Here are 5 more attributes that will help you achieve your career goal.
· Tough-skinned. Name an individual who appears not to be hurt by harsh words or unfair criticism. This individual may be said to have tough-skin. Insults, inequities bounce off him or her. Of course, this is what on-lookers notice. It isn’t necessarily the whole picture. If you could see below the surface you probably would see something completely different … you might even notice tears. In the Executive Suite, you must be tough-skinned. You need to put your energy into matters at hand. A seasoned Pro doesn’t even think about feeling sorry for herself. She acts in a manner that brings credit to her partner, her company and lends dignity to the occasion.
· Take ownership. If you offer an idea – be prepared to support it. If something you work on goes sour – be prepared to admit it. People will come to know you as a “stand-up” person. You never slink off to blend in with the wallpaper! You are a force to be reckoned with and someone who can be trusted.
· Inquisitive. Albert Einstein is quoted as saying, “I have no particular talent. I am merely inquisitive.” Einstein won the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1921. Surely his inquisitive nature served him well. You may not be seeking the Nobel Prize but when you ask questions look for the facts; won’t permit anyone or anything lead you astray … you will also be well served and so will your partner.
· Excellent role model to other Admins. Company executives are bound to take note when you’re an excellent role model. You may think this is the primary reason to do it but, it’s not. The primary reason is to build a strong network of good people. You shall call upon them and they shall call upon you and it becomes a mutually beneficial work-relationship.
· Thirst for knowledge. Good for you, you’re inquisitive. You want to know why and why not. When you have a thirst for knowledge you will learn new things. Without this thirst for knowledge you may not know what it is you want to know about! For example, if you don’t know that electronic books exist, you won’t ask why or how they could be useful to your manager.
I hope you will come back soon to read Part 3, my final advice on this topic.