Andrew’s Podcast: 50 WAYS TO SUCCEED AT WORK

GOT A TOXIC WORK COLLEAGUE? —here’s how to clean up

 
In this episode, I present effective strategies you can apply to manage toxic behaviour by your colleagues.
I share three real-life vignettes and recommend that empathy, setting boundaries, and fostering team positivity can change a corrosive office environment to a nurturing one.
I dig into various traits a toxic colleague might portray and how best you, as an employee, can handle such negativity.
Some of these tactics include developing your personal strategy, setting expectations, documenting the toxic behaviour, and seeking support when needed. While emphasising the role of HR or management in tackling toxic behaviour, this should be your last resort when all strategies prove futile. However, you need to provide substantial documentation to support your case.
There are several possible reactions to toxic behaviour, ranging from forgiveness to distancing feelings from actions.
There’s also an in-depth discussion about the importance of empathy, building allies at the workplace, and setting boundaries to maintain a healthier work environment.
For more detailed advice and strategies to attain a satisfying work life check out my book Happiness at Work, available on Amazon or at book' website www.myhappinessatwork.site.

THE TRUTH ABOUT FEEDBACK

Welcome to the latest edition of the weekly podcast, ' 50 Ways to Succeed at Work.' Episode 11 explores the often misunderstood concept of feedback and how it impacts professional success.
I explain the true nature of feedback and how it can both help and hinder us in our professional journey.
Contrary to common beliefs, feedback is not always an accurate measure of weakness. I outline the fallacies of feedback and addresses why 'one size doesn't fit all' regarding personal development and career growth.
The podcast explores how being open to constructive and empathetic feedback, actively seeking career-focused conversations, and setting clear goals can set you on the right path to professional success.
I offer actionable advice on what to do when you're doing well but failing to get promoted, noting the importance of seeking clarity from your manager and creating a comprehensive career growth plan.
I emphasise the value of building strategic alliances for visibility and exploring advancement opportunities.
Ultimately, '50 Ways to Succeed at Work' encourages you to view feedback as a valuable tool towards developing your career path and in achieving more job satisfaction.
Join me next week for another insightful episode in Series 3. Remember to check out my book, 'Happiness at Work,' and previous podcast episodes on 50ways.site.

AUTHENTICITY--for a powerful impact on others

In this episode of the podcast series "50 Ways to Succeed at Work," I discuss the concept of authenticity and its significant impact on the workplace.
I explain three different archetypes—the Chameleon, the Mask Wearer, and the Fearful Whisperer—who struggle with showing their authentic selves and how their lack of genuineness affects their careers and work relationships.
Authenticity is about staying true to oneself and building trust, showing openness, and fostering real connections. I highlight the negative implications of hiding one's true self, such as causing cognitive strain, distress, and lack of balance, or even stunting one's full potential.
I stress the importance of being vulnerable, open, and genuine at work and how it can lead to professional and personal growth.
This episode also shares practical ways to nurture authenticity, like being open-minded, respecting others' opinions, making authentic choices, and using self-awareness as a tool for growth.
While acknowledging the potential downsides of authenticity, such as feeling exposed or encountering disagreements, I affirm that the benefits greatly outweigh these, such as increased job satisfaction, reduced stress, and more fulfilling relationships at work.
As with every episode of "50 Ways to Succeed at Work", it provides valuable insights and the necessary motivation to tackle real issues and challenges in the professional world.
Check  out my book on Amazon: Happiness at Work which provides a host of ideas and ways of tackling both authenticity and other work related issues.  
I look forward to you joining me next Monday for the next episode in this series.

MISTAKE MASTERY--the art of surviving work screwups

Welcome to Episode 9 of Series 3 in the weekly podcast, 50 Ways to Succeed at Work.
In this episode I aim to help you deal with the mistakes and screw-ups you may face in your workplace.
Famous celebrities, like Miley Cyrus and Sophie Turner, are examples to illustrate regrets and mistakes.
While failures are part of life, screw-ups often showcase negligence, poor judgment, or systemic issues causing severe circumstances.
Drawing from the film Rashomon, I delve into how multiple perspectives can cloud an understanding of a situation, notably in terms of workplace mistakes.
I introduce the spectrum of mistakes. This ranges from minor slip-ups to severe blunders. I share the critical importance of prioritising to maintain job security as well as self-respect.
The episode underscores the essential step of immediate action, including assessing damage, speaking to relevant people, and devising an action plan.
I touch on common screw-you may encounter in the office, from missed deadlines to giving poor presentations. I offer a variety of strategies to deal with these issues.
Recounting terrifying situations of monumental production failures, I emphasise the need for preventive measures to avoid similar hitches in the future.
I end by urging you to treat screw-ups as shared experiences and opportunities for personal growth. Staying focused, resilient, and learning from one's mistakes can turn anyone into a true mistake master.
Listen to more insights and strategies each Monday on 50 Ways to Succeed at Work.

