Everyone wants some sort of job security. It is extremely difficult to assume job security when you know that so many positions are being outsourced, downsized, or remodeled. Making yourself indispensable at work is a crucial step to becoming an integral team member and earning the respect of your colleagues. Here are some ways you can become an invaluable team member.
Continuous learner
When you get good at what you do, it can be tempting to kick back and go into autopilot mode. That doesn’t mean you should. The more you learn, the more value you offer the company. So, as you become more proficient in your role, the more job security you have. If your job is task-related by nature, you can always begin to pick up other skillsets on the side. Take advantage of every opportunity you can.
Know the office dynamics
Be aware of office dynamics and the different roles within the organization. If you understand everyone’s functions within the company, you may determine new opportunities for improvement. If your company has an organizational chart or directory, familiarize yourself with it so you can put names with faces and titles so you’re able to identify coworkers when you see them. No successful company should be completely siloed off between departments. Coming into the office and greeting everyone is an effective way to develop relationships… and when you have time, perhaps offer them a helping hand.
Know the industry
The best innovators have their finger on the pulse of what is new in their industry. They are updated on current events and they do what they can to be the “smartest” individual in the room. To beat out the competition, get ahead of them. If you’re not keeping up, it’s easy to lose adaptability. People that are stagnant tend not to leap far into promotions. Technology and industry trends are ever-evolving, so if you stay up with them and learn new ones as they emerge, your organization will continue to value you.
Monopolize a skill
Find a task that needs to be completed and make sure you are the only one who understands how to get it done. When someone who already possesses a certain ability leaves the organization and you step in to fill their position, you will have the opportunity to take up that task. You may also get the opportunity to do this with new projects.
Just know: Sometimes it can be difficult to take time off under these circumstances.
Add value whenever you can
Make an effort to make a good impression on everyone you come into contact with, whether it is during a client meeting or a light-hearted breakroom conversation. Take an interest in the lives and work of others. People could be more likely to involve you in upcoming initiatives and choices if you adopt this mindset.
Improve your oral and written skills
Two skills that aren’t emphasized enough: public speaking and writing. Many people dislike speaking in public, but those who do easily dominate as leaders within their organization. On the flip side, it’s equally as difficult to find employees with excellent written skills. If you’re a great writer, you’ll have an advantage over others, as communication is one of the key pillars in any successful business.
No one is irreplaceable
Yes, this is contrary to the title of this article…. but it’s the truth. No one is truly indispensable, but knowing that will serve you well. Any great organization will be able to survive without you, even if there are some roadblocks along the way. Following the above advice will at least give you the chance to be perceived as an indispensable employee, which is what is truly important. Always strive to improve your skillset and never become sluggish in your development. If you do decide to leave your organization, your net value (at the very least), has increased. If you’re looking for a new role to take your career to the next level, reach out to us. Regardless of the next step in your career, our goal is to ignite your professional growth and to leverage our expertise to help you with your next step; whatever that may be.