Jimmy Crabb

Lots of people think that “knowing the right people” or “just getting lucky” are the only ways to get the promotion or the raise they feel they deserve. While there is a small sliver of luck when it comes to advancing in business, however, most people give this sliver far more credit than it deserves! The mistake many people make in business actually has nothing to do with luck; it is simply a misstep of failing to be prepared to take advantage of (or to even recognize!) their opportunity when it arises. If you are a small business owner, an employee at a large corporation, or even a manager who is hoping to move up higher in the ranks, you must come to understand the value of studying to advance in business.

Understanding what your competitors are doing is the best way for you to study if you are a small business owner. This does not just mean that you should understand what they are doing wrong, either; take a good look at your strongest competitor and figure out what they do right!

For employees at large corporations, the struggle can be the fact that it often seems like it is impossible to get noticed. After all, there are so many other employees just like you, and it can seem completely random whether an employee’s hard work gets noticed or not. It can seem like your study and hard work are getting you nowhere, and it can be easy to stop trying so hard. But remember: In time, your opportunity will come, as the law of averages dictates this; if you continue to work hard and advance in knowledge and expertise, you will be prepared to seize your opportunity when it comes along.

It is very easy for managers to sit back and forget that there is still more to accomplish. But for a manager, they must remember that study is important, as they are not only responsible for their own selves, but also for those in their charge!

Take thirty minutes each day to study a bit more about your business and the business around you, and you will be pleased with the growth of your knowledge and with your ability to seize your opportunity.