How to Get Ahead at Work Without Working Overtime - The Muse

How to Get Ahead at Work Without Working Overtime - The MuseHow to Get Ahead at Work Without Working Overtime Lets be real for a second. These days, many of us live in a world of excess, where mora is definitely better. We heap our plates full with seconds when were already full, overstuff a drawer with t-shirts well never wear again, and ensure that we own at least 20 mugs. (I know, I know- each of those mugs serves a very specific purpose.)Often, we apply this more is more principle to our professional lives, too. Clocking in at the crack of dawn and logging off only when our eyelids cant stay open anymore are often heralded as hallmarks of star employees. But, I have news for you This font of lifestyle is not necessary for success, growth, or job satisfaction. In fact, Id argue that it can actually hurt you (but thats a story for a different day). The main message here is You can be the apple of your managers eye even if you dont make working overtime a habit. Provided of course t hat when youre in the office, youre kicking ass, completing everything assigned, and turning it on time. Ready to abflug leaving before dinner time? I recommend making these three things habits1. Stay EngagedI used to bring my laptop to every single meeting. And, without a doubt, Id spend the entire time answering emails, surfing random sites, and chatting with friends. Now that I work in an office where this isnt the norm, I realize just how annoying it is. A surefire way to signal that you dont care about your job or your teammates (even if that isnt necessarily true), is to spend your time with them with your eyes glued to a screen. Instead, be present in meetings and all other conversations you have. Ask questions, provide helpful feedback and context, and flex those active listening muscles. And yes, this applies to remote workers, too. Working off site doesnt mean youre off the hook when it comes to communication. If anything, youll probably need to make a bit more of an effor t, but its worth it if it means youre staying in the loop and others are, too.2. Know When to Say Yes and When to Say NoLending a colleague a hand or volunteering to take the lead on a new project are invaluable characteristics, and theres an added bonus if you can anticipate needs and offer your services before someone needs to ask. Itll show that youre a go-getter, a team player, and someone who wants to learn and grow. Its a big plus for a supervisor if his staff isnt constantly muttering, Thats not my job. But- but- this doesnt, in any way, mean you should be a yes person. Its also crucial to know when and how to turn down requests for help, new assignments, and so forth. Putting too much on your plate is a recipe for becoming severely overwhelmed. You may start producing shoddy work or missing deadlines completely, and, well, neither of those are invaluable characteristics. The key is knowing not just how much you can fit on your plate, but how much you can execute at a high-qu ality rate. So if youre at the point in which you can feel yourself starting to slip, say no. Not comfortable with saying no? This strategy will help. 3. Check in With Your Boss RegularlyIn each position Ive had, my manager and I met regularly. And, I admit- these times werent always helpful. Sometimes, it welches because my supervisor always canceled them (thanks). But other times it was because I just wanted it to be over as quickly as possible, so I didnt say much. That was a mistake. This one-on-one time is so important. Its your time to update her on your progress, ask for help, discuss career goals, and get to know each other a little bit better. Taking these meetings seriously will reassure your boss that you are, in fact, doing what youre supposed to be doing, and itll also signal that you care. And caring is a big part of being a good employee. If youre stumped about what to talk about in a one-on-one meetings, these questions may help you get started. And hey- If you dont have regular time like this on your calendar, I highly recommend requesting it. Yes- there will be occasions in which you need to put in a little extra time. But that doesnt have to be an ongoing theme in your life. Im here to tell you that you can be a rock star employee and live a life outside of work.