6 tips to get ahead with no extra talent

​Skill level, intelligence, leadership, talent and the ability to handle pressure may seem like some of the key attributes you need to be successful in your career. While these characteristics are an important part of your success, it may be surprising to think that there are a number of simple practices you can undertake in your day to day working life that require no skill - that can still help you get ahead. Here are our top tips on behaviours you can change to maximise your chances of success:

Show dedication

If you show up to the office wanting to make a difference, with the best interests of your company at heart - this is sure to shine through to your boss and your colleagues. Dedication is something that can't be taught, so if you are willing to go the extra mile, stay back when needed and pitch in to help your team, it will not go unnoticed.

Don't be late

Being on time, or even early, is a simple thing that you can do to show that you are organised and eager. This particularly applies when turning up to meetings, as when you are late to a meeting, you send a message that you don't value the other participants' time. Being on time or early also allows you to arrive to work/a meeting with reduced stress, so you can think clearer and provide a better contribution.

Use appropriate body language

Body language is a large part of how you are perceived, and also, believe it or not, body language affects how you feel. For example, if you are hunched over on your phone during a meeting, it gives the impression that you are uninterested and disengaged. Conversely, if you sit up straight, use appropriate eye contact and are conscious of your nonverbal language, you will be sure to make the right impact.

Have a good attitude and emulate passion

If you have a good attitude, and are passionate about what you do, you will succeed. Staying positive, getting up when you fall down, and overcoming your fears will help you maximise the talent you have. Put it this way - as long as you keep trying, and don't let fear get in your way, you will maximise your potential and your talent will shine through.

Make sure you are prepared

There is nothing worse than turning up to a meeting unprepared – it makes you look unorganised, and is frustrating for others who have to waste time going over the background to get you up to speed.Don't let this happen to you – make sure you implement good time management so you have time to prepare, allowing you to anticipate any problems, think of solutions, and get across the detail so you can answer any questions relating to your area.

Be open to feedback

Lastly, it is important to be open to feedback - and willing to change. If others have suggestions on how you can improve your working approach, listen, and implement improvements where relevant to enhance the way you work. Your boss will look favourably on you if you continuously strive to make improvements, so make sure you seek feedback where you can and use it to your advantage.

Where to next?

At Paxus we specialise in digital and tech talent. Visit our job search here to start your job hunt.