The 'Hidden" Employer Benefit

You've landed your dream job and are anxiously awaiting the arrival of HR. Its Onboarding time. The moment you get to hear all about the perks and extras that make the lack of zeros on your paycheck worth getting up and getting dressed for! But is there more to your benefits than healthcare, paid time off, 401 k and education assistance? I am here to tell you a secret.... Yes, there is another hidden employer benefit that only a few will take advantage of: employee knowledge! Learning from others is one of the best kept secrets in every profession at any level and it’s a freebie. HR won't tell you about this benefit because they aren't paying those seasoned employees to share their knowledge. No, instead they remind you that the online training software is very user friendly and can be accessed anytime. You should take advantage of it. Sounds great, right! But let's talk about the benefit that's right under your nose, or better yet, in the next office. There are employees in every organization who spend years learning their craft, successfully and without fanfare. No, they are not mentors or leads, yet they know everything and more about the job they do. They are a google search in human form. Ask, go to them and ask if you can observe. Be respectful of their time and job responsibilities. Come prepared with thoughtful questions about processes and ask them to fill in the blank. Take notes, don't expect them to teach you and send you a follow up email.... Say thank you! Don't be afraid to use a little ingenuity to obtain information, no, don't stalk your co-worker, but observe what they do and identify another employee who does the same job who may teach you. Be a sponge! And never, ever, ever, say "that's not my job" To Learn is to Stay Relevant!