{UAH} Work as though you own the business - Prosper - monitor.co.ug

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Work as though you own the business

There is a culture amongst some employees that I preach against. And that is behaving as if they are working for someone else 'out there'. Working for 'those people'. It's a dangerous mentality because if you are the type you will find yourself not giving your very best. You won't take a level of responsibility that earns you the command and respect in any organisation whether it's from fellow employees or owners of the organisation or the leaders.
If you have such an attitude, it will show in your body language, your words and the levels of effort. In the end, you will lose opportunities for extra responsibility and promotion. And it worries employers because when they are away, they are concerned whether work will be done at the level of their expectation and satisfaction.
The good news is that there is a small percentage of employees who act like they own the organisation. As if they own the business. They take it personal. They are willing to defend it when it's being attacked. They market it when they are not being asked. They act beyond the call of duty. They feel it's their obligation to do so because they feel like they are shareholders in the organisation. Key stake holders and not outsiders. They are a special breed and as such they never run out of work because they are operating at the core of who a true employee is. Someone with a higher awareness of what their role is in this world.
So, how can you work as though you own the organisation or business?
It starts with a change in mentality and making a decision to act like an 'owner' and not a part timer. If you are an employee remind yourself that you are working for you and not anyone else. Have internal standards and ask yourself "How would I behave if I was self-paid"? Act that way.
Work beyond the job description
One of the ways that will separate you from the crowd is to deliver beyond what is in your job description. Most people do just the minimum. Aim for the maximum and do whatever needs to be done and not just what you are paid to do.
Work to either save the organization money or bring in more money. That will demonstrate that you care enough for the future of the organisation. Your future also depends on it.
Defend the image or work to improve the image of the organisation. Every effort to improve the brand of the organisation enhances your own brand. It's a win-win. See, you are truly working for yourself.
You are a steward. Take your job or role seriously. Own it. Be responsible. Take care of it and the organisation you "work with" and not work for will take care of you or at least the universe will.
You are not working for someone out there but for someone in here – you.
The writer is the CEO of Success Africa. Ethan.musolini@gmail.com

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