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Knowledge is a critical factor in landing — and keeping — your job, but what exactly are you expected to know? What areas of expertise are the most important to your manager? What’s the difference between knowledge and skills?
A few years ago, getting a job in the administrative field depended on your skills — managers wanted to know how fast you could type, how many phone lines you could handle, and which software packages you knew. Some even wanted to know if you could make a good cup of coffee.
Today, skills are still critical. But getting noticed at work depends on much more. Managers don’t just want technical experts, they need detectives as well. If you don’t know something, do you have the resources and initiative to find what’s needed? Do you have a strong network inside and outside of work to help you build your knowledge consistently? Can you share your knowledge with others?
Step by step: Building your knowledge base
Why a knowledge makeover can help you:
Consider the following reasons being a resource can work in your favor:
· Budget levels and staff counts are tight — Many companies aren’t spending as much on training as in previous years. More frequently, they’re looking to employees to help each other develop new skills.
· Skills are part of the picture — What you bring to the table is important in getting the job. But knowledge encompasses much more. Your current skills, the ones you’re developing, the network you have, the information you absorb on business and industry trends, your awareness of the corporate culture, both the written and “unwritten” rules for success in your firm are all part of your knowledge base. The effort you make to build your expertise shows managers you have initiative, and indicates your potential for advancement.
· Managers and staff are busier than ever — They look to you not just to get your own job done, but to be a knowledge center for them. Being a dependable resource is a sure-fire way to build your visibility.
· There’s a lot of “noise” — News, information and research are available 24 hours a day through a variety of sources. It’s critical to be selective —can you filter out the fluff and prioritize those pieces of information that are most important?
The areas of expertise most in demand
Here’s what managers are looking for:
· A trainer — Having a skill is one thing. Knowing it well enough to teach others is another. Upgrade your intermediate skills to expert level so you can be an effective teacher.
· A reliable source — Managers who are on the road or out of the office frequently may not be current on all the news items that could affect them and the company. Make it a point to inform them — be sure you select and prioritize the information before passing it along.
· Quick access — Your boss could be preparing to give a speech or lead a discussion on a particular topic. Keep the research materials you’ve gathered organized so you can provide help on short notice.
· An informed opinion — The ability to apply the knowledge you’ve gained to current company initiatives is critical. For instance, your research on the latest technology trends could help you recommend a software upgrade for your department.
Step by step: Building your knowledge base
Enhance your skills with these tips:
· Branch out — Don’t rely on work as the only place to gain skills and build knowledge. Volunteer opportunities, in-person and online training sessions, and professional association events are other great resources.
· Groom your successor — In most companies, you can’t move up unless there’s someone who can take over for you. Make it a point to identify a potential replacement and begin sharing your knowledge with that person.
· Practice patience — Understand that people learn at different speeds. Don’t take it personally if someone isn’t quick to catch on; adapt to various learning curves and levels of expertise.
· Admit it — Never claim to know something that you don’t. Instead, say that you don’t have the information but will find out and report back..
· Be proactive — Don’t wait for information to come to you. Find solid resources online and in print, and check them regularly. Ask colleagues and friends what sources they rely on most so you can broaden your searches.