COMPANIES WILL seek to retain employees who, by virtue of their knowledge, skills and attitudes, can help the organisation grow and survive.

Generally speaking, the more employees contribute and the more functions they can perform, the more valuable they become to the bottom line and, hence, the harder it is for the company to do without them.

The question then is, how can an employee increase his or her value to the employer in a visible way? Here are some suggestions for doing so, based, in part, on the article 'Becoming a value-added employee boosts job security', written by Larry S. Beck in 2003 and published by the Society for the Advancement of Education:

Embrace and adjust to change. Take a positive approach to change. Be flexible and willing to learn new procedures and to take on additional responsibilities when changes are made to job function, equipment, machinery, or production methods.

Be cost and energy conscious. Never misuse the company's resources, such as office supplies and computer equipment. Conserve on the use of electricity where possible.

Keep personal problems out of the workplace. Do not allow lifestyle and family problems to affect your work performance.

Build and maintain professional networks. These networks, both within and outside the organisation, will keep you visible and current on changes and opportunities you can take advantage of.

Continue to build your knowledge and skill base. Where available, take advantage of company-sponsored education and training programmes or job-rotation facilities to increase your marketability and ability to multitask.

Be assertive in documenting and communicating your accomplishments. Record your successes in a personal achievement journal and, without bragging, share these with your supervisor through written notes, email, meetings and at the performance appraisal interview.

Make your boss look good. Anticipate your boss' needs and look for opportunities to meet and exceed those needs. Keep your boss informed of the nature and progress of your assignments and discuss solutions to possible hitches so that department or unit goals can be met.

When you apply the vigilance and determination to become an exceptional employee, you will reap the rewards which range from career and self-fulfilment to economic security, empowerment, and job security.

Patricia Grant-Kitson is a human resource management and training consultant.

How to become avalue-added employee

Show that you understand your company's business priorities. Look for opportunities to apply your expert knowledge and skills to problems or challenges, for example, make suggestions for improving customer service, production or sales.

Enhance your reputation for achievement and reliability. Complete your assignments on time and within budget while focusing on customer satisfaction. Be willing to put in extra hours without demanding more pay to ensure that company goals are met.

Be a valuable team player. Attain and maintain a positive relationship with co-workers by being helpful, pleasant, and committed. Avoid gossip.

patriciaktsn@yahoo.com