Why do some people rise and flourish in their careers while others of equal talent flounder and never fulfill their dreams? James M. Citrin, an executive recruiter and–until recently–Business 2.0′s “Talent Monger” columnist, has a few answers to this intriguing question. The factors he and his partner uncovered in researching career success make up the basis for a book, “The Five Patterns of Extraordinary Careers”.

Using data from more than 2,000 in-depth survey responses and 300-plus personal interviews, Citrin and coauthor Richard A. Smith discovered five distinct patterns that repeatedly show up in the careers of the most successful executives. As Citrin explained recently in his final “Talent Monger” column, these people:
1. “Understand the value of you.”

They realize how value is created at work and turn that knowledge into action, growing their personal value during each step of their careers.

2. “Practice benevolent leadership.”

These people don’t claw their way up the career ladder; “they are carried there.”

3. “Overcome the permission paradox.”

They conquer the catch-22 that says, “You can’t get the job without the experience, and you can’t get the experience without the job.”

4. “Differentiate using the 20/80 principle of performance.”

They do their assigned jobs very well, but they also “storm past predetermined objectives to create breakthrough ideas and deliver unexpected impact.”

5. “Find the right fit.”

They make decisions with an eye on the long-term. They also purposefully trek toward roles that fit their strengths and passions.

Do you need help in finding the right fit or applying any of the other concepts to your career journey? Please contact me today at 888.522.8233 to schedule your complimentary Career Boost Strategy Session and we can begin to work on this together.