How to remain engaged at work

We all face it. That period just after the initial phase of starting a new job or new position or project where the excitement wanes and the struggle to stay focused begins. Some call it the end of the "honeymoon" period. If we are all destined to such a predicament, then we all must be equipped with the mindset of out lasting this hurdle. How then do we remain engaged at work?

There have been a few interesting polls done recently, (a few of which I have read but would not quote) that reveals that large swaths of working professionals are either not or under engaged at their current jobs. Many cite that as a result of the trickle down effects of the economic downturn, employees are expected to take on more responsibility and work longer hours, with less resources and expected to deliver on time. Many complain of feeling like drones: part of a big "machine" with little or no hope of getting promoted. It seems as though the odds are overwhelmingly stacked against us professionals.

My advice to those who find themselves internally identifying with the previous statements is really simple, BE PRAGMATIC! You are probably thinking that if the advice was simple, then maybe I should have used a word that was simple, however no other word had the desired effect. But what does it mean? If you find yourself in a rut where you are; over-worked, always at the office, unchallenged, bored, under-promoted, underpaid and most importantly with no room for growth and or development, then I would advise that you move on. However, I would dare to say that if even one of these were positive then you have something to work with.

Here is how:

As long as there is room to grow then there is a reason to stay. Think strategically and long term. You may not have a shot of being promoted or climbing the ranks at your current job, but as long as you are still learning and being challenged it means that you are still developing as a professional. Look at it this way, you are being trained and prepared for the next job!

As long as you are being paid well there is a reason to stay. Unless you are a philanthropist, you are probably working for some form of compensation. If your company is generous enough to pay you and not ensure that they are getting a solid return on their investment, then it is too bad for them. Make it count in your favor. In the mean time, do what you can to prepare for your next station in your professional career. For example, do another degree, certification etc. Let your company finance your preparation and leave only when everything is in place.

Last but not least, always be on the lookout for opportunities to keep you interested. It may cost you some free time, but helping out on a project from another department might help advertise your skills to the company at large. It shows dedication and commitment to a broader vision. It will also allow you to build expertise and relationships outside of your domain. These intangibles are supremely important to display when trying to get the recognition of others.

In closing, there is so much more that can be said but I will leave it there for now. Be ever mindful that engagement is a two way street. It implies that for you to be fully engaged at work there must be something there working in your favor. Find it and then the rest is up to you.

Until next time remember, As long as you have life, you should live it to your fullest potential.