Is It Time to Quit Your Job? - Amy Gallo - Best Practices - Harvard Business Review

Everyone has bad days at work or even long periods when they feel disheartened about their job. But how do you know the difference between ordinary, occasional dissatisfaction and a genuine mismatch? How do you know when you're truly ready to move on? And how do you then get out gracefully?

What the Experts Say
Quitting a job can negatively impact your career and disrupt your personal life. But staying in an undesirable situation can be worse. "I find a lot of people paralyzed by their unhappiness with their current reality," says Leonard Schlesinger, the president of Babson College and coauthor of Just Start: Take Action, Embrace Uncertainty, Create the Future. It's often easier to stay put. "Most people stay too long in bad jobs because the corporate world is geared towards keeping us in roles, not matching individuals up with their ideal roles," says Daniel Gulati, a tech entrepreneur and coauthor of Passion & Purpose: Stories from the Best and Brightest Young Business Leaders. But don't let yourself get stuck. Here's how to decide whether it's really time to quit, and if so, how to leave effectively:

Watch for signals
Start by figuring out whether you lack excitement about the bigger picture or the day-to-day activities. "When people ask me how things are going, my standard response is that I love what I'm doing, which doesn't mean that I like it on any given day," says Schlesinger. Here are some signs that something larger is going on:

  • You keep promising yourself you'll quit but never do. Gulati says that these false starts are often indicative of an underlying problem.

  • You don't want your boss's job. If you can't stand the idea of having your manager's job, you need to think hard about what's next. Chances are that "your hungrier peers will soon pass you, creating more job dissatisfaction," says Gulati.

  • You're consistently underperforming. If you keep trying to get better but you're not seeing results, it may be time to consider whether you have what it takes, or if your boss and colleagues value what you have to offer. Schlesinger warns that sometimes you're up against an impossible task — the job is too big, the politics are too tricky, there aren't enough resources, or you don't have the required skills and experience.

    • If you notice one or more of these signs, pay attention and ask yourself whether the costs of staying in the job are reasonable and acceptable to you. It may be that the "price of admission" — opportunity loss, emotional toll — aren't worth it.

    Test the waters
    To further explore if you're ready to leave, run a few experiments to assess whether your perception is reality. "It's better to rely on information gathered from live interaction with people rather than spinning around in your own chair," says Schlesinger. He suggests having an honest conversation with your boss about how you're perceived and what you're capable of achieving in your role. If you think your manager wouldn't be open to that kind of discussion, Gulati advises looking at your last two annual performance reviews. "Do the comments make you feel empowered or disheartened? If your performance is stagnating despite your best efforts, you might want to quit before further reputational damage is done," he says. You can also test whether there's a mismatch by putting your hat in the ring the next time your boss has a high-profile piece of work to be done. If you're overlooked, it may be that he doesn't appreciate your skills and it's time to move on.

    Know the risks
    Before making a final decision, make sure you've assessed the downsides. Even if you're certain you're in the wrong job, there are risks to leaving — you may damage existing relationships, lose needed income, or blemish your resume. According to Gulati, people usually get ten chances to quit a job in their lifetime, which works out to an average of every four years. "If you're changing things up much more than that, companies will start looking at you as a serial job-hopper," he says. This will hurt your professional reputation and your chances of getting jobs in the future. "This could become especially problematic if you find a role you really want but can't get a foot in the door because of your dicey resume," says Gulati.

    Always leave toward something
    You can mitigate some of the risks by deciding what's next before you leave. Both experts agree that it's better to have at least an inkling of what you want to do, if not a full-fledged plan. "People should quit to secure a positive role, not on an emotional whim to avoid a negative situation. If you truly hate what you're doing, you should absolutely leave but not before you identify something that you have a good chance of loving in the future," says Gulati. Scheslinger adds "I wouldn't leave without some sort of plan, whether it's a set of experiments to confirm what you're excited about doing next or a conscious strategy to make something happen." Of course, that's not always possible. "Many people leave it open ended, especially if they're financially secure or craving an uninterrupted period of introspection," says Gulati.

    Don't run out the door
    You may fantasize about telling your boss to take this job and shove it, but that will only give you short-term relief and could possibly ruin your professional life. "There's nothing worse than taking a bad situation and leaving it badly. How you leave is as important as how you arrive," says Schlesinger. Discuss the decision with people who matter in your life: spouse, children, friends. Ask mentors or former bosses for advice. Most importantly, Schlesinger recommends, "Look at it from your boss's point of view and think about how you can communicate a process for disengagement that is respectful of the situation." Gulati agrees: "Once you've decided to quit and have a last day in mind, you should let your immediate supervisor know and follow due process."

    Principles to Remember

    Do:

    • Ask yourself whether the job can be done, whether you can do it, and if the costs of doing it are too high
    • Run short experiments to test whether your current situation is unfixable
    • Have some sense of what you want to do next before you quit

    Don't:

    • Stay if you don't want the job your boss or another superior is doing — you need to have a vision of what will come next
    • Burn bridges no matter how dissatisfied you are — it could ruin your professional reputation
    • Make quitting a habit — you'll blemish your resume

    Case Study #1: Weigh the costs of staying
    Adam Park (not his real name) joined Goldman Sachs' Hong Kong office in early 2007 as an associate in their equity derivatives division. Adam loved his job and was having the experience he had hoped for: he was learning tons and working with smart, capable people. Toward the end of 2008, however, things changed.

    The financial crisis forced the firm to make cuts. Adam was spared in the first round of layoffs, and in subsequent ones as well, but the situation was unsettling. "You would go out to lunch and when you came back, the person sitting next to you would be gone," he says. He also felt the layoffs were handled poorly. "A coworker had been there for 20 years and was let go the same way as everyone else," he explains. After the first round, managers told the survivors in his division they'd been spared because they were the firm's best people. But then a few months later some of those very people were let go. That's when Adam considered leaving. "I remember thinking, 'Wow, I'm not that important to these people. None of us are.'" It was a hard time to lose your job never mind leave one so he stayed put for a while. But he started to keep his eyes open for other opportunities.

    Then one day he was on his way to the gym during lunch and he saw a young boy separated from his mother. When a police officer asked Adam to help locate the boy, Adam's first thought was, "I don't have time for this." He assisted, but later that day kicked himself for his initial reaction, "I wasn't this person two years ago: someone too busy to help a woman reunite with her child. What happened to me?" The experience convinced Adam he needed to leave his job. The cost of staying outweighed the benefits. After waiting to receive his next bonus, he quit. He didn't take a job right away (though 14 months later he joined the legal department at another bank) but instead traveled and visited friends and family. "It was the best decision I've ever made," he says. "It's not often you get that mental silence."

    Case Study #2: Ask yourself one question
    Amal Kapur (not his real name) had been working at a global management consulting firm as a senior consultant for a year and a half when he started to consider whether he should leave. He simply wasn't feeling engaged in his work. "This wasn't just a valley in the natural ebb and flow of a job. I was thinking about my role and whether the company was still the right place for me to be," he says. He tried to think through all the factors that should influence his decision — finances, work/life balance, development opportunities — but couldn't figure out which mattered most to him.

    Then his mentor encouraged him to answer just one question: What do you need your job to do? Amal realized that he wanted a job that would prepare him to someday lead a start-up venture. He therefore needed operational experience and leadership opportunities, neither of which he was getting in his current role.

    He decided to look for a more execution-focused position at a smaller company. He started to look for a job while still employed but it proved difficult to dedicate enough time to it. Amal saw the biggest risk in leaving as financial but he figured he could float for several months without an income. And he didn't want to get stuck. "The longer I stayed in a role that was clearly not fulfilling my aspirations, the more I would've been disappointed in my inability to take action. Ultimately I had to bet on myself and my ability to find not just 'a job' but 'the job'," he says. After searching for two and a half months, Amal recently started a new position at a small media company.

    via blogs.hbr.org

    Good work isn’t enough. - Cognition: The blog of web design & development firm Happy Cog

    If you work in an agency or web department within an organization, let’s shift that perspective from promoting your work to being considered for a promotion. Doing good work is a smaller part of the equation. My experience has demonstrated that most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes. Maintaining a great attitude is far from automatic. It takes real skill to keep it positive.

    While we largely deal in a world of computer interactions, it’s the personal interactions you have with your colleagues, peers, and managers that truly shape your destiny. The amazing grid structure you implemented, the engaging presentation you gave, or the sleek JavaScript you wrote won’t stick in people’s minds as much as the time you praised someone for an amazing effort or (gasp) threw someone under the bus to make yourself shine.

