Adding Value to Your Job

A recent article in Business Week entitled 'After the Jobless Recovery, A War for Talent' described the unhappiness that so many employees feel, listed some statistics about job dissatisfaction, and noted the intention of many employees to move on once we have a recovery. There seems to be some inference that once we have a recovery, we will be able to move on to some 'job heaven.' As my grandmother use to say, 'T'aint so!'

I take strong exception to the article, not because it is incorrect, it isn't. Many will move. Rather, this article, that so clearly articulates the reasons for unhappiness: long hours, grumpy bosses, performance pressures and other factors, ignores two very important facts.

First, work life is tough and getting tougher. Competitive and cost pressures are forcing firms to look for any and all ways to increase revenue, keep customers happy and accomplish all that for less. That's not going to change. In fact, it is likely going to get worse. As a result, long hours, grumpy bosses and all the other factors that make work life difficult will exist no matter where you go.

Second, if we can accept the reality of the pressures and demands on the job as a normal component of work-life, we do have the ability within ourselves to create a more positive work environment that provides greater job satisfaction. But we have to work at it. The BW articles notes that managers 'should be looking for ways to give star players more responsibility, more autonomy and a clear shot at advancement.' But as anyone who manages people understands, every employee should have some opportunity for increased responsibility and advancement. That's management 101. The real question is how do we, as individuals, empower ourselves such that we derive more job satisfaction? How do we find ways to contribute and retain our self-respect, enhance our self-esteem, and even position ourselves for the next step?

Before answering the questions, it is important to acknowledge one important factor. You must be in a job and work culture that fits your values and interests. It is not easy, but if you hate where you work, hate the work itself and hate the company culture, read no further. This article is not for you.

However, if you are in a relatively positive environment, there is much that you can do.

First, be creative, especially in ways that interest you and add value to your work life. Look for ways that can make a difference in your job or your department. Criticism is all too common in the workplace and constructive criticism is often rare. But, if you have an idea, give it some real thought, flesh it out. Present it professionally and constructively, making sure you are available to do the background work yourself. Don't create work for others. Any good manager is desperate for good ideas that help make the department better. Managers love employees that present both the problem and the solution at the same time. And don't worry about the credit. That will come. The important point is finding creative contributions that will give you satisfaction.

Be a catalyst. Sell an idea to your co-workers and get them to buy in as willing participants. The ability and desire to work effectively with others is increasingly important to employers. Everyone talks about the need for team players. That's not rhetoric. With rampant cost cutting, the demands on the group to function and produce as a group has been increasing for years. Despite tough times companies want to build morale and foster a team spirit. Developing a cohesive team by a group of co-workers with fresh ideas and shared credit can significantly enhance the work experience. Again, don't worry about credit.

Compartmentalize your life. I understand that is easy to say, but it is essential to maintain some semblance of a private life. Organizations tend to be like families, complete with squabbles and jealousies. It is so easy to take your work problems home and your home problems to work. But creating a separation, a degree of privacy that enables some differentiation between home and work, can provide an opportunity to refresh, where each world is a haven from the pressures of the other. Let home life and your private life generate an opportunity to really unwind. Taking work home is more and more common. However, even within that context, separate as much as possible. Clearly you don't want to antagonize co-workers by divorcing yourself from the team. Everybody wants to know what you did over the weekend. But a personal life that is really personal, is necessary to complement a more stable and satisfied professional life.

Finally, don't complain, communicate. Employees constantly wonder why supervisors don't understand or sense an employee's anger or frustration. Unattended problems often grow and get noticed only when they are untenable. Early communication, offered in a positive and constructive fashion can head off many budding issues. Approached properly an employee will quickly determine at minimal risk, whether a manager can listen and respond positively. Most do. Just give them the chance. Managers face the same pressures and want to succeed, too. Help them do that and you will be a winner.