Leadership strategy is not just being book-savvy; it also requires looking deep within to identify one’s priorities and principles, and to determine how best to model beliefs. At the start of a career, it’s wise to mentally reinforce the principles and values of what is acceptable and what we promise ourselves we will never do, regardless of guarantees from others. The first person we must ‘sell’ on an idea to is ourselves, and once we are convinced, we are ready to stand out and be heard for business growth.

One Caution: Never assume you know everything.

Stand Out To Be Heard

Who Am I and Desire to Be?

It is always best to pay strict attention to those who attract our admiration, and then answer the question, ‘Why is this the case? ’ Consider whether you agree that the attention is well-deserved or if people are being duped into believing it to be the case. We must not allow others to distract us from our values and priorities for establishing a satisfying career.

Embrace ‘Learning’:

Cynthia Goble offers her insights on ‘The Quiet Power of Resilience. ’ And for those specifically in corporate leadership or embracing the desire to enter the profession, read the article by Ali Anani, Ph. D. Social Contagion and Resonant Leaders.

‘Why?’ Is the Better Question

First, personally and professionally, the question, ‘Why? ’ typically stops one from continuing their pronouncements and/or demeaning remarks, leading them to walk away. Next, for business, the question yields deeper insights that are another’s mind but will remain secret unless we ask. The question, ‘Why? ’ is the all-time best sales strategy as it eliminates assumptions. Moreover, those who are attempting to take control over our efforts will step away, realizing it’s of no use.

Dissect Conversations Afterwards

For business, all conversations deserve strict attention and careful thought, with follow-up to uncover how we may improve moving forward. For the discussions that upset us, it is best to review in our quiet time why that was the case. Possibilities include:

  • I missed something and am embarrassed.
  • The selection of words hurled at me was downright rude.
  • Pleasant conversations can spark new and meaningful ideas to test.

Ensure ego leaves the room as we mentally replay the complementary commentary and consider whether it may be a route to expand upon for more robust outcomes.

When Criticism Prevails

Take note of consistent criticism of a particular strategy in place to inquire of oneself: ‘Is the criticism helpful, or am I receiving it due to jealousy and the potential of moving ahead of those criticizing me? For business, it’s almost a requirement to embrace stubbornness when we are already committed to a particular effort. But, it’s wise to accept genuine and goodwill suggestions that may aid the effort.

On a personal note, I never fit in with the crowd, but later in the day, always examined the pros and cons (primarily the latter) of the statements directed at me. ‘Stubborn’ became my middle name, but my priorities of assisting clientele in the sales environment and ultimately myself proved beneficial. Over time, as we realize our capabilities, challenge ourselves to do more, and embrace the idea of working for the greater good, we stop questioning ourselves and find that life becomes far more rewarding.