Career Advice: More About The Myths Of Success

In a previous posting I let off some steam about the scams that rascals run around the idea that there are some myths that you can follow to achieve instant career success.

I said “baloney” and I say it again.

A myth that seems to be growing in popularity holds that everyone is entitled to the rewards of success. The world of work doesn’t work that way. Work for organizations that provide opportunities and recognize effort and results if you want to earn the rewards of career success.

There’s another myth that flies in the face of reality: The workplace is a democracy. Not so. Organizations cannot be successfully run by committees of equals where the majority rules. Organizations that survive and prosper operate with a chain of command at the top of which sits someone who is empowered to collect facts and opinions and make final decisions.

Successful organizations are meritocracies, systems in which winners emerge and are moved ahead on the basis of their achievements. You must prove your merits if you want solid gold career success,

(I know, I know, this may not appear to be true at any given moment, but over time the truth of this law takes hold.)

One of the cruelest myths of all is that organizations are warm and cozy places that provide security. If you believe that myth you are exposing yourself to disappointment. Security occurs only when you have prepared, planned and worked hard so you can have confidence in your ability. Security comes when your employer needs you more than you need him. Security comes when you have options.

A companion myth is that your boss is your friend. Your boss is your boss. You cannot rely on friendships for lasting, fulfilling success. The way to maintain a positive relationship with your boss and enhance your opportunities is to excel at your job, make him look good.

Don’t believe the myth that your accomplishments speak for themselves and that you will be rewarded accordingly. The recipe for success is simple: achieve results that pay off for your employer; make sure your employer knows what you have accomplished that contributes to his bottom line. Only then will you be rewarded for your true worth.

Lasting success comes to those who prepare themselves and are willing to work hard to take a career path to achiever career goals.

I wish you career success!

Ramon Greenwood, Head Career Coach
Common Sense At Work