Twice in the last three days, clients have brought up the aggravation of having to manage organizational politics to get things done. Like it or not, working with and through others is a fact of our matrixed world. “Politics” has come to have such a negative connotation, and I find that people shy away from getting involved. A better path: use the four simple steps below to navigate…

I have been so fortunate to have great mentors throughout my career. If you don’t have a mentor, I encourage you to find one. Potential mentors are plentiful! Leaders want to help others succeed. So get clear on what’s important to you and ask someone. You and your mentor will both be rewarded and enriched by the relationship.

So much is written about Personal Brand, and the importance of Personal Brand. Do you know what your brand is? Are you clear on the top three attributes people identify with you? Are those the attributes you want?

#4 Together – Many of us are high-achievers. In fact, it’s likely your personal drive, intelligence and passion that have gotten you to where you are today.  You’ve built a successful career through skill and hard work. Basketball great Michael Jordan had it right: talent wins games, but teamwork wins championships.

Careers and career development do not follow a one size fits all model. In today’s world of evolving business priorities, changes in organizational structure and multiple managers in a given career timeframe, no one will watch your career more effectively than YOU.