3 Ways to Get Promoted By Being Yourself

Redbook

Boost your career and make a good impression at work with these tips from nice girls and straight-talkers.

The new get-ahead career book, Nice Girls Just Don't Get It, totally contradicts the advice in the work bible The Power of Nice. So which approach is best: good girl or straight-talker? Our verdict: They both rock. Just pick the one that's the most natural for you.

How To: MAKE A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION

  • Nice Girls: "To establish a friendly connection, lead in with a compliment, such as, 'I love your earrings,' or a personal comment like, 'Is that a picture of your daughter?'" says Robin Koval, coauthor of The Power of Nice.

  • Straight-Talkers: "People are attracted to those who are most like them. If the person you've just met gets right down to business, skip the small talk and do the same," say Nice Girls Just Don't Get It authors Lois Frankel, Ph.D., and Carol Frohlinger, Esq.

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How To: SHINE IN MEETINGS

  • Nice Girls: "Approach a brainstorm session from a point of collaboration by saying, 'I like that idea, but here's a way to make it better.' It shows that you respect your peers' ideas."

  • Straight-Talkers: "Speak up early in meetings to establish yourself as a player in the decision-making process. Nice girls often miss their window of opportunity by letting others go first."

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How To: GET ON THE PROMOTION TRACK

  • Nice Girls: "Studies show that likability plays a big role in who gets hired and promoted, so spend time creating personal relationships if you want to move up."

  • Straight-Talkers: "Coworkers don't need to know your deepest secrets. Save that for your spouse and focus on wowing your superiors with results - that's what really matters."


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