Skilled Migrant Professionals December 2015 | Page 14

Career
FIVE TIPS TO THRIVE IN A MALE DOMINATED INDUSTRY

Make A lasting First Impression

The first impression is a lasting impression and people make that impression
from the way we conduct ourselves, how we dress, our level of eye contact,
a firm handshake, confidence in our voice, and our posture, self-esteem and
attitude. Make time to study books on body language and communication
skills, because the best investment you can make is in yourself. It’s also very
important to learn people’s names, as they will appreciate you for remembering. It’s all about stacking the odds in your favour from the start – you only
get one chance at a first impression, so make it count!

Become A Master Conversationalist

Life is all about relationships with people, so it is a necessity to improve
our people skills if we want to excel in life. Connecting with the right
people will open doors you never even thought possible. As former US
President Theodore Roosevelt said: “People don’t care how much you
know, until they know how much you care”. When we improve our
people skills and communication skills, it enables us to build a significant and relevant network with the potential to create long-term clients,
suppliers, mentors, and possible future career paths. You must also try
to never burn bridges, as you never know when you might need them
and where they will lead.

Be Professional And Respectful

In my opinion, being professional comes down to two key characteristics: integrity and accountability. Integrity means sticking to your guns
no matter what, as well as being honest and transparent. Being accountable means that if you said you would do it, then you do it. These
two things ensure we act responsibly, truthfully, reliably and consistently
in our actions. Respect is very simple; treat others as you wish to be
treated. In a professional context this means respecting people’s time by

being punctual, keeping promises, respecting people’s trust and never
belittle or ridicule anybody. By sticking to these rules we ensure everyone’s ego is intact and protected.

Humble Intelligence

From time to time, you will get people who ask tough questions and
have made it their mission to make your life difficult. My advice is to
never be caught off guard. Study your company so you know the projects, history, industry, designs, alternative methods, other services, and
potential issues. Make sure you have a solid understanding of your role
within the company, as well as your colleagues’ roles. Who is your go-to
person? What is your plan B, C and even D? If you are unsure, reply confidently that you want to double check and get back to them ASAP. It’s
very important to have a good mentor, or even have multiple. Connect
with as many as you can and stay humble and teachable – a pupil is only
as good as its master.

What Is Your X-Factor?

We all have certain qualities that would be advantageous in the industry.
If you are not sure, ask your supervisor or someone who works closely
with you. If you are not able to do this, a personality trait test will give
you a good indication. Focus on your strengths to make them the best in
your industry and work away in the background to improve your weaknesses. Your X-Factor will make you shine so bright everything else will
appear dull against you.
Standing out from the crowd and getting ahead can be a challenge,
but with the advice given above and determination, it is just a matter of
time before others start noticing you and you become the cream of the
crop. I look forward to seeing you at the top!

When we improve
our people skills
and communication
skills, it enables us
to build a significant and relevant
network with the
potential to create
long-term clients,
suppliers, mentors,
and possible future
career paths
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www.smpmagazine.com.au | December 2015