Edition 22: KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE BOOK: HOW NOT TO ADVANCE IN YOUR CAREER: CAREER LIMITING MOVES BY RUBY ENGENA OBOTE (MRS)

WRITTEN BY ADV. BROWNIE EBAL AND NAKIYIMBA VICTORIA

In her book How Not To Advance In Your Career, Ruby Engena Obote identifies several career-limiting moves (CLMs) that individuals often unknowingly engage in. According to Google, a CLM refers to an action or behavior by an employee that negatively impacts their professional reputation, hinders career progression, or damages relationships with colleagues, superiors, or clients. Ruby notes that CLMs can vary from minor mistakes to serious ethical breaches, and they may result in severe consequences, such as being overlooked for promotions or even losing one’s job. Tragically, many employees are unaware of these detrimental actions, which is why Ruby wrote her book.

Ruby emphasizes that identifying a CLM can lead to its transformation into a career advancement move. Importantly, all her insights are grounded in scripture, providing a foundation of truth. She notes that the modern perception of success often equates securing a job with achieving one’s career goals. Many people chase impressive titles and the trappings of success, such as stylish attire and luxury cars, while remaining trapped in roles that lead to resentment and toxicity. Despite appearing successful, many find themselves deeply in debt and lacking savings.

Ruby outlines the following key career-limiting moves:

1. Disrespecting Authority: Ruby stresses the importance of recognizing the source of authority in the workplace. She explains that even if one possesses superior skills or knowledge, it is crucial to respect those in leadership positions. Ruby cites Apostle Moses Mukisa's wisdom: "A child cannot be a judge against a parent." She further reminds readers that "promotion comes from Him," referencing Psalm 75:6, which states, "For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one and exalts another." Instead of criticizing or undermining one’s boss, Ruby advises employees to pray for their leaders’ wisdom and success, as their leadership directly influences one's career.

2. Speaking ill of Superiors: Ruby warns that gossiping about or exposing a boss's weaknesses can severely undermine one’s career. She asserts that highlighting a boss’s flaws reflects poorly on the employee, portraying them as untrustworthy and self-serving. Ruby insists, "Your role should never be to expose the 'nakedness' of those above you." Maintaining respect for superiors is essential for career advancement.

3. Overfamiliarity with Superiors: Ruby highlights the danger of becoming too familiar with those in power. While access to authority figures can be a privilege, it can also lead to a false sense of entitlement. A wise colleague once cautioned her, "You have access to these people, but they are not your friends. They are still your bosses, and you need to treat them with respect." This familiarity, she explains, can blur professional boundaries.

4. Laziness: Ruby identifies laziness as a significant career limiter. She states that it manifests as a lack of follow-through on tasks and an unwillingness to perform effectively. This behavior not only hampers individual progress but can also negatively affect team dynamics. Quoting Proverbs 10:26, Ruby notes, "As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy man to those who send him."

5. Failing to Upgrade Skills: Ruby emphasizes the necessity of continuous skill development. She warns that neglecting to improve one’s skills is akin to digging a career grave. "An employee who does not upgrade their skills is digging a personal career grave," Ruby insists. Skill enhancement can take many forms, from pursuing further education to honing existing abilities. She underscores that in her HR role, she has consistently sought to develop her communication and performance management skills.

6. Gossiping in the Workplace: Ruby firmly believes that gossip is a career killer. She warns that gossiping about colleagues or superiors leads to professional decline, echoing the truth found in Ecclesiastes 10:20: "Do not curse the king, even in your thought; do not curse the rich, even in your bedroom; for a bird of the air may carry your voice, and a bird in flight may tell the matter."

7. Striving to Be Irreplaceable: Ruby challenges the notion that being irreplaceable signifies success. She reflects on her past belief that if she could not be replaced, it meant she was indispensable. Instead, she argues that true leadership is reflected in one’s ability to mentor and nurture others to excel beyond their predecessors. "If you cannot be replaced, it means you have not multiplied yourself," she explains. Ruby encourages leaders to prioritize the growth of their direct reports, stating, "It is a testament to your success when they do."

Ruby concludes by encouraging individuals to break the cycle of toxic leadership by choosing to mentor the next generation. She emphasizes the importance of being genuinely concerned about the professional development of colleagues, stating, "Help them grow, help them shine, and draw out their potential." By modeling great leadership, she asserts, they will inspire the same qualities in the next generation.