The Good Worker: 5 Ways to Make Yourself More Valuable to Your Employer
Volunteer
Once a month, make a habit of volunteering for a job or task that others won’t. Do it well and without complaints, and make sure to complete your regular responsibilities, too. If nothing is obvious, ask your boss what he or she could use some help with. Management notices staff who step up and contribute above and beyond their day to day requirements. When you make things easier by volunteering and coming through with a positive attitude you show that you’re invested and reliable.
Find a Better Way
Have you ever complained with your coworkers about something that seems redundant or inefficient? If you see it, there’s a good chance that your boss does, too. Instead of joining in the peanut gallery, make yourself stand out by offering up a practical solution. Take some time to think about the problem and work through some ways to solve it. Better yet, think of ways you can save the company money or time—or both! Schedule a meeting with your boss to discuss the problem. Let them know you’ve noticed an issue that may be causing trouble and that you’ve developed a couple of solutions you’d like to share. Come to your meeting prepared to walk them through the issue and what it’s costing the team. Share your ideas step by step. Get back to tip #1 and volunteer to oversee the solution they think is best. You’ll make yourself a part of the solution—and make your boss look good.
Negotiate with Stability
If you have an employment contract, offer to commit to a longer term during your next review. If you’ve been a productive employee and you’re planning to stick around, that makes you an asset to the company. It takes a lot of time and money to recruit and train staff. Communicate to your boss that you appreciate your employer and are equally committed to their long term success. Making it clear that you’re committed will show your value. It can also set you up to be a better candidate for advancement opportunities since the company leadership knows you’re thinking long term.
Take One to the Team
Research your field and look for actionable insights. For example, maybe there’s a new study with statistics that are compelling for sales. Present it to your boss and let them know you’d like to share it with your colleagues (getting a green light first is always a good idea so you don’t accidentally go against company policy). With your boss’s blessing, bring the info to your colleagues along with some suggestions on how it can be used.
Specialize
What is the future of your industry? Maybe its technology, or engineering, or business insights. Continuing education can keep you on the cutting edge and make you a critical part of your company’s future. Institutions like Stevens Henager College specializes in courses for working professionals that can be scheduled around your work. Talk to a supervisor or the human resources department about your plans to continue your education. Many companies offer tuition assistance in exchange for a work commitment. You can also ask HR what types of degrees and training they are prioritizing with hiring decisions.
Showing your value at work is about performing the tasks expected of you and more. Demonstrating that you are reliable, insightful, and dedicated to the entire team will help you get the best kind of attention. Your HR department have their finger on the pulse of hiring and promotions—they can be an ally to help guide your actions. Talk with your HR rep and then start implementing your plan to shine!
