There’s an old saying: Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. But I want to take that one step further—Don’t just dress like the job you want. Act like the job you want. What does that mean? It means observing those who already have the position you aspire to and adopting their mindset, work ethic, and enthusiasm as if you were already in their role. Instead of waiting for an opportunity, start showing up as the person who is ready for that opportunity.
Let me share a story about a friend of mine, Debbie. Many years ago, she wanted to apply for a sales position at a food service company. But at the time, women weren’t typically in sales roles there. However, they did have an opening for a secretary.
Now, Debbie didn’t want to be a secretary. She wanted to be in sales. But she saw an opportunity to get her foot in the door. Once hired, she learned that the sales team met every Wednesday night to strategize. Instead of just dreaming about being part of the team, she asked her boss if she could attend. His response? It’s your time, it’s your dime—go ahead.
So she did.
At first, Debbie sat quietly, observing and learning. But over time, her natural talent for sales began to shine. She started contributing to conversations, sharing insights, and adding value. Before long, she was no longer just “sitting in” on these meetings—she was seen as part of the team.
What happened next? You guessed it. Debbie was eventually promoted to sales. And she didn’t just stop there—she excelled. She climbed the ranks until, one day, she became the president of the very same company that first hired her as a secretary.
Debbie didn’t wait for permission to be in sales. She acted like she was in sales before she ever got the title. And because of that, she didn’t just get the job she wanted—she built a career she loved.
So on this Front-Row Friday, I challenge you to look at someone who already has the job, career, or success you aspire to. How do they think? How do they work? What do they do differently?
And then—start showing up like that.
Success isn’t about waiting for an invitation. It’s about stepping up, adapting, and proving—through action—that you’re already the right person for the job.
Happy Front-Row Friday!
Your Head Usher,
Marilyn