    For better or worse, I’ve been in the position to influence the professional growth and development of many talented people. My experience is that people who achieve the most success share one or more of these qualities, in no particular order:

    • They are humble. Their success doesn’t consume them.
    • They are on time. On time for work, on time for meetings, on time for the train. They hate wasting their own time, and as a byproduct, anyone else’s.
    • They always appreciate what they have. And as a result, they usually get more.
    • They are universally respectful—to their friends, their boss, or to the person that makes their sandwich for lunch.
    • They don’t let work consume them.
    • They make sacrifices for the benefit of others.
    • They are patient.
    • They put in the extra effort when it’s needed, without any strings attached.
    • They resolve issues or conflicts directly.
    • They respectfully push back. It’s easy to push back. To do so with respect takes skill.
    • They trust their colleagues.

    The truth is, I have hired people based on their attitudes alone, and it’s rarely been a bad move. People who have positive attitudes want to learn. People with great technical skills and lousy attitudes may find themselves combing through LinkedIn before they know it.

    You know those passionate locker room speeches by sports coaches pounding the importance of winning attitudes in the heads of athletes? Yep, heard them a million times. But they’re not doing it to create drama. They’re doing it because they’ve learned firsthand what contributes to success.

    I, for one, plan on making 2013 the year I take a step back and look at how my attitude is absorbed and affects the others around me. And I’ll adjust accordingly. And if you consider doing the same, you might be surprised by the doors that open for you.

    Back to Top

    157 Responses

    156 Tweets and 1 Blog Post (also 87 retweets, not shown)

    1. @happycog

      Great work might get you far, but @Hoyboy explains how a great attitude will get you further—this week on Cognition http://t.co/UcboGJlh

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:48:28

    2. @bcsinteractive

      Spot on. Great work great attitude = success. http://t.co/VxihWwds

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:51:54

    3. @hoyboy

      It takes more than sweet chops to climb a ladder. Some thoughts based upon my experience: http://t.co/lRpESxkh #cognition

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:54:31

    4. @brettharned

      Your work is good, but are you good to work with? Loving this #cognition article by @hoyboy http://t.co/AbSh6lLS

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:56:32

    5. @elefontpress

      I couldn’t agree more with @hoyboy, nor could I have summarized it better: http://t.co/b87JklVJ #cognition”

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:01:48

    6. @darrondavis

      Good Work Isn't Enough. Attitude counts: http://t.co/wDLVyIlA #design

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:24:13

    7. @muleshakes

      "It takes real skill to keep (your attitude) positive." Truth. More skill than design chops, I've found.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:30:56

    8. @iboxifoo

      not sure such values are universal. hoping they really are: http://t.co/SfNzxBUa

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:04:09

    9. @mattsteeele

      Excellent advice from @hoyboy. Be patient, have a good attitude and be on time. http://t.co/GX10tUKT

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:05:41

    10. @nartub

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/OMAF7sEF

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:27:39

    11. @artoric

      A great article about the people with magical attitudes #cognition http://t.co/096NlznI

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:50:05

    12. @rodmotta

      Good Work Isn't Enough. A great attitude will get you further http://t.co/IcUOarfP #design

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:53:41

    13. @SoSweetCreative

      @happycog 's Greg Hoy explains why "good work" just isn't enough: http://t.co/PD9M63Cv

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:14:33

    14. @zeldman

      "While we deal in a world of computer interactions, it’s the personal interactions ... that truly shape your destiny." http://t.co/LGDee70b

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:24:27

    15. @KarinM4

      Good work isn’t enough. *Must read * http://t.co/g4JjrrcH

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:36:39

    16. @sophshepherd

      I love this article by @hoyboy about what it really means to be good at your job. http://t.co/pbfAAcng

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:54:25

    17. @erikfrick

      Good work and a great attitude will get you far. http://t.co/wNFVylD1 #fb

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:05:10

    18. @luxuryluke

      “…people who achieve the most success… do good work AND (have a great attitude)” by @hoyboy http://t.co/YFLpCoEM

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:08:00

    19. @kattekrab

      This article. So so yes. http://t.co/8WIzHNHG #philosophybeforebreakfast #drupalcon / via @zeldman

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:09:42

    20. @bamurphymac

      Tweet by Jeffrey Zeldman http://t.co/ri4naoVy

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:16:07

    21. @motherfuton

      This is so spot on, it's ridiculous. Ridic. U. Lous. http://t.co/MEzUC98D

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:27:47

    22. @jonbellah

      Great, great article! -- Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/JKiUfWOg via @hoyboy

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:32:17

    23. @realbenrush

      Great post via @hoyboy. "Good work isn’t enough ... Great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes." http://t.co/nsreVNYX

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:33:25

    24. @DustinMoody

      Great thoughts. The best colleagues have the best attitudes, not necessarily the best skills. http://t.co/X2w15R3m

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:34:39

    25. @Theocb

      Adjust your attitude http://t.co/J2IALBlN

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:54:41

    26. @sam_h

      Printed and hung on my office wall // “@motherfuton: This is so spot on, it's ridiculous. Ridic. U. Lous. http://t.co/yToJfAsr”

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:02:35

    27. @DLPennington

      Good work isn't enough. Check it out. http://t.co/kYXUOSsi

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:29:36

    28. @bfk

      Excellent article about career success by a smart man. If you hire people, please read it.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:30:53

    29. @kaibrach

      Love this article by @hoyboy and it easily relates to all aspects of life: http://t.co/uzhtAWlT

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:38:35

    30. @jpamental

      Wonderfully put & wholeheartedly agree. Glad 2 have been able 2 hire/recommend on similar ideas & love giving that away http://t.co/AeLqjkRv

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:59:50

    31. @matchboxtweet

      http://t.co/X4kebtyJ

      Thu, February 07, 2013 4:20:26

    32. @celiadraws

      Do good work & don't be an asshole http://t.co/tkblqvTN

      Thu, February 07, 2013 5:10:47

    33. @shodoshan

      This great post explains why just doing good work isn't enough. http://t.co/PD9uHNv7 it's well written and succinct.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 5:11:29

    34. @pixeliris

      Good work Good attitude / Great article http://t.co/RxYmuHWw

      Thu, February 07, 2013 5:47:42

    35. @chengsophia

      Good work isn't enough--your attitude speaks louder than your resume http://t.co/FjQmLAcu via @theseboots

      Thu, February 07, 2013 6:07:40

    36. @BBerkner

      Great perspective--> "Good work isn't good enough."

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:02:51

    37. @careyleighbrown

      Good find!! “@BBerkner: Great perspective--> "Good work isn't good enough." http://t.co/70jUJdu2”

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:05:16

    38. @SusanMunro

      What's most important? Great attitude! Loved this piece

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:57:12

    39. @evanwiener

      Be polite and resourceful.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:32:26

    40. @voidnothings

      "Experience has demonstrated that most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes." http://t.co/Z7SGEmK3 #unicorn

      Fri, February 08, 2013 3:55:36

    41. @carlmhbarenbrug

      Couldn't agree more: Good work isn't enough http://t.co/liQbJIJZ /by @hoyboy /via @benefritz

      Fri, February 08, 2013 6:09:35

    42. @gingerdoe

      http://t.co/VYYggbjw A great post on how having a positive attitude could be more important than doing good work...

      Fri, February 08, 2013 9:07:34

    43. @MikeGillihan

      "great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes" @happycog CEO reminds us it's not always about great work http://t.co/N0X7ClVU

      Fri, February 08, 2013 11:50:11

    44. @c_guasch

      Nice short read on the importance of attitude at work. http://t.co/c8dRylJC by @hoyboy

      Fri, February 08, 2013 12:09:05

    45. @BriceAubert

      Why Good work isn’t enough? http://t.co/zJw6bfx9

      Fri, February 08, 2013 12:47:09

    46. @JJoTejado

      Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/pMUYz55q

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:07:39

    47. @designcritter

      Short article about doing good in the workplace. Worth reading. :)

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:25:33

    48. @haddnin

      Inspiration for a better Web Developer. [Good work isn’t enough.] http://t.co/HeJs8rOJ #attitude #success

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:37:42

    49. @ericpuigmarti

      Your work is good, but are you good to work with? Great read! article by @hoyboy http://t.co/kRF3m2QJ

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:50:26

    50. @snailbites

      “@brettharned: Your work is good, but are you good to work with? http://t.co/OQXXaBbO” @gilesnorway #shoein

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:06:51

    51. @pishdeluxe

      In the workplace, affability trumps output. Wise words from @hoyboy. http://t.co/RVDkBaAI

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:10:02

    52. @gilesnorway

      “@snailbites: “@brettharned: Your work is good, but are you good to work with? http://t.co/GR4YgasL” #shoein” GREAT read!

