What makes you successful?
Sure, there are technical competencies that help you shine in your industry. There are certainly significant behaviors and traits that support you as you craft a rewarding and meaningful career. It is often the basics that trip you up.
There are a few fundamentals that every professional should master. These basics, once cultivated and matured, end up influencing your career more than you would imagine. When you strengthen crucial skills, you increase your chance for success.
What do professionals really need to master?
A Strong Opener
“What do you do for a living?” “Tell me about yourself.”
Questions like these seem simple enough, but how many times do you stumble when asked? Think about your conversation opener as your elevator pitch or your personal 30-second TV ad. It is your opportunity to let people know who you are in such a compelling manner that it leaves them wanting to know more about you. Having a strong opener exudes confidence. Whether you are searching for a new job, entering a new business deal, or gunning for a promotion, you’ll need the confidence to sell what you have to offer.
Tip: Keep your opener short and succinct. Long stories at this juncture are not what people want to hear. People will tune out before they get to know you if your story lasts too long. Two to three sentences are all you need. Most of all, don’t be afraid to practice your opener until you feel confident, comfortable, and the words flow naturally.
understand Your Core Values
Many opportunities will come your way in life. Some will be amazing. Some will sound amazing. Know yourself well enough to distinguish between the two. Don’t invest energy with opportunities that are not aligned with your core values.
Tip: Learn to weed out what will make you miserable. For example, if you value a team atmosphere, you may want to think twice about accepting a position as a salesperson in a highly-individualized environment. If you thrive in a collaborative setting and the position you are offered is geared toward individualism, that role may be in direct conflict with your values. How long will you be happy?
Your Online Presence and Brand
Job seekers make the mistake of thinking that first impressions are made in-person. In today’s world, first impressions are made online. It is what shows up in Google and on your social media profiles. Your personal brand shouldn’t be haphazard; it should be intentional. Make a mindful decision about how you want to be perceived by others and decide how you will get there.
Tip: Your profile should tell your story, the way you want people to know it.
Making a Great First Impression
Did you know that studies show that it only takes seconds for someone to decide if you’re trustworthy and competent? It also takes a while for first impressions to change or to undo a negative first impression. This means that people decide if they like you before you’ve said anything beyond your initial introduction. You’re right. That’s not fair, but it’s what happens.
Tip: Learn to master the art of the first impression because it puts you in control of the flow. You have the upper hand.
The Art of Negotiation
Negotiations go beyond salary negotiations. Throughout your career, you may have to negotiate responsibilities, deadlines, new projects, and even contracts. This makes negotiation skills paramount. In many cases, it may the only way you will get what you want and deserve.
Tip: Here’s my best tip for a salary negotiation. Before you interview, do your research. Understand the industry. Know what’s non-negotiable. In an interview, you will most likely be asked about the salary range you are seeking. Here’s the tip: Give your number and then stop talking. There may be a pause by the interviewer or uncomfortable silence. Do not start talking to fill in the silence. That’s where people get into trouble. They start rationalizing their figure. After you’ve given your number, the ball is in their court for the next steps.
Your career is not something that happens overnight. It is a cumulative process. It will take time to foster, nurture, and cultivate. It’s challenging work and filled with trial and error. But, when you master these skills, it makes things much easier.
