Reverse perception

Hard work, technical skills, intellect, capability and education are all important. But experts agree that your reputation counts just as much.

So whether you are striving for a promotion or simply want to be heard at meetings, you may want to try beefing up your public relations efforts instead of signing up for another technical seminar.

''If you want to win support for your ideas, participate in key projects, obtain resources or funding, or get promoted, it is critical that your co-workers think highly of you,''

Whether you determine that your reputation needs a facelift or you just want to make sure it stays good, it is best to start with the basics. As Socrates said, "The way to gain a good reputation is to endeavour to be what you desire to appear."

To influence managers and peers, you must demonstrate strong communication and strategic thinking skills, business acumen, and the ability to view issues from both the business and technical perspectives.

Finally and most important, make sure to deliver results and let others know about your efforts by developing and maintaining a strong support network.

"The number one thing on your list is you must be perceived as competent. You must also actually be competent, of course, and your job needs to be visible to those above you."

He suggests that young professionals don't stand around waiting for opportunities to present themselves. Instead, take the initiative and be as resourceful as possible - network outside your department, create your own opportunities and find a mentor.

Be prepared to put in extra hours. It is a good idea to volunteer help, particularly on high-profile projects.

There is no exact blueprint for organisational success. But whether you call it office politics or public relations, to get ahead you will need to step out of your cubicle. That means picking up on subtle clues and asking your manager and trusted peers for constructive feedback. Then work to apply what you have learned.

To build a good reputation

Do

• Demonstrate competence
• Maintain high visibility
• Ask for feedback - good and bad
• Find a mentor
• Be careful with e-mail and voice mail
• Treat others with respect
• Show you are a team player

Don't

• Avoid extra assignments
• Hide in your office
• Ignore how you are perceived
• Assume you know all of the answers
• Dismiss others as stupid
• Brag about your accomplishments
• Be known as the office jokester and gossip or talk about others

The great aim of education is not knowledge but action. - Herbert Spencer

Regards
Prashant Iyer
9819328994
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Remember:
people will forget what you said ...
people will forget what you did ...
but people will never forget how you made them feel ...