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Career
How I Tripled
My Salary In 10 Weeks

by Debra Hill

Last year, I started a new job with eagerness and readiness.  I was recently divorced and recuperating from financial ruin. In ten short weeks, I went from a clerk making $9.50 an hour to an administrative assistant making $28.50 an hour.  Here’s how I did it.   I…

  • Became known for my flexibility.  My duties changed four times in one month and I never complained.
  • Showed a dedication to duty that went above and beyond the paycheck.  I wasn’t in a hurry to rush out the door, and I pitched in eagerly whenever I saw the need.
  • Governed what I said and who I said what to.  I didn’t like the way my boss talked to others, but I never discussed it with anyone.
  • Acquired a reputation for honesty and kindness.  I smiled at everyone, regardless of their temperament.
  • Admitted when I was wrong and took credit when I was right.  I was not afraid to make a mistake or speak up for myself.
  • Always sought advice and direction from those I admired.  I made it a point to seek advice often from the big boss on my career goals, and other office matters.
  • Showed confidence in my ability to perform, and was always looking for an opportunity to shine.
  • Practiced being succinct and plain-spoken, and I was respectful of higher authority…but not intimidated.
  • Was assertive, but not aggressive.  I spoke up when necessary but made sure my comments and/or suggestions were non-critical and in the best interest of the company.
  • Stood to be corrected, though it was sometimes embarrassing, and apologized for the error.
  • Shared the glory and mentioned the slightest help or assistance that I received from others on any given project.
  • Ventured forth even when I was afraid that my ideas might be rejected, and most times they were not.
  • Was open to criticism, regardless of the source.  I learned to say “Thank you for your input,” even when I didn’t agree.
  • Was tough-minded and didn’t fall over every time my hand got slapped, if I was misjudged or misunderstood.  I took it all in stride.
  • Was efficient and results-oriented.  I worked like I had part ownership in the business.
  • Was never late or absent.  I was quick to do what needed to be done…when it needed to be done.
  • Kept an open mind to ideas that were different from my own.
  • Wasn’t afraid to admit what I didn’t know.  I asked questions if I didn’t understand.
  • Accepted what I couldn’t change.  I spent no time and energy complaining about standards and procedures beyond my control.  I adapted to the rules and played the game as it was expected of me.

My actions paid off, because the bosses took notice when a highly-regarded administrative assistant left the company, and I was asked to fill her shoes at triple the salary.

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