I am fortunate that this blog is read by employees and leaders in a myriad of industries, states, and positions. There are so many differences in terms of what is important across industries, yet there are some universal truths. Here are a few; I’ll share more in the weeks to come.

• Care more about getting the work done than who gets it done. Whether you are negotiating a federal policy or stacking items on a grocery shelf, if you can help serve the client, patient, or customer, be like Nike and Just Do It.
• Continue to learn. Whatever your position, learn more about how your market, your product, and your procedures are changing. Read about your profession. Listen to podcasts.
• Respect your boss’ decisions even if you don’t agree with them. If your boss, manager, supervisor, or chief gives direction and you don’t agree, be curious. Why are they making that decision and how can you support it?*
• Don’t let your boss be caught off guard. If you are a teacher and you think a parent might complain, prepare your principal. If you are a lobbyist and you anticipate media attention, prepare your manager. If you are a drug researcher and you think the data might be faulty, prepare your manager. Bad news is bad, but it is better coming from you than from an outside source, or even an inside source. Don’t let your boss be surprised.
• Initiate projects that would help with business goals. Don’t wait to be told. If you can think of a way to advance the cause, go for it. Likewise, the more you can complete your work without direction, regardless of your position, do it!
• Understand that your manager is human. He or she will make mistakes, upset you, and not always do what you would do. Get over it and cut him or her some slack.*

*If the decision is illegal or unethical, follow the proper channels to have it investigated.

Want to have a dream boss, be a dream employee!

What are your universal truths?