Blog

Do you wish your work was more enjoyable and meaningful? Job crafting could help you transform your experience without changing careers or searching for a new position.

According to the latest Gallup poll, more than half of US workers say they aren’t emotionally or cognitively connected to their work. This unengaged 53% usually show up from 9 to 5 but do the minimum required, which affects the bottom line and employee health and happiness.

While many companies try to address this situation from the top down, job crafting is a proactive process that you can do for yourself. Learn how to reshape your work environment and make your job fit you more closely.

Job Crafting Your Tasks

Organizational behaviorists started talking about job crafting about 20 years ago. Reviewing your job description and daily activities is usually the first step.

Use these strategies:

· Identify your strengths. Think about what you love to do and what you do well. You may excel at analyzing data or closing sales. Success often depends on using your natural talents.

· Reallocate your time. Are there tasks you want to focus on and others you wish would disappear? You could delegate some jobs or create systems to help you complete them more efficiently.

· Play games. It’s okay to have fun with your work. Find ways to compete with yourself or suggest a friendly contest with the rest of your team.

· Respect your limits. Avoid taking on more responsibilities than you can handle. Start with your top priorities and gradually expand your duties.

· Consider others. Hopefully, you and your boss will agree on the new direction you want to take. However, your preferences may conflict with business needs and your coworker’s routines. Be willing to compromise and work towards mutually beneficial solutions.

Job Crafting Your Relationships

Who do you interact with at work? You could reach out to new contacts and strengthen your current connections. Positive relationships make your workday more pleasant.

Try these techniques:

· Visit other departments. Collaborate with colleagues in other parts of your company. Invite them to meetings and propose joint projects.

· Socialize. Use office events and communications to get to know others more personally. Make time for small talk. Let others know that you care about their interests and opinions.

· Network online. Big conferences may be on hold, but you can still communicate online. Join LinkedIn groups and participate in relevant conversations.

· Listen closely. Working on your listening skills can transform your workplace relationships. Concentrate on what others are saying instead of rehearsing your response. Ask relevant questions and show your enthusiasm.

· Share feedback. Help create an office culture rich in open and constructive communications by providing tactful and specific feedback. Welcome input from others and thank them by using their suggestions to make positive changes.

Job Crafting Your Attitude

Like any positive change, job crafting begins in your mind. While tasks and relationships may be beyond your control, you can control your thoughts.

Practice these activities:

· Focus on your purpose. Understanding the reasons behind what you do will make your work more rewarding. Figure out why it’s significant and connect with a mission bigger than yourself.

· Continue learning. Seize opportunities to increase your knowledge and skills. Take courses online and read about developments in your industry.

· Seek balance. Define what success means for you rather than comparing yourself to others. Pay attention to your responsibilities, as well as your career.

The average adult spends about one-third of their life at work. Make those hours happier and more productive by crafting your job into a more fulfilling workday.