A Harvard career coach’s “unspoken rules” for getting promoted | Gorick Ng for Big Think+

Summary

In this insightful talk, career advisor Gorick Ng shares how succeeding in elite professional spaces involves more than just hard work. He explains the concept of 'unspoken rules'—hidden expectations beyond formal job duties that insiders know and outsiders often miss. Ng emphasizes the importance of building relationships, taking ownership, and understanding the 'why, what, how, and by when' of tasks. By navigating these unspoken rules, individuals can unlock new opportunities, stand out, and contribute more effectively in their careers, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.

Takeaways

• 💼 Hard work alone isn't enough for career advancement; you must also navigate unspoken expectations.
• 👨‍👩‍👦 Insiders often receive guidance about workplace norms from mentors or family, while outsiders must learn through trial and error.
• 📊 Success in professional spaces requires understanding hidden expectations that are not always clearly communicated.
• 🔍 High performers build relationships, make themselves visible, and seize hidden opportunities to stand out.
• 🚪 Unspoken rules are like hidden doors in the workplace that, when recognized, can unlock new opportunities.
• 🤔 Asking clarifying questions like why, what, how, and by when can ensure you're doing the right work, the right way, on time.
• 🛠 Taking ownership of tasks rather than simply completing them helps you become impactful, not just useful.
• 📈 Understanding these unspoken rules can help prevent burnout from doing unnecessary work and pave the way for promotions.
• 🌍 Being an outsider can be a strength because it allows you to bring unique perspectives and lived experiences to the team.
• 🎯 Thriving in your career is about more than personal success; it’s about contributing your unique strengths to make an impact.

Q & A

What is the main message of Gorick Ng's discussion?

The main message is that hard work alone is not enough to get ahead in one's career. Understanding and mastering the 'unspoken rules' of the workplace—such as building relationships, being seen, and navigating hidden expectations—are crucial for success.

What are 'unspoken rules' according to Gorick Ng?

Unspoken rules are informal, hidden expectations and norms in the workplace that go beyond one's job description. These include building relationships, being proactive, and knowing how to navigate tasks and deadlines effectively.

Why does Gorick Ng believe hard work is not enough for career success?

Ng explains that while hard work is essential, it's not sufficient on its own because promotions and opportunities often depend on visibility, relationships, and understanding the hidden dynamics of the workplace—things that are not explicitly taught or discussed.

What challenges do 'outsiders' face in elite professional environments?

Outsiders, such as first-generation professionals or those without industry connections, face the challenge of navigating unspoken rules without the guidance or mentorship that insiders often receive informally through family or networks.

How did Gorick Ng feel when he first entered the workforce, and why?

Ng felt like he had brought a baseball bat to a hockey game, meaning he was working hard but playing by the wrong rules. He realized that while he was being useful, he wasn't being impactful because he didn’t understand the unspoken rules of the workplace.

What are the four questions Gorick Ng recommends asking to clarify expectations at work?

The four questions are: Why is this task being assigned? What is the deliverable? How should the task be done? By when should it be completed?

How can 'unspoken rules' help someone get promoted?

Unspoken rules help people understand the hidden dynamics of the workplace, allowing them to be more visible, build relationships, and identify opportunities to contribute beyond their immediate tasks, which can lead to promotions.

What does Ng suggest about formal and unspoken deadlines?

Ng suggests that every formal deadline has an unspoken, hidden deadline. Asking for clarity about deadlines can help ensure tasks are completed on time, in the right way, and meet expectations.

Why does Gorick Ng consider being an 'outsider' a strength?

Ng believes being an outsider can be a strength because outsiders bring unique perspectives, lived experiences, and ideas that may be unfamiliar or new to the organization, contributing to innovation and impact.

What does Gorick Ng mean by 'insiders' and 'outsiders'?

'Insiders' are individuals who have access to informal knowledge about unspoken workplace rules through mentors, family, or networks. 'Outsiders' are those who lack this insider knowledge and must learn these rules through trial and error.