With the economy spiraling out of control, each day you’re still employed is a blessing. But now is not the time to simply survive at work, it’s time to thrive and show the higher-ups how much you contribute to the team. How do you make your worth known? Try these tips:
- Send work e-mails during non-work hours. Be willing to spend a few minutes each night getting a jump on work that needs to be done the following day. Confirm meetings, send updates to your boss and generally make yourself useful.
- Come in early. Nothing screams “dependable worker” like someone already elbow deep in paperwork by 8:30 a.m. What time does your boss get in to work? Make sure you’re there at least thirty minutes before that. If you have anything for them, leave it on their chair so they see it as soon as they come in and know that you are already there.
- Speak up at meetings. I’m the youngest person in my whole company by at least ten years. Everyone else is mid-30s and up. If I’m not careful, they might mistake my quiet nature for someone who doesn’t have much to contribute. Make it a point to deliver at least one slam-dunk comment/suggestion during each meeting. If you have to, piggyback off someone else’s idea and take it to the next level.
- Think of ways to cut costs. Even if that’s not your job, people always appreciate ways to save money or spend less. Can you think of a way to spend less on advertising? Administrative costs? For instance, as part of my job I handle all my company’s social media profiles and I always emphasize that these tools are free. No upfront costs plus big returns? They’re sold.
- Create your own deadlines. Your boss need that report sitting on her desk by Friday morning? Have it waiting for her bright and early on Thursday. Being able to produce quickly is valued tremendously.
- Emphasize what makes you a unique worker. Are you younger than everyone else? Do you read more? Are you a better writer? Do you have a fabulous memory or attention to detail? Use your unique viewpoint and work the hell out of it.
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These are great tips! I’m going to keep them in mind as I continue to interview for positions. I’m sure highlighting these habits can increase one’s chances of getting a job too!
This is an excellent post. You’re completely right—every day you’re employed is a blessing and it is so important, especially right now in the middle of an economic crisis, to make sure you keep that job!