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:10:32

    53. @grazyna

      It's not just your good #design, but it's your positive #attitude which drives your success. I like what he wrote. http://t.co/GUx0IYoK

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:22:27

    54. @jnafziger

      Good work isn't enough - You need a good attitude | http://t.co/hMZE5VA3

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:57:59

    55. @MrSimonMorris

      http://t.co/7cxsGyCd

      Fri, February 08, 2013 6:24:02

    56. @UniquelyTalisha

      Good work always speaks for itself. Its a self-promoting robot. ❤ It! http://t.co/X5gehQb6

      Fri, February 08, 2013 10:20:44

    57. @olinefs

      http://t.co/BqYaglFl Good work isn't enough by Greg Hoy ceo of Landor

      Fri, February 08, 2013 10:27:11

    58. @ticklebmad

      sounds good… http://t.co/MgeppZJ7

      Fri, February 08, 2013 11:18:51

    59. @_LdF

      So well said... #goodwork is not #enough http://t.co/Cg7c9gUK

      Sat, February 09, 2013 1:48:41

    60. @minnixio

      Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/nFYJoiFK

      Sat, February 09, 2013 7:49:14

    61. Rob Stinogle blogged this response:

      Atti­tude is infec­tious. It spreads like wild­fire, and a few great (or not so great) demeanors can quickly change the dynamic of a project, or even an entire team. Greg touches on impas­sioned coaches in his arti­cle, and their pos­i­tive atti­tudes. More →

      Sat, February 09, 2013 2:31:07

    62. @frieber

      "While we deal in a world of computer interactions, it’s the personal interactions that truly shape your destiny." http://t.co/KMWI1ehU

      Sat, February 09, 2013 4:35:47

    63. @frelerick

      Mantener una actitud positiva influye sobre tus trabajos, tu desarrollo y tu alrededor.

      Sat, February 09, 2013 10:35:06

    64. @archip3lago

      “@brettharned: Your work is good, but are you good to work with? Loving this #cognition article by @hoyboy http://t.co/v6wtaCDk”

      Sun, February 10, 2013 3:31:10

    65. @GlennArcher

      I agree -- positive attitudes are as or more important than technical skills http://t.co/1aj4XaoL

      Sun, February 10, 2013 7:04:19

    66. @morganwheaton

      I like this a lot via @happycog http://t.co/oTUlwpYJ

      Sun, February 10, 2013 10:02:37

    67. @ffoodd_fr

      Cette année, je ferais plus attention à mon attitude car "le bon travail ne suffit pas" ! http://t.co/UcboGJlh

      Mon, February 11, 2013 3:29:20

    68. @ifadey

      How to get noticed for our work? #Good #work isn't enough! http://t.co/dokgWR8L

      Mon, February 11, 2013 4:02:35

    69. @Chrisook

      This is just that kind of really great advice that i needed. Attitude adjusted!

      Mon, February 11, 2013 5:00:42

    70. @uxlewis

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/brcuAzZG

      Mon, February 11, 2013 7:30:26

    71. @scottpetrovic

      Love the article. Couldn't agree more on every point. http://t.co/kg1wHJ9T

      Mon, February 11, 2013 8:28:33

    72. @cmcnally

      Positive attitude is everything! @Hoyboy from #HappyCog reminds us how great attitude good work = success.

      Mon, February 11, 2013 9:17:35

    73. @mttdffy

      Cognition Article: "Good work isn’t enough." by @hoyboy http://t.co/QK2SfdGF

      Mon, February 11, 2013 10:44:47

    74. @therealneville

      Simply doing good work isn't enough for #success. People and attitudes matter more http://t.co/4Er9dicy

      Mon, February 11, 2013 4:34:31

    75. @stinogle

      Stay Active! http://robandlauren.com/2013/02/09/stay-active/ My response to this great article: http://cognition.happycog.com/article/good-work-isnt-enough/

      Mon, February 11, 2013 4:45:02

    76. @amberhoye

      "...most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes...." http://t.co/1ZTf5M82 #dailyinspiration #morethangoodwork

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:06:08

    77. @kray4cy

      True for any profession #design #playnice http://t.co/kWqsOz1w

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:26:01

    78. @cyantifik

      Agreed 100%! | Good Work Isn't Enough (Attitude Matters) http://t.co/ppuSmSDx http://t.co/AmiN2y9j

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:31:38

    79. @cyantifik

      Agreed 100% - Great advice for all professionals | Good Work Isn't Enough (Attitude Matters) http://t.co/AmiN2y9j #mustread

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:35:23

    80. @cyndymessah

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/j6b3sn9q | #notetoself

      Tue, February 12, 2013 10:04:11

    81. @kenkoch

      Outstanding article! I'm sending this out to everyone I can. Thanks @hoyboy http://t.co/FXfO4adM

      Tue, February 12, 2013 10:48:14

    82. @pdmcintyre

      Great read on attitude. Show your kids. http://t.co/noZxOdIl

      Tue, February 12, 2013 11:59:28

    83. @tartetatan

      Excellent advice: http://t.co/q7yZ8vH5

      Tue, February 12, 2013 2:05:29

    84. @whoischrislam

      Great read! Attitude is important! http://t.co/NAmWfAqw

      Tue, February 12, 2013 3:32:19

    85. @007_brad

      http://t.co/GpYfCl8v

      Tue, February 12, 2013 3:44:58

    86. @007_brad

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/GpYfCl8v

      Tue, February 12, 2013 3:47:05

    87. @gscorcia

      "My experience has demonstrated that most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes" http://t.co/wmOlgx6G

      Wed, February 13, 2013 10:57:49

    88. @chrisfurniss

      Great article about how no matter how good you are, your attitude counts for more. "Good Work Isn't Enough" http://t.co/H12MoVEY

      Wed, February 13, 2013 12:07:58

    89. @BiscuitKeith

      Good attitude is just as important as skills. Certainly look for this when hiring - http://t.co/Wh2AI28n

      Wed, February 13, 2013 6:06:00

    90. @dosberg

      Great post by @hoyboy. A must read for anyone who has a job. http://cognition.happycog.com/article/good-work-isnt-enough

      Wed, February 13, 2013 9:32:24

    91. @rogeriopa

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/43PLtIzQ

      Thu, February 14, 2013 5:37:34

    92. @vicebozic

      Good Work Isn't Enough. Attitude counts: http://t.co/ey9aI5Zq

      Thu, February 14, 2013 9:08:06

    93. @UXPAofLA

      When good work isn't enough http://t.co/TI3uCiJ3

      Fri, February 15, 2013 2:02:48

    94. @suyogg

      Good work isn’t enough. Great attitude matters most. http://t.co/AMIZr8Gz

      Sun, February 17, 2013 12:52:35

    95. @jordanrmyers

      words to live by. Great advice @hoyboy ! http://t.co/olr8zGPZ

      Mon, February 18, 2013 9:54:55

    96. @gregpman

      Greg's right, attitude is everything. http://t.co/PDln0aQw

      Mon, February 18, 2013 9:56:46

    97. @jordanrmyers

      Words to live by. Great advice @hoyboy ! http://t.co/olr8zGPZ #DontBeADick

      Mon, February 18, 2013 9:59:55

    98. @ideateandcreate

      Good work isn’t enough. by @hoyboy http://t.co/EURgHHEz #behumble #bepatient #trust

      Mon, February 18, 2013 10:23:42

    99. @ljuranek

      Agreed! Our attitudes are our lasting impressions with others, not just our designs. // "Good work isn't enough." http://t.co/vBA1LubL

      Mon, February 18, 2013 12:20:04

    100. @fortenic

      Good Work isn't Enough Article - http://t.co/kFqlk9BS

      Mon, February 18, 2013 2:13:29

    101. @brianspiders

      @hoyboy explains good work is not enough. #attitude #positivity http://t.co/45AirP4C

      Mon, February 18, 2013 3:41:13

    102. @jeffmcmillioan

      Refine your soft skills! @hoyboy reminds us that positive attitudes yield great opportunities. #cognition http://t.co/OloWrIKK

      Tue, February 19, 2013 10:25:05

    103. @ionutgirbea

      An article about good work and great attitude http://t.co/G0FmPyGw

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:04:41

    104. @jenncoledesign

      good to work with is as important as good work. found this to be true over and over! http://t.co/QXhiBEDB

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:06:02

    105. @fandangomg

      Great work is not enough. "Great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes." http://t.co/j94weG0Z @hoyboy http://t.co/qzGH8cp3

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:06:19

    106. @raybesiga

      Good work is not enough. A great attitude goes a long way too. Cognizance FTW!!! http://t.co/wAY4VXuj

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:28:34

    107. @elmoleman

      Una muy interesante lectura sobre actitud en el ambiente laboral. Muy recomendable http://t.co/dSyzmMG6

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:35:50

    108. @mrpritchett

      http://t.co/ohlexoTo A great attitude compliments great work to lead to success.

