Being a businesswoman is a multifaceted, ever-changing job. While grasping everything at once can be difficult, there are a few basic guidelines you should follow at all times. Stay on top of these and you’ll fast-track your way to success!

Dear Diary

In our busy society, having a daily calendar is essential – this should be the number one basic tool every business man or woman utilises. Include everything on your calendar – work and personal – and colour code each item so that you don’t confuse them. Setting up notifications will help you manage yourself adequately and ensure you never miss a meeting, appointment or catch-up with friends.

Tone is Everything

The way you conduct yourself around others is a reflection of your personal brand and the business you are representing. If your tone is unpleasant or uncertain, you risk losing potential clients and generating a negative image about your brand and business. Ensure that your mannerism is professional and friendly, no matter who you are talking to. I like to live by the golden rule: treat others as you would like to be treated.

Call It

Whenever possible, call clients and colleagues rather than email, message or text. Speaking with someone over the phone or in person is the most effective way to get your message across and cover all of the issues you want to address. People are far more likely to pay attention to you when listening to an actual person, as opposed to reading a message they can skim over and delete. It also saves writing back and forth, as you can get everything out in the open on the spot.

Positivity Breeds Success

Maintain a positive attitude towards your business ventures and everyone involved in them. Negativity won’t get you anywhere, so remember why you entered into your career path to begin with and be thankful for your skillset and position. Try to tackle work-related obstacles with this same positive attitude – you’ll find no task is too difficult to accomplish once you begin treating them with a can-do mindset.

Stay Focused

Once you’re clear on your brand’s vision and values, stay true to them. As the days go by, reflect on your values and check that you aren’t compromising them. More than that, ask yourself if you’re fulfilling them. Remaining clear on these core beliefs and views will guide you through your career and life, ensuring that you maximise your potential in both.