Want to get ahead in your career? Get off Zoom and into the office.
I was giving a keynote speech to a group of college seniors recently, sharing tips on how to accelerate their careers in today’s increasingly virtual world. But before I gave them my top tip, I offered some perhaps surprising advice: slow down and enjoy life first. Travel, explore, and savor those experiences that become harder to come by when you’re juggling more responsibilities and maybe even a family. Don’t rush through the least restricted years of your life just to climb the corporate ladder faster.
Okay, with that out of the way, here’s the big secret O gave them: proximity is power.
In a world where 45% of the U.S. workforce worked from home either all or part time, showing up in the office gives you a distinct advantage. If you hear that your boss or a senior executive is going to be in the office, get yourself there too.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “But isn’t showing up in the office outdated?”
Not necessarily. While remote work offers flexibility, it also presents challenges, especially for those starting their careers. Building relationships, participating in random extra projects, learning the nuances of company culture, and getting noticed can be more difficult when you’re not physically present.
If everyone else is working from home and you make the effort to come in, you’ll have more opportunities to connect with those in leadership positions. You’ll be able to observe them, learn from them, and even pick up extra responsibilities that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Here’s a real-world example: A friend of mine runs a large legal firm that went fully remote during the pandemic. Recently, he decided to open a small office space and announced he’d be working there three days a week. He invited his team to join him.
Two weeks later, I asked him how many people had taken him up on his offer. His answer? He could count them on one hand.
What a missed opportunity! Especially for the new recruits eager to prove themselves. They could have been right there beside the CEO, learning the ropes and making valuable connections.
So, if you’re serious about your career, don’t underestimate the power of proximity. Make the effort to show up, be present, and engage with those around you. You might be surprised at the opportunities that come your way.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be visible: Choose a workspace that’s near your boss or other senior leaders.
- Be productive: Don’t use your time in the office to shop for new shoes or book vacation flights as your manager will probably see you since you are so close to them.
- Be engaged: Participate in office events and activities, even if they seem optional.
In today’s hybrid work environment, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of remote workers. But by making the effort to show up and be present, you can set yourself apart and accelerate your career growth.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
Peter Drucker, Management Consultant and Author
Remember, sometimes the old-fashioned way is still the best way. So, get off Zoom, get into the office, and get noticed. Your future self, and bank account, will thank you.