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:44:42

    109. @hadynz

      Great work might get you far, but @Hoyboy explains how a great attitude will get you further—this week on Cognition http://t.co/cE8ZOJlH

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:52:01

    110. @hollandzblog

      All you Negative Nancies need to read this -- Good work isn’t enough. - http://t.co/VKctNKEG

      Tue, February 19, 2013 12:12:40

    111. @totally_gross

      Short but definitely a great read: http://t.co/vhboFMQX

      Tue, February 19, 2013 12:27:24

    112. @toyadoitbig

      http://t.co/lmHyFZrw - Awesome article. Improving my attitude is definitely my goal.

      Tue, February 19, 2013 2:18:05

    113. @kiley_loesch

      "...most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes" http://t.co/7X2OQDsm

      Tue, February 19, 2013 2:26:06

    114. @mynameisfin

      Good work isn't enough by @hoyboy http://t.co/vPjmAywV

      Tue, February 19, 2013 5:51:05

    115. @smildrum

      Good work good attitude = success. Oh yeah. http://t.co/YvjKCcng

      Tue, February 19, 2013 7:53:45

    116. @hyubs

      Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/0ZeZjIXM

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:53:45

    117. @angelaischillin

      "Good work isn't enough." http://t.co/RTi7PR9J

      Wed, February 20, 2013 4:07:56

    118. @drewbietron

      Good work isn't enough... Good article from @happycog http://t.co/uwJNKWoL

      Wed, February 20, 2013 10:32:43

    119. @paulaliegl

      I wish more people realized that it isn't enough to just do good work. Attitude really does matter.. http://t.co/qcp2WbmA #HappyCog

      Wed, February 20, 2013 1:27:04

    120. @maasmeier

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/9N4obZ8UZL

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:23:37

    121. @saretdm

      Tu trabajo es bueno. Lo eres tú para poder trabajar contigo? http://t.co/XRI7S5hOhx Good work isn’t enough. Interesante lectura por @hoyboy

      Thu, February 21, 2013 9:05:38

    122. @workisnotajob

      "Good work isn’t enough." http://t.co/60mbG8F7Xm

      Thu, February 21, 2013 10:59:39

    123. @BeckysBrain

      Good work isn’t enough. By @hoyboy http://t.co/agcZOTGxJl - Well said! #design #advice

      Thu, February 21, 2013 11:21:04

    124. @rlmstevens

      this article was much needed and humbling this morning. http://t.co/hhOdOKglDv

      Thu, February 21, 2013 11:32:30

    125. @Kendall_Kulper

      Qualities of successful people? Patient, kind, smart, respectful, willing to learn--love it @Hoyboy http://t.co/DjhJbntSWD

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:06:47

    126. @tonypaves

      For all the "rock star" design students entering the real world: Good work isn't enough. http://t.co/Qf8TwRc5Ev

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:19:30

    127. @davidkanigan

      RT: Good Work Isn't Enough. http://t.co/HZTw2AKJ2E

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:24:11

    128. @paradiseport

      “@TheNoelle: Good Work isn't Enough http://t.co/dUnsTp4X7v” @JackYoest #AlertStudents

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:29:36

    129. @jennabolmgren

      Excellent article about finding #success in the workplace. #design http://t.co/A9IE8prpsn

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:35:24

    130. @spacklr

      Love this list of qualities of the most successful people from @hoyboy: http://t.co/aOCKsFCecV

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:50:31

    131. @market_research

      Right on piece on the qualities of success. http://t.co/nWgZbBaYsq

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:54:32

    132. @adamauden

      Good work isn’t enough. // http://t.co/18UPXqX2C0 (via @theloop) #fb

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:07:46

    133. @projectricochet

      What are successful people like? http://t.co/ONbteXCcme @happycog

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:12:38

    134. @SoftTenebrasLux

      http://t.co/6tYWJ67wRX "Good work isn't enough".

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:27:15

    135. @studiocartogram

      Qualities you are most likely to find in people who achieve the most success http://t.co/fw3aNSoxlr from Greg Hoy – President @happycog

      Thu, February 21, 2013 3:22:35

    136. @catfishback

      Great article about how attitude is probably the most important factor in success. http://t.co/hyPpAkj6nK

      Thu, February 21, 2013 3:46:11

    137. @AlxBrands

      Awesome article by @hoyboy. Thanks @swissmiss! http://t.co/OU5jK3Lq0N

      Thu, February 21, 2013 4:26:44

    138. @Staci_McC

      "http://t.co/HDFEsUFfzn” "Maintaining a great attitude is far from automatic. It takes real skill to keep it positive." #mustread

      Thu, February 21, 2013 5:12:20

    139. @diiFaris

      Interesting to read...Qualities of Successful People: Good work isn't enough http://t.co/8Ydpjq4dhs

      Thu, February 21, 2013 6:14:24

    140. @mariajeanina

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/nIHW77Vnoz

      Fri, February 22, 2013 12:46:55

    141. @Madebysheppard

      Good work isn't enough, it's about being a good person!

      Fri, February 22, 2013 3:16:49

    142. @barely_original

      Great way to start your morning! Short and sweet with a punch to the gut!

      Fri, February 22, 2013 3:57:58

    143. @meslthing

      Keeping things simple and doing them well just works, whatever the walk of life, whatever the situation http://t.co/2F4q1O1rI9

      Fri, February 22, 2013 5:07:40

    144. @tommydavis

      Good work isn't enough.

      Fri, February 22, 2013 6:27:36

    145. @tashiaw

      Good work isn’t enough.Greg Hoy lists qualities you are most likely to find in people who achieve the most success. http://t.co/v4iMIMWNq1

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:27:31

    146. @joermarshall

      http://t.co/4uYJ2nWnWM Do good work in a good way and good work will find you#jobs #inspiration #good #humble

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:46:40

    147. @jimmy_hav

      Think just doing a good job is enough to get ahead? http://t.co/B7JjNFZ91v

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:55:27

    148. @PatrickRyanLane

      Great article on how doing good work is important, but it is only part of the equation #attitude http://t.co/m8Sj5g5mRN

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:58:08

    149. @avanhouten

      Awesome article on how attitude determines success http://t.co/cJGLghqOeQ

      Fri, February 22, 2013 10:39:57

    150. @Prof_Thea

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/dgjv9lqdFh

      Fri, February 22, 2013 11:12:11

    151. @outtacontext

      Some of the best advice I've ever heard on how to get ahead, but not just at work--in life! http://t.co/lORvMuivLX

      Fri, February 22, 2013 11:38:45

    152. @sosarasays

      Truth! “@outtacontext: Some of the best advice I've ever heard on how to get ahead, but not just at work--in life! http://t.co/cC0EOiwJJF”

      Fri, February 22, 2013 12:49:03

    153. @robrodriguezjr

      Why Good Work Isn't Enough-Especially If You're A Photographer http://t.co/9SQNx4pQl9

      Fri, February 22, 2013 3:47:45

    154. @mrsallara

      Thank you for sharing.

      Fri, February 22, 2013 7:27:19

    155. @stephmotz

      "Good Work Isn't Enough" Attitude matters other qualities of successful people, by @hoyboy http://t.co/i9TQW5mQWT

      Fri, February 22, 2013 7:38:51

    156. @_amy_wang

      attitude >talent

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:31:46

    157. @ainsworthstudio

      This is perfectly stated! http://t.co/SKZUFenaki

      Sat, February 23, 2013 6:36:57

    via cognition.happycog.com

    Good work isn’t enough. - Cognition: The blog of web design & development firm Happy Cog

    If you work in an agency or web department within an organization, let’s shift that perspective from promoting your work to being considered for a promotion. Doing good work is a smaller part of the equation. My experience has demonstrated that most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes. Maintaining a great attitude is far from automatic. It takes real skill to keep it positive.

    While we largely deal in a world of computer interactions, it’s the personal interactions you have with your colleagues, peers, and managers that truly shape your destiny. The amazing grid structure you implemented, the engaging presentation you gave, or the sleek JavaScript you wrote won’t stick in people’s minds as much as the time you praised someone for an amazing effort or (gasp) threw someone under the bus to make yourself shine.

