Birdman felt that his reputation in the community, his accolades from more than three decades in the industry, and his consistent presence on Forbes’ magazine’s Wealthiest Hip-Hop Artists List, garnered him some ounce of respect. I mean, at the very least, his net worth of over $100 million should have made someone think twice before he rolled up with his goons in the studio. But the real lesson here, my friends, is that even without all the fluff and sheer hilarity, Birdman still knew who he was and what he was not going to stand for – here are 3 ways we can do the same as millennials in the work place:
1. Stay SOLID
Remember when your parents would tell you, “Go outside and play,” whenever they had company over and wanted to talk about you? Yeah, it still happens in real life. For whatever reason, there are some incidences when your age is going to exclude you from the discussion at the table – and that’s okay. Although your presence might no longer be in the room, the opinions and others’ confidence in you will still remain. There have been some opportunities that I received just because others were there to speak on my behalf. Make sure that you are genuine and exude authenticity and professionalism. That doesn’t mean you have to hang out with everyone on Taco Tuesday, but bear in mind that you could be a taco away from your next recommendation or promotion.
2. Stay WOKE
As millennials, we’re often over-educated and under-employed – it’s just the nature of the beast. However, we can use this to our advantage. While pursuing my undergraduate degree, I was involved in many leadership activities. I ran conference calls, monthly meetings, gave presentations and speeches, and so on. So much so, that when I started my first job, I wasn’t nervous about those things because I had been doing them for years. Was I nervous about the job, absolutely! But, not the skill set because I knew it was transferrable. Additionally, no matter how educated we are, there are some things that just come with experience. Entry level jobs are where you make your mistakes – and you will make plenty. Don’t be in a rush to go to the top. You will get there, that’s inevitable; but the process to get there is just as important as the arrival itself. When the time comes, just be ready.
3. ‘Stay HUMBLE
The esteemed philosopher Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs once said, “There’s always somebody in life trying to take your spot.” Know that what is for you will be for you, but do not negate the fact that there are some people who don’t like it. I once went to lunch with someone who literally look me in my face and told me they wanted my job – now was that tacky, or nah? The point is, there’s always going to be someone younger, faster, and even better at what you do; and you may even pose a threat to others who are insecure. Don’t get caught in the hype. Birdman had to remind people of who he was, but he also went back and apologized for his antics. Stay humble and grateful for each opportunity and blessing that comes your way. Whenever you have to boss up, make sure bridges are not burned. You never know when you’ll have to cross them again.
