What Would Break First?
Here’s a powerful question to consider:
If your role disappeared tomorrow, what would break first?
- Would meetings fall apart?
- Would customer queries go unanswered?
- Would key systems stop running smoothly?
Research suggests that roles requiring coordination, organisation, and communication often rely on “soft skills”, such as problem-solving, time management, and emotional intelligence, which are often undervalued but crucial for day-to-day business operations (Grugulis and Vincent, 2009). Without them, tasks fall through the cracks, teams lose focus, and performance suffers.
Finding the Bigger Picture
Sometimes, when you’re focused on daily admin tasks, it can be hard to see how they link to strategic goals. But your role doesn’t just support the business; it enables it.
Understanding how your tasks contribute to broader objectives helps you:
- Take more ownership
- Spot improvements and risks early
- Add value beyond what’s expected
This mindset reflects what Ulrich et al. (2008) call the link between people and business, the ability to translate processes and communication into real organisational performance.
Think Like a Connector
You may not lead a team, but you likely connect different parts of the business. You see the gaps, the overlaps, and the opportunities to make things run smoother. This gives you a unique ability to:
- Improve workflow and service
- Solve small problems before they escalate
- Support others more effectively
The better you understand this, the more visible and valued your role becomes.
Action Point
Ask yourself: “What process, task or outcome would suffer most if I wasn’t doing my job tomorrow?”
Now think about:
- Why that matters to the business
- Who it affects
- What it tells you about the value you add