Here is the second installment of influential leaders sharing wise words that changed their lives forever in the “Best advice I ever got” at Fortune Magazine. Their practical advice can be applied to advancing your careers and transitions, as well as many other areas of your life:
12. Take advice from smart people – share your ideas with smart people but don’t expect them to act on your ideas. It’s your idea, what are you willing to do to bring it to life?
13. Make an impression – when you transition to a new role or company, you have about 90-100 days to make an impression. To build your brand, create momentum with quick wins, form critical relationships to help you in your role and look for strategic ways to help your team, peers, department, clients, etc.
14. Hire a coach – they don’t have to have walked a mile in your shoes, although it helps sometimes. A great coach offers a different perspective and encourages you to think about or approach an issue productively.
15. Set realistic goals – your goal should be specific, measurable, actionable and have a deadline. If you know where you are heading you can always refine or adjust your actions in pursuit of your goal.
16. Listen – if you hear the same feedback over and over again, whether you believe it or not, perception is reality. Listen to the feedback and determine the impact of the feedback on your reputation and performance. Demonstrate your willingness to incorporate the feedback, by modifying the actions or behaviors that are not helping you.
17. Don’t talk shop and only give advice when someone asks for it. Are you all about business? There are lots of other things that people are interested in, such as books that you have read, reading suggestions, movies, your travels, a good restaurant or spa, etc. The quickest way to develop a relationship with someone is to connect with them on a personal level.
18. Treat it like it’s yours and some day it will be – is it clear to everyone what you are responsible for? People will notice you for all the right reasons, when it is apparent that you care about your responsibilities and are committed to delivering.
19. Underpromise and overdeliver – tell people what you are going to deliver and then look for ways to add a few extra frills.
20. Don’t pursue titles and dollars – if you focus on your passion the rest will take care of itself. Define what success, achievement and happiness means to you and evaluate opportunities against your predefined criteria.
21. Self-doubt is normal and inevitable in the midst of a transition. Establish a support circle to help you push through and stay focused on your goal.
22. Be nice to people – personal relationships make the world go round.
What is the best advice you have ever received and how has it helped you to advance your career?
