Wisdom of the Ages

If you gathered 100 experienced managers together and asked for their advice, they probably wouldn’t say much about “competing values models” or “temporal rhythms.” Instead, this is a good idea of what you would hear:

Don’t be afraid of the phrase, “I don’t know.” If you do not know the answer, don’t try to bluff. If you are at fault, take the blame. If you are wrong, apologize. A wise person once said, “If you always tell the truth, you never have to remember anything.”

Never Gossip. If someone wants to gossip with you, politely say you’re not interested. This corporate adage rings true: When someone gossips, two careers are hurt, the person being talked about and the person doing the talking.

No Task is Beneath You. Don’t think you are above anything. Be the good example and pitch in, especially if the job is one that nobody wants to do.

Share The Credit Whenever Possible. Managers who spread credit around look much stronger than those who take all the credit themselves.

Ask For Help. If you think you are n over your head, you are. Before it gets out of hand, ask someone for help. Besides saving yourself from embarrassment, you will make a friend and ally.

Keep Your Salary to Yourself. Discussing salary is a now win proposition. Either you will be upset because someone is making more than you, or someone will be upset with you.

When You Do Not Like Someone, Don’t Let It Show. Especially if you outrank them. Never burn bridges or offend others as you move ahead.

Let It Go. What shouldn’t happen often does. You weren’t given the project you wanted, you were passed over for the promotion you deserved. Be gracious and diplomatic, and move on. Harboring a grudge won’t advance your career.

When You’re Right, Don’t Gloat. The only time you should ever use the phrase “I told you so” is if someone says to you: “You were right. I really could succeed at that project.”