Business General Business How to Be Your Own Man in a Competitive Office
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How to Be Your Own Man in a Competitive Office |
| Written by Tom Fowler |
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The meek may inherit the earth, but timidity will not gain you much in the workplace, especially if you have an assertive and dynamic supervisor. Here, we will discuss how to be your own man – or woman – at work, yet still be a valued team member . Things you will need: Self confidence Competence in your profession Good judgment Step 1. Be confident. You probably work in a group where some of your co-workers are confident and/or assertive, others not. It is those who are in command of themselves and good at what they do that you are competing against. Be one of those. With effort and discipline, you can do it. Step 2. Knowledge is power, they say. It is also the fastest and surest way to self assurance and confidence. Learn all you can, as quickly as you can, about your profession and the company you work for. Step 3. Respect the boss, but do not let him/her think you are intimidated or uncomfortable with him in any way. Do not be afraid to say no at the proper time. General of the Army Douglas MacArthur believed that it is the orders you disobey that take you the farthest. What he didn’t say is that it is the wisdom and discernment, (or lack of it), you show when saying no that will impress the boss – for good or bad. Step 4. Be respectful but display professional confidence with co-workers – especially the type A personality types. It is not a good idea to be overly deferential to peers. This sends the wrong message and creates problems you do not need. Step 5. Get the office on your side. If you are capable, competent and have everyone’s respect, both higher management and your peers will be disposed to give you the benefit of the doubt in situations requiring a judgment call. It is much easier to be your own man when you have earned your stripes than when people doubt you. Step 6. Summing up: it is much easier to be your own man in the office after you have proven your worthiness. Work to earn this respect and do not hesitate to claim your “place at the table.” Tips: From step 4. It is possible to become friends with co-workers – desirable even. However, some people will react negatively to attempts at chumminess. Choose your friends wisely. From step 5. The boss is much more likely to let you have your way if you have his/her respect. If not, everything you wish to do will be questioned. Warnings: From step 1. Be confident but not cocky. Do not let the boss think that you feel he/she is beneath you psychologically. If you do, you may be the next person added to the surplus list. From step 3. Know when to say no. If your judgment is wrong, you could seriously damage your relationship with the boss – and your career by extension.
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