“Personality can open doors, but only character can keep them open.”
~ Elmer G. Letterman
“The best job goes to the person who can get the job done without coming up with excuses or passing the buck.”
~ Napoleon Hill
What About Politics?
Political astuteness isn’t typically taught in school, but it’s a major part of succeeding in business. Whether you like it or not, office politics exist—and navigating them with integrity is key.
“Man is by nature a political animal.”
~ Aristotle
Understanding the informal power dynamics within your organization can help you position yourself wisely. Build alliances without gossiping, support leadership decisions, and learn how influence flows within your company.
Take Control of Your Career
You are the CEO of your own career. Don’t expect HR, your manager, or your colleagues to plan it for you. Occasionally, others may support your growth—but usually because it aligns with their goals. Ultimately, you must drive your career trajectory.
Companies exist to make money, not to advance your personal ambitions. Keeping this in mind helps you set realistic expectations and focus on delivering results that align with business goals.
Dress for Success
There’s a visible difference between how various levels of management present themselves. Presidents, vice presidents, and managers often follow unwritten dress codes. If you want to move up, dress one level above your current position. This small detail can help others envision you in a higher role and shows your professional seriousness.
Integrity Is Everything
“If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.”
~ Alan Simpson
The higher up you go in any organization, the more integrity is expected—and respected. You may be smart and capable, but without integrity, you’ll lose credibility and damage your career. Tell the truth, own your mistakes, and uphold ethical standards, even when no one’s watching.
Support the Company
There’s always an opportunity to complain, especially during challenging times. But resist the urge to bash your employer. Remember:
- You chose to work there.
- They pay you.
- You can leave if you’re unhappy.
Leaders notice employees who stay professional, loyal, and solutions-focused during difficult times. That’s the behavior of someone ready to lead.
Make Your Boss (and Their Boss) Look Good
One of the smartest career strategies is to help your manager succeed. When your boss moves up, opportunities open up for you. Even if they don’t, their opinion often influences decisions about your promotion.
If your boss is stagnant, build rapport with upper management. Align your goals with theirs, and observe how they lead. If possible, seek a mentor among respected leaders. Many senior professionals are willing to guide ambitious individuals—they just need to be asked.
Learn the Rules
“Whoever gossips to you will gossip about you.”
~ Spanish Proverb
Everything you say or write at work could be heard or seen by others. Think before speaking. Be cautious with emails—never respond when angry. Save a draft, come back later, and read it with a calm mindset before sending.
Another common pitfall is office socializing. Avoid after-hours gossip sessions or “Happy Hour” politics, which can quickly turn into career risks. Stay professional in all settings.
Build a Reputation for Hard Work
Arrive early and leave late—but don’t overdo it. You want the reputation of being efficient and committed, not someone who can’t manage their time. Take work home only when necessary. A sustainable work-life balance keeps you healthy and productive in the long run.
Understand Your Boss’s Expectations
Your productivity should reflect what matters most to your manager. Even if a task seems trivial, doing it well shows reliability. An executive once asked how many Dairy Queen locations between Dallas and Houston sold a specific yogurt—odd, but important to them. Meeting such expectations builds trust.
Whenever leadership asks for something, say yes. You can always propose better solutions respectfully, but never dismiss a task outright.
“Always do more than is required of you.”
~ General George S. Patton
Give Credit Where It’s Due
Never take sole credit for a team effort. Recognizing others builds loyalty and trust. It also reflects well on your leadership ability. When your team shines, you shine, too.
Conclusion: Build a Career That Lasts
When it comes to long-term career success:
- You’re responsible for your own path.
- Stay loyal and act in the company’s best interest.
- Learn and follow the spoken and unspoken rules.
As Bill Karnes said:
“Eagles don’t flock; they fly alone. And eagles soar above the rest of their world. So, too, do people who start things, who lead groups or who otherwise set themselves apart from the crowd.”