Andrew’s Podcast: 50 WAYS TO SUCCEED AT WORK

EPISODE 32 (50) TIME TRAVELLER - avoid lateness or early leaving as it causes resentment and harm your chance of success

This week Andrew takes a closer look at lateness for work. One in four US and UK employees struggle to arrive on time.Whatever the excuse, every lateness incident can become a significant problem for those on the receiving end.If lots of people are late for work, does it matter if you do the same asks Andrew? Yes, it does matter, he warns, since turning up late shows disrespect. It suggests that you consider your time to be more valuable than theirs.If you're going to be late, says Andrew in this podcast, at least use the "Advanced Notice Explanation".  This is where you provide colleagues with an advanced warning that you will arrive late. Explain that you won't be on time because something specific will delay you.Offer apologies for the delay and don't invent excuses, suggests Andrew.  It can also be tempting to make a drama from your delay and heroic late arrival. Give that a miss says Andrew, for a natural break.As usual, Andrew ends on three practical steps you can take to be a time traveller in which you deal with lateness in positive ways. Best of all, avoid acquiring a reputation for abusing other people's time. There's a lot to take in from this Podcast. Consider a second or third hearing at the Podcast site  https://www.50Ways.site. You'll also learn how to obtain the relevant e-learning mobile unit to consolidate your learning further.All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
SHOW NOTEHave fun watching this employee arriving late - is he for real? MaybeConan Catches Jordan Schlansky Coming In Late | CONAN on TBS, https://tinyurl.com/2bxsamsbAlso, here's some help with excuses!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vA_6GP9gjM
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 31 (50) CLUTTER KILLER - make sure your mess and disorder don’t do your down

People differ over whether a cluttered, paper-strewn work area is a good or a bad thing. In favor is that it could mean you’re highly creative, maybe even a genius.Against clutter is that your physical environment may strongly affect your understanding, emotions, and behavior.  It can also influence your decision-making and relationships.In this week's podcast, Andrew teases some essentials about clutter.  Scans show that our brains like order. Mess is seldom a visual reminder of genius, more often it suggests disorganization that drains mental resources and reduces our ability to focus. Andrew explains how the clutter happens and why. For example, even touching material things makes you more emotionally attached to them. That mess is saying to you: "To touch me is to love me!" No wonder it's more comfortable to hold onto the clutter than dump it.Since you are in search of success at work, Andrew warns that perception is everything and tidiness suggests that you are well organized,Passing your chaotic desk prompts the opposite perception, "How do find anything from all that?" He suggests you encourage your team to have regular spring cleaning days and perhaps turn these into enjoyable social experiences as well.Andrew ends this podcast on clutter with the usual three practical actions you can take right away to deal with it.Why not give this Podcast a second hearing so that you begin to include this kind of thinking into your search for success at work? Or check out the transcript at the podcast site for a slower, more sustained read and improved learning. Don't forget there is also an e-learning mobile unit associated with it by an independent company not connected with 50 Ways.Show note
Photo of Einstein’s desk on his death: https://tinyurl.com/4w23j2n9
Photo of Steve Jobs’ home/office at Apple: https://tinyurl.com/yck5395r
All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 30 (50) CULTURE CREATURE - supporting the culture makes you stand out

Andrew first explains what is company culture and goes on to describe why it matters to you in your search for success.Company culture is about behavior and is the total behaviors and practices spread throughout the organization. Andrew sums it all up as about values. These show what's essential for people's behavior; examples include loyalty, honesty, integrity and kindness.Even if you are not high in an organization's power structure, you can still have a significant impact at the local level by incorporating workplace values in your work. You have values, too, which must be acceptable to the organization. For example, there can be conflicts between valuing honesty and choosing to be dishonest to achieve something, such as money.When senior people see you embracing the organization's values, you boost our chances of success. Andrew then lists actions you can take to support values and affect the culture and concludes, as usual, with three practical steps you can take immediately.There's a lot to absorb in this particular Podcast. Why not listen to it again a couple of times? If you have questions, you can always raise them by subscribing to the Podcast website.All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 29 (50) SHARER - why sharing information and knowledge pays more than hoarding them

In this episode Andrew asks whether you should share information at work or keep it to yourself.He explains that there is a difference between holding onto information, which is just data and facts, and in contrast not letting go of knowledge. It can be tempting to hold on to these if you think they will give others the edge over you. But he points out that if you do squirrel them away there's a cost to you and others.If you choose to resist sharing you don't gain strength from this approach you lose wans Andrew.People soon realize you are being selfish or worse, you are not being a team player. Andrew spells out when you are more likely to hide knowledge. He explains a long list of gains from sharing including collaboration which is more than putting heads together.When you share you come across as effective and productive and it gives a real boost to your search for success.All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 28 (50) POSITIVE THINKER - use the power of ”yes and”; be wary of using ”yes but”

Two words, says Andrew can  change your life. They are "Yes and" and their shadow side "Yes but."Others are fans of "yes and" since they too realise their power to communicate and persuade. They're like a grenade thrown into any communication.Andrew takes you on a closer look at using these words at work and how best to use them to your advantage.He points out  that these words are not magical, just incredibly useful as they can transform how a group works together."Yes but" too can prove impactful sometimes for good as when it makes people look more carefully at the possible effect of a decision. However it can also cause harm and is like Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hide, with a secret monster waiting to emerge.Finally Andrew offers his usual three practical actions points you can take today, including adopting the personal discipline of never following on from someone talking with a "yes but."All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 27 (50) WINNER NOT A WHINER - grumblers seldom come out on top

