There are some employees who are simply content with having a job and getting paid for the services they render. They go to work, go through the motions and make their way back home as soon as working hours is over. They do not get any better in the performance of their roles, but that does not seem to bother them. As an employee, you should be interested in making substantial contribution to the success of the establishment you work with; you should be interested in developing your skills and knowledge on a continual basis such that you become more productive than you have ever been. Below are some suggestions on how to be better at your job.
Study your industry
In this fast paced technological world, industry trends usually do not last for long; they change constantly – new technologies and innovations. Consequently, you should get abreast with the times; industry updates, and other high value content that can make a world of difference in your career. These may be obtained from magazines, journals, newspaper publications and a variety of online sources.
Come to the table with a solution
See yourself as a solution provider. Continually reflect on ways to do your job better. Consider viable ideas that will help resolve certain challenges at your place of work. As much as sharing great ideas with your superiors is highly commendable, you should also be willing to participate in the implementation of those ideas. Once you implement recommended solutions in a timely and effective manner, you will be relied on you for future projects.
Find a mentor at your work place
This could be a superior or even a work mate whose competency and productivity is remarkable and admirable. Ask questions and seek work-related advice from such individuals on a regular basis. Observe how they do their work and learn to imbibe their work ethic.
Improve your communication skills
Effective communications skills cannot be overestimated. Many internal conflicts in corporate circles boil down to poor communication skills amongst managers and employees. These conflicts breed unfriendly and unproductive atmosphere within the work environment. Rather than hold a grudge because of what someone said or did, opt to communicate frankly but respectfully to the ‘offending party.’ Settle your differences amicably and as soon as possible.
Work harder and smarter
Lazy and unproductive employees are obviously liabilities to companies. “There is no substitute for hard work,” notes Thomas Edison. Give off your best and go the extra mile in the discharge of your duties. Is there a way by which you can complete your assigned task in less time and yet do so with a touch of excellence? Think along these lines and find ways of doing your job better. The key is to be able to work smarter so that you are maximising your abilities and making the most out of your time.
Do not overwork yourself
Though it is recommended that you work harder and smarter, it is also vital that you do not overwork yourself. You will experience burn out and your productivity will eventually suffer if all you do is work. Make it a rule to have enough sleep and make time for leisure and exercise as much as practicable. You will be healthier, happier, less stressed, and in top shape to give off your best at work.
Invest in continuous learning
Pursue further studies in your area of expertise. Many professional courses are run online and via other outlets. Research on professional courses relevant to your career and enroll. Many of these courses can be done part time and concurrently with your job. Also, attend seminars and conferences related to your industry, and implement what you learn where feasible. With time, you will see marked improvement in your output, leading to promotions and higher levels of responsibilities with its associated pay raises.
See the big picture
Your knowledge of the operations of other employees and departments will afford you the opportunity to know how co-workers and various departments are working towards a common goal and where you fit in (your role and department) in the scheme of things. By getting a better understanding of the big picture, it will become clearer to you why you have been asked to complete certain projects. It is also a great learning experience, which can help prepare you for a higher level position.
Written by Daniel Dela Dunoo
(Professional marketer, Freelance writer)
