by Alex A. Kecskes
The bad economy is putting a lot of pressure on companies to scale back and keep only “essential employees.” That means you have to do all you can to justify your position, to be noticed as “essential.” You need to be seen as a problem solver, indispensable, even. So how do you get noticed? Some tips:
Pitch Innovation. Find out how to make your group or department work more efficiently. Ask around. Compile a list of ideas, then massage them into a workable plan and pitch the idea to everyone who helped you. After you have hammered out a consensus, pitch the idea at the next group meeting.
Work when others have given up. There are always tasks that others will avoid. They may feel that it’s above their pay grade or that the “juice isn’t worth the squeeze”—in time or extra “brownie points.” Go the extra mile a few times and your boss will begin to notice you.
Don’t waste time with excessive calls or emails. Filter your emails and calls. Respond to only the most important. Answer the one’s from your boss or to “put out any fires.” Save the rest for after hours or weekends.
Prep for meetings and contribute. Really go through the object and purpose of a meeting and be totally up on all aspects of it. Keep in mind that this is when you’ll be most visible to your boss. Contribute with meaningful suggestions—no matter how boring the meeting becomes.
Play nice with the team. There are plenty of prima donnas in the workplace. Always remember that you’re part of a team. That said, volunteer to be its leader whenever you can. Push for excellence. Give credit openly. Share and enroll your team members in your vision.
For an added perspective, check out this video:
Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients. Please see more of his blogs and view additional job postings on Nexxt.
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