Could you be a Whiner asks Andrew in this latest episode?He explains how Whiners are easy to spot and how they undermine everyone's performances including their own.Once you're sure the Whiner isn't you Andrew goes on to explain what to do about this person and how you can deal with them. He explains how in contrast Winners find ways forward, and their belief shows as confidence, persistence and perseverance. While Whiners wait for things to happen, Winners are continually putting things in motion.Andrew poses a  challenge: which do you want to be? He concludes with the usual three action points that you can do right away.All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 26 (50) COME CLEAN - how and why cover ups can be career-damaging

Andrew looks in some depth at this critical issue than can impact your ability to succeed at work.He introduces quotes from Michael Jordan and a successful entrepreneur to show how success can stem from learning from failure. He also looks at how minor mistakes can lead to big disasters, as in a Nasa probe that went wrong, by using two different scales of measurement.His main message is don't try and hide your mistakes at work, everyone makes them. What matters is how you deal with them. That includes admitting them and not hoping that no one will notice. Also the importance of taking steps to rectify an error and reassuring your colleagues what you are doing to avoid a repeat in the future.Despite the horrible name mistakes at work generally acquire, they can still sometimes prove a good friend.  Though it will be unwelcome, your mistake at work could signal where you may need to learn or improve. 
 Andrew admits that hiding or not admitting to your gaffes can be tempting. You may hope and pray that it may never catch up with you to damage your prospects. 
Beware, he warns! In most organisations, the big mistakes and even small ones almost always surface at some stage. 
When you cover up your mistakes, and they get discovered, your colleagues and senior colleagues might never trust you again.
If the mistake is down to you, take ownership of it by the three most crucial damage limitation steps. Andrew then spells out what to do about it.Choose carefully he suggests, between coming clean soon or staying silent and paying the price. When in doubt, breathe, ramp up your courage and come forward sooner rather than later.
All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 25 (50) Grab training - stay alert for personal development opportunities

“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail” observed the talented Benjamin Franklin, inventor of the lightning conductor.
Since you’re listening to my Podcasts, says Andrew in this latest Podcast., you’re certainly not planning to fail. 
 He proposes that you create a Personal Development Plan (PDP) as an important route to success at work.A PDP is your route map for growing and developing during your working life.  It’s a pathway to success. 
Is it worth the hassle of devising one asks Andrew?  Consider some of the benefits he suggests. These include:   
A clear statement of your chosen goals
Clarity on when you’ve reached these goals.
Identify your strengths and weaknesses systematically.
Makes you more employable. 
To sum up, your PDP offers the best possible chance for success and maximises your potential.The first crucial question for a PDP is: “What are my goals? What do I want to achieve?” 
 Your answers, which you record, may cover a year or a lifetime. What matters is the action of setting down your wishes or your intentions. 
 Setting down your goals in this way has a known yet powerful effect. It starts to influence your life. The second crucial question for your PDP is: “What do I mean by success?
 Faced with this challenge of the meaning of success, some people prefer to give it a miss. Others may bounce right back with clear answers. What will be your reaction?The most critical part of your PDP is its ability to guide you in spotting essential training and development opportunities.  Grab them while they exist. You are the best judge of training and whether it takes you further towards your PDP goals or not. Also, treat training at work as a never-ending journey, not a single event.Why not listen to the Podcast again to get a firmer feel for follow-through action at www.50Ways.siteYou'll also learn how to obtain the relevant e-learning mobile unit to consolidate your learning further.All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 24 (50) HANDBOOK HAPPY - study any new employee notes or handbooks

Andrew describes the famous Nordstrom handbook, which is one page, as commendably short. It's a myth, says Andrew, but their heart is in the right place.Like other employers, Nordstrom has to abide by all kinds of regulations. That's part of why you receive the handbook. It should explain the background and culture of the organisation.Handbooks share the rules and expectations your organisation must follow and why you need to know about some of them. In particular, a handbook should help you understand how the organisation works and its culture.  So Andrew's message is that using the handbook or any induction notes are windows into the organisation.  It should also help you appreciate what the employer expects of you. And it should also make clear its values. All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book
 

EPISODE 23 (50) BE A CHANGE MAKER - not change loser

In this episode, Andrew explains that Change-Makers are people who, often against the odds, keep making positive things happen. They have a vision of how things should be and keep pushing to bring it alive.Not everyone at work will be keen on change, says Andrew.  He suggests that you need to become change friendly or a change maker to succeed at work. This is much better than being a change loser. You need to choose one or the other.The more proactive you can be in supporting change efforts, Andrew says, the more likely you'll be regarded as effective at work.When you're a change-maker you seek positive and valuable change. This helps you build positive workplace relationships with colleagues, which is a major part of succeeding at work. 
Knowing about change and how you can support it has another spinoff. It can strengthen how you adapt to new work situations. 
To those in charge, your adaptability conveys your professionalism and reliability. Your positive reactions show people they trust you to assist when changes must happen.
It’s sensible not to be overambitious about your personal ability to affect change. Equally, it’s a mistake to assume that you’re helpless to influence it and are bound to lose out. 
As a change-maker, you’re proactive, not merely reactive. 
Andrew points out that your adverse reactions to change could label you a change loser—someone who moans about change and resists it.He describes how change makers and change losers sound at work.The more proactive you can be in supporting change efforts, the more likely you’ll be regarded as effective at work. So, which of these two types of responders, Change-Makers or Change-Losers, are you likely to be? Andrew suggests what you need to do to be seen as a Change-Maker which can enhance your chances of success at work.All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better.
Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version.Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at
www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading
and
www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch.BOOK:The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.
www.myhappinessatwork.com/book