8 Ways to Become Your Agency’s MVP

Why don’t more people aspire to be the most valued employee? Why be content with ordinary when we could be so much more?

Here are eight ways to prove your worth:

1) Always be ready. “Carl lost his voice.” “Tonya is trapped in traffic.” “Max had a customer emergency.” These are daily occurrences—and when they flare up, most people put their head down and try to become invisible. Brand yourself as someone who comes through in the crunch. Always be ready to step in.

2) Make sense. Simple, but not easy. Most people automatically think that what makes sense to them will make sense to others. That’s not only not true—it can also spell trouble. Before saying anything, ask yourself: How this would sound if someone else said it?

3) Never wing it. Here’s what to say when someone puts you on the spot: “Give me three minutes.” Then, jot down three main talking points. Add a sentence for an introduction, and one at the end as a close. “I’ll work on that” are the magic words. Don’t hold back just because you don’t have an instant answer. Not knowing can be an advantage—no baggage.

4) Share everything you know. There are still too many “hoarders” in business—those who blatantly play it close to the vest. Be the one who welcomes opportunities to share your knowledge and experience.

5) Write it to get it right. Most business writing is horrible, whether it’s an email, proposal, letter or memo. Good writing gets attention. To write it right, ask and answer these four questions: Why is this important? What are the obstacles? How can we overcome them? What action will it require?

6) Repurpose yourself. If your colleagues view you the same way today that they did two or five years ago, you’re expendable. Have you learned new skills that help you perform more efficiently? How much have you expanded your knowledge base? What leadership opportunities have you pursued? How often have you asked for additional responsibilities?

7) Make presenting a priority. Good presenters are in short supply in every business. A slew of PowerPoint slides leaves listeners cold. To hone your presentation skills, raise your hand every chance you get. Be sure you always have a crisp, clear, compelling message that excites.

8) Keep your antenna up. Many employees just want to be left alone so they can get their work done. Instead, keep track of what’s happening, recognize problems and use what you learn to rise above the noise.

John Graham of GrahamComm is a marketing and sales strategy consultant and business writer.