The X factor – 4 ways to stand out in your firm

So, you’ve blitzed the competition and have landed a role at the professional organisation of your dreams. Congratulations!

But don’t get too comfortable.

Winning over a hiring manager is just the first phase when it comes to proving your worth. Taking the initiative and making regular contributions will help you stand out as your firm’s newest shining star.

Here are four tried-and-tested strategies for stepping up from the first rung on your career ladder.

Be proactive

When you’re a new recruit at the start of a learning curve, it can feel daunting to take the reins – you don’t want to appear like you’re overstepping your rank.

However, whether you offer to help an overworked colleague, volunteer for a new project or voice your opinions in a meeting, taking decisive action will show your employer that you want to be considered a future asset rather than a liability.

Invest in your professional development

Few things impress a boss more than an employee who is committed to improving their knowledge and learning new skills – even if they already have a good degree under their belt.

Enrolling in a Graduate Diploma with The Tax Institute or applying to become a registered tax agent is proof that you’re willing to continually invest in your professional development. It sends the message that you’re unwilling to be complacent, and increases your value as an employee in the process.

Flag issues as they arise

Although it’s tempting to take on tasks without thinking about the consequences, the ability to anticipate and articulate obstacles and issues is a powerful quality that will put you ahead of the pack.

From a bottleneck sparked by a client project or a resourcing shortfall that will put your firm behind a deadline, flagging potential problems with your manager isn’t just testament to your skills as a communicator – it’s also proof of your commitment to doing the best job.

Execute on a new initiative or system

Star employees don’t just follow instructions – they’re team players who are unafraid to bring new ideas to the table and reinvent the status quo.

Implementing a working method that eliminates reconciliation errors, coming up with a project-management system that leads to greater collaboration or simply suggesting a social activity that your colleagues can enjoy together are potential ways to set yourself apart.

It’s important not to rest on your laurels if you want to prove you’re the kind of employee who is prepared to do whatever it takes to master your role.

Whether it’s showing you’re willing to make effective decisions or mustering the courage to talk about problems, stepping out of your comfort zone can help establish your professional credentials in a way that could see you climbing your career ladder sooner than anticipated.

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