Can You Be The Best In Your Field?

Lance Armstrong, instead of resting on his laurels, is maximizing his historic 7 Tour de France championships to raise funds for cancer research by leading the tour Down Under in Australia in Jan. 2009. A professional is measured by the results he delivers. Having an emotional commitment to superior performance is one of the ways to “power your reputation and career along the road to success,” says Tom Peters, co-author of the classic In Search of Excellence -- which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Here are the others. Remind others about your strong points. The trick is to highlight your track record with self-aggrandizement. This was how Barack Obama won over Hillary. “Done subtly, self-promotion is a potent tool,” says Peters. Share the credits. Secure people don’t hog the limelight. That’s why filmmaker DJ Caruso was telling the media how proud he was of Shia La Beouf’s success when they reunited in Eagle Eyes after Disturbia. “Giving credit costs you nothing and nets you big time,” says Peters. Don’t forget gratitude. Showing people how much you appreciate them adds to your character. Even during the height of Clarisss Ocampo’s popularity as star witness in the Estrada trial, she still found time to thank her former teachers at St. Scholastica. “Positive reinforcemen goes a long way,” says Peters. Collect small victories. Positive acts accumulate good karma. It was actually the anecdotes in the newly-released The Blazing Meteor comic books that made the late President Ramon Magsaysay an immortal legend. “Small wins are a large plus,” says Peters. Discover hidden levers. Winners don’t take anything for granted. Sebastian Coe, chair of the London Organizing Committee for the 2012 Olympics, is already excited about their idea of mobilizing volunteers. “Power often lies in the details,” says Peters. Upgrade your Rolodex. It’s about winning friends by proving your worth. Charice Pempengco’s incredible singing talent astounded the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres – not to mention Celine Dion and Mariah Carey. “The most potent people I’ve known,” says Peters, “have been the best networkers.” Behave professionally. Just mind your GMRC and you’ll be fine. Paul Giamatti has evolved from supporting roles to becoming an Emmy-winning lead actor for John Adams but he still remains modest and self-deprecating. “Learn to hold your tongue,” says Peters, “and don’t ever embarrass folks in public.” Do your homework. A little research helps your prepare for the unexpected. Remember the 680 Home Appliances commercial where Rod Navarro was making his pitch to a lady – who turns out to be the owner of the store? Peters quotes fellow management guru Harvey Mackay: “Know more about your client, your boss, your co-worker, than the next person, and you’ve got a leg up.” Make a name for yourself on the outside. Your achievements after office hours make you formidable within the company. “Once you’re indispensable to outsiders, says Peters, “insiders dare not lay a glove on you.” Irene Cara takes the idea all the way: “Remember my name – Fame! I’m gonna live forevah! I’m gonna learn how to fly – high! (Photo courtesy of CBC.ca)