With all of the talk of a recession and the need to take cost cutting measures, now is the time to deliver on the promise of adding value to your company's bottom line.
A tough economy requires more of everyone and your continued success demands your best efforts.
Be a problem-solver, not a problem! Yes, the squeaky wheel gets the grease, but during a recession it is often the squeaky wheel that gets the pink slip! Develop a reputation for solving problems.
While it is good to notice problems, employers like it even better when you identify potential solutions.
When you go to your manager with a problem you run the risk of being seen as a whiner and may be end up taking the fall as the messenger of bad news.
However, if you go to your manager with recommendations for solving pressing business problems, you are likely to be a hero.
Be a sales person for your company.
In addition to problem-solvers, every company is looking for good salespeople.
In today's global economy, everyone works in sales, whether they realize it not! Promote your company's products and services at every opportunity.
Earn a reputation for being the company's #1 salesperson, regardless of whether you work in the sales department.
Go the extra mile.
In a recent conversation with one of my business clients, we discussed the importance of hiring people who are committed to the organization's success.
My client commented that before she owned her company, she worked for a number of other businesses and in each case worked like she owned the business.
That attitude earned her recognition and respect.
It was a win-win situation.
She learned a lot about business and the organization benefited from her commitment to doing a good job.
Employers want and need people who work like they own the business.
Make your employer glad that he or she hired you.
Contribute your ideas and suggestions.
One of my clients, Chi, a thirty-something accounting manager for a software company, is fielding opportunities during this economic downturn.
Why? Because she has an earned a reputation for looking out for the best interests of her employer.
Recently she noticed a drop in sales, brought it to the attention of the Vice President of Sales then worked with him to cut costs, improve efficiencies, and identify revenue-producing opportunities.
During the last four years, Chi has consistently earned recognition and regular salary increases, sometimes on a quarterly basis, because of her ongoing contributions.
Be the "go to" person for your area of expertise.
What? You don't have an area of expertise? Sure you do.
You just don't recognize it for what it is.
What do you do that amazes and astounds co-workers? For what do others come to you for assistance? These are the areas to mine for examples of your expertise.
Share your knowledge with colleagues - it only serves to enhance your value and reputation.
Become a connector.
In The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell talks about the power of connectors.
Connectors are people who connect others to what they want.
Ask yourself in what area of your work are you, or could you become a connector? Connectors are respected resources, both inside and outside of the organization.
When you generously build connections for others, they appreciate it and are likely to return the favor when you most need it! The twenty-first century workplace has changed and with it the rules for career success.
Simply doing your job is not enough to stay afloat during challenging economic times.
You must take control of your career or risk being left behind.