Prepared to be replaced

Preetinder Kaur

If there is one goal that most employees strive to achieve, it is being irreplacable. In spite of knowing well that work will go on whether or not one person is there or not, we like to be an irreplaceable person in our organisation. This aspiration is more among the beginners. Though in the beginning of one’s career, having this sentiment has its advantages, as it serves as a motivation to enhance  skills and proficiency and to do one’s job exceptionally well and gain respect and appreciation from peers and seniors. But, it can be dangerous in the long run as thinking that you are irreplaceable can actually damage your career. 

Thus, it is important to avoid getting stuck in this “irreplaceable syndrome”.  Here’s how you can do it:

Isolating yourself from others 

In the race to become “irreplaceable” you may become isolated from your peers. This “drive” may also make one try to replace others who may be more competent. Thus, it is important to have passion for one’s work, but don’t let that come in the way of cordial relations at workplace and team building skills.  

Never forget that you will need the support of your peers and seniors during a crisis or their advice in completing a tricky assignment

It creates a  fake sense of security 

First of all, there is no such thing as, “I cannot-be-fired”, as even if you have performed well any of the following events can see you staring at a pink slip: 

The product you are making, no longer has sustainability in the market. 

Your organisation may try to outsource low cost manpower from a different vendor. And the worst of all, your company closes.

Focus on being competent 

When the focus is on being competent and skilled then the insecurity of losing one’s job or role is not there. A competent person is actually happy to be replaced and put in a new role as that way he can learn more. This helps one grow  and not want to diminish others identities. Such an employee is not scared of sharing knowledge and expertise with others and develops new skills and responsibilities. 

It may backfire for an organisation

In an age where knowledge is power and change is a way of life, no organisation will be willing to have a bunch of “irreplacable” employees. All said and done the realisation that there are better qualified people around to perform your role, keeps you agile and willing to learn and update skills.