One of my favorite scenes is from the movie “My Best Friend’s Wedding” with Julia Roberts, Dermot Mulroney and Cameron Diaz. Towards the end of the movie the movie a friend says to Julia – You are chasing after Dermot, Dermot is chasing after Cameron… So who is chasing after you?
This was an ‘ah-ha’ moment for me. This situation applies in love and in the workplace. In life so many people are focused on obtaining something but there is no mutual interest. How many times are people focused on getting that promotion, going the extra mile… but at the end of the day the management isn’t interested in promoting you for a different reason? In order to be aware of your environment here are some questions to help determine if someone is chasing after you:
- Does your manager reach out to you to discuss topics?
- Are you sought out for advice on topics not directly related to your job?
- Does your manager talk about opportunities in their broader department?
- Does your manager talk about the future vision of the department with you?
- Does your manager recognize you for your accomplishments?
If you aren’t sure if you are being chased after I suggest you start with a conversation with your boss. Ask your boss how s/he perceives you and the potential they see for you in the company. If you aren’t being chased after ask your boss what competencies you can improve on to become more marketable.
Remember you are in control of Ur career and knowledge of the obstacles ahead will enable you to hurdle over them and reach Ur desired goal.