Actions Speak Louder Than Words On The Job

Last week in we discussed how you can become a “Bankable Advisor’. Refresher: Establish a clear name and brand for yourself. Your character is your own. Your reputation is defined by others. Hopefully you have already considered how you want people to describe you as a professional.

Think of it this way. When you are at your retirement party and people are toasting you, what are they saying about you? What do YOU want them to be saying about you? YOU do have a say in this. Sure you can pull people aside and tell them what to say. But wouldn’t it be nicer if people naturally described you in a positive manner?

The way to accomplish this is through your actions. When people are first getting to know you, they may take what you say at face value. If you tell them that you are a hard worker, that work is your life and your hobby, they will probably believe you.

But if they begin to observe that you come in at 9:30 am and you leave at 3:30 pm and you do not answer any work related emails, texts or phone calls after 3:30 pm; I doubt they are going to describe you as a hard worker.

There might not be anything wrong with your actions. You may be completely fulfilling all of your job requirements, maybe you work part time. The fact that you work fewer hours does not mean that you are not a good conscientious worker. The problem is your words; you are not portraying yourself
to others accurately.

When you do not portray yourself to others accurately there will be a disconnect between your character and your reputation. Be honest about who you are and strive to act in a manner that accurately depicts your true character.

If you have a question about the human side of the
workplace, just ask Margaret by sending your questions to Ask@MargaretMeloni.com.