Are You a Core Contributor in Your Workplace?

There is a pattern I am seeing among a group of my coaching clients. Men and women in their mid-thirties to late forties who want to change jobs and are having difficulty doing so. There are many reasons why this is happening ― they make too much money to be junior and affordable, their specialty is so narrow few opportunities exist, or their network is too small and outdated, they have limited access to the right people and possibilities.

What especially puts them at risk is the fact that they are not a core contributor in their present jobs.

When I refer to the term core contributor, I mean they do and know something that is an intrinsic part of their department’s or company’s reason for being. They would make the “essential” list if top management were going to make some moves, or a reduction in force, and would be greatly missed. A potential employer sees their high value and realizes they would have difficulty finding another person with their knowledge, skills, and traits. We can all think of people who fit this description. The question is – Is it you?

Are you a core contributor? Ask yourself these questions…

Does what I do contribute to the bottom line?

Do I bring the organization prestige and recognition?

Can I save them money or resources?

Is my role essential to a specific product or activity?

Am I considered a thought leader?

Do I influence vision?

Can I live the mission?

Do I lead an important group or team?

Is my area trending in the company and the industry?

Do people want to work for me and would they leave if I left?

When it comes to personality traits of a core contributor, ask yourself these questions…

Am I a risk-taker?

Can I be bold when circumstances demand it?

Am I known for being good in a crisis? Do I run towards the problem rather than away?

Am I seen as strategic?

Am I competent with the tactical but not living in the weeds?

Can I be trusted with confidential information?

Do I have contact with high-level decisions makers?

Am I invited to special events and meetings that may be above my rank?

Am I seen as loyal to the company and its leaders?

Do I get along with feuding factions?

Do I put the organization’s needs ahead of my own?

Have I bought into the culture of the company?

Do I live a life, inside and outside of work, that is honorable and respected?

Finally…

Are you a renter or owner of this job and career? Renting is fine if you want to collect a paycheck and do okay. Owning means commitment, diligence, and a willingness to put the time and energy into the long game. It often means putting your ego aside for the good of the team.

Core contributors have high value internally and in the open market. They’re elite members. Smart organizations cherish them and reward frequently and generously. At times they are even accommodated for their shortcomings because what they know and do is vital.

If you are not a member of an essential team, it doesn’t mean you can’t be a core contributor. It is harder to influence and prove your worth but not impossible.

The questions you need to ask yourself are: What role do I want to play in this workplace? Do I have what it takes to be a core contributor? Am I willing to do what is necessary to earn the designation?

Only you know the answer. Together we can find the solution.