We’ve been blogging lately on the changing role of the admin professional in today’s business environment. Some of what we’ve been describing are changes not only in admin roles but offer insights into the skills and talents important for all employees who want to be “future ready.” In addition to having the knowledge, skills and expertise that will be important to employers, there are a handful of proactive “mindsets” that set the stage for success in the new world of work.
No question the world of work and changes in the expectations for its workers is evolving rapidly. While keeping up with technology changes is now considered a ground zero requirement, we’re also paying attention to what our clients tell us are the intangible qualities they need in their future employees. Right now, they get described to us as concrete skill sets but going beyond here and now skills we see a shift in the mindsets important to developing those skills. Employees or job candidates stuck in yesterday’s expectations for how they show up for work, are going to find it increasingly difficult to keep up.
Here’s our short list of what an employee needs to bring to the table in order to be “future ready”…..
Think like a business leader, not just an employee!
Today, the employees who are in line for promotion do not view themselves as employees. They see themselves as contributors to organizational success. They approach their work with curiosity, ownership, and awareness of how their role fits into bigger picture strategies. Instead of asking, “What task needs to be completed?” I bet you find your best employees operate from an understanding of what results they need to achieve in order to make an impactful contribution. And perhaps even more importantly they learn how to adapt their everyday work to achieve those results.
Lean into continuous learning
With technologies, expectations, and business models evolving faster than ever, we recognize that the employees who will prosper in the new world of work are those who continually develop new skills, seek feedback, and remain adaptable. Employees and leaders who role model the importance of lifelong learning will always be able to earn a place in the new world of work necessity.
Get comfortable with UNKNOWNS
In the past, we fielded a lot of jobs, even at the leadership level, that had required adherence to clearly defined procedures and expectations. Today’s work environment is far less organized or predictable. Successful employees are the ones who have learned how to navigate the various stages of uncertainty, even risk. They know how to work collaboratively to gather up as much information as they can and are willing to make the tough decisions without complete information.
Invest in yourself!
We find the companies are increasingly promoting people who are willing to stretch beyond traditional role boundaries – to take full ownership of outcomes and willing to tackle the obstacles they will meet along the way. A personal growth mindset is what encourages an employee to…
- View challenges as opportunities
- Learn from setbacks
- Seek new responsibilities
- Adapt to changing expectations
- Continuously improve their performance
- Prepare for leadership opportunities and other forms of career advancement