    For better or worse, I’ve been in the position to influence the professional growth and development of many talented people. My experience is that people who achieve the most success share one or more of these qualities, in no particular order:

    • They are humble. Their success doesn’t consume them.
    • They are on time. On time for work, on time for meetings, on time for the train. They hate wasting their own time, and as a byproduct, anyone else’s.
    • They always appreciate what they have. And as a result, they usually get more.
    • They are universally respectful—to their friends, their boss, or to the person that makes their sandwich for lunch.
    • They don’t let work consume them.
    • They make sacrifices for the benefit of others.
    • They are patient.
    • They put in the extra effort when it’s needed, without any strings attached.
    • They resolve issues or conflicts directly.
    • They respectfully push back. It’s easy to push back. To do so with respect takes skill.
    • They trust their colleagues.

    The truth is, I have hired people based on their attitudes alone, and it’s rarely been a bad move. People who have positive attitudes want to learn. People with great technical skills and lousy attitudes may find themselves combing through LinkedIn before they know it.

    You know those passionate locker room speeches by sports coaches pounding the importance of winning attitudes in the heads of athletes? Yep, heard them a million times. But they’re not doing it to create drama. They’re doing it because they’ve learned firsthand what contributes to success.

    I, for one, plan on making 2013 the year I take a step back and look at how my attitude is absorbed and affects the others around me. And I’ll adjust accordingly. And if you consider doing the same, you might be surprised by the doors that open for you.

    Back to Top

    157 Responses

    156 Tweets and 1 Blog Post (also 87 retweets, not shown)

    1. @happycog

      Great work might get you far, but @Hoyboy explains how a great attitude will get you further—this week on Cognition http://t.co/UcboGJlh

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:48:28

    2. @bcsinteractive

      Spot on. Great work great attitude = success. http://t.co/VxihWwds

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:51:54

    3. @hoyboy

      It takes more than sweet chops to climb a ladder. Some thoughts based upon my experience: http://t.co/lRpESxkh #cognition

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:54:31

    4. @brettharned

      Your work is good, but are you good to work with? Loving this #cognition article by @hoyboy http://t.co/AbSh6lLS

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:56:32

    5. @elefontpress

      I couldn’t agree more with @hoyboy, nor could I have summarized it better: http://t.co/b87JklVJ #cognition”

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:01:48

    6. @darrondavis

      Good Work Isn't Enough. Attitude counts: http://t.co/wDLVyIlA #design

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:24:13

    7. @muleshakes

      "It takes real skill to keep (your attitude) positive." Truth. More skill than design chops, I've found.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:30:56

    8. @iboxifoo

      not sure such values are universal. hoping they really are: http://t.co/SfNzxBUa

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:04:09

    9. @mattsteeele

      Excellent advice from @hoyboy. Be patient, have a good attitude and be on time. http://t.co/GX10tUKT

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:05:41

    10. @nartub

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/OMAF7sEF

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:27:39

    11. @artoric

      A great article about the people with magical attitudes #cognition http://t.co/096NlznI

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:50:05

    12. @rodmotta

      Good Work Isn't Enough. A great attitude will get you further http://t.co/IcUOarfP #design

      Thu, February 07, 2013 12:53:41

    13. @SoSweetCreative

      @happycog 's Greg Hoy explains why "good work" just isn't enough: http://t.co/PD9M63Cv

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:14:33

    14. @zeldman

      "While we deal in a world of computer interactions, it’s the personal interactions ... that truly shape your destiny." http://t.co/LGDee70b

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:24:27

    15. @KarinM4

      Good work isn’t enough. *Must read * http://t.co/g4JjrrcH

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:36:39

    16. @sophshepherd

      I love this article by @hoyboy about what it really means to be good at your job. http://t.co/pbfAAcng

      Thu, February 07, 2013 1:54:25

    17. @erikfrick

      Good work and a great attitude will get you far. http://t.co/wNFVylD1 #fb

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:05:10

    18. @luxuryluke

      “…people who achieve the most success… do good work AND (have a great attitude)” by @hoyboy http://t.co/YFLpCoEM

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:08:00

    19. @kattekrab

      This article. So so yes. http://t.co/8WIzHNHG #philosophybeforebreakfast #drupalcon / via @zeldman

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:09:42

    20. @bamurphymac

      Tweet by Jeffrey Zeldman http://t.co/ri4naoVy

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:16:07

    21. @motherfuton

      This is so spot on, it's ridiculous. Ridic. U. Lous. http://t.co/MEzUC98D

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:27:47

    22. @jonbellah

      Great, great article! -- Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/JKiUfWOg via @hoyboy

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:32:17

    23. @realbenrush

      Great post via @hoyboy. "Good work isn’t enough ... Great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes." http://t.co/nsreVNYX

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:33:25

    24. @DustinMoody

      Great thoughts. The best colleagues have the best attitudes, not necessarily the best skills. http://t.co/X2w15R3m

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:34:39

    25. @Theocb

      Adjust your attitude http://t.co/J2IALBlN

      Thu, February 07, 2013 2:54:41

    26. @sam_h

      Printed and hung on my office wall // “@motherfuton: This is so spot on, it's ridiculous. Ridic. U. Lous. http://t.co/yToJfAsr”

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:02:35

    27. @DLPennington

      Good work isn't enough. Check it out. http://t.co/kYXUOSsi

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:29:36

    28. @bfk

      Excellent article about career success by a smart man. If you hire people, please read it.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:30:53

    29. @kaibrach

      Love this article by @hoyboy and it easily relates to all aspects of life: http://t.co/uzhtAWlT

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:38:35

    30. @jpamental

      Wonderfully put & wholeheartedly agree. Glad 2 have been able 2 hire/recommend on similar ideas & love giving that away http://t.co/AeLqjkRv

      Thu, February 07, 2013 3:59:50

    31. @matchboxtweet

      http://t.co/X4kebtyJ

      Thu, February 07, 2013 4:20:26

    32. @celiadraws

      Do good work & don't be an asshole http://t.co/tkblqvTN

      Thu, February 07, 2013 5:10:47

    33. @shodoshan

      This great post explains why just doing good work isn't enough. http://t.co/PD9uHNv7 it's well written and succinct.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 5:11:29

    34. @pixeliris

      Good work Good attitude / Great article http://t.co/RxYmuHWw

      Thu, February 07, 2013 5:47:42

    35. @chengsophia

      Good work isn't enough--your attitude speaks louder than your resume http://t.co/FjQmLAcu via @theseboots

      Thu, February 07, 2013 6:07:40

    36. @BBerkner

      Great perspective--> "Good work isn't good enough."

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:02:51

    37. @careyleighbrown

      Good find!! “@BBerkner: Great perspective--> "Good work isn't good enough." http://t.co/70jUJdu2”

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:05:16

    38. @SusanMunro

      What's most important? Great attitude! Loved this piece

      Thu, February 07, 2013 10:57:12

    39. @evanwiener

      Be polite and resourceful.

      Thu, February 07, 2013 11:32:26

    40. @voidnothings

      "Experience has demonstrated that most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes." http://t.co/Z7SGEmK3 #unicorn

      Fri, February 08, 2013 3:55:36

    41. @carlmhbarenbrug

      Couldn't agree more: Good work isn't enough http://t.co/liQbJIJZ /by @hoyboy /via @benefritz

      Fri, February 08, 2013 6:09:35

    42. @gingerdoe

      http://t.co/VYYggbjw A great post on how having a positive attitude could be more important than doing good work...

      Fri, February 08, 2013 9:07:34

    43. @MikeGillihan

      "great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes" @happycog CEO reminds us it's not always about great work http://t.co/N0X7ClVU

      Fri, February 08, 2013 11:50:11

    44. @c_guasch

      Nice short read on the importance of attitude at work. http://t.co/c8dRylJC by @hoyboy

      Fri, February 08, 2013 12:09:05

    45. @BriceAubert

      Why Good work isn’t enough? http://t.co/zJw6bfx9

      Fri, February 08, 2013 12:47:09

    46. @JJoTejado

      Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/pMUYz55q

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:07:39

    47. @designcritter

      Short article about doing good in the workplace. Worth reading. :)

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:25:33

    48. @haddnin

      Inspiration for a better Web Developer. [Good work isn’t enough.] http://t.co/HeJs8rOJ #attitude #success

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:37:42

    49. @ericpuigmarti

      Your work is good, but are you good to work with? Great read! article by @hoyboy http://t.co/kRF3m2QJ

      Fri, February 08, 2013 1:50:26

    50. @snailbites

      “@brettharned: Your work is good, but are you good to work with? http://t.co/OQXXaBbO” @gilesnorway #shoein

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:06:51

    51. @pishdeluxe

      In the workplace, affability trumps output. Wise words from @hoyboy. http://t.co/RVDkBaAI

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:10:02

    52. @gilesnorway

      “@snailbites: “@brettharned: Your work is good, but are you good to work with? http://t.co/GR4YgasL” #shoein” GREAT read!

