My 20 Rules of Power

March 18, 2021

Knowledge is power, right? Well, not always. Sometimes being a ruthless bitch is power. Sometimes stepping on others as you climb to the top is what it takes. I’d like to think there’s another way…

My 20 rules of power: While there are those who are familiar with the 48 laws of power, L2B has compiled a list of the most effective rules to make any reader a powerful player in any professional setting.

1. Confidence: Confidence is one of the most important qualities to have in any aspect of life, but most especially in the workplace. Superiors give responsibilities to those who are sure they can successfully complete the task.

2. Respect: When you give respect to others, you gain it in return. It is obviously important to respect your superiors, but respecting your coworkers can take you a long way as well.

3. Take Control: You are in control of your career and remembering that simple fact can help you catapult to power. Take control of conversations and speak your mind at meetings. Being shy and quiet gets you nowhere in the workplace.

4. Dedication: When you are at work, make sure that 100% of your focus is on your work obligations. Dedication is always recognized, resulting in benefits for you.

5. Learn from Mistakes: Keep in mind that everyone makes mistakes! Make sure to take note of both your mistakes and the mistakes of others. Improvement shows dedication and those who plateau will remain in lower positions.

6. Organization: Organization helps A LOT with efficiency. Make sure that you know what you need to do during the day ahead of time. More work will get done and you will feel much better about it! Organization can also make the difference between leaving work on time and working extra hours to complete what you should have done earlier that day.

7. Be Prepared: This is closely related to being organized. When you are organized, you can better (and more quickly) prepare for meetings, presentations, and just everyday tasks. Being prepared also shows your boss that you are dedicated and capable of handling responsibilities well.

8. Dress the Part: We’ve all heard the phrase “dress for the job you want, not the job you have” and it is so true! When you look clean and professional, not only do you feel better about yourself and exude confidence, but superiors can more easily see you in a higher position than those who dress more casually. Take note of how your boss dresses and follow suit. Imitation is the best form of flattery.

9. Be Honest: Be honest with others when tense situations arise. As long as you tell the truth about a mistake, you will be respected. The same is true when speaking with clients. If you truly believe what you are telling them, then they will trust you more easily.

10. Be Friendly: People want to help out their friends, so if you make friends with your coworkers, they are more likely to have your back in a tough situation or cover for you in an emergency. Even if you are in a competitive workplace, making friends with others shows you are a team player and that you can thrive in any environment with others.

11. Stay Positive: This is absolutely key in any situation. No one wants to be around a “Debbie Downer” and in order to be a leader, you need to stay positive in any situation. Keep in mind that you can make it work, no matter what!

12. Network: Sometimes it’s who you know, not what you know. This is when networking comes in to play. Not only will new opportunities arise, but you can also connect with someone that you can help out. Just the other day I was doing business with a friend and he referred me to a few other men he works with. Just getting your foot in the door is all you need!

13. Always be alert: This is obviously important when your superiors are speaking in a meeting or to you directly, but also pay attention when you are at your desk or walking to the copy room. Overhearing a conversation can give you that little bit extra you needed to finish up a big project.

14. Be creative: The degree of this rule can depend on your field of work, but companies are always looking for fresh, new ideas. Even if you aren’t too sure about something, discuss it with a friend (not a coworker who could steal your idea!) to build confidence and then pitch the idea in a meeting if it’s relevant or go to the big man directly.

15. Be aggressive: No one ever got anywhere by following rules and coloring inside the lines. Don’t be afraid to take something to the next level or cross a few lines. The biggest breakthroughs in life are made by aggressive individuals.

16. Be Direct: Know what you want and how to get it so you know how to go after it. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind because being implicit can lead to confusion and possibly being passed over for a promotion.

17. Be Open: You must be willing to do whatever task available. Don’t be afraid to speak and complete tasks, even if you weren’t asked to do it. Bosses hate to hear, “That’s not in my job description.”

18. Always come through: Reliability is really important in the workplace. When your superiors notice that they can depend on you to complete a project, they will be more likely to come to you with important tasks.

19. Stay Ambitious: Don’t settle for mediocrity – not only for yourself, but it looks good when people see that you want to be better than you were before. Consistency is important, but improvement shows true potential.

20. Stay Motivated: Don’t go into work feeling defeated. Regardless of what your task is, it’s best to motivate yourself to make it through the day. When you stay motivated, you are more likely to feel better about the work you do, and your superiors will take notice.

Being a powerful woman isn’t just something you’re born with. Power is learned through experience and gained through motivation and hard work. Follow these simple rules and you’re sure to climb the ladder and become the successful woman you know you can be!