The Power of YOU: Developing What Makes Your Work Important

The work we do is not just important, it has the opportunity to be transformative. We are in an era of constant shifts, and high-tech advancements being reimagined with data-driven strategies driving success. With all of this in motion, I’m sure there are a lot of working professionals wondering—how and where do I fit in? I am a huge advocate for consistently measuring progress and finding ways to self-evaluate on a consistent basis. If your goal is to make an impact, innovate, or be someone who is considered a resource in your organization, keep assessing this progression. I have been asked this question several times from the start of the new year: As a new professional in my company/organization, how do I become valuable? Here are two suggestions to get started:

Develop Your Narrative

This should take place early and could possibly even be a part of the interview process. Most of us have had to answer the question: So, tell me about yourself. Well…what is it about you? What are your values? What makes you valuable to your organization? What is it that you do? What skills do you have that make you exceptional? Most individuals struggle to answer these questions, or they haven’t taken the time to think about them. Take time to practice the answers, and work on building your skillset so that you can become an important resource in your field.  

Balance Your Ego

One of the best leaders I have ever had the opportunity to be around had this down to a science. Her sense of self was so aware that she was able to have her own self-confidence without being self-centered. There is such a thing as having a healthy ego, although this is very difficult for a lot of people to master, especially in the workplace. An inflated ego can lead to arrogance, while an underdeveloped ego can lead to low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Finding the balance plays a critical role in how you can interact with others at work, and your own self-talk and self-identity. Balancing your ego requires a high level of self-awareness, seeking feedback from others, and acknowledging your own limitations.

This is just a reminder not to forget about your impact. Who you are and what you do is highly important. Keep innovating and discovering, and of course I am wishing you the best as you focus on your own growth and development each and every day.