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below article to forward, reprint, distribute, use for ezine, newsletter, website, offer as free bonus or part of a product for sale as long as no changes are made and byline, copyright, and resource box below is included. ----------------------------------------------------------Success at Work: Techniques : Taking Initiative
By Stephen Bucaro
Do you have to constantly nag at your kids to do things? Why can't they clean up their mess and get ready for school without being told? Now think about your boss at work. Does your boss always have to tell you what to do. Does your boss have to treat you like a child, or do you take initiative?
Employees who need to be told what to do are said to be "reactive". They do something only after boss tells them to, or after need to do something has been pointed out to them.
Employees who do what has to be done and solve problems before they arise are said to be "proactive". Bosses like employees that are proactive and willing to take initiative.
There are many advantages to taking initiative at work:
- By taking initiative you'll gain skills and learn more about your company and market it serves.
- You'll be less bored at work because you won't be stuck in same old routine.
But before we learn more of advantages, let's consider some of dangers of taking initiative at work.
- Is problem within your area of responsibility? By taking initiative with a problem that is outside your area of responsibility you could be trespassing on some else's turf. Before taking on a task outside your normal area of responsibility you should find out who's responsibility it is and involve that person.
If a fellow employee is swamped with work and you are facing a lull in work, ask them if you can help. But don't assume they will welcome your help. Some workers think greater job security is achieved by being behind in their work. They may feel that you are threatening their job security.
