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November 8, 2011
Unlock Your Potential
 Your career undoubtedly requires blood, sweat and tears. (Guess that’s why they call it “work!”)
But research shows 97 percent of employees think they have a habit that keeps them from reaching their full earning – and career – potential.
You may think you project a can-do attitude at the office, but how can you be sure? For starters, you'll need a trusted mentor who will be honest with you, advises Susan Whitcomb, author and founder/CEO of The Academies.
She advises women have a "courageous conversation" with their boss and say: "I'm committed to growing with the company and providing greater value in the process.
What am I doing well? What would I need to do differently?" This may make it easier when it comes to asking for a raise.
Experts say the top five career-limiting habits are unreliability, an “it’s not my job” attitude, procrastination, resistance to change and negativity. Others add things like risk-aversion and short-term focus.
Identifying career-limiting traps helps to avoid them, says Whitcomb. Some common landmines include putting peacekeeping ahead of truthfully saying (in a professional manner) what needs to be said.
Also, 'oversharing' personal information with coworkers can keep you from gaining respect once you’re promoted. Lastly, avoid accepting a lower salary because your partner is bringing home good money.
Bonus PINK Link: Find out more about how to gain confidence at work – and how it can benefit your career – in our online exclusive.
By Rachel Pomerance
“Continuous effort – not strength or intelligence – is the key to
unlocking our potential.” Liane Cordes
*Supporting images from FreeDigitalPhotos.net, sscreations, Ambro, and digitalart.
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