Lately I’ve found myself leaning more and more on these "unwritten rules" and while they were originally categorized as “management rules” by Bill Swanson (CEO of Ratheon) I think they apply equally to all of us.  After all, we are all managers of something even if it’s just ourselves.  Over the years I have added, changed and removed some of Bill’s rules and some of these may even seem like common sense - but I sometimes wonder if that still exists.  For any of you out there that aspire to “get into management”, a phrase that often makes me wonder if the speaker really knows what they are asking for, these rules are absolute imperatives.  Remember, most times you don’t choose to be in management – it comes to you through your performance and your attitude.

1. Learn to say, "I don't know."  Then follow that up with finding the answer.
2. It is easier to get into something than it is to get out of it so be careful what you wish for.
3. If you are not criticized, you may not be doing much.
4. Look for what’s missing. Many know how to improve what's there, but few can see what isn't there.
5. Work for a boss with whom you are comfortable telling it like it is. Remember that you can't pick your relatives, but you can pick your boss.
6. Constantly review progress to make sure that the actual benefits are what you expected.  If they aren’t it’s time to ask why or pick a new direction.
7. However menial and trivial your early assignments may appear, give them your best efforts.
8. Persistence or tenacity is the disposition to persevere in spite of difficulties, discouragement or indifference.  Don't be known as a good starter but a poor finisher.
9. Confirm your instructions and the commitments of others in writing. Don't assume it will get done!  This ties in with effective meeting tips – follow up any meeting with a quick email reconfirming the tasks and decisions that came from that meeting.
10. Don't be timid; speak up. Express yourself, and promote your ideas.  But don’t confuse free expression with lack of respect – too much of one and not enough of the other is a recipe for disaster.
11. Practice shows that those who speak the most knowingly and confidently often end up with the assignment to get it done.  See rule number 2 for a cautionary tale.
12. Words Matter: Strive for brevity and clarity in oral and written reports.  Don't make up terms or abbreviations known only to you or a small group of people that deal with them every day. 
13. Don't overlook the fact that you are working for a boss.  Keep him or her informed.  Avoid surprises! 
14. Promises, schedules, and estimates are important instruments in a well-ordered business.  You must make promises. Don't lean on the often-used phrase, "I can't estimate it because it depends upon many uncertain factors."  You’ve been hired for your knowledge, experience and good judgment – use it.
15. Give people a chance to make things right. A serious offense is to "cc" a person's boss when comlaining about something.  This doesn’t mean you can’t bring serious issues to light but do your best to work them out first.  If you need to escalate do it privately, politely and always think about how you would react if you were on the receiving end of this.
16. When dealing with outsiders, remember that you represent the company. Be careful of your commitments.
17. Cultivate the habit of "boiling matters down" to the simplest terms. An elevator speech is the best way.  Be a “simplifier” not a “complexifier”.  If necessary, start at a high level and work your way down slowly.
18. Don't get excited during emergencies. Keep your feet on the ground.
19. Don't ever lose your sense of humor.  Never!
20. Have fun at what you do. It will reflect in your attitude and your work. You will spend a significant portion of your life working so it helps to be passionate about it.