In Pakistan, there is a significant and pressing need to change our mindset to achieve better and more desirable outcomes in both business and employment. While many of us have a general understanding of how businesses operate, we often overlook that employment also is, in essence, a form of trade where we offer our services and receive compensation in return. My perspective on employment accompanies some insights and recommendations.
With my background in HR, I am well-aware of what employers seek in potential candidates. I firmly believe that being “employable” holds greater significance than simply being “employed.” This important distinction should be emphasized throughout our professional journeys. Being “employable” refers to possessing a blend of the right attitude, relevant knowledge, and practical skills in one’s field. It is imperative that we understand that our compensation as employees is directly linked to the value we bring to our employers. Unfortunately, many experienced professionals in Pakistan fail to comprehend this fundamental concept, often resorting to blaming external factors or their own fate when faced with impediments. Hence, it is important to emphasize on enhancing one’s value in the professional sphere to foster growth. development, and success.
Making ourselves better
I believe that it is important for us to invest in our self-development before stepping into any company or organization. Furthermore, I emphasize that career choices should be made thoughtfully and consciously, guided by specific factors. It is commonly understood that we achieve distinction and success when we “do what we love.” In addition to that, when we “love what we do,” we are bound to be rewarded. Therefore, one key factor in choosing a career should be identifying what we genuinely enjoy doing.
Most of us possess inherent talents and abilities that, when recognized and honed, can result in remarkable success. By refining these natural skills, we can gain credibility and recognition within our chosen fields. This approach also makes sure that we maintain high levels of motivation, as our “passion” becomes the driving force behind our work. This enthusiasm and drive are naturally appealing to others and open doors to numerous future opportunities.
Our work should define our worth
When we enhance our professional value by enhancing our skills, expanding our knowledge, and gaining relevant experience, it becomes evident in our performance and results. This recognition naturally earns us a reputation for excellence. Once this is accomplished, there is no need to actively “sell” or “market” —our work speaks for itself. Consequently, potential employers seek us out, rather than the other way around.
To illustrate this, let us take example of an auction. It is always a “valuable” item that is put up for bidding, leading to competition among buyers who vie to acquire it. Eventually, it is sold to the highest bidder. Likewise, when we make ourselves “valuable” through the quality of our work, others are bound to approach us. Many will want to establish connections with us, and those who are serious will make their best offers to secure our talent. This is the benefit we gain when we demonstrate our worth. In Pakistan’s corporate world, striving for this level of recognition should be prioritized by everyone.
Aim for that competitive advantage.
The core message in many motivational talks and self-help books is to cultivate, nurture, and maintain a positive mindset. They emphasize on the importance of developing a “winner’s” attitude. In Pakistan, it is common for people to attribute their successes or failures to destiny. However, a true “winner” does not give up or resort to pleading others. To elucidate this point, I want you to imagine a scenario where an individual approaches an employer for a job and pleads/requests to be hired. This individual has already signaled that he or she is in a position of weakness. Even if such candidates are hired, they are likely to remain at the employer’s mercy, with the employer having complete control and authority.
Conversely, when a professional`s work, talent, and “value” speak for themselves, it is the companies that take pride in bringing such a professional on board. In such scenarios, the power shifts to the professional. In some cases, even without holding a formal title, this person effectively becomes the “Boss.” or the focal person in the professional setting. This, in my opinion, is the essence of true corporate success. It gives such a professional that coveted “competitive edge” over his or her peers. Therefore, aiming and making efforts to reach this level is undoubtedly worth the investment of both time and effort.
A real-life example worth sharing
I would like to share an insightful lesson that was eye-opening for me. I remember that during my MBA classes, one of my favorite professors had an informal discussion about the C-Suite (chief-level executives). To this day, I recall the valuable lesson, even though it was not part of the official curriculum. The professor pointed out that while we often admire those in high-ranking positions, we seldom question what makes them stand out and command such respect and veneration. He explained that these “Chiefs” receive significant rewards because they contribute greatly to the company they work for.
The professor elaborated that the strategies, policies, and tactical decisions made by these executives lead to profits that far exceed their own compensation/salaries. In simpler terms, what these “Chiefs” earn is only a fraction of what the company gains because of their decision-making efforts. They are rightfully given a larger share of the benefits (compared to other employees) because it is due to their leadership that the company secures substantial gains. Their decisions are pivotal to the company’s success, and this justifies the VIP status and respect they gain.
Thus, I contend that when professionals genuinely start taking “ownership” of the workplace, they are bound to be rewarded with greater responsibility and higher positions. However, one must be prepared to go above and beyond. By demonstrating this level of dedication and ownership, one can rightfully earn a promotion well before it is formally granted.
To sum up
When others compete with us, it can be considered a positive indicator of success. It means we are in the race, and our potential is being recognized by others around us. However, when others begin to compete for us, it’s a clear sign that we have elevated our standing significantly. In Pakistan, corporate employees must adopt this mindset to grow. By doing so, we can achieve substantial professional success. Therefore, let’s aim to become so valuable by proving our mettle that others are compelled to seek us out, turning the tables so dramatically that we never have to chase opportunities or people—they chase us instead. In the words of Jim Rohn,
“Success is not to be pursued; it is to be attracted by the person you become.”
