By: Deb Black, PMAC

This question brings up what many of us feel to be somewhat of a “touchy” subject. Why is that, and how does it eventually become determined?

A person who is new to a job may bring experience from the field with them, but the place of business or practice is new to them. Does this person qualify for the same rate of pay as the person who has been with the practice a longer period of time? It may be that the person with seniority at the practice has less experience. This dilemma can cause resentment among employees.

A more experienced employee should be of higher value to your practice. They know more of the field, thus they should be able to help out more. Some elements to be considered follow. “Productivity”; how productive are you? If you can only do one aspect of a job, you are not as valuable as if you could do two, or are “cross trained”. “Cross training” is being trained for all areas of your practice. The ability to cover someone else’s position if they need to be away, this type of employee is a very valuable asset to any practice!

Are you a team player? Do you function well with others, or do you prefer being on your own? Being a member of a team means more productive people. When you are able to function as a “team player”, things run smoother and are less stressful for all involved. Everyone has a valuable job to do; it is not all left up to one person. Your co-workers’ appreciate the role you play as part of their productive team. It is very important for you to do your best at what you do, so you don’t let your team members down. Stay on top of your game, achieve the highest level of education you can, and continue to do so by attending seminars and conferences when available.

Are you receptive to the duties that are asked of you? Do you perform the tasks required of your job? Do you go above and beyond your responsibilities, and help others to complete theirs? An answer of yes to all of the above makes you a valuable employee. When you are willing to do your job to the best of your ability plus help out others to do theirs, this indeed shows your care and concern to completing the task at hand, and accurately. For this very reason, your place of business or practice will function much better.

Do you value your worth? When it comes to your job review or assessment, are you prepared? Make a list of all the duties that go along with your position. Let you boss or person in authority know what it takes to do your job. They may not realize everything that you do, and that list may change from year to year.

Prove to your boss that you are a very valuable employee and someone hard to replace!