Think how you shined during the interview where landed you your job. You were prepared to impress, fully engaged, and leaning forward with enthusiasm. Acutely aware that you were being evaluated, you made sure your answers were crisp and your questions were thoughtful. Simply put, you were ON.
Unfortunately, that moment is the brightest some of us shine. A few weeks into the gig, your effort and enthusiasm wane. As routine sets in, your performance becomes rote and mechanical. This applies to jobs, families, and communities alike.
We know the big moments matter – the job interview, the sales pitch, the promotion request, the board meeting presentation. But we can easily fall into the trap of thinking we are only being evaluated some of the time.
The truth is, you’re always auditioning.
How you conduct yourself between – not just during – those big moments will determine your eventual success. Are you engaged, passionate, and proactive on a daily basis or only at the times you think it really matters? We must realize that we’re being evaluated by colleagues, bosses, customers, investors, and partners in each and every interaction, not just the big ones.
When that huge promotion opportunity arises, the higher ups reflect on your performance as a whole, not just in specialized moments. The ones who deliver value with stunning consistency are the ones that ultimately snag the brass ring.
When you shine as common practice, you communicate to the world that you’re the right person for the job (and the one after that). Even the most mundane and average customer interactions, supplier meetings, community discussions or family interactions are an opportunity to soar. Don’t squander them.
Each touch point is your chance to demonstrate competence and reinforce your value. Each touch point is an audition for future opportunity, whether or not it is apparent at the time. Your responsibility is to keep demonstrating the intensity and value you did back at your interview, considering you’re always being evaluated.
With the always auditioning mindset, there’s no doubt you’ll be well equipped to land the starring role, whatever that may look like for you.