1) Be Aware of Organizational Needs
It is usually the person on the front line who knows of organizational weaknesses. The bottom line in a company is the bottom line. If a company is successful and grows, then employees are much more secure in their positions. The difference between what a company brings in and what it spends can be translated into security. Ask these questions. Where can we save money? What can be done better? What can we do to complete tasks faster and more accurately? What can be done to ensure customer satisfaction? What can I do to make the workplace better?
2) Take Initiative
It’s easy to criticize but taking action will make worklife more interesting and easier. Can you participate in activities or committees? Engage your co-workers and managers. The worst ideas are brilliant ones that no one acts on. Take action where you can write a memo or attempt to influence those around you in conversation. Encourage others to help your organization.
3) Diversify
Inside and outside of work, the more you know, the more interesting a person you are. Keep up with changes in computers and social networking or anything else that might apply to your company. Volunteer to help out in other areas. The more people you know in your organization, the wider your support base if you need assistance, and also the more valuable you are to the company.
4) Document
Keep a record of your activities. If at all possible, attempt to quantify results. A record will help keep you on track, document your progress and allow you on short notice to demonstrate your value. Write down anything you did beyond your regular job responsibilities. Keep a log in your desk and try to add something to it daily. This will
also help you if you need to create a resume.
5). Communicate
Ask for a meeting with a supervisor or manager. Prepare carefully what you would like to say. Explain that you have taken the initiative to assist the company and ask if there are projects which might increase your contributions. Every manager has a list of things that they would like done, but haven’t gotten around to. Few people are laid off during the middle of an important project.
The suggestions above will lead to a more interesting and exciting work day. They will help your company and improve its chances of survival and solidify your position in the workplace.