How about a short course in long-term success? The advice in today’s Point applies to all kinds of professionals—from salespeople to executives. It works in and out of the office, and it comes in answer to a common question. People in my program and those in groups I speak to often ask me to list my “top three keys to success.” It’s a short course of far-reaching advice that I’m happy to share!
Here are my three simple keys to success:
- Be authentic.
- Form meaningful relationships.
- Do what you say you are going to do.
Let’s look first at how to be authentic. Being authentic means telling the truth all the time—even when the truth is hard to give and take. Telling the truth comes with consequences. Some are happy, others not so much. I’m the first to say that being authentic isn’t easy. Sometimes truthful conversations are quite uncomfortable, but the payoff for being authentic is huge! Always telling the truth is how you earn and build trust. The truth is: Being caught in a “little, white lie” can end up costing you big. Because, if you don’t have trust in a relationship, you don’t really have a relationship.
The trust that comes from being authentic allows you to form meaningful relationships. Meaningful relationships mean that both parties value each other. You form meaningful relationships with people who are important to you. You regularly (and gladly) invest in each other. You’ve probably heard the sales axiom: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” It’s true! If your relationships are built around caring for others, wanting the best for others and having an authentic appreciation for others, people will gravitate to you and success will follow. And even if you mess up, they will work with you. Nobody’s perfect. But if you haven’t taken the time and effort to build “relationship capital,” you won’t have any chips to cash in should that need ever arise.
Finally, do what you say you are going to do. It sounds simple, but it’s hugely important. Deliver on your promises. Be one of those people other people can count on. When you say, “consider it done,” you should be that person who always, always gets it done.
Corsini’s Point:
Success in work and in life is relatively simple. I didn’t say “easy,” just simple. I challenge you to be authentic in all that you do. Yes, we all mess up from time to time, but strive to be truthful in all of your relationships. Next, form meaningful relationships—and lots of them. Be there for people. Approach your relationships (in the office and outside it) not with a “what can you do for me?” outlook but with a solid “what can I do for you?” attitude. Care for others, and they will care for you. And finally, be that person everyone can count on. Make your word your 100% guarantee that you’ll do what you promise and that you’ll do it on time. Follow these three simple keys to success and you’ll do what you do better.
“Unselfish acts are the real miracles out of which all the reported miracles grow.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson
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