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:10:32

    53. @grazyna

      It's not just your good #design, but it's your positive #attitude which drives your success. I like what he wrote. http://t.co/GUx0IYoK

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:22:27

    54. @jnafziger

      Good work isn't enough - You need a good attitude | http://t.co/hMZE5VA3

      Fri, February 08, 2013 2:57:59

    55. @MrSimonMorris

      http://t.co/7cxsGyCd

      Fri, February 08, 2013 6:24:02

    56. @UniquelyTalisha

      Good work always speaks for itself. Its a self-promoting robot. ❤ It! http://t.co/X5gehQb6

      Fri, February 08, 2013 10:20:44

    57. @olinefs

      http://t.co/BqYaglFl Good work isn't enough by Greg Hoy ceo of Landor

      Fri, February 08, 2013 10:27:11

    58. @ticklebmad

      sounds good… http://t.co/MgeppZJ7

      Fri, February 08, 2013 11:18:51

    59. @_LdF

      So well said... #goodwork is not #enough http://t.co/Cg7c9gUK

      Sat, February 09, 2013 1:48:41

    60. @minnixio

      Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/nFYJoiFK

      Sat, February 09, 2013 7:49:14

    61. Rob Stinogle blogged this response:

      Atti­tude is infec­tious. It spreads like wild­fire, and a few great (or not so great) demeanors can quickly change the dynamic of a project, or even an entire team. Greg touches on impas­sioned coaches in his arti­cle, and their pos­i­tive atti­tudes. More →

      Sat, February 09, 2013 2:31:07

    62. @frieber

      "While we deal in a world of computer interactions, it’s the personal interactions that truly shape your destiny." http://t.co/KMWI1ehU

      Sat, February 09, 2013 4:35:47

    63. @frelerick

      Mantener una actitud positiva influye sobre tus trabajos, tu desarrollo y tu alrededor.

      Sat, February 09, 2013 10:35:06

    64. @archip3lago

      “@brettharned: Your work is good, but are you good to work with? Loving this #cognition article by @hoyboy http://t.co/v6wtaCDk”

      Sun, February 10, 2013 3:31:10

    65. @GlennArcher

      I agree -- positive attitudes are as or more important than technical skills http://t.co/1aj4XaoL

      Sun, February 10, 2013 7:04:19

    66. @morganwheaton

      I like this a lot via @happycog http://t.co/oTUlwpYJ

      Sun, February 10, 2013 10:02:37

    67. @ffoodd_fr

      Cette année, je ferais plus attention à mon attitude car "le bon travail ne suffit pas" ! http://t.co/UcboGJlh

      Mon, February 11, 2013 3:29:20

    68. @ifadey

      How to get noticed for our work? #Good #work isn't enough! http://t.co/dokgWR8L

      Mon, February 11, 2013 4:02:35

    69. @Chrisook

      This is just that kind of really great advice that i needed. Attitude adjusted!

      Mon, February 11, 2013 5:00:42

    70. @uxlewis

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/brcuAzZG

      Mon, February 11, 2013 7:30:26

    71. @scottpetrovic

      Love the article. Couldn't agree more on every point. http://t.co/kg1wHJ9T

      Mon, February 11, 2013 8:28:33

    72. @cmcnally

      Positive attitude is everything! @Hoyboy from #HappyCog reminds us how great attitude good work = success.

      Mon, February 11, 2013 9:17:35

    73. @mttdffy

      Cognition Article: "Good work isn’t enough." by @hoyboy http://t.co/QK2SfdGF

      Mon, February 11, 2013 10:44:47

    74. @therealneville

      Simply doing good work isn't enough for #success. People and attitudes matter more http://t.co/4Er9dicy

      Mon, February 11, 2013 4:34:31

    75. @stinogle

      Stay Active! http://robandlauren.com/2013/02/09/stay-active/ My response to this great article: http://cognition.happycog.com/article/good-work-isnt-enough/

      Mon, February 11, 2013 4:45:02

    76. @amberhoye

      "...most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes...." http://t.co/1ZTf5M82 #dailyinspiration #morethangoodwork

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:06:08

    77. @kray4cy

      True for any profession #design #playnice http://t.co/kWqsOz1w

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:26:01

    78. @cyantifik

      Agreed 100%! | Good Work Isn't Enough (Attitude Matters) http://t.co/ppuSmSDx http://t.co/AmiN2y9j

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:31:38

    79. @cyantifik

      Agreed 100% - Great advice for all professionals | Good Work Isn't Enough (Attitude Matters) http://t.co/AmiN2y9j #mustread

      Tue, February 12, 2013 9:35:23

    80. @cyndymessah

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/j6b3sn9q | #notetoself

      Tue, February 12, 2013 10:04:11

    81. @kenkoch

      Outstanding article! I'm sending this out to everyone I can. Thanks @hoyboy http://t.co/FXfO4adM

      Tue, February 12, 2013 10:48:14

    82. @pdmcintyre

      Great read on attitude. Show your kids. http://t.co/noZxOdIl

      Tue, February 12, 2013 11:59:28

    83. @tartetatan

      Excellent advice: http://t.co/q7yZ8vH5

      Tue, February 12, 2013 2:05:29

    84. @whoischrislam

      Great read! Attitude is important! http://t.co/NAmWfAqw

      Tue, February 12, 2013 3:32:19

    85. @007_brad

      http://t.co/GpYfCl8v

      Tue, February 12, 2013 3:44:58

    86. @007_brad

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/GpYfCl8v

      Tue, February 12, 2013 3:47:05

    87. @gscorcia

      "My experience has demonstrated that most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes" http://t.co/wmOlgx6G

      Wed, February 13, 2013 10:57:49

    88. @chrisfurniss

      Great article about how no matter how good you are, your attitude counts for more. "Good Work Isn't Enough" http://t.co/H12MoVEY

      Wed, February 13, 2013 12:07:58

    89. @BiscuitKeith

      Good attitude is just as important as skills. Certainly look for this when hiring - http://t.co/Wh2AI28n

      Wed, February 13, 2013 6:06:00

    90. @dosberg

      Great post by @hoyboy. A must read for anyone who has a job. http://cognition.happycog.com/article/good-work-isnt-enough

      Wed, February 13, 2013 9:32:24

    91. @rogeriopa

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/43PLtIzQ

      Thu, February 14, 2013 5:37:34

    92. @vicebozic

      Good Work Isn't Enough. Attitude counts: http://t.co/ey9aI5Zq

      Thu, February 14, 2013 9:08:06

    93. @UXPAofLA

      When good work isn't enough http://t.co/TI3uCiJ3

      Fri, February 15, 2013 2:02:48

    94. @suyogg

      Good work isn’t enough. Great attitude matters most. http://t.co/AMIZr8Gz

      Sun, February 17, 2013 12:52:35

    95. @jordanrmyers

      words to live by. Great advice @hoyboy ! http://t.co/olr8zGPZ

      Mon, February 18, 2013 9:54:55

    96. @gregpman

      Greg's right, attitude is everything. http://t.co/PDln0aQw

      Mon, February 18, 2013 9:56:46

    97. @jordanrmyers

      Words to live by. Great advice @hoyboy ! http://t.co/olr8zGPZ #DontBeADick

      Mon, February 18, 2013 9:59:55

    98. @ideateandcreate

      Good work isn’t enough. by @hoyboy http://t.co/EURgHHEz #behumble #bepatient #trust

      Mon, February 18, 2013 10:23:42

    99. @ljuranek

      Agreed! Our attitudes are our lasting impressions with others, not just our designs. // "Good work isn't enough." http://t.co/vBA1LubL

      Mon, February 18, 2013 12:20:04

    100. @fortenic

      Good Work isn't Enough Article - http://t.co/kFqlk9BS

      Mon, February 18, 2013 2:13:29

    101. @brianspiders

      @hoyboy explains good work is not enough. #attitude #positivity http://t.co/45AirP4C

      Mon, February 18, 2013 3:41:13

    102. @jeffmcmillioan

      Refine your soft skills! @hoyboy reminds us that positive attitudes yield great opportunities. #cognition http://t.co/OloWrIKK

      Tue, February 19, 2013 10:25:05

    103. @ionutgirbea

      An article about good work and great attitude http://t.co/G0FmPyGw

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:04:41

    104. @jenncoledesign

      good to work with is as important as good work. found this to be true over and over! http://t.co/QXhiBEDB

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:06:02

    105. @fandangomg

      Great work is not enough. "Great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes." http://t.co/j94weG0Z @hoyboy http://t.co/qzGH8cp3

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:06:19

    106. @raybesiga

      Good work is not enough. A great attitude goes a long way too. Cognizance FTW!!! http://t.co/wAY4VXuj

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:28:34

    107. @elmoleman

      Una muy interesante lectura sobre actitud en el ambiente laboral. Muy recomendable http://t.co/dSyzmMG6

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:35:50

    108. @mrpritchett

      http://t.co/ohlexoTo A great attitude compliments great work to lead to success.

