When I started at my first “real” job, I wasn’t sure what to do or say. A lot of times I was handed work, a budget and guidance of what to do once I got stuck. However, very rarely did I add much value. Instead, I spent most of my time figuring out how to do the task at hand and getting the job done. Once completing a task in that manner, I’d move on to the next assignment.
Being naive or a first year worker I didn’t think to add value to my actions. I acted like a a cog in the machine. I could even calculate the amount of revenue I was generating vs the amount I was being paid and could tell I was making a miniscule amount on the effort I put in. To me, that wasn’t adding value. That was keeping the engines running.
Flash forward four years and multiple other jobs later, and I have a clear idea how to add value. It’s not as simple as maintaining the machine but it’s not hard either. Everything I have seen in my professional career gives me unique insight on how to complete a task. I have seen ways successful companies have handled situations and know how to apply them when needed.
By developing an understanding that I can add value by providing my unique insights, I am capable of adding value to nearly any company. It might not always be my job title but I know enough to improve what’s being done. Apply your unique perspective to your work and don’t wait to be handed a budget.