Sense of urgency. To get ahead you must show a high activity level. Show it in meetings and interactions with others but do not confuse it with spontaneity or impetuosity. These are negative traits.

Be reliable. Other people need to count on you. Deliver timely and as expected. Avoid re-works with good first time deliveries.

Communicate effectively; ensure that your audience understands your intended message clearly. This one should be concise, clear and direct.

Listen actively, pay attention and observe. This practice is essential for effective communication. If speaking is silver then listening is gold (turkish proverb).

Be courteous, arrive timely to meetings and answer promptly telephone calls and messages. Respect other people’s time and follow up interviews or business meetings with a thank you note.

Self-Motivation. Maintain a positive outlook and especially when facing adversity. You can hardly motivate others unless you are able to motivate yourself.

Integrity. Whilst you should be flexible enough to adapt to changes and new environments, do not compromise ever your principles. Be honest and walk-your-talk.

Show Empathy. Try to understand the other party’s situation, from their own standpoint. This attitude will show true concern and should facilitate dialogue.