HRGuru

An extraordinary person is someone who consistently does the things ordinary people can’t do or won’t do. I.e. take on jobs that others avoid. This will surely be noticed by your boss in time.

 I teach others what I know. 

You go to work everyday ready and willing to give it your best.  You go into work with an attitude of gratitude that you are in a position to help others (depending on your position).  Never be afraid to teach others what you know b/c you are only as good as your team.  You have to be valuable to those you serve and ultimately, you are valuable to your company.

There are limits to everything, of course.  If you are doing all of those things, then you are over the limit and deserve a vacation!  We have to have a certain balance, or we really aren't a valuable employee.  We can start to lose our ability to do all that we have on our plate effectively, and the quality of our workmanship goes down, as well as our value to the company.  Saying no can sometimes be a good thing, and if you have a solution to the problem of who can do the project you've turned down, you've regained some value.  I wouldn't look for employees who kill themselves, but those who have a common-sense approach and a balanced attitude are going to be around longer and are going to be more effective.  Delegation is sometimes the best answer, and it shows the boss that you know the team you work with and appreciate their strengths.  You aren't wanting to do everything yourself, but recognize that it's a team effort.  Now, if your boss is the one who thinks you're a robot, that could be a problem. 

Anonymous says ...

To make yourself valuable, you must do a few things. . . . be a teamplayer, respect others, command the respect from others, and above all, always have a positive attitude no matter how tough things get.  We work to live - we don't live to work! 

so very true

Anonymous says ...

I've found that making yourself valuable to the company means being a "whole" employee.  Work well with other employees, giving encouragement and even offering assistance when the opportunity arises for doing so without making your co-workers feel as if the office is now yours.  Balance.  Doing all of your work to a high standard, and showing up for all of the meetings well-prepared and ready to participate.  Never, ever saying "that's not my job".  No complaining.  Knowing the right way to communicate.  Taking the initiative.  Being at work on time, and not being a clock-watcher is always good.  Pay attention at review meetings with your boss, and sincerely ask how you might be able to improve, even when the review is great.  This shows the boss that you're always ready to do just that bit more to be even better.  But do it without brown-nosing.  Balance, again.  Keep your head on, and you're on your way.

No worries.

I am new to this site, but in reading the responses , I completely agree! I always liked what one of my HR supervisors said when I had just begun working in HR.. she said: "Don't work hard, work smart".  I always liked that. Balance is always the key in any aspect of life. Trying hard to leave the stress of "life" behind when working is a constant challenge, but, focusing on the goals of the team makes you valuable.  Working  sucessfully in any job is in a large percent, dependant upon your attitude, not just your knowledge, skill and experience.. :)

Excellent attitude, well done!