This is the logical extension of number 2, and it’s our number 1 recommendation with good reason. Like we said in the intro, most people in the workplace don’t struggle to get their work done, they struggle for recognition and new challenges. If you see a new project, go after it. If you see something that needs doing, do it. The higher you go in a company, the more you’re steering the company, and that means taking risks. Fortune favors the bold. So, as long as you’re handling all of your current duties well, overstep your boundaries a little bit and start a new task that’s valuable to the company. Let your boss know what you’re working on. They may take the task away from you, but they won’t forget your vision.
2) Come prepared
If you’re showing up to work prepared to work, you are on the right track. You should show up prepared and you should stay on top of your work throughout the day. You should be prepared with all the information you need for each meeting or project. The least you should have done is the prep work to understand what additional information or resources you need to move forward. Consider this: A promotion or expansion of your current job are both ways the company gives you more responsibility. If you’re not handling what you have on your plate currently, how do you expect to be given more?
3) Dress up
You know the old adage, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have”? No? Well, learn it well. Look at what the boys on the next rung of the ladder are wearing, and dress like that. Even if you’re not trying to get promoted, but just want to expand the job you have, dressing well and grooming properly is a nice way to do it. You want to give the impression you’re pleased to be at work and take it seriously. Wearing a belt that should have been retired years ago just gives the impression that you don’t care. If you’re clean-shaven, shave daily. If you have facial hair, keep it groomed.
4) Save the company money
Ever wonder why your company is in business? To make money. Oh, you work for a nonprofit? It’s trying to make money to give it to people and causes that need it. Either way, making your employer more money is a contribution to the central goal of your company (it is, quite literally, the bottom line). Just like your personal finances, a company can have more money in two ways: 1) Earning more; and 2) Spending less. While you can contribute to the company’s profits in many ways, you have direct control over cutting expenses. Keep an eye peeled for ways the company can spend less, and share your ideas early and often. Found a cheaper vendor for one of your company’s needs? Share it! The day may come when the company passes the savings on to you in the form of a larger paycheck.
5) Have an informed opinion
This is pretty straightforward. Know the state of your division and know the state of the marketplace you work in. Then, develop an opinion about how to improve … realistic ways your team could try something new. Having an opinion is the most common thing in the world in business, but having an informed opinion is depressingly rare. If you take the time to develop a viewpoint, you should also share it when it’s appropriate. A great way to share your opinion with your boss? When you’re having a one-on-one discussion about something, say these magic words: “I disagree.” Politely and sincerely present the information you have and your interpretation of how your company could act on it. Of course, if your boss overrules you, abide by his decision. Sharing your opinion (your informed opinion) shows your boss you’re not just a “yes” man. As a bonus, once your boss knows you don’t automatically agree with whatever he says, the times you do agree will carry more weight.
•Continues next week
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