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:44:42

    109. @hadynz

      Great work might get you far, but @Hoyboy explains how a great attitude will get you further—this week on Cognition http://t.co/cE8ZOJlH

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:52:01

    110. @hollandzblog

      All you Negative Nancies need to read this -- Good work isn’t enough. - http://t.co/VKctNKEG

      Tue, February 19, 2013 12:12:40

    111. @totally_gross

      Short but definitely a great read: http://t.co/vhboFMQX

      Tue, February 19, 2013 12:27:24

    112. @toyadoitbig

      http://t.co/lmHyFZrw - Awesome article. Improving my attitude is definitely my goal.

      Tue, February 19, 2013 2:18:05

    113. @kiley_loesch

      "...most of the great opportunities go to people with magical attitudes" http://t.co/7X2OQDsm

      Tue, February 19, 2013 2:26:06

    114. @mynameisfin

      Good work isn't enough by @hoyboy http://t.co/vPjmAywV

      Tue, February 19, 2013 5:51:05

    115. @smildrum

      Good work good attitude = success. Oh yeah. http://t.co/YvjKCcng

      Tue, February 19, 2013 7:53:45

    116. @hyubs

      Good work isn’t enough http://t.co/0ZeZjIXM

      Tue, February 19, 2013 11:53:45

    117. @angelaischillin

      "Good work isn't enough." http://t.co/RTi7PR9J

      Wed, February 20, 2013 4:07:56

    118. @drewbietron

      Good work isn't enough... Good article from @happycog http://t.co/uwJNKWoL

      Wed, February 20, 2013 10:32:43

    119. @paulaliegl

      I wish more people realized that it isn't enough to just do good work. Attitude really does matter.. http://t.co/qcp2WbmA #HappyCog

      Wed, February 20, 2013 1:27:04

    120. @maasmeier

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/9N4obZ8UZL

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:23:37

    121. @saretdm

      Tu trabajo es bueno. Lo eres tú para poder trabajar contigo? http://t.co/XRI7S5hOhx Good work isn’t enough. Interesante lectura por @hoyboy

      Thu, February 21, 2013 9:05:38

    122. @workisnotajob

      "Good work isn’t enough." http://t.co/60mbG8F7Xm

      Thu, February 21, 2013 10:59:39

    123. @BeckysBrain

      Good work isn’t enough. By @hoyboy http://t.co/agcZOTGxJl - Well said! #design #advice

      Thu, February 21, 2013 11:21:04

    124. @rlmstevens

      this article was much needed and humbling this morning. http://t.co/hhOdOKglDv

      Thu, February 21, 2013 11:32:30

    125. @Kendall_Kulper

      Qualities of successful people? Patient, kind, smart, respectful, willing to learn--love it @Hoyboy http://t.co/DjhJbntSWD

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:06:47

    126. @tonypaves

      For all the "rock star" design students entering the real world: Good work isn't enough. http://t.co/Qf8TwRc5Ev

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:19:30

    127. @davidkanigan

      RT: Good Work Isn't Enough. http://t.co/HZTw2AKJ2E

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:24:11

    128. @paradiseport

      “@TheNoelle: Good Work isn't Enough http://t.co/dUnsTp4X7v” @JackYoest #AlertStudents

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:29:36

    129. @jennabolmgren

      Excellent article about finding #success in the workplace. #design http://t.co/A9IE8prpsn

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:35:24

    130. @spacklr

      Love this list of qualities of the most successful people from @hoyboy: http://t.co/aOCKsFCecV

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:50:31

    131. @market_research

      Right on piece on the qualities of success. http://t.co/nWgZbBaYsq

      Thu, February 21, 2013 12:54:32

    132. @adamauden

      Good work isn’t enough. // http://t.co/18UPXqX2C0 (via @theloop) #fb

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:07:46

    133. @projectricochet

      What are successful people like? http://t.co/ONbteXCcme @happycog

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:12:38

    134. @SoftTenebrasLux

      http://t.co/6tYWJ67wRX "Good work isn't enough".

      Thu, February 21, 2013 1:27:15

    135. @studiocartogram

      Qualities you are most likely to find in people who achieve the most success http://t.co/fw3aNSoxlr from Greg Hoy – President @happycog

      Thu, February 21, 2013 3:22:35

    136. @catfishback

      Great article about how attitude is probably the most important factor in success. http://t.co/hyPpAkj6nK

      Thu, February 21, 2013 3:46:11

    137. @AlxBrands

      Awesome article by @hoyboy. Thanks @swissmiss! http://t.co/OU5jK3Lq0N

      Thu, February 21, 2013 4:26:44

    138. @Staci_McC

      "http://t.co/HDFEsUFfzn” "Maintaining a great attitude is far from automatic. It takes real skill to keep it positive." #mustread

      Thu, February 21, 2013 5:12:20

    139. @diiFaris

      Interesting to read...Qualities of Successful People: Good work isn't enough http://t.co/8Ydpjq4dhs

      Thu, February 21, 2013 6:14:24

    140. @mariajeanina

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/nIHW77Vnoz

      Fri, February 22, 2013 12:46:55

    141. @Madebysheppard

      Good work isn't enough, it's about being a good person!

      Fri, February 22, 2013 3:16:49

    142. @barely_original

      Great way to start your morning! Short and sweet with a punch to the gut!

      Fri, February 22, 2013 3:57:58

    143. @meslthing

      Keeping things simple and doing them well just works, whatever the walk of life, whatever the situation http://t.co/2F4q1O1rI9

      Fri, February 22, 2013 5:07:40

    144. @tommydavis

      Good work isn't enough.

      Fri, February 22, 2013 6:27:36

    145. @tashiaw

      Good work isn’t enough.Greg Hoy lists qualities you are most likely to find in people who achieve the most success. http://t.co/v4iMIMWNq1

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:27:31

    146. @joermarshall

      http://t.co/4uYJ2nWnWM Do good work in a good way and good work will find you#jobs #inspiration #good #humble

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:46:40

    147. @jimmy_hav

      Think just doing a good job is enough to get ahead? http://t.co/B7JjNFZ91v

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:55:27

    148. @PatrickRyanLane

      Great article on how doing good work is important, but it is only part of the equation #attitude http://t.co/m8Sj5g5mRN

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:58:08

    149. @avanhouten

      Awesome article on how attitude determines success http://t.co/cJGLghqOeQ

      Fri, February 22, 2013 10:39:57

    150. @Prof_Thea

      Good work isn’t enough. http://t.co/dgjv9lqdFh

      Fri, February 22, 2013 11:12:11

    151. @outtacontext

      Some of the best advice I've ever heard on how to get ahead, but not just at work--in life! http://t.co/lORvMuivLX

      Fri, February 22, 2013 11:38:45

    152. @sosarasays

      Truth! “@outtacontext: Some of the best advice I've ever heard on how to get ahead, but not just at work--in life! http://t.co/cC0EOiwJJF”

      Fri, February 22, 2013 12:49:03

    153. @robrodriguezjr

      Why Good Work Isn't Enough-Especially If You're A Photographer http://t.co/9SQNx4pQl9

      Fri, February 22, 2013 3:47:45

    154. @mrsallara

      Thank you for sharing.

      Fri, February 22, 2013 7:27:19

    155. @stephmotz

      "Good Work Isn't Enough" Attitude matters other qualities of successful people, by @hoyboy http://t.co/i9TQW5mQWT

      Fri, February 22, 2013 7:38:51

    156. @_amy_wang

      attitude >talent

      Fri, February 22, 2013 9:31:46

    157. @ainsworthstudio

      This is perfectly stated! http://t.co/SKZUFenaki

      Sat, February 23, 2013 6:36:57

    via cognition.happycog.com

    When women ask for it: Veena Venugopal « Kafila

    Guest post by VEENA VENUGOPAL

    To me, the most memorable scene in Dev D is the one where Paro takes a mattress from home and ties it to her cycle. When she reaches the edge of the field, she abandons the cycle, lifts the mattress on her shoulder and marches to the clearing where she lays it down and waits for her lover. There are no words spoken and the camera holds her face close. Her expression is one of intense seriousness. You can see her desire is a field force of intensity that fuels every step. She is determined to see it through, to let that desire take over herself completely; not surrender to it but to let it explode out of her. You know that when she meets Dev, the sex would be passionate and powerful.  And yet, in the south Delhi multiplex where I was watching the film, most of the audience burst into rapacious laughter. The women smiled embarrassedly at each other. Which made me wonder, why is female desire a laughing matter?

