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YOUR MOST VALUABLE CAREER CAPITAL is your time, labor, and creativity. Whenever you are working, you are investing that capital. Maximize your investment. Pursue your work goals in a way that allows you to learn and grow; to build new skills and perform diverse tasks; to achieve tangible results and collect proof of your value in the workplace; to receive recognition, credit, and rewards; to maintain balance between your working life and home life; and to build relationships with people who can help you.
Work closely with good managers. Make the most of the learning opportunities they provide. Get them to help you formulate ambitious goals and determine realistic deadlines. Pay close attention to the feedback they give you, and appreciate the recognition, credit, and rewards they provide. Never stop earning the responsibility, creative freedom, and flexibility they want to provide for you.
The best managers are leaders, role models, teachers, coaches, and mentors—people who go to bat for anyone who works hard for them. You will never forget them, and they will never forget you. In fact, they may become some of the best friends you will ever have.
Bad managers, however, are a whole different story. No matter how miserable they may be, you cannot let them stand in your way. Remember, your boss is only your boss for today—tomorrow, he or she could be your customer, your supplier, teammate, subordinate, friend, adversary, teacher, student, spouse, in-law, or somebody you never see again. The hierarchy of your relationship is temporary. If your manager is getting in your way, you must take control of the situation.
To help your manager help you succeed, follow these six guidelines:
1. Help your manager delegate effectively.
2. Get the feedback you need.
3. Set specific learning objectives, and get your manager’s support.
4. Always put requests in the form of a proposal.
5. Disentangle the micromanager.
6. Never accept abusive behavior from a manager.