7 Reasons Why You Need to Think Like a Business Owner Throughout Your Career
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I recently sat in on a staff meeting, and, afterwards, one of the team’s former colleagues dropped by to say hello. This colleague had moved on to a new company, and was very unhappy with her choice. She kept voicing her negative opinion loudly, which included warning everyone to avoid her current employer at all costs.



No matter what you think, this type of behavior is never a good idea. Yes—even though it’s no longer a world where a company takes care of you (now it’s you take care of you), there are still rules about what is appropriate, and what is not.



There are many reasons why you must protect your professional brand even if that includes protecting your company’s. You own your career, and need to look at it as a business you manage, with every employer seen as a current and/or potential client.



So, if you want your business to flourish, it is much more advisable to think before you speak.



Here’s why:

  • You will always need to be known as a top brand: memorable in a good way, and in all ways. Word-of-mouth is everything!

  • Most meetings are also networking opportunities, attended not only by peers, but by potential employers (who, in turn, know other potential employers). So, make the most of these opportunities!

  • Companies hate complainers: They are seen as cancers to their teams. Stop being one.

  • As the world of career opportunities shrinks and competition grows, especially due to globalization, you need every advantage you can get.

  • It is always important to build—not break—relationships. Most hiring is done now by referral. Referrals open doors, so never shut them!

  • No job is permanent anymore, so manage your expectations. You’ll be on your way to your next career adventure soon enough.

  • Lastly, and most importantly—be professional. Think like a business owner, because you are. The MBA you’ll need the most in your career is a Master Business Attitude™, where you think and act differently: Big, not small.

  • After all, every job comes with pitfalls. You can’t control what happens to you, but you can control your reaction to it.
    Your attitude and actions are everything to your business—they are your trademarks. So, make them signs of a great brand: you.



    “Master Business Attitude” is a trademark of Michelle Kerrigan Inc.

    Copyright 2015 Michelle Kerrigan