4 different ways to show initiative at work
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02/03/2021
Having initiative demonstrates a sense of self-drive, self-awareness, insight, and personal motivation. The ability to see something that needs to be done and stepping up to do it is a game changing habit that can help you to stand out at work. The habit of taking initiative strengthens your personal brand. You can become a role model to others who would seek to emulate you.
Do more than what is expected of you
Employees normally have a number of duties that they must perform as part of their work. Attempting to go above and beyond your daily obligations will illustrate to your employer that you are committed to the company’s success. You will also set a precedent for others by raising the bar for what constitutes normal employee efficiency.
Develop a team mentality
While enhancing your career prospects should be your ultimate objective, taking initiative and inspiring others needs a collaborative, team-based attitude. Seeing yourself as part of a team rather than an individual would possibly illustrate to others that your ambitions are more than just about personal achievement. Dedicating your energies to the team’s success will benefit you just as much as it will benefit the team.
Stepping in when someone is unavailable or absent
Demonstrate willingness to step in when needed during times when a colleague is unavailable or absent. Ways of assisting include offering support in doing routine tasks or even during emergencies and acting as a backup when a colleague is on vacation then working with your manager on prioritizing tasks. A little support from headquarters staff during these situations goes a long way.
Always keep a positive attitude
Maintaining a positive outlook is crucial to boosting your career opportunities and motivating others. Managers often develop strong opinions on employees when companies go through difficult times, especially because an individual’s composure under stress can reveal their qualities as a leader. When faced with a difficult situation, take some time to learn everything you can about the issue. This should help you approach the problem from a balanced and positive perspective.
There are a lot of ways taking initiative, as a team consists of problem solving as a group, brainstorming ideas – presenting a raw idea to a team can result in a much better idea after input of different people, and volunteering on an internal or external activity as a team. Above anything else, take care of yourself, be well rested, take time to do a job well rather than hurrying up to finish the work, be open to other people’s viewpoints, be humble, and respect yourself and others!
