[November 24, 2017] I regularly get calls from young military veterans who have a new job in the civilian world and want some simple advice on how to be successful. My recommendation is straightforward; have a positive attitude, treat everyone with respect, and maintain your humility.
“Virtually nothing is impossible in this world if you just put your mind to it and maintain a positive attitude.” – Lou Holtz, legendary college football coach
Yes, we should pay attention to what successful American sport’s coaches have to say about winning. They work in an environment where there is a great talent, an intense pressure to win, and a complexity to direct people toward a difficult goal. And, of course, they are only as good as the outcome of their last game.
Several years ago I spoke with a young man, just having completed five years in the U.S. Marines, and who was wondering how to get the attention of those higher up where he works. He understood that getting noticed is important for advancement and for personal satisfaction in the job. We discussed these three attributes and the effect on advancing his goals. Last week we spoke again for an update and, sure enough, he was doing very well.
Senior leaders need much more and anyone who wants to be successful needs additional skills but these three are important for reasons beyond getting recognized. Below are three tips on why these three attributes work so well, especially for junior leaders.
First, people who see others as respectful and humble are more likely to overlook problems with work performance and to provide help. Second, people with these attributes are a pleasure to be around and are valued for their presence. And third, good folks understand that when they meet someone with a positive attitude, they are talking to someone with significant work potential.
I can personally attest to the fact that having a positive attitude, being respectful, and maintaining one’s humility is difficult. More than a few academics attribute it to inborn traits or mental predispositions. That debate is for another time. What we do know however is that these traits can be learned and improved upon with focus and effort.
My advice – tested in many situations – is to have a good attitude, respect, and humility. Otherwise, your efforts at being successful in any type of human relationship will not go well.
[Don’t forget to “Like” the Leader Maker at our Facebook Page.]