July 2010
Prepared by Dr. David C. Miles Chairman, The Miles LeHane Companies
The current high unemployment rate ‘ and the length of time it has persisted ‘ may be new to some, but to others, it is part of the business cycle they have strategically thought through. Why are some people able to retain their positions during downturns, while others are always on the RIF (Reduction in Force) list?
Savvy professionals not only perform at the highest levels, they continually invest in the intangibles that get them noticed and appreciated. No matter the new ‘˜next,’ as far as the business cycle or trends, they are the people their bosses want to retain. What do these professionals do to market themselves as the most attractive employee; in effect making themselves the well-positioned employee (WPE)?
WPEs don’t see themselves as bulletproof. Even as they survive round after round of layoffs, smart employees never assume it could never happen to them. WPEs actively look to improve themselves, and search out feedback from others in order to remain relevant.
WPEs are goodwill ambassadors for their company. Every chance they get, they spread goodwill by thanking customers and suppliers on their behalf and on behalf of the company. They also thank coworkers for assistance and jobs well done.
WPEs seek out opportunities to represent the company at outside functions. They stay in touch with the HR, marketing, and/or community relations departments, to see if they need people for volunteer commitments. They also offer to represent the company at chamber of commerce or civic organization events. Caveat: this is not the time to suggest that the company start a new program by supporting your favorite cause.
WPEs also seek internal opportunities. Well-positioned employees network internally, as well as externally. They volunteer to tackle the project or take the business trip no one else wants.
WPEs provide positive, constructive feedback. These employees never, ever engage in petty gossip, rumormongering, nor do they bad-mouth employees, the company, suppliers, or customers. This does not mean WPEs agree with or go along with everyone and everything; in fact, these leaders find ways to disagree without being disagreeable and to move forward the ideas they feel will benefit the company.
WPEs never stop learning. Whether it is working towards a new degree, taking enrichment classes, or reading the latest book relevant to their field, they keep current, and let their bosses and HR departments know so. WPEs not only read the current literature of their field, they stay current with the news and general trends.
WPEs are not the ‘˜no’ employee. Tied in with the above, these employees do not resist change when change is needed and clearly called for in the company. They are seen as ‘˜agents of change,’ not as ‘˜change blockers.’
WPEs actively seek feedback. They regularly meet with their bosses, soliciting feedback, asking for suggestions to improve, and discuss objectives. These employees establish relationships with other managers and their boss’ boss. They ask their coworkers how they can better assist them. They also solicit feedback from their customers and suppliers on how they and the company can better serve them.
WPEs express gratitude. They let their bosses, and by extension the company, that they are happy with their job and the company. It can take the form of a casual sentence, an email or even a formal written note from time to time.
A good way to assess your value to the company would be to ask yourself, ‘If I started a business that does what we do, who from this company would I hire?’ If you are not on that list, you need to critically assess why not and move to correct your deficits.
Are you adding value to the company? When faced with the tough decision on whom to put on the RIF list, bosses look at achievement, success, and intangibles. Negative, high-maintenance, status-quo employees are rarely chosen over those who are positive, forward-thinking, and by virtue of tending to their personal development, truly have the company’s long-term success in mind.
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