Ep. 41 - Top 10 Things Your Boss Wishes You Knew
- Chad Lingafelt
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Want to stand out in your role and accelerate your career path? It often comes down to more than just technical expertise. In a recent "Unlocked" podcast episode, hosts Lars from Calgary Lock & Safe in Alberta, Tony from Assured Security in Minnesota, and Chad from Loc-Doc Security in Charlotte, NC, shared invaluable insights from their decades of experience as both employees and business owners in the security industry. This episode, "Elevate Your Career: Top Things Your Boss Wishes You Knew," offers actionable advice for anyone looking to make a lasting impression.
1. The Reality of Hard Work: "People Love What You Have, But They Hate What It Takes to Get It." Chad opened the discussion with a powerful truth: everyone desires success, but few are willing to put in the consistent, often grueling, work required to achieve it. This isn't just about showing up; it's about embracing the daily grind and pushing beyond comfort zones. If you want to achieve what others have, you must be prepared to do what they did to get there.
2. Master the "Things That Don't Require Talent." Tony's top advice was simple yet profound: focus on the things that require zero talent but make a huge impact. These are often overlooked but contribute significantly to how you're perceived:
Punctuality: Be on time, every time.
Professionalism: Maintain professional mannerisms and presentation. This includes simple things like tucking in your shirt and basic grooming.
Attitude: Bring positive energy to the workplace. A good attitude can often compensate for a developing skill set. As Lars emphasized, "You can get by on attitude that doesn't require... technical expertise".
3. Own Your Career Progression. Don't wait for your boss to hand you the next opportunity. Take initiative and
proactively communicate your career aspirations. Lars shared an example of an employee who approached him, stating a desire to join the sales team and asking, "How do I do it?". This proactive approach makes it significantly easier for management to support your growth. The "ceiling" you perceive might not exist if you step up and define your path.
4. Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill. This principle, discussed by the hosts, is crucial for both employees and employers. It's far easier to teach someone a technical skill than to instill a positive attitude or strong work ethic. If you're an employee, cultivate those "soft skills" (which are more than 50% of the equation, as Chad noted ). If you're a hiring manager, prioritize attitude over a perfect skill set.
In summary, impressing your boss and advancing your career is less about grand gestures and more about consistent, fundamental behaviors and proactive communication. Master the basics, show up with a positive attitude, and clearly articulate your ambitions. These are the "little things" that truly make a big difference in the eyes of your leadership.
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