Being a career person is no easy task. It means hard work and long hours and, occasionally, it means working weekends. But, if you’ve decided that you want career success, then these are all just part of the job and you probably still find it rewarding. However, one of the most difficult parts of corporate success can be competition. So how do you become compete with another employee without giving up your corporate edge?
Don’t get catty. More than anything else, it is important that you never let your negative emotions ruin the way you interact or communicate with your competition. When you act “catty” you’re just playing into stereotypes. Even if the other employee acts negatively towards you, be the better person of the two and walk away from confrontations that could result in a bad impression.
Rely on your merits. Both men and women play up their strengths in order to get ahead. Sometimes these strengths are not their body of work. Sometimes men will rely on the Good Old Boys Club to get them ahead and sometimes women will use their sexuality to their advantage. While these may work in the short term, good work will always trump connections in the end. Play up your career strength and make sure the right people see the value in your work.
Learn to speak to men and women. Learning how to communicate properly with both sexes is of critical importance when you want to climb the corporate ladder. Think of it as learning a second language. Once you master it, you’ll still be able to be yourself, but you’ll be able to communicate to both men and women; a critical skill for anyone looking to advance in their company.
Be gracious. If you do not get the promotion or if the other employee gets picked over you, don’t result in name calling or talking behind your competition’s back. Be kind and genuine.
Remember, hard work and perseverance is what keeps this country moving. A pretty smile or a boisterous personality might set you back initially, but your body of work will speak for itself eventually and earn you the promotion you so deserve.
