Business has changed dramatically over the last ten years – but good ‘new hire” impressions never will. The chance to be proactive impressions is still extremely important and can measurably advance your visibility and perhaps lead to a promotion! As a new employee in an organization – how do you impress management and get noticed?
Business Rule Number One – You committed to your current job and the duties that go with it; therefore, do every part of your job to the very best of your ability. Personally, I simply do not understand why people complain about their jobs. No one is forcing you to keep your job and frankly – you picked it. Therefore, do your job in the most superior manner possible. If done with passion, you are sure to get noticed and eventually the boss will hear about it. Enthusiasm, Attitude, and Commitment really do work!
Business Rule Number Two – If an opportunity presents itself or someone needs assistance, volunteer your services. I do not mean for tasks like getting lunch, but for projects, extra work, to stay late, to help the firm in any way. This will positively get you the recognition you seek. In addition, whenever possible do more than asked. If you were asked to create a presentation, create the presentation and write a sample introduction to accompany it. This is of great value to your boss.
Business Rule Number Three – Find ways to save the company money. Review marketing collateral, internal programs, existing marketing projects, mailers, and figure out how to make them better. Decrease unnecessary spending or increase revenue for the company. I have seen administrative level personnel do this for their firm and generate thousands of dollars in savings, as well as promotions for themselves.
Business Rule Number Four – Dress the way you wish to project yourself. Even in a business casual environment, you must dress professionally to get serious recognition from top executives. In my opinion, very few people are taken seriously in anything other than corporate attire. Did you know that less than 10% of graduates entering the workforce today dress professionally? That fact alone is worth bucking the system for and standing out!
Business Rule Number Five – Take any document or presentation that is used consistently at your firm and make it better. This will get you noticed and appreciated by management and let’s face it – you are most likely more tech savvy than your boss! Use your best assets and skills to showcase what you can do!
Business Rule Number Six – Be careful when using email and social media platforms. Watch how you represent yourself as it reflects on you and your firm. Also watch your grammar and spelling when emailing and writing in the workplace. I have found that people who are used to text messaging have carried abbreviations and slang words over to the workplace. Excellent grammar and proper punctuation will get you noticed as management is always impressed with good writing skills.
Business Rule Number Seven – Prior to leaving the office each day, ask your boss if there is anything else that you can do. As President of a busy firm, I can tell you that this comment is always greatly appreciated and should only be accepted if a real pressing issue was at hand.
Business Rule Number Eight – Keep your priorities straight at work and keep your personal life private. Interact with your work colleagues and don’t isolate yourself but keep it professional. Avoid office gossip, political games, and concern yourself with what is best for you in the long run. Be a listener, not a talker!
Business Rule Number Nine – If you are due for a promotion or there is an open opportunity that you are interested in, do not be afraid to ask. Showing interest in advancement is appropriate. You will only fail if you make no attempt at all.
Business Rule Number Ten – People who complain and offer no solution are a drain on everyone around them. Do not become the office whiner. If there is a problem that continues to crop up, think of a good solution and then bring the problem and solution together to your boss. If possible, once a solution is agreed upon, offer to implement it.
