Are you a manufacturing or warehouse professional wondering about your job security and future growth? Do you worry that you might be replaceable? While some of this may just be your own anxieties and self-doubt, these industries are going through rapid changes, and you never know what the future might hold. Let’s dig deeper into the issue of job security and what you can do to future-proof your career.
Prove Your Value
Going above and beyond your required job duties is a great way to enhance your job security. Be the person that your boss knows they can rely on. Of course, you don’t want to be taken advantage of, but small things like volunteering to stay late to meet a deadline will not go unnoticed.
Upskill
Technology is becoming ever more important in the warehouse and manufacturing industries, but a lot of front-line team members are somewhat afraid of it. Learn to work with AI, data analysis, and other technologies, and you’ll be in great shape moving forward. Also, start working on your management skills, as at some point, you might want to move off the front line.
Build Confidence
When you have been doing something for long enough that it feels easy, you may start to discount the value of that skill. Combat that tendency by sitting down and making a list of the things you do really well. Then, think through everything you went through while you were learning. Realizing just how much you’ve invested in your skills and how hard you’ve worked can help build your confidence and make you feel less replaceable.
Become an Expert in Something
A great way to make yourself indispensable at work is to become the go-to person for a particular task. Are you a great listener? An expert problem solver? The only person in the facility who knows how to clean and maintain a specific machine? It doesn’t matter exactly what your area of expertise is as long as everyone you work with knows about it.
Of course, job security is never guaranteed. An industry downturn, corporate emergency, or other situation beyond your control could derail all of your efforts. It’s always important to recognize when it’s time to move on. Fortunately, if you follow the tips above, you’ll also stand out from the crowd in your next job search.
Looking for a New Role in the Midwest?
Workbox Staffing offers light industrial jobs in more than 30 locations across the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast. If you’re ready to jumpstart your light industrial career, take a look at our open positions or simply send us your resume today!
