How do we add value at the workplace?

We are valued at the workplace when we add value. It cannot be any other way, because life is always reciprocal. What goes around comes around.

Our primary aim is to add value through the work that we do. At the same time, it is also important to add value through relationships. These include professional as well as interpersonal relationships.

Self Awareness is the very first step of Emotional Intelligence. And this is precisely where many people tend to overestimate their worth. An important thing to remember is that even if we achieve all our objectives and perform up to expected standards, and are dependable with minimum supervision, it does not mean that we are good, this only qualifies for a satisfactory rating.

When we exceed our objectives, create new systems and are dependable without supervision, we are good. When we exhibit complete mastery of our job, deliver way beyond expectations and are an asset to the organization, then we can be said to be outstanding.

Just as it is with individual performance, so is it with teamwork. We all know that famous saying, “None of us is as good as all of us”. The team improves our performance and we improve the performance of the team. When we are great performers, there is a great temptation that each one of us has before us, and that is to be a prima donna. Prima Donnas are people great at their work who people are very careful in interaction with on account of their arrogant behaviour and attitude. Such people may do very well in the short run and are not good for the health of the organization in the long run.

Political awareness and understanding cultural diversity are vital elements. There are always different people in the organization who are pulling in different directions. Understanding the political situation so that energies can be channelized to work favourably for the organization does indeed make a difference. An understanding of cultural diversity also makes a lot of difference. Different cultures carry different values and these values are drivers for people. Understanding these well helps us to understand what makes people tick.

Of course, the human, in fact the humane element is something which makes all the difference. The morale and motivation in the organization is driven by this. Powerful leadership is the crux. It is leaders with empathy and a deep understanding of their fellow beings who can actually understand the aspirations and motivation of the people. This makes all the difference to the effort, and therefore, to the output as well.

So, what do we really need to do?

Thus, in the entire process of value addition, there are many dimensions that need to be taken into consideration. Individual performance, team performance and organizational dynamics are all factors that need to be taken into consideration. This is what will make the whole process holistic. And the much needed human factor, so often missing, needs a constant focus in order to add value