Yes, boss

Over the years, I have discovered some basic rules that could help in building a successful career. My learning came long after the mistakes...

Over the years, I have discovered some basic rules that could help in building a successful career. My learning came long after the mistakes were made and my career, on many occasions, was in doldrums.

Inevitably, everything revolves around the boss. The quicker you grasp this reality, the better off you are likely to be. I thought the boss8217;s job was to solve problems. That is not strictly true. Never take a problem without some solution. 8220;You are getting paid to think, not to whine8221;, I was reprimanded.

These days, dedicated long hours of work amounts to nothing. The boss wants quick turn-around results because his boss demands it. And if by some stroke of luck your efforts pay off, remember your boss will get the entire credit. That is the time to pray for inner strength.

Never discuss career planning with your boss. He gets irritated and you are likely to be seen as a cribber. However, I found that the most exciting opportunities tend to be unplanned. Many of us have been mislead by memos. However, you will find out soon enough that most memos from the top are political fantasy. It is absolutely mindless to say, 8220;It8217;s not my job8221;! If the boss wants you to do it 8212; just do it.

Do not pay undue importance to the size of your office space. It is not as important as the size of your pay cheque. Since job security does not exist, keep yourself fully plugged with the goings-on in the company. If you hear rumours about some reorganisation 8212; begin to worry. This generally means someone will lose the job.

It is risky to gossip about your boss. You must assume no one can and will keep a secret.

Bosses have the uncanny ability to confront you with the least important issue. Always keep track of what you are supposed to know, someone is sure to ask.

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You must go to your company8217;s New Year party 8212; no matter how boring it may be. Your absence upsets the boss although he might not even notice your presence. Don8217;t ever get drunk. You never know how some home truths may slip off your tongue. At these parties, the management is looking for feedback.

Sometimes due to the unpredictable behaviour of your boss, you might have the sudden urge to get entrepreneurial. Visit someone who runs his own business. It may cure you.

And never appear stressed in front of your boss. Take a deep breath and ask yourself: in the course of human events, how important is this?