Thursday, June 24, 2010

Think You're Helping Your Career - Think Again!

A few surprising work behaviors may not be helping you at all - in fact, they could make you less productive at work.

1) Multi-tasking: Everyone does this now, but in order to be effective at certain tasks, you need to dedicate your full attention to the project. Studies are saying that a majority of multi-taskers actually are adding time and effort to their workload.

2) Extra hours at work: Just because you're working late doesn't mean you're working harder than others. Too many extra hours can be viewed as a lack of ability to prioritize important tasks.

3) Being overly optimistic: Be realistic with deadlines and promises. Making rosy promises that you can't keep will only hurt you down the road.

4) Building visibility: Let your boss know when you've done something well, but give credit where credit is due. Be very careful not to step on your co-workers on your way to the top.

5) Limiting your abilities: Sure you may be a super smart, technically minded person, but don't forget that your people skills are most likely to get you promoted. Managers need to be able to communicate effectively.

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