Building a better you

All of us care about our career. In fact, I will go out on a limb and say that most of us put a lot of weight toward our perceived self-worth based on our measured effectiveness and accomplishments at work. 

Because work performance is so critical, I wanted to highlight some things we can do to make a good impression at work. Whether you are looking for a promotion, or just want to do better in your current role, there are some basic things you can do to stand out amongst your peers: 

Know the mission and priorities
Do you know your boss' priorities? If not, you should ask what they are. Once you know what they are, make them your priority also. I make it a habit to consistently ask how I can assist my boss. I also let my boss know that I consider it a part of my job responsibility to make them look good. In addition to your direct line of management, your organization my have core values, a mission statement or other high level objectives at the top level. If so, make sure you prioritize those things also.

Always make your boss look good
See number 1 above. Finish your work in a timely fashion. Make sure your work is of high quality ans that you always give your best. Don't just be an idea machine, but be willing to take charge and implement your ideas under their direction. Resist the temptation to talk negatively about your boss or direction taken by management (see my previous blog entry named "Change"). It is your job to make your boss look good, whether you agree with them or not.

Understand how you'll be evaluated
I give you all a goals checklist at the beginning of the evaluation period with this very point in mind. It's best to know the things that will be evaluated so you can focus on accomplishing those items during your evaluation period. As much as possible, focus on refining the skills and completing the tasks that will be used to measure your effectiveness during the evaluation.

Be dependable
Work hard and show up on time for things. Follow through on what you say you are going to do.

Take ownership
When you make a mistake, take responsibility (see my previous blog entry named "My Bad"). Our most beneficial learning opportunities come from our own mistakes. Any mistake can become a learning opportunity for you and others if you analyze what went wrong and determine what you can do better the next time. Don't be the person that chooses to blame others for mistakes, rather focus on what you can do to make things better.

Get outside your specific area
It makes sense to focus on the parts of your job that dominate your time. To make yourself more valuable, be willing to research other areas related to your industry and company. This can happen by reading, talking with peers in those areas, taking advantage of training opportunities or free webinars and volunteering for projects or tasks that require you to stretch your knowledge base.

Be nice
It sounds simple and intuitive, but normal job related stress can be overwhelming. Always show respect to all people, especially those different than you. Speak well of others, or at least don't bad mouth others to anyone.

Go beyond the job description
Take on extra projects or tasks when you hear about them. Be willing to put in extra hours. Never ever use the phrase, "that's not my job.”

Be a team player
Invest in people. Let them know you have their back. When you hear concerns about others projects or tasks, do something about it. Don’t just be sympathetic; practice empathy by putting yourself in their shoes and understanding things from their perspective. Offer to jump in and help others in whatever way they need.

Avoid burnout
When you have a clear head, you can focus and concentrate better. Use your vacation time. Recharge yourself with things you enjoy doing. You must maintain balance between you work and personal life. That balance will give you energy and a proper perspective, which in turn will make you a better employee.