In a competitive market, the ability to demonstrate a desire to grow and improve one’s self is paramount. One of the best ways to keep evolving is to invest in to personal development. Not only will this enthusiasm for lifetime learning improve your chances of getting hired or getting new clients, but continuing to demonstrate this attitude will likely increase your chances of success. Keep reading to learn about the importance of self-growth for job security.
Go Above and Beyond
Show that you’re willing to put in 110% effort. Complete the task that is asked of you, but also look at ways you can do the job better or add to it in some way. Your supervisors or clients will appreciate your efforts and will see that you’ve put thought and creativity into it, as well. This thoughtfulness is a sign of someone who wants to grow.
Avoid Burnout
Be careful when going above and beyond not to neglect the other aspects of your life. There is more to being a whole person than your vocation. Taking time to develop your outside interests such as hobbies, friendships and health will help to lower your stress levels and keep your mind sharp for addressing all the pressing needs of the job during your working hours. Work-life balance can be tricky to attain, but it is crucial to your personal fulfillment and your job performance.
Contribute to the Team
Demonstrate that you’re a team player who can compromise, collaborate and lead to contribute to a common company goal. Doing so will show the higher-ups your many interpersonal skills along with your interest in being part of the company-wide culture. Identifying with something bigger than you is a big indicator of someone who wants to mature as a person.
Always Be Learning
Lifelong learning is a key to self-actualization. Being open to educational opportunities can also be a boon to your job security. Not only does it show your interest in evolving, you’ll also gain concrete job skills you can bring to your position. When it comes to value, the employees who know the most and who are committed to staying up-to-date in their skillset are the ones who will shine. Not only do you want to focus on learning, though. Be sure to take steps to demonstrate that knowledge. Start a blog or write an industry white paper. Setting yourself up as an expert in your field will make you indispensable to your current employer, as well as put you in a position to negotiate a higher salary, better benefits or a more fulfilling position elsewhere if that’s what you want.
Demonstrating a commitment to self-growth is one way to better ensure job security for yourself no matter what your field. No one can foresee the future, but taking these steps will provide you with more leverage for calling the shots in your career.