Job Success Strategies – Back to Basics

Ideas in this article are taken from Success strategies for tough times: How to stand up when the chips are down By Liz Bywater
Alex Dumotier, CFA, via The Motley Fool

 

No matter what business you’re in or what your job responsibilities are there has been no escaping the anxiety caused by the current state of the global economy. There's just no getting around it. Times are tough. And, while some recent news reports that the economy is improving, it will be a long road before the damages have been reversed. Yet there is opportunity for growth in the midst of these economic hard times. While it might go against intuition, success in difficult times calls for holding true to basic tenets of effective behavior. With the proper attitude and approach, you can indeed thrive in uncertain times. Here’s how:

Work as a team. Working together allows for faster progress and more creative solutions and an overall sense of pride in your collaborative efforts.

Be accountable. If you've made a commitment, stick to it. And while you're at it, hold those around you accountable, too.

Be supportive. When your coworker or report does something well, give him a well-deserved pat on the back. If he's uncertain and needs a little encouragement, offer it up

Share resources. Lean times can mean limited access to valued resources. The temptation might be to get what you can for yourself and your team, even if that means leaving others empty-handed. Yet sharing resources with others means they're far more likely to do the same for you.

Refresh yourself. Stressful times can take a profound toll on your physical and emotional well-being. Don't forget to take some time to refresh and reenergize yourself at regular intervals.

Be flexible. Challenging times call for flexibility and a willingness to do things differently. You may have to take on new responsibilities, modify your schedule, or work with a different set of people. Letting go of disappointment and being open to new opportunities will help you gain credibility as a resilient and cooperative team player.

Be positive. Even the worst of storms passes with time. Remaining optimistic, grounded, and focused on the future will help you weather the hard times and move bravely ahead.

Good luck.