…or… How am I supposed to live up to the expectations of an exceptionally successful predecessor?
“You have some big shoes to fill!”
This was something I first heard many years ago starting a new job, which had previously been held by an exceptionally talent person.
At first, I was afraid, I was petrified… but not for long as I accepted it as a challenge for me to rise above these expectations.
What did I do?
When I started, I focused on learning what they did… but when I realised they were a different personality type to who I was, I decided I would stop trying to be an exact copy of what they lost.
No I never had the charisma that could charm the pants of clients in the same way they could.
Or be quite as convincing to get someone to complete the deadline when you ask them to do it.
But I could offer them something different.
I could bring my innovative approach to find new ways of doing things.
My overly analytical ability to present data and information others couldn’t see.
And give them that additional service, bringing lots of things to the table that they never realised they needed.
Work to your abilities
When expected to fill the shoes of talented individuals remember you don’t need to play their game.
Focus on doing the job in a way that will suit your abilities.
Highlight your strengths and find ways around your weaknesses.
Be realistic in who you are as a person and how you want to grow.
That is how you will win.
That is how you will make your mark following in the footsteps of giants.
Relax – be you
The next time you hear someone say to you
“You have some big shoes to fill”
No – you don’t have to live up to the expectations set by your predecessors.
Make your own footprints.
Don’t worry about being the next…
Focus on being the first YOU.
Wishing you the best in your success
James @Perfect Manifesto
Copyright © 2023 James M.Lane perfectmanifesto.com
Perfect Manifesto 
It is quite a stress to fill someone else’s shoes. But, you are right, we have to do it our way the best we can. Very good sound and helpful advice as always.
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Thank you, always take your own path and don’t compare your own success to others 🙂
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So True
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This is indeed great advice! Too often employers seek to fill the boots exactly the same way they were filled before, and that’s just unrealistic! Best to be ourselves and let our own strengths shine!
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Thank you! I’ve often heard people say “we’ve got some big boots to fill”, but it should be about recognising the unique skills each individual brings rather than expecting like for like skills – besides, someone new might bring you something new you never knew you needed!
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This may be why employers are finding it difficult to hire a new person, because they have in mind too clear of a picture of how they think the job needs to be filled instead of letting someone new grow into that position.
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