Views that kill careers

What keeps us from getting to where we want to be or what we want to do? It may be a lack of the right skills, bad luck, having other goals, or just being lazy.

More likely, however, the answer is closer to home. We can call them “everyday” attitudes that are so much a part of us we don’t know the damage they’re doing. Here are some of them:

n “For what I get paid, I do more than enough.” With so much pressure, it’s easy to feel this way today. Otherwise pleasant people become angry, obstinate, negative and alienated. It’s not the way to move ahead.

n “I’ve put in my time and paid my dues. Now, it’s my turn.” It doesn’t make any difference what it is; it’s easy to spot someone with a chip on their shoulder. Their attitude sends the message this person thinks they are special.

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n “Sorry, but I’m really busy right now. Can’t you get someone else?” When asked to step in and help, some people make it clear they can’t be counted on when needed.

n “They’ll see what happens when I leave. It’ll take three people to replace me.” Even though we know no one is indispensable, it’s tough for some people to get past the idea they are the one exception.

n “Whoa! There’s only so much I can do.” Others put self-imposed limits on what they can or will do. By always playing it safe, they deny themselves the opportunity to see how much they can accomplish.

n “With so many meetings, I can’t get my work done.” Companies are plagued with meeting mania that creates stress. Take a “how we can improve it” approach: meeting alternatives, requiring agendas go to participants beforehand, stand up sessions, setting time limits, and three-question participation evaluations.

n “That’s not my job.” Countless individuals wall themselves off as if they’re completely isolated from the organization. They “write” their own job description and stick to it.

n “I’m a hard worker.” Simply put, no one “earns points” or merits a “reward” today for hard work. What counts is measurable and it’s called results.

n “Unless I get paid extra, I shouldn’t have to do it.” Employees can be shortsighted by putting on the brakes too quickly and miss opportunities for taking on tasks that can showcase their capabilities and skills.

n “Sorry, but I don’t know anything about that.” It’s not unusual to hear those words … they’re all too common throughout most businesses, sending the message the person has stopped growing.

n “My ideas aren’t important.” Whether they know it or not, most people have ideas and suggestions that can benefit a company.

n “I meant to get it done. I’ll get right on it.” Why do some people agree to do something – and then ignore it by doing nothing, even after getting reminders? Sure, there are times when we all forget and a reminder helps. But, others can be chronic offenders.

n “I’ve been around long enough and the rules don’t apply to me.” Even though the words may never be spoken, actions make their meaning abundantly clear. Chances are, these are people who won’t be around much longer.

n “I didn’t know you needed it so soon.” This might be the most insidious attitude for one reason: It’s patently pathetic in its intent. While the words sound innocent and disarming, it shrouds the fact those who use this excuse portray themselves as victims.

More often than not, it’s self-justifying and defensive attitudes that kill success. •

John Graham of GrahamComm is a marketing and sales strategy consultant and business writer. Contact him at jgraham@grahamcomm.com.

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