Ep. 19 | Stop Being Indispensable

Written By Sarah Bettman
 
 

I want to tackle the nuanced topic of becoming 'indispensable' at work. While initially we perceived it as flattery, being indispensable can hinder personal growth and professional advancement. Receiving praises like 'What would we do without you?' might sound positive, but it could actually be an unintended barrier to achieving one's ambitions.

Understanding the Dangers of Indispensability

Indispensability might initially appear as a career compliment, suggesting high competence and value within the company. However, it often leads to a stagnant career path where individuals feel unable to progress beyond their current roles. This is particularly evident in scenarios where managers refuse to 'give up' indispensable team members for new opportunities, thereby inadvertently penalizing them for their efficiency and dedication.

Gender Dynamics and Career Trajectories

Interestingly, the issue of indispensability often reveals distinct trajectories in career development for men and women. Men may receive informal mentorships and promotions more readily, whereas women might find themselves accumulating responsibilities without equivalent recognition or advancement. This disparity not only affects career progression but also the personal well-being and engagement of individuals in the workplace.

Practical Steps Towards Empowerment

I would advise you to rethink the knee-jerk 'yes' often given in response to additional responsibilities. Instead, I encourage you to establish clear professional desires and communicate them openly. This approach involves strategic decision-making about roles and tasks accepted, aimed at aligning with one's career goals. It is important to establish a 'personal board of directors'—a support system composed of mentors, peers, and family members that provide honest feedback and encouragement.

Leadership’s Role in Employee Growth

Leaders also play a crucial role in this dynamic. Effective leaders recognize the aspirations and potential of their team members and help them navigate towards roles that align with their career goals. This includes being aware of the demands placed on employees and striving not to overload the 'indispensable' ones, thus supporting their long-term career sustainability and satisfaction.

Rethinking Indispensability

Being viewed as indispensable should not anchor you in a static position but should be a stepping stone for future opportunities. It is essential for both individuals and their leaders to actively engage in defining career paths that facilitate growth rather than confinement. By reframing our approach to work and indispensability, we can transform flattering labels into functional ladders towards our career aspirations.

Connect with Sarah:

Previous Episode:

Cover Art Photo by: 

Podcast Production by: 

More About Live Stoked | Lead Stoked

Have you ever wondered if there is something more? Are you ready for something to change, but aren’t sure how to get started…or even what to change? Do you dream of living life on your own terms, full of purpose and the ability to choose what’s best for you? Are you ready to live stoked?

You’ve come to the right place! In this podcast, we will explore what it means to live stoked. To live a life on your terms, one where we’ve tossed away the pressures of roles, expectations, and identities that have been put on you and that you did not choose, is a bold choice. Frankly, it’s a series of small choices in micro-moments that lead to a bold life.

I am Sarah Bettman, coach, consultant, and speaker, but more importantly, I’m a person who found myself waking up in the wrong life and needed to find a way to me. 

I am on a mission to unravel the things we tell ourselves, the roles and/or identities we’ve taken on, and the expectations that drive our decision making, so that we can begin to live our most authentic and stoked lives. My guests and I will share our stories, solutions, and multitude of ideas…since one size definitely doesn’t not fit all. 

My hope is that you will find something meaningful for you, in the moment, that will move you forward on your path.

Sarah Bettman
Previous

Ep. 20 | Sarah's Random Thoughts
Next

Ep. 18 | Becoming More of Me