    I thought back to the movie and that scene because even now, in the last seven weeks that we have been talking about sex, sexuality, power, passion and crime, we are still, yet to talk about female desire. In the conversations about rape that we have had, there have been infinite references to provocation. That if women dress a certain way, they are “asking for it.” To my mind, what this means is that men don’t know when we are really asking for it. Because if I was “asking for it”, it would be a lot more than showing cleavage, or leg. If I am asking for it, dude, you will know it.

    When did desire become a male privilege? There is so little conversation about a woman’s desire for sex that a lot of people simply assume it doesn’t exist. A Times of India article last month starts with this surprising headline, Women too have high sex drive. Did you not know that?  To my mind, understanding that there is such a thing as female desire is essential to knowing how we behave. There has, rightly, been a call for the Indian film industry, especially Bollywood, to introspect how it depicts its women. The whole “chhed-chhad” business, the near stalker-ish behavior that Hindi film heroes indulge in does influence how men on the streets behave. That it gives that boorishness credibility. And eventually, the girl succumbs. What is important to the girl, it suggests, is acceptance. She does not desire. She does not chase. She does not acknowledge, even to herself, that she wants this man. She gives in, relents, submits.

    Truth is, female desire is as much a brute force as male desire. Sometimes it takes us by surprise, often we relent to it. Some of us take risks to indulge our desire. Some of us fight it, telling ourselves why this particular one is not good for us. It occurs to us just as randomly as it does to men. When we watch a movie, read a book, walk down the street, see someone hot, at the pub drinking, at the temple praying. Sometimes we fabricate it, filling our head with fantasies. Sometimes we deny it. Sometimes we fake it. Sometimes it’s a coiled spring. Sometimes it’s a warm breeze. But what is important for you to know is that we feel it. We know what it is.

    In an early episode of Girls, one of the characters reads from a dating manual. “Sex from behind is degrading. He should want to look at your beautiful face,” she reads. To which the other asks, “what if I want something different? What if I want to feel like I have udders?” Because, you know, sometimes we do. In Saudi Arabia, where laughably a lot of people seem to think there are no rapes because women are “properly attired”, the intense segregation of the sexes makes us turn our desires to other women. Don’t believe me? Read Seba Al-Herz’s book, The Others. Because no matter what you believe, you can’t put a burqa on a thought or wrap a hijab around a feeling.

    We probably don’t talk about what we desire enough. But we certainly think about it. So this will probably come as a surprise to you. When you proposition us, on the road, in the bus, or at a movie theatre, and we say no, we are not saying that we don’t feel any desire. We are simply saying that it’s not you who we desire.

    (Veena Venugopal is a journalist in Delhi. She is the author of the book Would You Like Some Bread With That Book, published by Yoda Press in 2012. She is a contributing writer for Quartz and Mint.)

    via kafila.org

    5 Evidence-Based Ways to Optimize Your Teamwork :: Tips :: 99U

    You're at the table with the rest of your team, ready to brainstorm new ideas or plan the next product launch. Looking around, their faces are reassuring - you know this is a bunch of talented and experienced individuals. Working together you have the potential to achieve so much more than you ever could alone. 

    And yet … so often group work fails to deliver. Or worse, it leads to calamity.

    History is littered with examples of disastrous group decisions leading to banking collapses, political crises, and commercial meltdowns. Thankfully, important research has been published over the last decade highlighting ways to avoid the pitfalls and maximize the promise of working together. 


    1. Note everyone's initial ideas    .

    A fundamental strength of teams is that each person brings their own unique knowledge and perspective to the table. This is the crux of the classic "wisdom of crowds" effect first documented early in the last century – that is, the judgment of a group of people will usually be superior to the judgment of any individual in that group. 

    In a creative setting, this could apply to problems like estimating product sales or predicting project timelines. But crucially, this group wisdom effect only applies when each person's input is kept independent and free of outside influence. A team of Swiss and Hungarian researchers showed this in 2011 – group wisdom was undermined when team members were given the chance to modify their initial answers based on feedback about what others had said.

    Too much early interaction can also compromise idea generation in a group setting. Vocal, overconfident team members have a disproportionate influence while shy contributors lose faith in their own proposals. Whether seeking predictions or brainstorming ideas, you can largely overcome these problems by making sure team members write down and share their initial thoughts and ideas before group discussion begins. With everyone's ideas or predictions on the table, only then start the interactive group work. 

    Group wisdom was undermined when team members were given the chance to modify their initial answers.

    2. Test drive the team.

    Individual assessment is such a fundamental part of working life, yet we often take it for granted. If you want the best person for a job, you put the candidates through their paces to see who comes out on top. The basic assumption is that if they do well in the test context, they'll also excel on future projects. It turns out the same principle applies to groups – U.S. researchers showed in 2010 that a team that does well in one situation will tend to do well on other challenges too.

    This suggests you should test drive your creative teams, much as you would an individual. Related to this, it's a mistake to think that putting together a bunch of skilled individuals will automatically create a gifted team. The same US study showed that a team's average performance is not necessarily related to the individual intelligence of each member. Rather, group ability was enhanced by having team members who scored highly in "social sensitivity" (they were better at reading other people's emotions). The research also found that groups with more female members performed above average, simply because women tended to be more socially sensitive. 

    It's a mistake to think that putting together a bunch of skilled individuals will automatically create a gifted team.

    3. Mix up group membership.

    Although effective teams have certain qualities that make it likely they'll be successful on future challenges, there is a balance to be struck. If the same personnel always work together, there's a risk of the group becoming insular and detached from reality – part of a process known as "Groupthink." Often, instead of the group context leading to a balancing of opinions, a team's judgment will become progressively polarized. Dissenters are sidelined and enthusiastic team members rally around an outspoken flag-bearer, one who holds a more extreme version of their own views.

    In business, this can lead to unrealistic optimism and a dangerous stifling of skepticism within the group. A sure way to stop these processes from taking hold is to ensure there's a periodic influx of fresh blood into the team. This is also good practice for sustaining creativity. Research shows that familiar teams feel friendlier and more creative, but it's newly formed teams that often generate more and better ideas.

    4. Conduct a pre-mortem. 

    After a failed product or expansion plan, it's a familiar experience to read that the relevant company is conducting in-depth inquiries to find out how their experts could have made such misguided, unrealistic judgments. A common cause is that the companies' project group grew so isolated and inward-looking, they forgot to factor in the effects of other competing companies making their own ambitious plans.

    Newly formed teams that often generate more and better ideas.

    To help safeguard against the unrealistic optimism that often bedevils creative teams, decision-making expert Gary Klein recommends a technique called the pre-mortem – a form of "ritualized dissent". Team members (working on their own initially) are asked to assume that their project has already met with disaster and to come up with reasons why. This fosters an atmosphere that values the input of those who have doubts and reservations. Most importantly, the technique highlights ways to strengthen the project plan before lift-off. 


    5. Pay attention to when.

    Time spent on team activities doesn't come free. All the while that your top people are sat around talking, planning and brainstorming, they're obviously not at work busy doing what they do best – executing the ideas that are going to turn your project into a success. This means it's vital to schedule intelligently and punctually. When US researchers surveyed 367 employees across a range of industries for a 2011 study, they found that perceptions of meeting quality weren't related to the length of the meeting or the number of breaks, but to whether or not meetings started and ended on time.

    If you only have one team session a week, consider Tuesdays at 3 p.m.: in 2009, the events-scheduling service When Is Good published an analysis of its client data, which showed people's flexibility peaked at this time. Also, pay attention to your agenda – a study from the 90s found that decision-making groups allocated more time to earlier items, meaning that important items lower on the agenda were neglected.

    If time is short, one sure way for keeping meetings efficient is to conduct them standing up. Research by management scholar Allen Bluedorn found that stand-up meetings were on average 34 percent shorter than the seated variety, with no cost in terms of decision quality. 

    -

    Much of the evidence-based advice available for improving teamwork and group decision-making seems intuitive. Yet, in so many walks of life, from board meetings to jury deliberations, the five principles above are ignored, allowing pushy personalities to dominate and bad reasoning to thrive. Teamwork can lead to shrewd decisions and flourishing creativity, but only if you pay attention to the social psychology that comes into play in a group setting.  

    --
    What's Your Take?


    How does your team work best?

    --
    Dr. Christian Jarrett is a psychologist and author of the Rough Guide to Psychology. He writes the Research Digest blog for the British Psychological Society and is staff writer on their house magazine The Psychologist. Follow him on Twitter @Psych_Writer.
    via 99u.com