There are categorically no secrets and no certainly no short cuts in working your way to success in your career, and anyone who promises otherwise is a liar. So insists veteran career coach Ramon Greenwood of CommonSenseAtWork.com
Greenwood is fed up with those ubiquitous online ads and email solicitations, guaranteeing, in return for a small financial outlay, such enviable accomplishments as being able to “radiate magnetic charm and command the balance of power in every situation” or becoming “an expert persuader in 20 days or less.”
Baloney, he says, and doubtlessly he would say no different even if the advertisers would reduce their exaggerated claims by 50%.
In the latest issue of his popular free e-newsletter The Career Accelerator© (well worth signing up for -it’s free), Greenwood decries a myth that abounds in today’s workplaces: the credo that everyone is entitled to the rewards of success. The world of work simply doesn’t work that way, he stresses. The only way to be reasonably sure of reaping such rewards is to work for organizations that provide opportunities and recognize effort and results. (Even then, there are no guarantees, as he goes on to explain.)
Another myth that flies in the face of reality is one asserting that the workplace is a democracy.
“Not so. Organizations cannot be successfully run by committees of equals where the majority rules. Organizations that survive and prosper require a chain of command at the top of which sits someone who is empowered to make decisions. Successful organizations are meritocracies, systems in which winners emerge and are moved ahead on the basis of their achievements..”
Further, “one of the cruelest myths of all is that organizations are warm and cozy places that provide security. If you believe that myth you are exposing yourself to disappointment. Security occurs only when you have prepared, planned and worked hard so you can have confidence in your ability. Security comes when your employer needs you more than you need him. Security comes when you have options.
“A companion myth is that your boss is your friend. Your boss is your boss. You cannot rely on friendships for lasting, fulfilling success. The way to maintain a positive relationship with your boss and enhance your opportunities is to excel at your job, make him look good.”
In other words, you cannot assume that your accomplishments speak for themselves and you will as a matter of course be rewarded accordingly. if you believe this is the case, you have fallen victim to another myth!
“The recipe for success is simple”, Greewood concludes “Achieve results that pay off for your employer; make sure your employer knows what you have accomplished that contributes to his bottom line. Only then will you be rewarded for your true worth.”
Bottom line: no need to fall prey to despair and conclude that success is beyond your grasp. It is within your reach! The real secrets are hard work, initiative and patience.
And common sense. Just a pity that’s not a little more common!
No Comment
Recent Post
Leave Your Comments Below