will not only be assisting the company, but it will help them in their personal growth and career path ... and they may even lean something at the same time;

Problem Solver: you have come across a difficult task, or a question, or you just cannot find the jamb in the photocopier. Instead of going to your senior staff member, or manager with a problem, go with a solution. The solution may not work, but at least you have examined the problem, tried two or three solutions and found that you still cannot find the answer that works.

Such an approach shows initiative and enthusiasm, as opposed to a lazy, "can't be bothered" attitude. You are also more likely to get assistance, than if you are just trying to pass the problem on;

Decision Maker: as a senior member of the business, you have gained more insight, more confidence and more experience. However, asking too many questions, or obtaining too many opinions in a senior role can reflect a lack of confidence, or knowledge, which in turn, will make fellow employees and management feel uncomfortable and lack respect and confidence for and in you;

Before asking co-workers for their opinions on a particular subject, review the information for yourself, formulate a position and then deliver the question with "I have looked at the information and my opinion is ... what are your thoughts?", or "from the facts available I believe that ... what is your opinion?" Coming from this position displays a level of knowledge and wisdom and at the same time, exerts your authority;

Ideas Enhancer: as a junior of a business, suggesting ideas and improvements can show a level of enthusiasm and the ability to review things from a different perspective. However, as you move into leadership and management roles, suggesting improvements to another's idea, or project can be damaging to the originator. Suggesting improvements, or changes can take the credit away from the person who developed the idea and it can result in you appearing to take ownership.

As a good example, a fellow employee comes to you with an idea. You think it's a good idea, but instead of saying just that, you say "great idea, but it would be better if you ...". Imagine how you would feel! Not only have you now made the fellow employee feel dejected, may even offended, but you have also taken on the ownership of the idea. Your suggestion may have resulted in an improvement in the idea, but what have you achieved in the process? ... or even worse, what damage have you caused in the long term?

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