There are many attributes that help a person stand out. One that is highly effective is being known for stepping forward – taking on tasks that are not in your everyday job description.
People who step forward with the sincere desire to help don’t do it for praise and don’t expect additional pay in return. In most cases it’s just the way they are. Soon, however, they discover that stepping forward naturally contributes to their career progression.
You may have noticed that at work organizing projects and staff events, or in the community within schools and sporting associations, it always seems to be the same group of highly-engaged people that step forward. Once you choose to join this seemingly unheralded band of frequent volunteers, you too have started to press down hard on your career accelerator.
Those who step forward can’t help but be noticed and appreciated by the leaders around them. Contrary to popular belief, it’s actually not who you know that plays a crucial role in developing your career but rather who knows you and what they recognize you for.
As you become known by your peers and bosses for stepping forward and getting the job done while others hang back and watch, you’re creating a very positive personal brand.
It’s your choice. The next time you are presented with an opportunity to step forward at work or in the community, instead of standing back and benefiting from the good graces of others, take it! It definitely means some extra work, but you’ll find it deeply satisfying and as others notice, your career will step forward too.
This article was published more than 1 year ago. Some information may no longer be current.