Position yourself in the workplace – Seven important ways

Make yourself stand out at work
So many people are focused on their job, getting through the day and getting a paycheck. In today’s down economy you need to think a little differently. If I may, I’m going to call it “the correct way” to think.

No matter if your company is doing well or is in an economic downturn, you need to position yourself in a way that you will stand out and be noticed by your co-workers and management. Someone who stands out in the crowd will be noticed. You want to be noticed in a good way.

Here’s how to do it…

1. Make yourself invaluable to your company. Be the person who has the answers, is willing to help others, and can come up with good solutions to problems and projects. Remember, you work for and with people, not a company. The company creates the policies and direction, but the relationships are with the people.

2. Make yourself invaluable to vendors. Make sure you are the person who the vendors can count on when they show up at your site. In the past I have experienced people who think the vendor owes them, and they will get to helping the vendor when they have time. Nothing can break down a relationship easier than by treating them badly. You may have to use a vendor as a contact or possible door-opener for a new job if you ever are in the market.

3. Focus on helping your co-workers. I may seem like I have covered that in item 1, but it’s worth remembering. If you share your information and knowledge with others, it will come back to you. The “Pay Forward” mindset is the best way to work with others. Even if you are not on the best terms with someone, helping them or sharing knowledge may break down barriers in a way you may not expect

4. Build a contact list. Keep the business cards you get. Make a list of contacts you have at work and from the vendor sides. Most of these people are either in a place locally to help you find a job if you need it. There are the corporate level vendors you deal with on a regular basis that may know of work available at another company.

5. Work on building your social networks and cultivate your lists. I use LinkedIn as a resource and have a good quality list of former co-workers and managers, as well as some who I have worked for and with outside of a workplace. If you need contacts at a later time, you will already have a list in place. Ask for endorsements.

6. Speak well of the company you work for. If you have been there for a long time, you probably have learned a lot or done a lot at the expense of the company. If you speak unfavorably of your company, it may get back to them.

7. Be someone who produces. Start a blog, write for a publication, be active in social or humanitarian events. Someone who just takes from the system will not feel as good as the person who contributes. Be so good that people you don’t know speak well of you.

You may never be in control of whether a layoff is in your future, but you can take steps to minimize the risk. If you incorporate the Golden Rule into your life and treat others in a way you would like to be treated, it will work in your favor.