There are many things that we learn just by doing. Things that we can and ought to share with others – in hopes of saving them the time and possible aggravation of learning things the hard way. Here are life lessons #1- #7 that we’d like to share with you:
May 17, 2017 “Ask Patrice”
Dear Patrice, I recently worked on a project that had some problems and minor issues. How should I discuss this situation with my boss?
Here’s a three-step process to position yourself and your work in the best possible light moving forward:
1. You should proactively raise the issue FIRST and not wait for your boss to do so. Acknowledge the fact that things should have played out differently but stick to the facts.
I have had people literally apologize for things I never knew had occurred, so chances are your supervisor may not know every detail. After the conversation, outline and/or draft a brief summary of the obvious “mistakes” and what you and others will do in the future to prevent it from happening again. 2. Now that you have told your boss what she or he needs to hear, you need to look for the root cause of the problem. Did things not work out according to plan because there was no organization, because things were left until the last minute, or because others dropped the ball? Or was it simply a matter of unclear expectations. For example, you CAN control how long others speak by both advising them well in advance that there is a 5-minute limit but, by also having a “moderator” and process in place to jump in - when they don’t. Your goal is to uncover the real reason things will be different. Remember, the best way to prove this is to not just TELL others what will happen but to SHOW them the next time around.
3. Your ability to bounce back from mistakes and all that life dishes out is all about attitude. Embrace a growth perspective where you seek to learn from everything that happens, especially those things that don’t end up well.
Mistakes happen despite our best laid out plans. This week think of these and other ways to communicate, grow from, and create success from mistakes and mishaps. Remember that life is what happens while we’re making (and hopefully learning from) other plans.
December 28, 2016 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes To . . . Great Career Advice From a Dog.
I read a great quote about dogs that said that dogs are the only animal on the planet that love you more than they love themselves. Thought that was very powerful. Here are seven amazing professional lessons that my dog taught me about working with others.
1. Body language: 80% of most communication is actually non-verbal. So when in doubt “read” others to see if they are a threat to you. Observe everything – eye contact, stance, types of questions they ask (or lack thereof).
2. Solid business relationships are based on trust, loyalty, and respect: Associate with those who you can build, grind and hustle together.
3. Maintain clear boundaries and expectations give to others: Enough said!
4. Dog fights are ugly and intense but sometimes required: Some things are worth fighting for such as integrity, your professional worth, respect and what is rightfully yours.
When your friends, family or your character is attacked turn fight with your words and actions. 5. Trust your instincts: Know when a person or situation seeks to harm or take advantage of you. You know when something does not look kosher, go the other way. Watch those showboating, lying or those saying things that just don’t add up. Hone your instincts by trusting that when you feel someone or something is not right in your gut – you’re probably right.
6. All dogs are different: Remember that everyone has a story that is deeper than the person who you see. Build relationships slowly and over time unpeel the layers of each person you encounter.
7. Learn new tricks: Despite your age or experience you can always hone and learn new ways to do things. Keep an open mind and you’ll find that there is something to be happy about daily. Share that happiness with others.
I have owned a dog since I was 7 years old and believe dogs will always be a part of my life. This week appreciate and reflect on the roles animals have played in teaching you some “human” life lessons. Or if you are not an animal person, try to appreciate and learn from them in other ways. Happy New Year!