I came across a great post the other day by Brad Lomenick titled, “Gaining Credibility,” and thought it would be a great share – especially for you seniors out there fixing to make the jump to the big fish pond called “the real world.”
I remember struggling to gain credibility in the work force when I first graduated and it some ways felt like I was entitled credibility just because I had a college degree – regardless of the fact that half the stuff I learned in college wasn’t really guiding anything I was doing…
Brad gives great introspection – you can read it HERE or follow the points below:
1. Be Self Aware- first, you have to have an accurate understanding of who you are and where you are in life. A very clear and realistic picture of your self identity and current reality. If you are 24, you have to understand that life experiences and job experience probably aren’t something you can hang your hat on.
2. Listen, Listen, Listen. Ask great questions of those around you, and then LISTEN to the answer. Don’t talk until you have something to say. But learn to ask great questions and learn from them. This is especially true in a team environment.
3. Experience creates expertise- this is obvious, but sometimes we forget. Credibility comes with action- doing, not just thinking or talking. Jump in and get involved.
4. A platform takes time- it’s just a reality. Most of us aren’t patient enough to spend adequate TIME at DOING something until we gain a platform or credibility. We usually lose interest, get bored, or just simply move on to something else. The key- stick with it.
5. Connect with leading organizations, networks and individuals- connect with companies, teams or individuals who are highly respected, and you’ll gain respect. But the key on this- connect with them and ask how you can HELP them, not how you can gain from them.
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Good stuff – I have a “leadership thoughts” journal that I keep – dropped this one in it…
Filed under: Leadership, Personal, Reflection
