I often hear HR people say they want a “seat at the table”, meaning they want to participate in their company’s strategic discussions. In my experience, those seats go to those that earn them. Earn, as in (1) exhibiting the skills to perform at that level and (2) the drive to exhibit them where and whenever possible. As I learned early in my career, those seats don’t get offered to someone waiting for an invitation. They’re earned by those who:
· Are curious, open, and flexible
· Actively seek out coaches and mentors
· Make it their business to learn their business
· Continually update their knowledge, skills, and abilities
· Make themselves available to be involved in company projects
Though today’s author is a comedienne, her successful career attests to her serious interest and willingness to take full advantage of the opportunities that came her way. Not that she did that recklessly, she just make up her mind not to be intimidated by big and bold opportunities. Sometimes people are not ready when big breaks like that are presented, but when that happens do, they work extra-long and hard to learn what they need to do to be successful. I’m speaking from experience here – this is exactly how I got asked to join the pre-opening Mirage team. I may not have been ready, but I was willing to put in the extra effort. If you see a door like that in your career – walk on through and give it your very best shot. That’s how to find your seat at the table today.
Joan Rivers (1933 – 2014): American comedian, actress, writer, producer, and television host: considered a pioneer of women in comedy by many critics.
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