I have heard it said a few times before, “You must have 12 years experience before anyone will take you seriously.”  They believe that without experience you aren’t qualified. 

Well, if you are constantly looked at as underexperienced, how do you ever get the chance to become experienced. 

What I have come to understand is that there are two quotients involved with becoming successful/qualified/experienced - Desire + Experience.  Too many times people look for Experience first and then Desire in qualified people, but if you look in that order you will find only 1% of the populations is qualified.  But if you look for Desire first, you will find a person willing to ‘Undergo’ the Experience. �

A friend of mine told me a story the other day of a recent interview she had.  She had been looking for an edge, or maybe just a slightly open door to work her way up the corporate ladder.  For years, she had been networking and sending her resume at every chance.  Finally the break she needed appeared. 

After exchanging greetings with the hiring authority, the manager said, “So you are looking to move up and want a promotion, eh?”

 “Absolutely!  Doesn’t everyone?” Expressed my friend. 

The manager looked at her and said, “Not everyone.” 

Many people are looking for an edge. They invest their time in a ‘top dollar’ education, outward appearances, networking, or anything that may help them emerge better than others.   They are their very own ad agencies and continually launch new campaigns. Everyone is seeking the magic formula that will lead to success. The more competitive the field, the more relentless the search.

Do you want to know the secret to moving up and getting to the top?  When the executive team raises the question, “Whom shall we send? Who will go for us?” Be the first to stand up and say, “Here I am. Send me.” 

Nearly everyone, if asked if they would like a promotion would say, “Yes.” However, few will actually do what it takes to get there.  They look for the handout or the short cut.  They look for the entitlement.  And, those approaches will fail every time. 

What is the key to success? I believe . . .

1. Vision/Determination
2. Work ethic/Willingness to exceed expectations
3. Leadership/ Because everything rises and falls on leaders

Most of all, it is being the one who stands up and says, “You can count on me.”