The Ten People You Need at Work

If our workplace was a book, it'd be filled with intriguing, fascinating characters. Sure, we meet our share of evil villains. But we also connect with folks who are ready to support us in all different ways--including some ways you may not expect. These are the people you need at work.

As you write the story of your work-life, think about including these ten people in your script:

1. The Cheerleader. Two, four, six, eight--who at work knows you're great? We all need someone who roots for us, out loud and often! The Cheerleader's always on our side--even in the rare moments when we fumble.

2. The Confidante. Who do you tell your secrets to? We can't keep things to ourselves all the time--sometimes you need to vent, gossip, and generally share your real truth before it busts inside you. But it's not safe to do that just anywhere in the work world, so make sure you have this person in your automatic trust zone.

3. The Sidekick. Who's the Gilligan to your Skipper? The Andy to your Conan, or the Ron to your Harry? The loyal Sidekick looks to you with admiration, does what you ask without question, and laughs at your jokes. They'd do anything for you. We all need more of that!

4. The Mirror. Who makes sure you're seeing the truth--the good and the not-so? The Mirror reflects back your accomplishments and missed opportunities in a fair, evidence-based way. S/he's non-judging, and unafraid to hurt your feelings. The Mirror might be a fan, or might be neutral about you, but is primarily interested in making sure you can see the results of your words and actions clearly so that you can learn and grow.

5. The Comic Relief. All the world loves to laugh. Seek out the person you can count on to find the humor even in the most mundane day.

6. The Connector. Of course you know this person--because they know everyone! The Connector is "LinkedIn Live"--they know who there is to know and why you should know them before you know you need to know. Know what I mean?

7. The Director. Even if you're a classic Type A, you can't be in charge all the time. That's where the Director comes in. Who do you trust to stage the players and make sure the show goes on? The Director is strong enough to lead but confident enough to stay behind the scenes so you can shine on the business stage.

8. The Shadow. Possibly the most subversive of this set, the Shadow is always right behind you, lurking nearby to keep you on your game. The Shadow keeps you standing up straight and looking over your shoulder from time to time. You run faster when there's someone right on your heels.

9. The Guardian Angel. Whether you see them everyday or not, the Guardian Angel is there when you need advice, inspiration, or simply a miracle. Part of the Angel's strategy is to devote a piece of their attention to you even when you don't know it; return the favor by not giving them too much to worry about!

10. The Sage. Quiet counsel is underrated. The Sage listens to all parts of an issue, and offers insightful ideas and comments that you can use. They don't get distracted by miscellaneous pressures or issues; they're our source for practical wisdom and inspiration.

Of the ten, how many of these people do you have in your worklife? What role--or roles--are you playing for others? As for me, I'm thankful for the great Mirrors, Cheerleaders, and Connectors and others that fill my life and inspire my work. They're the secret to my success!