5 ways to be more successful (that aren’t rocket science)
November 29, 2017
By Brian Maynor
Success is a balancing act between competence and credibility.
Competence is the ability to do the job while credibility is the skill set needed to move to the next level. Not only do we have to have both of these to gain success, we have to demonstrate them as well.
Competence is most often demonstrated by a degree, certification or training coupled with our proficiency level, but demonstrating credibility is a bit less direct.
Credibility is the quality of being trusted and believed in, and here are 5 ways to demonstrate it that are deceptively simple:
1. Always tell the truth. Credibility is founded on trust, which we establish by being reliable and honest. Always telling the truth is hard, uncomfortable at times, and likely to make us unpopular at times, but the alternative is worse. Being caught in a single lie, no matter how minor, can tarnish our credibility, because it plants the seed of doubt. If we lied about one thing, what else could we be lying about?
2. Always use Spell Check. Most of us type thousands of words a day, and fairly quickly, making mistakes unavoidable. However, what is avoidable is sending out a document containing mistakes. Whether we realize it or not, every document, text, email, letter or other document that leaves our hands is a reflection of us, and so are the spelling and grammatical mistakes. Spell check is a universal tool available in just about every program, removing any excuse for these types of errors.
3. Don’t gossip. Gossiping is the fastest way to undermine credibility. While it may be impossible to have an office free from gossip, we are entirely free to choose not to participate in it. Gossip creates division, and much like lying, brands you as dishonest or shady.
4. Dress well. This is probably the easiest boost to our credibility. Dressing well is a concept; because so many factors go into other than the specific pieces of clothing we choose to wear, but we all tend to know it when we see it. No matter what we choose to wear, it should be clean, tidy and free from stains, rips or tears. Dressing well changes the value of what we say and even who we are, at least to the people listening to us.
5. Always follow through. Promises are not something we should ever make lightly, because it’s impossible to build credibility if we don’t keep our word. It doesn’t matter if it’s making a deadline, returning a phone call or joining coworkers for a drink after work, breaking our promises builds a reputation for being untrustworthy, much the same as lying.
Being successful isn’t complicated, but still few people reach the levels they want because they rely too much on the competency side of the equation. Success is a balance and credibility is just as important and takes just as much work. The only difference is there isn’t just one test we pass or class we can take to get it.
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I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
