Deliver, Deliver, Deliver
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This is a short and simple article with just one key message – having a high work ethic and delivering for your organisation, manager and self will earn you a fantastic reputation.
It really is that simple – people who work hard and get through high volumes of work are highly prized. You may not hear the good things said about you, but be assured that when there’s a name-making project that needs to be lead, you are likely to be high on the list.
What do you need to focus on?
Do you have a reputation for delivery and turning things around quickly? If not, set yourself a target, for example to respond to all emails within 24 hours, for a week. If yes – try building in an hour for reflection and an hour for a purely social chat. Whichever you do – you might be surprised at the results!
It really is that simple – people who work hard and get through high volumes of work are highly prized. You may not hear the good things said about you, but be assured that when there’s a name-making project that needs to be lead, you are likely to be high on the list.
What do you need to focus on?
- Deliver… quickly
Whilst I would never advocate rushing something unnecessarily (some things need to have time taken on them) there is something about turning work around quickly that people find impressive. If you compare times that you’ve delivered work quickly to time that you’ve procrastinated or delivered slowly, there is not only a different sense of self-satisfaction, but the responses you get to quick delivery alone make it worth it. To get a sense of how much it makes you stand out, take a substantial request and deliver it within 24 hours (or a small one and deliver it within the hour). Sit back and wait for the reaction! - Deliver… the right work
Delivering quickly is important – but make sure it’s the right thing! Steven Covey made the point that when you’re working hard to climb the ladder – make sure it’s against the right wall. It’s easy to work very hard on the wrong things – so do carve out time to think rather than blindly getting on with a task just because it’s there. One of the patterns shown by high flyers is that they take at least one uninterrupted hour out to think every week – do you? - Deliver… but take time for people
One of the dangers of a high work ethic is a total focus on work rather than thinking about other people and engaging in relationships. Sometimes relationships will seem to be unproductive (and not worth the time), but if you feel that way about every relationship – at least recognise that relationships are a great vehicle to get more done! Research shows that making time to talk to people without an agenda seems to be linked to success. Perhaps because a cup of coffee with a friend can enrich your life and make you happier? Perhaps because a conversation without an agenda can give you a bigger picture. And certainly, because if you have a wealth of good relationships, this helps you solve problems quickly, and find career opportunities.
Do you have a reputation for delivery and turning things around quickly? If not, set yourself a target, for example to respond to all emails within 24 hours, for a week. If yes – try building in an hour for reflection and an hour for a purely social chat. Whichever you do – you might be surprised at the results!