by Rachelle de Bretagne

Created on: February 25, 2008

The importance of self-image in the business world

The way that we view ourselves is important in all facets of life, though from a business point of view is essential to our success. Being able to view ourselves realistically, we can take into account our own strengths and weaknesses and nourish not only our career path, but learn from those around us. While many people do not see this as an important aspect of business function, the disadvantages that lack of self-image present are numerous, and come in many forms.

*Efficiency
*Capability
*Ability to listen
*Ability to communicate
*Ability to look the part
*Ability to represent

EFFICIENCY

How do we view our own perceptions of efficiency, and are we realistic in our approach ? The reason why self image matters to efficiency is that there are huge differences between thinking we are efficient, and being open to ideas that make us more efficient. The person that sees themselves as perfectly efficient closes off the notion that their productivity can improve, and at all stages of a career, this closing off means that the individual is not allowing new ways of working to affect the way they work, thinking that they know better than tried and tested methods.

Efficiency in one job may be perceived from different angles, and what you see as efficiency in yourself needs to be measured against what others see. Perhaps your efficiency and lack of perception of how that efficiency fits in with others is holding you back in your career. It is never enough to be efficient. Self-image means looking inside yourself and recognizing that working together and letting your efficiency be flexible enough to work with others, enhancing the whole team is a much wiser route to take.

CAPABILITY

Do you work as much as you are capable of ? Do you rest on your laurels and depend on others too much. Yours may be the clearest desk in the office, but is this because you are more capable, or because you are happy to let others take the load ? By recognition of your own capabilities, you are able to offer more, realistically looking at areas where you are not giving enough of yourself, and in the meantime creating a better working atmosphere for those around you.

ABILITY TO LISTEN

Self-image is vital, though should never neglect areas which can enhance who you are. Many close their minds to listening. Listening helps the learning process and makes a worker more effective, and it is those people that listen that go the furthest in their careers, as their

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