Yesterday I attended a Jam Session "Career GPS" by Dr Ella Bell. It was a very insightful and informative session. The qualities that Dr. Bell talked in her book and session is focused on women but can be used by anyone and everyone in my humble opinion.

After researching more on this topic, I came up with my thoughts on qualities to get ahead in the rat race

1) Social Bee- Don't be a couch potato and just work in isolation. One needs to socialize with people, have emotional intelligence and social competitiveness. It is more important to be the social bee at work than fully competent (you need to be competent). This may sound ironic however it is the reality these day. It's your attitude that will take your places. As Dr. Bell said there needs to be a buzz about you at your work place.

2) Understanding Culture- It is very important that you understand the culture of the company. It is all about how you fit in and accommodate to the environment. You don't need to change who you are it is about molding yourself and identifying potential to grow in it. The culture could be anywhere from dressing style to time people come to work.

3) Be Competent- As I mentioned earlier you don't need to be fully competent but you need to have broader span of strengths and skills for your field. This will make you indispensable, the saying "Jack of all traders and Master of none" fits perfectly in this genre of qualities.

4) Be a team player - You can never accomplish anything in silo. Being a team player not only provides you a holistic picture about the task but also helps you broaden your skill set. Team work is an opportunity to be connected to people from other groups and division. This enhance your chances to get ahead in the rat race for success as you have visibility across multiple groups and division.

5) Network, Feedback & Have Mentors - I have already stressed enough on each of these qualities, I personally feel they are very crucial to groom one's personality and to get ahead faster to reach your goal.

6) Have an Impact- The impact can be on companies bottom line or in the community. Be the influencer, heroes are the ones that always get ahead in life.