How to Guarantee Your Survival in Business

There are four critical laws that are at play at all times in the workplace. Use these rules as a guideline for making smart decisions and avoiding blindsiding at every level of your career: 1. It’s Always About the Money - No matter what people say to the contrary, money is the fuel, the lifeline, the energy, the pulse of every company, whether they are public or private, for-profit or not-for-profit. Once you get used to this idea, you’ll be able to see how the flow of money works and, most importantly, how you’re impacting the bottom line. By keeping that in mind you can keep your eye on the money and never forget how important it is to you, your career, and the success of the company. 2. Get With the Program - At various times in your career, you may be asked to support or even lead an initiative that you don’t agree with. It’s critically important to know how and when to get with the program and ‘go with the flow’. Staying relevant when changes occur is a vital part of basic survival. Savvy players learn how to leverage change and even improve the new plan or product. If you can’t get with the program, you need to grab hold of your exit strategy and leave. 3. Perception Matters - It’s just that simple. Perceptions determine whether people see you as an ally or a competitor, a leader or a follower, a team player or a loose cannon. It’s critical that you understand how your behavior impacts people’s perception of you. Watch for cues, and pay attention to how others respond to you. Your values and intentions do not matter - it’s what your staff, managers, and peers believe that counts. 4. Always Have an Exit Strategy - In today’s turbulent marketplace no job is forever. Every executive needs a smart and strategic plan that gives her control over her career, no matter what may happen next. The exit strategy is your safety net and your peace of mind. With a solid exit strategy in place, you can lead, innovate, and challenge the status quo without worrying that you will be at risk if the powers that be, or a major sea change, dictate your exit.