The latest emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone especially the way we work. The government’s swift action to flatten the curve has required many employees to work from home. Adjusting to working remotely is a shift overall with an added challenge on maintaining relevance at the workplace.
You will be doing yourself a disservice if you assume that your job is safe as this period has made employers re-evaluate employee productivity and value. You should be concerned about your job security as well as the long term viability of your career. Hence the need to plan ahead and not wait for things to go south.
Here are 3 tips to remain relevant and keep your career going:
- Make yourself indispensable:
Right now, some businesses are operating remotely while some others are yet open, regardless of this fact, we can assume that there will be a halt in hiring and more layoffs will happen. The only way to not be affected by downsizing is to ensure that you are making yourself indispensable. Do everything within your power to get things done EFFECTIVELY and EFFICIENTLY. Be the person that makes things happen, let everyone know you to take decisive actions and solve problems. This is an aggressive approach, but “tough times call for tough measures”.
- Stay in touch with your colleagues:
It is advised that you check-in with your colleagues regularly both on a professional and personal level. Ask your colleagues about their workload, how they are managing, and if there is anything you or your team can do to support them. You should also ask about their personal lives and how they and their family are adjusting. Communication is very important at this time, and it will be appreciated.
Many people are feeling isolated due to the stay-at-home orders and a friendly hand reaching out can do wonders. Remember, even as you stay in touch with your colleagues, you should also stay up to date with your company and industry.
- Keep Perspective:
At this time, many employees are balancing and juggling work with their kids at home, anxiety, and general wellness. This can be overwhelming and distracting, so it is important one keeps the right perspective in all areas especially at work.
Failure to have the right perspective towards work can result in some employees running the risk of pushing work away as a stressor that needs to be avoided. To avoid this, we should endeavor to embrace all aspects of our life during these trying times including work life. When you feel out of touch with your work, ask yourself these questions:
- What do you bring to your workplace, your team, your workplace? What is your value?
- What are your targets and personal goals at work?
- What do you get out of your work? Why is it important to you?
- Why did you choose this career?
There are multiple distractions at play while working from home during a pandemic, and it can be easy to lose relevance. Be gentle with yourself while you try to leave space and room for all your priorities. At the same time, do not forget the importance of acknowledging your professional self and your work as a valued part of your life and identity.
While times are uncertain, your career does not have to feel that way. By prioritizing communication, building connections with others and your own professional development, you will be able to stay relevant in not only your job but also your industry
