5 Easy Ways for Your Brand to Succeed at Anything in 2014
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It’s hard to read minds…or to know what a client or co-worker is really thinking. Here are five habits you can develop that will not only be noticed, but will help your brand succeed with just a little bit of effort in 2014.



1. Be prompt! - When you think about it, there are 20 minutes between success and failure. You show up 10 minutes before work and people will think you love your job, you’re motivated, and a go-getter. But if you show up 10 minutes late to a meeting, a lunch, or a conference, everyone will think you’re a slacker. It is only 20 minutes of time that can make or break you. So wake up 20 minutes earlier tomorrow and get to work early!



2. Keep your mouth shut! - People who cause or thrive on drama, insult or disrespect others won’t last long…ANYWHERE. One easy way to succeed is to not say anything negative about your other clients, your company, church, Toastmaster’s chapter…whatever. Learn to listen, find genuine reasons to compliment others and you’ll succeed.



3. Meet deadlines! - I call these “drop deadlines.” If something is due Friday, get it done by Thursday, Friday at the latest. Don’t ask for an extension or make excuses about being late. Get the job done on time.



4. Under promise and over deliver! - Always go above and beyond. Don’t do the minimum for any job. Look for ways to excel and do more than what’s expected.



5. Look good and follow the rules! – Remember how you made fun of the dweeb who was such a stickler for the rules. He or she is probably higher up the ladder than you expected. The message here is be well-dressed and well-groomed when you go to work. If your client has a lot of rules, know and follow them. Don’t be the individual who consistently breaks all the rules. If you have an issue with a rule, discuss it. Don’t just decide to break it because you don’t like it. The old saying, “it’s better to ask for forgiveness than to seek permission” may be clever, but definitely not one to live by. Whoever said it the first time probably got fired soon after.