Career strategies to make yourself valuable

IN

today’s tumultuous workplace, no surefire strategies can guarantee that your job won’t land on the chopping block. And if you choose self-employment, each day is a roller-coaster ride, to be sure. On the other hand, whether you work for someone, or for yourself, here are some S.M.A.R.T. career strategies to make yourself more valuable, in or out of recession: Seize the moment Whatever you didn’t accomplish last year, now’s your chance to do so in this one. And if you had a stellar year last year, don’t bask in your success.

Make yourself do the uncomfortable thing until you do it!

Take public speaking, for example. Maybe you are uncom- fortable addressing the management team, customers, suppliers, or even your colleagues. Stretch yourself. Take a class. Practice. Learn. Or how about technology?

Act with a good attitude and gratitude in all things

Does your voice sound energetic, up, and on? What message does your body language send? Are you a problem-solver or a problem? Are you a complainer and a whiner?

Do you act with confidence and conviction, or do you drag yourself around day after day? Are you excited about going to work? When you walk through your employer’s door, are you happy about being there? Or, do you let yourself, and everyone around you, know how miserable and unhappy you are? Just for fun, keep track of your attitude for 21 days. Rate yourself on a scale of 1 (unsatisfactory) to 5 (exceeds expectations). Track your performance. What does it reveal to you? What, if anything, needs to change?

Reject the rear-view mirror syndrome

Years ago, a chaplain I was taking a class with shared these words: “Don’t live your life looking in the rearview mirror.”

And there’s no better time than today to start in, startup, and start over. Do the something extra for yourself, your employer, or someone else. Do more than is required. Be willing to help out without being asked. Be the first to volunteer for the new project or assignment. Step up. Don’t worry about whether it’s in your job description!

Take time to make someone matter; make a difference

Make it a point each day to contribute to someone’s happiness, well-being or sense of self-worth. Look beyond yourself. Look around. Any ideas emerge? Maybe it’s as simple as saying good morning to someone. Or perhaps listening instead of talking.

Or promptly returning your phone calls. Or responding to emails in a timely manner. Or being courteous and thoughtful instead of abrupt and rude in your interactions. How about a random act of kindness?