Are You Guilty Of One (Or More) Of These Behaviors That Can Derail Your Career?

[August 8, 2021]  Executive business leaders can make it to the top of their organization for a variety of reasons. In addition to actual skill and education, one’s personality can play a large role in getting them to the top. Since no one is perfect, it is fairly common for business leaders to also have problematic behaviors. While some can be resolved fairly easily — and do little harm — others can derail an entire career.

Not sure if you exhibit one (or more) of the behaviors that can damage everything you’ve worked so hard to earn? The Leader Maker shares four tendencies that all executives should work to tame.

You aren’t coachable or open to advice

Individuals who are not coachable are often not willing to hear or internalize feedback of any kind. They often don’t like to accept advice from anyone — even from those who have more experience.

Businesses thrive when people collaborate and work together. This involves being willing to be seen as imperfect and to validate the ideas of others. People respect senior executives who are always working to improve themselves. Trying to create a facade of ultimate authority and superiority doesn’t benefit anyone — including yourself. Shed toxic, perfectionistic beliefs that were part of old management styles. Instead, welcome feedback, advice, and coaching for yourself. Doing so will allow you to continue your professional growth.

You ignore important details

Whether you lead an organization or run your own business, some top leaders skip over important details that absolutely need to be addressed. This is especially true for administrative details. When you ignore critical tasks — primarily legal ones — you could put your business in a position to be fined or face dire consequences.

Completing duties such as applying for business licenses, business formation, paying all applicable taxes, and getting mandated inspections are just a few examples. Rather than handling these tasks yourself (or internally), you can often find ways to outsource. For example, when looking to complete your business formation papers, a registered agent NJ can handle the work for you.

You aren’t ‘all in’

Do you find it challenging to get behind your organization with everything you have? As an executive, this is arguably one of the most damaging behaviors to exhibit. Not having the desire or motivation to integrate yourself within the business can quickly cause others to question whether you are suited for your current position. Left unchanged, this can lead to being let go from your company.

You upstage others to make yourself look better

Routinely upstaging others on purpose can rapidly cause you to lose trust and acceptance within an organization. It is an even more egregious situation when executives throw people under the proverbial bus to advance their careers status. Under no circumstances should you ever put down others to make yourself look better.

In addition to the behaviors listed above, there are many more that can put you (and your career) in a bad position. To avoid many of these potentially career-derailing habits, always aim to work with integrity, excellence, and compassion.

The Leader Maker provides relevant news for those in (or preparing to be in) a senior executive leadership role. Read the latest news and advice today.