Have you ever heard the phrase, “it’s all about who you know?”
Although nepotism is not the only thing that can get you a job, the way you interact with others and your ability to build relationships can significantly affect your career.
While some of us are innate social beings, others need some help developing these essential people skills needed for a long and successful career:
Empathy
When interacting with people at work, whether they are your bosses, colleagues, clients or staff, it’s essential to treat them with empathy.
While it is best to maintain a professional relationship with those at the office, it’s vital to remember that they are also human beings with emotions, thoughts, fears and issues.
Inquiring about people’s day, helping them when they are in need and demonstrating concern will help you develop the relationships you need to be successful.
Active Listening
To work with people, you need to communicate.
While many articles about communication focus on what you need to do, oftentimes it’s what you don’t do that matters.
Instead of talking, focus on practising active listening to truly hear what others are telling you.
When you stop multitasking, put away preconceived notions and focus your eyes, ears and mind on the person speaking, you may be surprised by what you hear!
Trust
Trust is essential to teamwork, and teamwork is a required step for success.
To be considered for a promotion, one of the most important things that bosses look for is how well the person works in a team.
This requires not only thinking about your own success, but helping others that work with you.
This means giving out advice when needed, offering help without being solicited, teaching something to your colleagues that can help them advance and taking on others’ work-related problems as your own.
Persuasion
A lot of times throughout your career, you will need your colleagues or those that answer to you to do things your way.
However, instead of intimidating or threatening, persuading goes a much longer way in getting others to like and respect you.
Learning how to find mutual ground, presenting the benefits and listening to the other parties’ concerns will help you your persuasion skills for a long-lasting career.
Thanks again
Mark Williams
Senior Management Trainer and Consultant
MTD Training | Management Blog | Image courtesy of Big Stock Photo
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