Organize for Career Success: Attract the Right Kind of Attention

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If you think organization is all about being more productive, think again. Your organizational habits are actually your secret career-success weapon. Used appropriately, organization can be a helpful tool for getting noticed - and getting ahead - in the workplace.

Appearances Matter

Your organizational habits (or lack thereof) offer visible clues about the type of worker you are. It might sound strange, but such behaviors are also widely considered to be indicative of character. Admittedly, it may not be accurate to say that organized people are more focused and disciplined than unorganized people, but it's generally believed. And it's just one of the many assumptions people make when they encounter an organized individual.

In fact, we often mentally associate organization with other traits that have little to do with it. For example, an organized person is often presumed to be:

• Mature
• Competent
• Engaged
• Intelligent
• Valuable
• Driven
• Focused
• Disciplined
• Hard working

While demonstrating strong organizational habits may help boost your professional image, it can also have a tangible impact on performance. The assumptions we make about organized people are - at least vaguely - rooted in truth. Those who organize their work effectively generally work effectively.

Sense of Control

Perhaps the biggest benefit of organization is the sense of control that it brings. Those who organize well in the workplace typically demonstrate a more level-headed demeanor. They tend to experience less stress and anxiety, and, because they have confidence in the systems they use, they're able to maintain composure even when things get hectic.

Time Management

Organization is a key component of successful time management. While chronically unorganized people are notorious for being late and missing deadlines, those who organize effectively are just the opposite. They manage tasks based on priorities and a broad understanding of business goals. They work methodically, rather than simply bouncing from task to task "putting out fires".

While research indicates that the average US worker wastes six weeks annually searching for missing information in messy desks and files, organized professionals spend significantly less time on such unproductive tasks. Additionally, they don't waste time on unnecessary repetition (doing the same task twice) and the all-too-common "wheel recreation" (starting over from scratch on a task that was previously in process).

In general, organized individuals are simply more capable of using their time appropriately.

Opportunity

Disorganization clouds long-term vision by creating physical and mental distractions. Being organized helps you keep a clear mind; it allows you to focus and see opportunities as they approach. Instead of simply struggling to keep up with day-to-day tasks, organization provides you with the process and the mental clarity to plan for the future. When opportunities come up, an organized individual is prepared - both mentally and physically - to take advantage.

Building Your Strategy

So, how can you use this information to get ahead in your career? The answer is simple: Dedicate yourself to being an organized professional. Such a noble goal will reflect positively on both your image and your performance.

Not naturally organized? Not a problem! Anyone can learn. Your primary line of defense is to know your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to organization. Do a self-assessment and then, find ways to maximize your strengths and compensate for your deficiencies.

Remember to start small. Something as simple as purchasing and using some color-coded Avery labels or Label Pads from Avery to organize your workspace or paper piles can be a significant step forward. Plus, it's a great way to show your coworkers and superiors that you're serious about your work and your career.

Find out if organization is a part of your personality!! Visit the Avery Labels DIY Organization website today to take your free DIY organization personality quiz and be entered to win a $5000 organizational makeover at your home or office from organization expert Jodie Watson.

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