When you are new to the workforce, it’s intimidating to get yourself out there.
There will be a load of new stimuli: unfamiliar locations, people of varying organizational superiority/inferiority, and a complex web of bureaucracy are just a few to name. As employees, we are compelled to progress our careers far beyond where they began; but the sophisticated nature of climbing the corporate ladder is not easy nor achievable without considerable effort. According to Elmhurst University, the keys to a successful career start with their three C’s: Communication, Confidence, and Character. In this article, we will discuss these three C’s and explore why they are vital to advancing your career successfully.
Communication is Key
“If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” – Isaac Newton
Communicating with your peers is a great way to establish a greater understanding of your work, the importance of your contribution, and can create lasting partnerships that may transcend the workplace. That being said, it can be easy to miscommunicate through body language, facial expressions, and in the way you reply. It is always important to be in the moment and listen to those who are speaking to you, even if you don’t like them. Nothing shows disrespect more directly than disregarding another party’s opinions, questions, and concerns. Even if you dislike the person speaking to you, for whatever reason, you should give them a modicum of respect and hear them out. When you reply, it’s important to maintain a proper tone and body language in accordance with the context of your conversation. For example, if a subordinate brings you a task, would you let out a big sigh, respond with an annoyed tone, and be dismissive in your replies? This behavior is avoidable at work, but it is a pitfall that many employees fall into. Be warned, however, you cannot advance your career with a bad attitude.
Confidence Conquers All
“The circulation of confidence is better than the circulation of money.” – James Madison
Confidence is forged by believing in your competence, your ability to learn and solve problems, and your inner values. According to Psychology Today, confidence is “a belief in oneself, the conviction to meet life’s challenges and succeed.” The challenges vary by context, but making first impressions is one of them. You have to make a decent first impression at interviews and when meeting new people in the workplace. Confidence can seriously promote a good first impression on someone, though a lack of humility can make one seem narcissistic. Believing in yourself can help you overcome tough situations where others fail to succeed.
Character Actually Means Something
“Our ability to handle life’s challenges is a measure of our strength of character.” – Les Brown
Character is made from a mix of mental and moral qualities. CharacterCounts.org describes the The Six Pillars of Character as trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. In the workplace, character counts more than one may think. It is a major part of your personal branding and can effect how you respond in various situations – good and bad. Focusing on your character can help you work towards becoming your best self and can help lead you to doing some of your best work.
All Med Search offers tons of resources to help you throughout your job search. Talk to us today to find you a job that will help you achieve the next step in your career goals. Jon@AllMedSeach.com