Work yourself out of a job

What would happen if you planned for your own obsolescense? What if you changed your job so that you were no longer required in that role?

• You wouldn't be considered as "critical", and therefore could be considered for other positions.
• With the extra time you have available, you can redefine your own job to include new challenges.
• You would be available for career-enhancing special projects.
• You might become eligible for a generous severence package.

With all of these positive possibilities, why would you not consider this approach?

For one thing, sometimes change is tough. You're comfortable and successful doing what you do. Making a change means exposing yourself to risk. And if you do get that generous severence, you will need to go through the uncertainty of a job search. Nevertheless, if you are keen on getting yourself to the next level, this is one way to do so. And it doesn't need to happen overnight: you can work yourself out of a job in three months - or thirty.

Here are some ideas to start:

• Groom your staff to take certain of your key responsibilities.
• Evolve yourself from a manager to a coach.
• With your manager's support, stop doing unnecessary, zero-value-add activities

Make It Happen Tipsheet
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Copyright © 2007 Knowledge to Action Press and Randall Craig. All rights reserved.

Publication Date: January 9, 2007