Everyone knows about the “Golden Rule,” right? The ancient law of reciprocity reminds us how we should engage with others in society. Well, I would like to propose a set of golden rules for the business world.
These rules can help guide a positive daily engagement with everyone from leaders, to managers, to front-line employees, to customers—helping all of us to be our most professional selves.
The Golden Rules
- Make other people feel important. Treat everyone like they matter, regardless of their rank.
- What your intuition is telling you about a person, good or bad, is probably right. So follow it. Keep in mind, that other people are probably using their intuition to size you up too!
- Let people know when they’re doing a good job. Give the proper respect when the proper respect is due. Give more credit than you take. Say these two words sincerely and a lot: Thank you!
- When in conflict, remember that there are always three sides; my side, the other person’s side, and somewhere in the middle that has pieces of each side. Usually, the middle is the truth. Embrace the middle place.
- Listen to people in a way that shows them that you genuinely care about what they’re saying. Remember, the same letters in the word can be jiggled around to spell silent.
- Be unconditionally good. Don’t use excuses like being stressed or overloaded to provide cover for less-than-good behavior. When the going gets tough, always move to the high road.
Who wants to work in an environment where you can’t resolve issues in a civil way, feel like you aren’t appreciated or your hard work goes unrecognized? Not me!
As an insightful speaker, Ty Howard put it, “Life is short… Work where you’re continuously accepted, respected, appreciated, encouraged, inspired, empowered, and valued.”
If you’re ready to increase your professionalism, put these golden rules into practice daily. You will see a change not only in yourself, but in how others react to and engage with you.
Interested in learning more about developing your skills as a leader? Check out these related posts:
7 Ways To Improve Your Professionalism
Managing Professional Expectations in Leadership Is No Easy Task
Get a free workbook with tips on stepping up your professionalism by sending an email to info@www.giantleapconsulting.com.
