With Santa Claus somehow finding his way to thousands of malls across the United States simultaneously and the toy production at the North Pole shifting into overdrive, it seems like a good time to think about the lessons we can learn from this annual operation.  And, I would like to start by considering the petite men and women who do so much behind the scenes–the elves.

Here are five lessons that professionals who wish to further their career can learn from elves:

1. Make the most of your environment. – Don’t you think the elves ever get tired of seeing nothing but snow?  Maybe they would like to hang out in shorts and flip-flops once in a while.  But, they choose to be happy in the surroundings they are given.  All of us can improve our own work environments with a smile or a kind word.

2. Dress for success. — Elves know how to use color!  With coordination existing from the hats on their heads down to the bells on their shoes, elves obviously care how they look when they show up for work each day.  You should, too.

3. Be ready to make adjustments. — Sally was naughty all the way through mid-December, but then did something really nice that earned her redemption in the eyes of Santa.  That bike the elves thought wouldn’t be necessary?  Well, now it needs to be made in record time!  How do you handle unexpected responsibilities from your employer?

4. Enjoy the down time. — I’m sure there is some prep work that goes on in June and July, but those aren’t really hectic months for Santa and his elves.  I imagine that the residents of the North Pole take that time to recharge their batteries, maybe pick up a hobby that went ignored in December.  You also need to take the time for fun and relaxation.  Your time at work will be better for it.

5. Go the extra mile. — When elves are called upon to help Santa with his mall duties, they don’t just point your children in the direction of the jolly guy’s lap.  They also take pictures and often hand out candy canes.  What are you doing for your clients that makes you stand out?

What else have you got?  I’m sure there are more ways that elves hold the keys to our success.  Have fun with it!

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