By Marjorie Brody, MA, CSP, CMC

Have you ever heard the expression, "Reputation is everything?" It is not surprising that this saying has been around for as long as we can remember. The quality of a person's reputation is directly related to the quality of relationships that individual has established. This is true not just for the short term or in good times, but for the long run and when challenges might reveal someone of lesser character.

There are many clichés about this topic, including: "Don't cut off your nose to spite your face," "You may win the battle, but lose the war," "Patience is a virtue," "What goes around, comes around" and of course, "Don't burn bridges." While these expressions may seem corny or overused, you will be wise to give them careful thought as you undoubtedly will be tempted to ignore all of them during your career. Avoid the temptation to do so.

Although the list is endless, here are some things to be careful about:

• Don't gossip.
• Don't blame others.
• Do your fair share.
• If you borrow money (in general, not a good idea), be sure to pay it back.
• Do what you say you will do.
• Keep in touch with people.
• Don't cheat or steal.
• Don't act in a vengeful way.
• Don't embellish the truth or lie.
• Don't talk disparagingly about your competitors.
• If you switch jobs, don't bad-mouth your old employer or co-workers.
• Don't have an affair or openly flirt with co-workers.
• Keep promises and confidential information confidential
• Don't use vulgar language or tell racist, sexist or off-color jokes.
• Don't discuss your sex life with colleagues.

We do not believe for a moment that following this list will be easy or that you won't make mistakes along the way. However, we strongly encourage you to regularly review these pointers and challenge yourself to make improvements where needed. Guaranteed, doing this is something you will never regret!

"It helps with your customers, suppliers and employees. Your reputation is everything, and should be protected at any cost." — David Glass, CEO, Wal-Mart

I'm Too Sexy For This Job
Want to know the secret formula for moving up in a company and for being given new opportunities, increased responsibility and higher compensation? Do your present job to the very best of your ability!

If you are a customer service representative, commit to being the best customer service rep your company has. If you are a sales consultant, be the most knowledgeable, skilled and innovative person in your district or region.

Too often, ambitious people spend more time wishing for or thinking about advancement than they do about the challenges at hand.

Here are some of the most common mistakes that prevent people them from being considered for promotions or increased responsibilities:

• Being unable to get along with others … difficult to work with.
• Having a myopic view of their roles in the company. They get so bogged down in their own tasks that they lose sight of the big picture.
• Failing to treat others with respect, regardless of title.
• Spreading rumors or failing to maintain confidentiality.
• Not paying attention to detail.
• Not following through on commitments.

Come to work each day prepared to excel at your current position and be mindful of the list above. Your odds for growth and recognition have just increased.

"A person who enjoys responsibility usually gets it. A person who merely likes exercising authority usually loses it." —Malcolm Forbes