Leave Your Ego at the Office

Have you ever wondered why some individuals seem to soar in their careers while others struggle to take off? It may surprise you to learn that it often has less to do with their skills and experience and more to do with their attitude and demeanor.

One former corporate executive recalls a pivotal moment in his career when a colleague, known as MK, challenged his colleagues to think critically about their professional relationships. "Do you think that your customers pick up your calls because they see your name on the screen?" MK asked.

The truth, according to MK, was that it was not the individuals that customers were talking to, but rather the company they represented. This statement may have struck a nerve with some, but it resonated deeply with the executive, who soon realized the importance of leaving his ego at the corporate door.

As a relationship manager at the time, he had worked hard to build strong connections with corporate clients, but it wasn't until he left the company that he truly understood the nature of those relationships. When he ran into a CEO of a big corporate client, whom he had previously engaged with on several occasions, the CEO breezed past him without a second glance. It was a humbling moment, but it served as a reminder that it was the company and not the individual that held the power in their professional relationships.

This lesson extends beyond just professional relationships. Many corporate individuals have a tendency to conflate their work titles with their personal identities, but it's crucial to remember that there is life outside of the corporate world. Responding to communication is a way of saying "I see you," while ignoring messages is a not-so-subtle way of saying "get lost."

So, the next time you walk into the corporate office, remember to leave your ego at the door. Focus on building genuine relationships and treating others with respect, and you'll find that success in the corporate world will come much easier.