As experienced managers are firmly aware, days without challenges, large or small, simply do not exist; in the constantly competitive business environment of the 21st century, the challenges facing management will change, but never diminish. Should you be a new manager or contemplating entry to the management fraternity, dismiss any pre-formed opinions that the challenge level will ever diminish.
Understanding this fact of business life is important to allow you to keep the “competitive edge” and commitment to excellence necessary to be a consistent success. Don’t waste valuable energy fighting this reality, trying to deny or change it, or attempting to invent a painless alternative.
Crises occur in good times and bad. And treating these potential disasters as opportunities to enhance your career might be the difference between success and failure.
Here are some tips to help you create opportunities from challenges:
1. Don’t create a crisis. A crisis offers a priceless opportunity for managers to perform, but you cannot create the proper stage to display your managerial talent. Circumstances must exist that give you this opportunity. A company, industry or general economic crisis hands you the opportunity to separate yourself from the “managerial crowd” and rise above the competition.
2. It’s easier to succeed and achieve when you are challenged. When in the nexus of an economic boom, it seems everyone shines brightly. You are then challenged to be noticed and recognized. But when real challenges or crises arise, you have the opportunity to step up, handle the situation and resolve the problem successfully. A down economy or competitive breakthrough from other companies creates the opportunity for you to establish a benchmark for superstardom.
3. Get into full attack mode when strongly challenged. Facing a challenge is not a time for timidity. Even smaller challenges can win in such an environment. Attack a crisis or challenge with enthusiasm, confidence, and the conviction that you will succeed. See the opportunities offered and attack possible solutions with high energy.
4. Don’t be shy. Be daringly innovative and try out some new, creative techniques. When you face a challenge, you should fight the natural tendency to “pull back” and simply maintain a status quo. Unless you have addressed a similar crisis in the past and have a game plan that works, this is a time to express your creativity. Be innovative and willing to try new techniques. Your willingness to try innovative approaches to meet new challenges will display your internal strength.
