The Reality-Based Rules of the Workplace:Know What Boosts Your Value, Kills Your Chances, and Will Make You Happier

For many people today, work has never seemed harder. In tough economic times, and the aftermath of hiring freezes and layoffs, people are asked to do the same amount of work with reduced resources, sometimes even for reduced benefits and pay. Many employees feel unrecognized and under-rewarded, with studies showing workplace dissatisfaction at record highs.

But what if the things that are currently making you unhappy simply lost their power over you? What if you could go to work feeling energetic and excited, regardless of any external circumstances? What does it take to be valued, appreciated — even a favorite at the office?

Our summary of The Reality-Based Rules of the Workplace, by Cy Wakeman, goes beyond guesswork to reveal a formula for understanding how your manager calculates your value to the organization.

Wakeman is a speaker, blogger, consultant, trainer, and author whose previous book is Reality-Based Leadership. For more than two decades, she has consulted on talent development with major clients in manufacturing, banking, government, high tech, and health care, including Bayer, ConAgra, Federal Reserve Bank, Hallmark, Hospira, U.S. Cellular, Verizon Wireless, and Wells Fargo.

Based on Wakeman’s research with more than 50,000 people, this summary reveals a formula for measuring your current performance, your future potential, and your "emotional expense" — the toll your actions and attitudes take on the people around you, which is your single biggest detractor.

Only once you know your true score can you improve it. With this clear, straight-to-the-point advice, you can quickly boost your value, own your career, and become the kind of employee no organization can afford to lose.