Want to Get the Edge at Work? Build New Skills

My wife teaches piano and I am often amazed at what her younger students have to say about themselves--and life in general. Yesterday, a nine-year-old was telling her that his school began at 7:20 a.m. She was sure it didn’t begin that early and after a few questions from her to clarify things, this young man proudly declared, “I understand now, I start learning a little after 8:00 a.m. when my school starts!”

Of course, we know what he meant. At the same time, I hope he realizes somewhere along the way that learning doesn’t start and stop at any certain time. I hope he comes to understand that true professionals are always in school.  What about you? Are you in charge of your own learning and development, or have you left that mainly to your company? If your boss asked you to document what you have learned over the past twelve months, and how you have applied it, would your answer impress her?

It is easier than ever to continue your “education” and it is the only way for you to stand out in the crowd. Far too many employees do little or nothing to develop their knowledge and skill set beyond what their company offers. That kind of thinking, however, puts your job and career in jeopardy. You need to think like a “free agent” who isn’t dependent upon his or her company for their ongoing development. Here’s why:

All jobs are temporary in today’s marketplace and job security is nothing but an illusion—a compelling one, but still an illusion. The only security you have is in what you can do for your boss and your company. But don’t make the mistake of thinking it’s about what you did last month or last year—it’s not. When your boss is deciding whom to promote or to keep, they are looking into the near future and asking, “What can they do for me tomorrow and beyond?”

What new skills, certifications or knowledge do you need to master to be indispensable to your boss? Begin today to think like the CEO of your company. Do you know what your company’s strategy is? Do you know what your company’s biggest challenges are? Do you know what opportunities your boss wants to capitalize on next? Most employees don’t. If you don’t, that’s not a problem. You can learn all these things. Just remember, school is never out for the true professional.

Alan Allard, Executive Coach and Speaker
www.alanallard.com