Walmart's Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer, Donna Morris, has recently shared a critical insight into what can hold people back in their careers: a consistently negative attitude. Morris, who has been in her current role since 2020 and previously spent nearly two decades at Adobe, calls this red flag being a "Debbie Downer". According to Morris, employers are wary of individuals who are "constantly negative" and "bring the problem, never the solution".

In today's competitive job market, where the unemployment rate in the United States stood at 4.1 percent in June, maintaining a positive and solution-oriented approach is more important than ever. Morris's warning highlights a shift in how companies evaluate potential hires, placing increasing value on mindset and attitude alongside skills and experience.

So, what exactly defines a "Debbie Downer" in the workplace? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it's "a person who speaks only of the bad or depressing aspects of something and lessens the enthusiasm or pleasure of others". In a professional context, this can manifest as someone who frequently voices negative opinions, shoots down new ideas, and generally dampens the mood of the team. Such behavior can hinder career advancement by making it difficult to build connections, gain the trust of managers, and be considered for new projects.

Morris contrasts this "red flag" with a "green flag," describing desirable employees as those who are "open to opportunities" and "bring a problem with the remedy or request help in a timely manner, as opposed to the house is on fire". The key is to not just identify problems, but to actively participate in finding solutions. Employers are more likely to notice and value employees who come up with suggestions and take initiative to resolve issues.

This doesn't mean that employees should engage in "toxic optimism" or pretend that everything is fine when facing challenges. Instead, it's about finding a balance and focusing on constructive problem-solving. It's natural to encounter difficulties and express concerns, but pairing these concerns with potential solutions demonstrates a valuable and sought-after trait.

Developing strong people skills is also crucial. In an era where artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly prevalent, the ability to connect with others, collaborate effectively, and maintain a positive attitude will set individuals apart. Being able to understand and respond to the emotions of others, communicate clearly, and build strong relationships are all essential skills for success in the modern workplace.

To avoid the "Debbie Downer" label and present yourself as a valuable asset, consider the following:

• Focus on solutions: When you identify a problem, don't just point it out. Take the time to brainstorm potential solutions and present them to your team or manager.
• Be open to new ideas: Avoid immediately shooting down suggestions or dismissing new projects. Instead, approach them with an open mind and look for ways to make them work.
• Volunteer to help: Offer your assistance to colleagues, mentor new employees, and take on additional responsibilities to demonstrate your willingness to contribute to the team.
• Highlight your accomplishments: Keep track of your successes and make sure your manager is aware of your contributions. This will help you build a strong case for future promotions and opportunities.
• Maintain a positive attitude: While it's not always easy, try to approach your work with enthusiasm and optimism. A positive attitude can be contagious and help to boost morale within your team.

In conclusion, while skills and experience are undoubtedly important, a negative attitude can be a significant obstacle to career success. By cultivating a solution-oriented mindset, developing strong people skills, and maintaining a positive outlook, you can significantly increase your chances of getting hired and advancing in your career.