Get Ready For My Magic Show

Last year in recognition of 16 years in the cable industry, I created an infographic titled, "5 Lessons Learned", which highlighted the knowledge I’ve gained along my journey.  I want to reshare those lessons and add a few more to the list. 

1. RELATIONSHIPS ARE IMPORTANT.

We've all heard the adage, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know”.  While there is some truth to this, it is also important to remember that the people you know, must also KNOW you.  Relationships are a two-way street.  Don’t establish a relationship purely for what you can get out of it.  Make sure that you are giving as much as (or more than) you are receiving. 

2. CONTENT IS KING

Bill Gates coined the phrase “content is king” and he was right.  Content is what gets people’s attention. Valuable, varying content is what keeps them coming back to you for more.  Always be willing to change and adapt your messaging, marketing, and policies to meet the organization's needs.  You must continuously evolve to stay relevant.

3. RECOGNITION IS APPRECIATED

If “content is king” then recognition is QUEEN.  Even the most introverted person appreciates recognition for a job well done.  Not all recognition has to be a flashy public announcement.  A small token of gratitude or a handwritten note is sometimes more appreciated than a huge gesture.  Take the time to recognize people who have made a difference in your world.   

4. THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

Whether it’s a TV, the set-top box, or your 2-foot cubicle, removing restrictions and limitations (i.e., the walls) gives you the ability to be innovative and creative.  To quote Albert Einstein, “imagination is more important than knowledge.”

5. SOME THINGS CAN’T BE FAKED

I’m a fan of the advice to “fake it, til you make it”. However, some things can not be faked such as sincerity, gratitude, and authenticity.  If you manufacture those things, people will see right through it, affecting your ability to be an effective leader or a trustworthy teammate.  Just be yourself. 

6. WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER

Growing up, I was told to always work hard and that the rewards would come to me.  I’ve now realized that is not true.  You can work hard 18 hours a day and still not be seen, recognized, or appreciated for your efforts.  It is much more beneficial to your career and your mental health to work smarter.  Prioritize your task list, automate and delegate what you can, and block time on your calendar every day for self-reflection and ideation.  Most importantly take all of your vacation time. You can not pour from an empty vessel so take the time to replenish your mind, body, and soul.  

7. A CLOSED MOUTH DOESN’T GET FED

Self-advocacy is essential to climbing the corporate ladder.  Do not assume people will recognize or appreciate your hard work (see above) and reward you for it.  In a world where people are constantly multi-tasking and moving at warp speed, it's easy to evaluate people based on what is seen on the surface. Additionally, sometimes we hide the magic that happens behind the curtain because we consider those things to be minuscule.  They aren’t.  They are the impetus of the bigger accomplishments.  So get into the habit of telling everyone how you create magic every day.  

Of all these lessons, I believe that the last one is the most important. It has also been the hardest for me to learn. But rest assured I got it now, so get ready to watch my magic show!