Taking initiative at work can be totally intimidating – I understand! Navigating just how much initiative you should take without overstepping is tough to figure out, but there are ways to go for it. Getting the job done is one thing, but going above and beyond is the ticket to getting ahead. By expending some creativity, standing up and taking initiative, you can show what you’re really made of.
When you use your skills for taking initiative at work, you show off your high level of motivation, your self-starter attitude and your creativity (all skills highly valued in the workplace). When you can act without being told, your supervisor will start to give you more and more autonomy. And, that’s a great opportunity to make a project your own. Here are my tips for developing the skills for taking initiative at work.
Skills for Going After What You Want at Work
- Ask questions. I know – we’re talking about taking initiative! But, you have to make sure you have the whole story and are aware of all the moving parts before you go for it.
- When you finish a project, ask for another. Rather than mill around when you have free time – get another project. In other words >> show off your initiative!
- Be efficient, not a workaholic. Use your time wisely and you will get the job done.
- Think outside of the box. Go for it – show off your creative side! You never know, you might just have the next greatest idea.
Have you been taking initiative at work lately? How?
