Three Things Working In Corporate America Taught Me About Being Business-Savvy
May 22, 2008 by Bridget Wright
Filed under Business
[photo source: google images]
My time spent behind an office desk was quite an experience, one I wouldn’t trade for anything. While I loved what I did and liked (some) of the people I worked with, Corporate America taught me a few things that can make your business life easier.
1. Keep meticulous notes. This works well for meetings, appointments or any other time when referring to good notes can make your life easier. Note-taking is a learned skill that requires the experience of doing it over and over to get good at it. I find myself taking notes on everything I do and with every conversation that I have, whether its personal or business related. I keep a Franklin Covey day-by-day calendar where I also log my daily activity with the time stamp, person’s name that I spoke with and what was discussed so I can refer back to it later if I need it.
2. Stay late, come in early. Do this as much as is allowable. I gave corporate America A LOT of my time, so why should I do any less for my own business? Now, I haven’t quite figured out the 4-hour workweek, so until I do, I like the idea of my business getting 99% of my focus, time and attention.
3. Communicate effectively with your peers. Talking and organizing business material in an understandable fashion makes it easier for everyone involved. Effective communicators often turn into effective listeners then into effective leaders. Good oratory skills can go a long way in developing any business’ solid customer base.
Corporate America did a lot for me in helping me to develop the way I perceive and think about business issues.
Are you still in the corporate world? Have you learned anything that has stuck with you or that transfers over to your business dealings?
Hola! Thanks for the welcome and I love BizChicksRule! You’ll see me around here lots.
And nice piece. The one thing that always stuck with me is the “Open Eye”. I had a Jewish mentor way-back-when and he always told me to keep my eyes open for advancement and opportunity. Then he would say, “ATTACK!”. Great man.
One thing I learned in the corporate world that led me to my own business…your boss’s goal (for you) may not be your goal (for yourself). So always have your own goals, and don’t be afraid to make the moves necessary to achieve them!
“Come in early, and stay late” is the best advice, and something we women were not taught. I’ve picked up on more good “stuff” by just being there then….rendering me more effective, efficient, noticed, and promotable.
I honestly feel that women have gotten caught up in that old “boundary” issue – and don’t want to be seen as being used. Therefore, just watch as all too many of them make a rush for the door at 5PM, missing so many of the great chances to make a difference. The high-po Leaders demonstrate commitment to whatever it is that they are doing.
They get in early and stay late, just as you said.