By: Natasha Archary
No matter how amazing you are at what you do, the harsh reality is that you are replaceable in the world of work.
That may be a tough pill to swallow, but it’s best you don’t fall into the trap of thinking you’re indispensable to your company, because if given the opportunity, it’s only a matter of a few months before your position is filled, should you give reason.
Regardless of how unique your skills, experience, qualifications or personality is, never get caught up into the belief that the company you work for would not be able to function without you.
Critical skills aside, a company will always prioritize its operational needs and will do everything to make sure your departure will not leave them in a vulnerable position.
The truth is that everyone is replaceable, and all your company would need to do is invest some time, and resources to train your replacement.
With that in mind, someone else can easily fill your shoes.
Don’t just be good at what you do, be likeable
Always remember that a company’s objective is to turn a profit, and if that means replacing an employee with someone who can see out the same responsibilities for a fraction of your salary, that’s what they will do.
So, it might be useful to remember not to just be good at what you do, but to be likeable too.
What does being likable have to do with you not being replaced?
Everything. Especially if you want to be an employee who is looked at as being helpful, valuable, and irreplaceable, then being likable is important.
It means although you are still replaceable, people would care if you were.
Also remember that being replaceable doesn’t mean that you’re redundant.
Think about it this way, if you wanted to be promoted, but no one else in your company could replace you, it would mean you’re stuck in a position that is stifling your growth.
Listen to the conversation on Kaya Drive:
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