Alison Green

Having a great professional reputation can be its own reward: It’s fulfilling to have people think highly of you. But beyond that, a great reputation can give you tangible payoffs, in the form of job offers, higher salaries, better project assignments and the security of knowing that you’ll have somewhere to go when you’re ready to move.

But what does it take to do that? Here are eight keys to assembling a reputation that will serve you well.

1. Show respect and kindness to everyone. It’s one thing to be warm and polite to the head of the company; after all, most people manage to do that. But pay attention to how you treat others, too, such as the receptionist, the office temps and the guy who sells you hot dogs in the lobby. Make a point of treating everyone with respect and warmth, and others will notice.

2. Keep your word. Do what you say you’re going to do, in whatever timeline you committed to – whether it’s completing a project, getting back to someone about a question, giving feedback on a project or connecting someone to your contacts. People will learn that they can count on you and that your commitments are iron-clad. Read more…