Are You Postponing Success?

Rising unemployment, a stalled economy and job fears are front and center in the news again, at least in part due to a worse than expected June job loss report. Although it might seem difficult in these uncertain times, it truly is essential to see the bigger, long- term picture. It will help you increase your career currency.

Unfortunately, when job security becomes “Job #1”, it is instinctive to switch to a “treading water” mode. The sad truth is that the more fearful we are, the more likely we are to be reactive.

One of my goals in writing Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant™ (TOT): How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job (John Wiley & Sons, June 31, 2009), is to encourage proactive steps. It’s designed to help both employees and managers work together to eliminate counterproductive behaviors. That means an environment in which leadership cultivates a supportive, not punitive environment – where creativity and thoughtful risk taking is welcomed. In short, I’m describing a workplace where big thinkers and high fliers can reach for the stars without worrying that someone will clip their wings. I call that making it “safe for success” – regardless of the state of the economy.

Avoiding the spread of a “bad boss mentality” requires replacing “what’s in it for me?” thinking with, “what’s in it for us?” It ensures that your best efforts will be appreciated and that your career is on track. And there’s no better time for this during heightened fears of job loss and uncertainty.

At its core, Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant™ (TOT): How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job (John Wiley & Sons, June 31, 2009), offers specific tips on what you can do to make take back control of your job and contribute to a humanized workplace. Watch for it – it’s coming your way in bookstores and online in the next couple weeks!