HUNGRY FOR APPROVAL AT WORK?--how to break free with self validational

In this week's podcast I reveal insights into this critical aspect of professional life--the need for approval, or validation.
I discusses the significance of validation in one's career, taking you on a journey of workplace stories, celebrity narratives and practical tactics to foster self-validation.
The episode unfolds with a relatable example of Selena, a marketing executive thriving on external validation, highlighting the potential issues such a necessity can cause.
Drawing perspectives from renowned personalities like Oprah Winfrey, Nas, and Steve Jobs, I emphasize that the desire for validation is universal. However, when it becomes a dependency, it can lead to problems, particularly in the workplace.
Drawing on his experience, I share measures to maintain a healthy balance between self-belief and the dependency on other's approval.
I recommend methods such as self-reflection, playing one’s devil’s advocate, and allowing opinions to mature before sharing or acting on them.
An important suggestion I share is to have a cooling-off period before responding to contentious matters, helping to prevent knee-jerk reactions governed by the need for instant approval.
This enlightening podcast closes by emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s value and seeking validation from within.
Learn how to let go of your excessive need for approval, allowing for a more self-assured and less conflicted professional life.
Explore more valuable sessions on job success from my weekly Monday podcast. Also check out my book, 'Happiness at Work'.
Tune in next week for another more insight on achieving happiness and prosperity in your career.

RAISING A TRICKY ISSUE WITH SENIORS--and how to survive it

 
This episode focuses on navigating tricky issues with more senior colleagues. It begins by reviewing the complexity of understanding seniors' perspectives and their experience-based approach to work.
The goal is not to isolate or stereotype older colleagues but to foster an empathetic understanding that aids meaningful communication, especially when raising complicated matters at work.
From the disappearance of office supplies to the accidental mass circulation of a sensitive email, the session identifies various awkward situations that one might encounter in your professional journey. The podcast offers prudently, humorous, and empathetic strategies to approach such dilemmas.
Furthermore, the focus is on seeing older colleagues as peers rather than superiors and on showing interest in their experiences.
The session highlights the importance of attending team events, seeking mentors, and engaging in cross-generational conversations.
The podcast suggests survival tactics, including active listening, choosing the right time for discussions, and seeking mediation whenever necessary.
Ultimately, the goal is to empower you to tackle difficult conversations with seniors at work, with empathy and understanding.
You can find other episodes on the podcast website,  Also, Andrew's book "Happiness at Work" is packed with compelling advice and riveting stories; available now on Amazon.
Looking forward to being with for next Monday's podcast. Listen to it on all the main platforms and for free at the podcast website,
 

INDISPENSABLE—resist the lure, it's a trap

Just like the formidable character of Goliath in biblical myths, this episode explores the illusion and reality of becoming indispensable at work and questions whether it's a surefire path to career success.
I share with you stories from the world of business, cinema, and tech that challenge the narrative of indispensability.
I offer real-life stories of people and companies once seen as indispensable who found themselves struggling later on.
From freelancers displaced by artificial intelligence to household names like Kodak and Disney facing crises in the absence of their key leaders, the episode brings to light the pitfalls of overreliance on one aspect, person, or technology.
I discuss the importance of balance and teamwork over individual indispensability. I share how those on the path to becoming indispensable can often end up overburdened and stressed, thus causing more potential harm than benefit to both the individual and the organization.
I particularly stress the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and not overshadowing the contributions of others.
This episode is not just an eye-opener for those striving to make themselves indispensable. It also offers practical advice on how to prevent over-dependence on a few people or resources.
Tune into this episode to understand why becoming indispensable is not necessarily the key to success at work.
Don't forget to check out my other regular Monday podcasts on the website, and get your hands-on my book "Happiness at Work" at Amazon for more such compelling advice and narratives.
Tune in next Monday for another unmissable episode in Series 3 50 Ways to Succeed at Work

