Winter, Wyman News & Views: Show Your Value and Increase Your Career Success

If you have a job in this economy, many people (especially those laid-off during the recession) would consider you fortunate. In a market where opportunities are limited, your career path might be temporarily blocked, but it’s still a great time to make an impact on your organization – and your future success. Here are some ways to prove yourself to your organization and direct supervisor:

Promote yourself – The most efficient way for your manager to find out about your successes is for you tell him or her. Don’t be afraid of self-promotion if it’s done in an objective and humble fashion. Touch base with your manager on a regular basis to give updates on your projects, get feedback and ask questions. Copy your manager on important documents, but be sure to be selective about what you send so you aren’t overwhelming him or her or setting yourself up to be micro-managed.

Many organizations have had layoffs, which means there are fewer employees to do the work, but often this creates new opportunities for the remaining workers – and less competition. You have the chance to shine – and make a bigger impact at your company; make sure you take the corresponding opportunity to promote your successes.

Don’t assume – When it comes to layoffs, many people believe that if they just show up and do their work, they are doing enough to save their roles. It is never a good idea to hide your head in the sand (thinking maybe your manager won’t negatively notice you and your job will be secure). During an economic downturn, cash flow is tight and managers are asked to find ways to cut back. Don’t make it easy for your manager to consider cutting your job. Also don’t presume that your manager knows all the projects you are working on and the depth and complexity of them. Your manager is most likely so caught up in his or her own worries and everyday tasks, your accomplishments aren’t top of mind – unless you put them there.

Meet face-to-face – Face time is important. Managers may glance at a memo, email, or text from you, but you can better explain yourself and your work in person. Make a point to meet with your manager formally or informally (for coffee or even on the walk to the parking garage) to check in and share your achievements.

Ask for feedback and give it – Use the face-to-face meeting time to get detailed guidance and feedback from your manager. Be direct and specific. Where do I stand? How am I doing? What can I do better? How can I help you? Where do you need me to put my efforts? It may seem intimidating to be so straight-forward, but your manager should appreciate your candor and willingness to help where and when it is needed most.

Also, volunteer feedback to your boss and become a key sounding board and advisor to him or her. Make sure he or she knows your comments are coming from an objective and constructive point of view, but detail ways they could improve a project, team initiative or behavior pattern.

Ask for assignments – One way to prove yourself with your boss is to ease his or her workload. Ask for additional projects or offer to take assignments off of your manager’s desk. Volunteer for committees that will help further your experience, skills and presence with other members of your organization.

Solve a problem – You can also go one step further and be proactive about addressing the challenges facing your manager and the organization. Look for the pain in the organization, and come up with solutions to help alleviate it. Not only will you tackle a business issue, but you’ll make your manager look good, too.

Be positive – Don’t underestimate the power of a positive attitude. The economy has many people feeling down, but train yourself to see the glass as half-full and convey a positive outlook. It may rub off on your manager and your team, too.

Most likely, your manager feels overworked and under pressure to be productive and profitable. You have the power to make your boss’ workload easier – and to prove your value to your department and the organization at large. Companies will recognize those people who worked hard to help pull the firm through tough times. By improving your current position, you increase your chances of landing that dream role in the future – at your company or in a new role. If you can show your value and even manage your manager, you will be in a great position for success when the economy rebounds. 

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