“They
just don’t understand me!” This is one of the most popular excuses
from employees that are having trouble creating impact and influence in the
workplace. In fact, most employees who say that are just
tired of a workplace culture that does not encourage them to share their
individuality.
Today’s employee wants to engage in
a more meaningful and purposeful way. They want to throw titles and
corporate speak out the door. They want a more genuine environment where
people can share their concerns about the business, their personal struggles
and ways to collectively solve problems. Workplace silos, the politics of
leadership and the fight for recognition make it difficult for these
employees to be productive.
We all experience similar challenges
in the workplace, just in different forms. Everyone is hurting, but most are
scared to share it because they believe this will disrupt any momentum they
have. The trick is to connect with your colleagues in
ways that
promote transparency and unity. People must learn how to feel
comfortable about sharing more about themselves; their personal
selves. I have learned that when people know your personal
backstory they approach you more respectfully. Your colleagues
become more aware of what really matters to you and will find ways to integrate
your heart into your work. I have also learned that
when this approach doesn’t work, you won’t fit into that culture.
Everyone has a
backstory. Unfortunately, most people feel that if they disclose it, it
will weaken them. In fact, the reverse happens because
all our stories overlap – and those parts that we share connect us. Why
do you think small groups and online communities have become so
popular? In today’s world, people want to connect with others in
ways that matter equally to their hearts, and their heads.
Here are (6) personal traits that
will help you accelerate your influence at work:
1. Your Goals and Aspirations:
Let others know about what you
strive to become, where you are headed and / or what path you desire to take in
your career. It’s ok to be open about what you long
for. Discussions about goal setting are always enlightening and
create great dialogue. They connect people in profound ways that
bring them closer together – and that help people work more strategically with
one another.
Perhaps you are in middle management
and your goal is to lead a business division in your organization. Not
only can the right succession plan be put into place, but maybe you can be
assigned as the next employee resource group (ERG) leader that will offer you
the experiences and exposure that will be required to reach your ultimate goal.
2. Your Heritage:
Don’t ever assume that others know
your cultural background based on your name alone. In fact, even if they
can figure it out, they may not understand the nuances of your
culture. Your heritage defines your customs, attitude and
outlook. It represents your roots and most likely how you were
raised. It helps others understand how you are wired as a leader, decision
maker and individual.
For example, if you are from South
Korea and are actively involved in your community, you are well versed in the
desires and market trends of your culture. Based on how you
share this trait with others, there can be an opportunity to work with as an
advisor to your organization’s multicultural marketing department.
3. Your Passion:
What excites you
most? Share it with others. This cultivates an
interesting dialogue because it touches the core of what fuelsyou and gets you
going each day. Your passion defines the magnitude of the impact
you seek to create. While you may surprise some people, it may get
you closer to the next opportunity in your organization.
Believe me, I always find ways to align the passion of my employees with their
responsibilities.
Coaches can be great mentors. I
remember that one of my managers was passionate about being a high school
baseball coach. After he invited me to a few games I realized that he
would be a valuable asset to our organization’s mentoring program.
Your Adversities / Struggles:
This one is delicate, but
necessary. We have all faced hurdles in life and it amazes me just
how much we all have in common when adversities are shared. How you
can contribute to your organization by utilizing the lessons learned from your
experiences with adversity can make a big difference.
Like many of us who have aging
parents, caring for elderly is challenging. But over time you
acquire patience and an aptitude and spirit of wanting to help
others. This experience can help you serve as small group leader to
others that share the same struggle in your organization; but also gives you
the opportunity to support your company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR)
initiatives.
5. Your Family/ Childhood:
Talking about your parents and/or
siblings will give your colleagues a broader understanding of who you are and
what you represent as an individual. Your family defines your fabric and
materials that influenced your upbringing.
That is why your childhood can help
others learn a lot about your perspectives. For example, I grew up
in a small town called Azusa, in Southern California. Because my father
worked at the Miller Brewing Company just down the street he would come home
for lunch every day and I was able to spend a lot of time with my Dad,
especially during the summer, where he would share stories about the impact of
his immigrant past and his experiences in Cuba before Castro.
Perhaps now you know why I write
about the immigrant perspective.
6. Your Hobbies
What you do outside of work fuels
your heart and soul. Whether it’s your desire to play an instrument or
give back to your local community. Share what drives you in ways
that others don’t know about. I remember I had a boss that played the
guitar. I also knew of (3) others in my work that played
instruments and they formed a band that performed for the organization.
These (6) personal stories represent
the real you: why you think, act and innovate the way that you
do. Open your mind to seeing beyond the obvious ways to create
influence in your work. By sharing your personal stories, the impact that
you can have on those around you will be greatly magnified.
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