While the economic downturn is changing the way many companies across the globe are operating, it’s important for employees to adjust to an ever-changing environment by developing their skills and looking for new ways to add value to their organizations.
Below are a few tips on how to proactively manage your career in a challenging economy.
How to create value as an employee
A good strategy for an economic downturn involves two basic elements: creating value as an employee and understanding your environment, according to MindTools.com. Here are some tips on how to prove your value:
Tip #1: Work smarter.
§ Be flexible with your priorities. Economic instability leads to a volatile environment – both internally and externally. Be prepared to change your own priorities as organizational priorities change
§ Be visible. The more people who know you and the quality of your work, the better.
§ Be proactive. Do more than expected, take on additional work and find ways to work closely with your boss.
§ Build interpersonal skills. People usually prefer to work with agreeable, pleasant individuals. Help out, treat others with respect, be friendly and supportive, and bring a positive attitude to work every day.
§ Keep track of what you do. Be able to prove your value and the importance of your role.
§ Keep working positively. If there are rumors of bad news, many people will get depressed and drift. Think positively and if change occurs, make sure you’re part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Tip #2: Keep learning.
§ Read everything you can about your field.
§ Share knowledge with your team and colleagues.
§ Learn about other departments. What work do they do, and what do they need to complete their objectives? “Lunch and learn” sessions are a great way to accomplish this – in other words, invite a colleague to lunch to learn about what he or she does, or get departments together in larger groups.
§ Volunteer in the community. For maximum value, choose an area of work that you’d like to learn more about and that would benefit your company.
§ Consider funding further education. Assess whether it is worth it to pay for outside classes that will strengthen your career resiliency.
Tip #3: Understand your environment; know what’s happening around you; and look for ways to work intelligently.
§ Look to the company’s leaders. Working for an influential person is a big plus during a downturn. Find ways to become known by, and learn from, people with great reputations.
§ Look for changes in strategy and direction. Understand how such changes may affect you and your team. When you’re aware of what’s driving company performance, you can better adjust your work and priorities to maximize your overall value.
§ Don’t panic: While you don’t control the economy, you can often control how the changes will affect you. You have choices, so don’t panic or let fear rule your behavior.
§ Think long-term: Think about your long-term career strategy, and be smart about your choices. You can survive and succeed in a downturn if you maximize your value, understand and manage key elements of your environment, and prepare yourself properly.
