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The Promotable and Fireproof Newsletter
Your source for quick, actionable advice on maximizing your potential in the age of fast change, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and uncertainty.
Read time: 3 min.
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Promotable and Fireproof
Steve Degnan here, Advisor Board Member
and former Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO).
Relationships, Reputation and Results
are the main ingredients to career success,
and what I see as the driving forces in becoming
Promotable and Fireproof.
Together let's dig in to some quick take advice to make this real.
I’m glad you’re here. Let’s go!
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Relationships |
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You need both mentors and sponsors.
Mentors can be found both inside and outside an organization and are experienced people who can share their wisdom with you on any topic, but especially for your career choices. Sponsors are people inside your work organization who are part of the discussions where promotions and opportunities are determined. You need a sponsor who can defend you and advocate for you.
As you network, be on the look out for both; also, in order to be “mentor-able” and “sponsor-able” you need to exhibit a combination of traits: humility, effectiveness, eagerness, and ability to listen for starters.
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Reputation |
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Do new and uncomfortable things.
Have you considered re-engaging with your alma mater (high school or college) and possibly talking to students about career options? Have you considered joining a community organization with a challenging mission? Have you taken a personal trip someplace that you never thought you would? Have you listened to music outside of your own taste? Have you spent time around people that you don’t agree with for an extended period?
All of these are examples of doing the uncomfortable – for many, not all. By occasionally putting yourself in circumstances you would normally avoid and keeping your composure, you will be known as fair- minded and you may learn something. That is a good thing in today’s polarized world.
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Results |
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Establish a vital few.
American quality pioneer Bill Conway spoke about having a “Vital Few” goals as necessary for focus in large organizations. If we have too many goals, we get lost in them and they all become hazy. Have less than five, optimally three or less – and then you can get very focused and have your teams digest the goals and understand them.
Apply this to your own life both personally and professionally. Instead of ten goals you are trying to accomplish, write down two or three in specifics that you want to get serious about. The power of focus may surprise you.
Bonus Point!
Only YOU can truly prioritize your time. AI can’t tell you what to do first in your daily life.
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