Are you Standing in your own way of Success
No matter how eager you might be to advance in your career, there are some things about which you may not be aware that could potentially be holding you back from the success you desire.
Raising awareness is the first step to modifying or eliminating traits or behaviors that could be working against you. Once you have identified the things potentially impeding your ambitions, you can then seek ways to improve.
Things that could be holding you back in your career:
Lack of knowledge
Obviously if you lack the knowledge or skills to do a good job, you are apt to fail at whatever you pursue. Once you have identified your field of interest, obtain education and training. Be willing to work your way up the ladder of success, learning and acquiring expertise every step of the way.
Poor communication skills
An individual who can express his opinions and ideas, both verbally and in writing, and practice active listening to the opinions and ideas of others possesses the necessary communication skills to get ahead in the workplace. If you are lacking in ability to communicate intelligently and concisely, the solution might be to take a speech class, writing class or read books on the subject of how to communicate effectively in the workplace.
Lack of confidence
If you do not believe in yourself, others are not apt to believe in you. If your confidence wanes in the face of obstacles or setbacks you probably will not be selected by those in authority for a key position or leadership role. The solution is to honestly evaluate your level of self-esteem and if you perceive a shortage of self-assurance, get counseling, join a group seminar or do whatever it takes to shore up the lack of confidence that is holding you back in your career.
Lack of determination
If you become discouraged easily, lack perseverance in the face of obstacles, giving in and giving up at the first sign of a setback, you might not be viewed by the powers that be as a viable candidate for greater responsibilities. Have your goals firmly placed in your mind and determine to go after them with no restraints to your efforts.
Lack of professionalism
If you do not possess a good work ethic, the ability to positively interact with others and adeptness at problem-solving, those shortcomings are apt to interfere with your ambitions. Another component of professionalism is appearance. Learn the dress code expectations of your field of endeavor and dress the part. So often one is judged by physical appearance and daily behavior; don’t allow a casual attitude in either area hold you back.
Lack of motivation
To get ahead in the workplace requires the ability to self-motivate. No one is going to hand you advancement opportunities. Be highly motivated to do your job well and, in addition, look for ways to be helpful above and beyond your job description. Employers are apt to keep a watchful eye on individuals who display hard-working dedication and loyalty. Those who go above and beyond normal expectations are generally offered promotions, increases in compensation and recognition for their outstanding performance.
Lack of congeniality
It is not enough to be good at what you do. If you do not have a pleasing personality to match your expertise, your career aspirations are apt to be thwarted. You do not have to be liked by everyone you encounter, but you do have to earn their respect. Being fair, giving credit where it is due, practicing active listening and displaying flexibility are the ways to earn the respect of coworkers and bosses.
There are many other negative traits that might also hold you back, such as procrastination, inability to delegate or prioritize etc . . .
If you have ambition to succeed, but seem to be overlooked when the time comes for promotions and raises, it might behoove you to do an introspective, honest evaluation of yourself to see if you lack necessaryleadership qualitiesor are guilty of any of the other things that can hold you back in your career.
