terça-feira, 7 de abril de 2009

The Unwritten Laws of Business

Attention Newbies

Neophyte businesspeople commonly tend to consider certain tasks menial or unimportant।
Some would rather spend their time on work they see as worthy of their interest and time, or on projects that give them a chance to show their skills, expertise and “true worth।” No matter what the task, take care to show enthusiasm, spirit and effi ciency on your fi rst job।
Your attitude then can make or break your career। Newcomers should heed these lessons:

1. “Demonstrate the ability to get things done” – Show “initiative, resourcefulness or
ingenuity, and persistence।” Finish the job.

2। “In carrying out a project, do not wait passively for anyone” – Don’t wait for sellers, peers, bosses or anyone else to keep their promises to deliver. Pursue them until you
are successful. You can’t just place an order, and sit back and wait for it to arrive.
Leave nothing to chance। Be persistent at every stage.

3. “Develop a ‘Let’s go see!’ attitude” – Don’t just sit at your desk and ponder. Get out
and observe, learn, plan। Go see what it’s all about. Take others along as well.

4. “Don’t be timid – speak up – express yourself and promote your ideas” – If you
don’t say anything, people will fi gure you have no new ideas to contribute. If you do
propose an idea, you’ll probably get the assignment to make it happen।

5. “Strive for conciseness and clarity in oral or written reports” – Make sure anything
you say is accurate. Don’t ramble. Say the most with the fewest words. Always do
your homework।

6. Keep your superior “informed of all signifi cant developments” – Provide enough
information to let your boss know what’s going on, but don’t offer minute details.
When you report a problem, suggest a solution।

7. “Do not overlook the steadfast truth that your direct supervisor is your ‘boss’” – Never bypass your immediate superior. That tactic may work once or twice, but the results
won’t help you in the long run. Remember, this person will evaluate you, and will report
upon your ability to be a team player, and to demonstrate cooperation and loyalty।

8. “In all transactions be careful to ‘deal in’ everyone who has a right to be in” – You wouldn’t want another person to commit you to a project you know nothing about, raid
your department, keep you out of the loop or pre-empt your responsibilities. So don’t
do that to someone else। Invite all relevant stakeholders into the process from the start.

9. “Cultivate the habit of seeking other people’s opinions and recommendations” – You need the help of those with more experience or knowledge। But, if you ask for advice, heed it.

10। “In dealing with customers and outsiders, remember that you represent the company” – You are the symbol of the organization’s authority and duties. Look sharp, be sharp. Don’t make commitments you can’t keep. If you’re handling a transaction, others
will perceive you as a fully empowered emissary of your company.