Team Leader

• Many career guidance experts maintain that you need to be a "team player" to get ahead in your job. Others contend that you need to be a "leader." The reality is that if you truly want to enjoy ongoing employment success and job advancement, you need to be a "team leader."
  
  You need to demonstrate your leadership abilities, of course. However, you need to undertake this important step by developing a team approach to achieving work-related goals and objectives. Rather than simply try to outpace your co-workers, you need to demonstrate a capacity to lead them along with you.
  
  An employer is inclined to promote a worker who not only excels in his or her assigned tasks but who has an ability to work constructively and effectively with co-workers. Creative leadership and the ability to build a strong sense of "team" within the workplace is invaluable to the overall and long-term success of any type of business enterprise.
  
  

Commitment and Dedication

• Being committed and dedicated to your job sounds obvious. However, a considerable number of men and women grumble when it comes time to leave for work. Many of these same people spend a a good amount of time complaining about their jobs, bosses, and places of employment.
  
  Of course, certain entry-level positions are less than ideal. The surest way to remain in such a position is to display a negative attitude. The best was to climb above and get a higher position at a job is to demonstrate commitment and dedication.
  
  Beyond ensuring that your basic job duties and requirements are met, you must be willing and eager to take on additional tasks as necessary. In addition, be enthusiastic about "learning new things." This includes stretching your comfort zone and taking on tasks that are new to you.
  
  

Innovation

• Some employers frown on their workers being creative. These bosses take what might best be called a "don't rock the boat" approach to management and business operations. However, a majority of employers actually appreciate creative and innovative employees--provided these workers approach change in an appropriate manner.
  
  If you believe that there is a process in the workplace that can be improved upon, do not broadcast your thoughts about the business. Such an effort sends the message that you are being critical of the business and your superiors. Rather, consistent with the rules and procedures of the business, share your thoughts with your superiors. Be willing to take the lead or at least a supporting role in assisting in developing and implementing any idea that you present.
  
  Keep in mind that when it comes to innovation and new ideas, timing is everything. Do not show up on the job on day one with a laundry list of items that you want to change. You not only will not be taken seriously, you most definitely will get off on the wrong foot with management and your co-workers.