Presence or Presents

In high school I worked at a movie rental shop. In a world of NetFlix and AppleTV, it's almost quaint. I worked in a bakery. It's where my coffee addiction started. I twiddled my thumbs and did school work as an art gallery security guard.

For these and a myriad of other jobs the only requirement was my presence. I needed to show up on time and remain at my post until the shift ended. The only metric was the clock. Did I show up and leave on time? If "yes" to both, my employment was secure. My bosses set the standards and metrics. Indeed, my employer considered my proximity to the workplace to be an asset. Being a five minute bike ride away ensured my presence.

Fast forward to 2016. Meetings take place online. Video chats and online "workrooms" bring staff together digitally (next level telecommuting). The "9 to 5" is dropped in favor of flex-time. Less and less does your physical "presence" determine value. Rather, it is the "presents" you bring. What gifts of talent, creativity, flexibility, leadership and energy can you give to your team and your clients?

Less and less does your physical "presence" determine value. Rather, it is the "presents" you bring.

Consider this as part of your regular internal reviews. Are your skills in demand? Good question. Are your skills in demand during a specific time of day? Better question. How can you adjust your work hours to maximize your value? Great question with direction. 

It's 5:30am and I've been on a conference call with New York for an hour already. Being an early riser has its advantages. In instances like this I'm much more valuable in Tokyo at 5:30am than 9:00am. That's not a reflection of new skills or better training. It's intentionally flexing flexibility. 

Companies no longer hire you because you're local. Nor, because you're willing to handle the rough winter weather and long commute. Not even because you come to the office early and leave late. They hire you to bring your specific talents to bear at the absolute most valuable time. Flex-time isn't an accommodation by HR. It's an opportunity to maximize your value to colleagues and clients. Don't give the gift of time. Give your gifts at the right time.