Part of the reason why I've been so busy is that I started a full-time job in December and have been so pre-occupied during the holidays. (Haven't we all?)
Life post-college has taught me many things. I have enjoyed my new "adult" job and love being at work. There's something special about the first job after college. All of the sudden, you don't feel like a little kid anymore and independence is a lovely thing. Since entering the workforce, here are my top 5 tips for being a #Bosslady. (Or #BossMan? BossGentleman? BossDude? Ok, I'll have to work on that!)
1.) Always take a seat at the table.
I learned this from company's CEO/President. At my work, meetings often include many people from many different departments, industries, companies, etc. Lower ranking attendees usually sit in the very back row against the wall, while executives and other high rank members sit at tables. My CEO looked at me the other day during lunch and told me, "At the next meeting, you take a place at the table. Take that seat and claim it. Show people you are important and what you have to say is important. People will see you sitting there and treat you differently." He smiled at me as if to reassure me that it's not wrong to demand a little bit of respect instead of waiting for others to acknowledge you. Be bold. Take that seat. Set the stage for how you want to be treated.
2.) Work harder than your colleagues, but stay humble.
Go the extra mile in a culture that tends to promote "bare minimum work ethic". Show people around you that hard work is not something to be scared of. You can help set the tone of the office's culture. A strong work ethic is always attractive and it leads to rewards. However, don't feel the need to outshine people just to make them look bad. It can be perceived as threatening and cocky. Never underestimate the power of asking for help or advice from experienced colleagues and being a source of encouragement. It will go a long way.
3.) Keep learning and growing.
Success and the desire to learn go hand-in-hand. Successful people are constantly learning and expanding their minds. Read books/articles, engage in discussions with people outside your industry or expertise, take notes, watch documentaries, keep asking questions. If you approach life with a teachable attitude, you won't be disappointed. Teachability shows you are humble and willing to acknowledge the fact you don't know everything. No one likes a cocky or arrogant jerk.
4.) Find an accountability partner(s).
I love setting goals. It's a great way for me to be reminded of what really matters to me. I also know I need accountability partners in order for me to stay on track of reaching those goals. I can easily become side-tracked or lazy, and my accountability partners are there to remind me to focus and keep working hard. It can be uncomfortable to share your goals with other people, but it's one of the best ways to make sure you are on the right path to reaching those goals. And when you accomplish a goal, celebrate with them and thank them for their help. Community is essential. Together is better!
5.) Schedule "Me Time".
Work can be exhausting. It's so easy to only focus on to-do lists, deadlines, and making everyone else happy. Working hard is important, but it's equally important to take care of yourself. If you neglect to check-in with yourself, you become drained and there's nothing left to give back to others. It's almost impossible to contribute in positive and meaningful ways at work if you are tired, cranky, or sad. I enjoy a weekly hot bath, time to read, or even a simple face mask. Maybe for you, it's going to the gym, or journaling, or just taking a nap without feeling guilty. Your health and well-being should be a priority.
I hope these tips help you unleash your #BossLady attitude. Work hard, stay humble, and own it. You are awesome.
XOXO
Chloe
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