The Write Resume Career Strategies Weblog

Dissing Someone Else is not the Best Way to Advance Your Career!

By now, everyone has heard about Kanye West making an idiot out of himself by stealing Taylor Swift's thunder after she won an MTV Video Music Award. If you haven't heard, he took away her moment to shine by saying that Beyoncé had the best video. To say the least, everyone was stunned.

In a class-act move, Beyoncé gave a short acceptance speech, and then called Taylor Swift to the stage so she could give a proper "thank you" to her supporters and be in the spotlight, which she rightly deserved.

Many people, including Donald Trump, are asking for a boycott of "all things Kanye." I have to agree. What he did was totally classless, and apparently it wasn't the first time he pulled such antics. Even after his "heartfelt apology" on Jay Leno, it doesn't change things. He is still a self-promoting jerk.

Some people are stating that he probably did it to get attention. Not the best way to promote your "personal brand" and get publicity.

So, what is the lesson to be learned from this situation as it pertains to your career?

First, even if you disagree with something that happens at work, don't bash your boss or fellow co-workers. It will only come back to bite you. Be ready to find a solution to a problem and then gently suggest it by saying, "I'm sure you have already thought of this, but what if we...(then give your suggestion).

Second, instead of stepping on someone else to try to get ahead or "make a name for yourself," figure out what you can do to shine in your own way. Take on an extra project that no one else wants. Contribute in a positive way to an existing project. Speak highly of your co-workers and acknowledge them publicly for a job well done.

Finally, before you speak, think about the consequences of your actions. Will what you say hurt you or someone else? If the answer is yes, try not saying anything at all.

The Ultimate Background Check!

Since the announcement of Governor Sarah Palin as the Republican's Vice Presidential nominee, I have been astounded by the "dirt digging" that has occurred regarding her background as the Governor of Alaska and the Mayor of Wasilla. I completely understand that a candidate, who will be a heartbeat away from the Presidency of the United States, needs to be fully vetted. However, I think the media has gone overboard.

And, it is not just happening with Governor Palin. The same scrutiny has been given to the Republican's Presidential nominee, Senator John McCain, the Democrat's Presidential nominee, Senator Barrack Obama, and their Vice-Presidential nominee, Senator Joe Biden. Even Senator Hillary Clinton was subject to the media probings when she was campaigning prior to losing her party's nomination.

Some of the information is enlightening and speaks to the character of the individual, which is important when a person is vying for the highest office in the United States. Personally, I don't want someone as President of the United States who is a not truthful - I want someone who tells it like it is. Heck, we all make mistakes. But, do they own up to them?

Can you imagine as a job search candidate going through the same intensive "vetting" process? Now, I do believe background checks are essential to ensure job seekers have good character and will work hard. But, the current political race for the Presidency begs the question of "how far is too far?" 

Let's pretend that media "vetted" the candidates all the way back to kindergarten to determine their suitability for President / Vice President. Here is how I would see the situation (this is all in fun without prejudice):

Media calls the candidate's kindergarten teachers:

How was Barrack in class? Did he line up properly or was he constantly not walking in a straight line? Did he share with the other children? Was he a line-leader in class or was he constantly in time-out for bad behavior?

Did Sarah stay in her centers during learning time? Which centers did she choose? Did she learn the concepts at a faster rate than the other children? Did she see you as an "authority figure"and obey your rules or buck the system?

Did John frequently ask for bathroom breaks? Did he sit down on the bus or was he always rowdy? Was he a leader or a follower? Did he use the scissors to cut perfect circles or was he always "cutting his own shapes?"

Did Joe follow the classroom rules? Did he share his lunch with other students? Did Joe paint people or trees during art class? Did he observe the quiet rules in the library?

Now, I know this sounds silly to most people. However, most people's personality traits and character are formed by ages 5-7. It would be interesting to know the answers to these questions, wouldn't it?

I better be careful - the media might take my idea and run with it!