Monday, April 21, 2008

Stepping Up to the Challenge

When cleaning out my inbox last night, I came across this commentary from Arkansas Business which I thought was very insightful. There are probably many of you who have learned this lesson and to you I say, "Congratulations"! Being new to the 'professional world', it has given me new purpose in my position. Enjoy!

It is Up to You to Step up to the Challenge (Commentary)
By Jeffrey Wood
pub. 11/5/2007

There's a difference between spending time and investing time.

Surfing You-Tube for office funnies, chatting up colleagues in the hall or piddling with low-priority projects are ways to spend the business day. Rolling up your sleeves and tackling initiatives that bring real value to your company and customers are investments.

One thing is for certain: young professionals and middle managers who want a seat at the board table must do the latter. Think of it this way. It's not your boss' job to groom you to be the next leader.

It's yours.

Not to be a hard case. Every office needs a little camaraderie, a little laughter to make the medicine go down. Work shouldn't be arduous. It should be fun. Moreover, success is fun.

It's amazing then how often local executives relate their frustrations in getting underlings to reach their full potential. It could be personality issues, attitude or performance. The chorus is basically that the next generation of leaders would actually get there quicker if they'd focus a little more on the company's goals than their own. More

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