CHALLENGING THE STUTUS QUO--a career-enhancing Strategy

 
In this episode I examine the potential career-enhancing impact of challenging the status quo at work.
Most notably, this episode explores how individuals who demonstrate a healthy dissatisfaction for the status quo like Grant Reid, the former CEO of the powerful Mars company, can significantly boost their careers.
By examining case studies like Wendy Kopp and Jason Killar, this podcast establishes how successfully managed disruption can lead to tremendous success.
It addresses the inevitable labelling someone a disruptor or a challenging employee and discusses the potential resistance a change advocate might encounter from their colleagues or superiors.
Remarkable influencers like Grace Hopper, and a former Starbucks chief officer, and John Kotter- a leadership expert, and others have defied the status quo. They made a positive difference in their respective fields and society at large. Their extraordinary narratives provide inspiration and guidance for those willing to introduce substantial changes at work.
However, challenging the status quo requires careful planning and strategic allies. Andrew's podcast offers three essential actions that can potentially help you to challenge the status quo in a safe manner. They include careful preparation, understanding how to present the proposal convincingly, and gathering collaborative allies to support the change.
The episode concludes with a note on the potential impact of questioning traditional norms on your career and in the organization. It suggests that altering processes and introducing new ideas can increase organizational efficiency and productivity, leading to career advancement.
This engaging episode helps to discover why and how to challenge the status quo to boost your career. Find the complete Series 3 episodes and more at 50ways.site. Don't forget to check out my book, "Happiness At Work", available at Amazon and myhappinessatwork.com. See you next week!

SELLING YOUR IDEAS UP THE LINE

This episode dives into the art of selling your ideas effectively to your superiors in the workspace. Aptly titled 'Selling Your Vision Up the Line'
I suggest you need to command attention, communicate effectively and champion your ideas efficiently, using proven strategies.
I explain the importance of speaking up, ensuring clarity of ideas, highlighting the organisation's benefits, using storytelling as a persuasion tool, and leveraging trusted allies.
I present revealing studies that uncover employees' fears when raising issues or presenting ideas, and provides practical advice to overcome these.
The episode brings to light the tactful approach of seeding ideas during casual conversations, emphasizing timing, understanding managerial psychology and using the power of flattery.
It explains about convincing superiors effectively on the gains and opportunities attached to your ideas, and the ways to avoid common pitfalls.
Drawing parallels to the dangerous terrains of mountaineering, Andrew encourages you to navigate the complex world of decision-making with insightful guidance and tips.
I also share an engaging narrative about dealing with insecure managers, providing effective strategies to win them over.
Listen, learn and leverage the insightful lessons from this episode, and transform your approach to selling your ideas 'up the line'.
Be sure to check out my book 'Happiness At Work' available at Amazon and the book's website 'myhappinessatwork.com' for more insights.
Listen to the rest of my podcasts every Monday on Spotify, Apple, and all the main podcast platforms and tap into important ways to develop your career.
 

HOW BOASTING CAN BOOST YOUR WORKPLACE CONFIDENCE

Today, I explore why a bit of boasting at work is not just acceptable, but quite necessary. While it is often suggested to let our work speak for itself, it sometimes falls to us to shed light on our achievements to avoid being taken for granted.
Imposter Syndrome, a constant fear of feeling like a fraud, can be a hurdle on the path to self-appreciation. It affects many, including renowned personalities like Tom Hanks, Sheryl Sandberg, and Lady Gaga.
Some degree of self-promotion, far from being detrimental, can serve as a healthy expression of pride in our work accomplishments.
Boasting at work cannot be fully productive if it makes us liable for scorn and criticism. I discuss some strategies that you can deploy.
Begin by acknowledging and reframing your negatives into positives and drowning out the inner critic. Seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, and loved ones to gain an objective evaluation of your abilities. Lastly, cultivate an optimistic mindset to enhance your self-esteem.
Be sure to check out other episodes from the '50 Ways to Succeed at Work' podcast series available on our website.
And for additional insights and practical advice on tackling workplace issues, do take a look at my book "Happiness at Work", available on Amazon and the book's website. There's also an audio version if you prefer listening.
Join me next week for another episode full of actionable advice. Until then, goodbye!