In today’s competitive job market, it’s easy to feel like the burden of going the extra mile falls unfairly on employees, especially when companies are increasingly dependent on skilled workers. A comment on one of our recent reels encapsulated a sentiment shared by many: “But I don’t wanna go above and beyond. Companies also need us!” It’s a valid point—companies do need us. However, there’s more to the story when it comes to career growth, fulfillment, and professional relationships.
Understanding the Balance of Power
It’s true that companies need talented employees to thrive. The power dynamic between employers and employees has shifted over the years, with workers having more leverage than ever before. But with this power comes responsibility—not just to our employers, but to ourselves. Going above and beyond isn’t just about doing more work; it’s about investing in your own future, standing out in your field, and positioning yourself for growth and opportunity.
It’s important to take initiative and show your unique value to potential employers. Standing out isn’t just about what you can do for a company—it’s about demonstrating your passion, creativity, and commitment to your career.
What Kind of Worker Do You Want to Be?
Before we dive deeper, consider this: what kind of worker would you be if you embraced the mentality of not wanting to go above and beyond? This approach might mean doing just enough to get by, but is that the mindset you want to project—especially when pitching yourself to your dream company?
The reel that sparked this conversation was about pitching yourself to your dream company—a situation where going above and beyond is almost a necessity. When you’re aiming to join a company that you’re passionate about, simply meeting expectations may not be enough. These companies are looking for employees who bring something extra to the table, who show they’re not just looking for a job but are truly invested in the role and the company’s future.
Actionable Tips to Go Above and Beyond
1. Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send the same resume and cover letter to every job. Customize your application to highlight how your specific skills and experiences align with the needs of the company. For example, if you’re applying to a fashion startup, emphasize your experience in fast-paced, innovative environments.
2. Research the Company: Show that you’ve done your homework. Mention specific projects, initiatives, or values that the company prioritizes in your application or interview. This demonstrates your genuine interest and helps you stand out. Check out our post on how to research a company before an interview for more insights.
3. Offer Solutions, Not Just Skills: When pitching yourself, think about the challenges the company might be facing and how you can help solve them. For example, if the company is expanding its online presence, talk about your experience with digital marketing or e-commerce strategies.
4. Follow Up with Value: After an interview, don’t just send a generic thank-you email. Follow up with something of value, like an article related to a topic discussed during the interview or a brief proposal on how you would approach a challenge the company is facing.
5. Continuous Learning: Invest in your professional development, even if it’s not required by your job. Take courses, attend workshops, and keep up with industry trends. This shows that you’re committed to growing within your field. Our post on professional development offers great tips on how to get started.
6. Show Initiative in Your Current Role: If you’re already employed, going above and beyond can mean taking on new responsibilities, suggesting improvements, or volunteering for cross-functional projects. This not only helps your company but also positions you as a leader and a problem-solver.
7. Network Strategically: Build relationships with industry leaders, mentors, and peers who can offer advice, referrals, or new opportunities. Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts; it’s about creating meaningful connections that can advance your career. Check out our tips on effective networking.
The Long-Term Benefits
The long-term benefits of going above and beyond are often overlooked in the short term. Yes, companies need you, but consider how much more valuable you become when you consistently deliver exceptional work. This isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about building a reputation, expanding your skill set, and setting yourself up for future opportunities.
For instance, in our feature “How to Become a TV Fashion Expert: A Day in the Life With Erica Wark”, we highlighted how industry experts didn’t just settle for meeting expectations—they exceeded them. This commitment to excellence is what propels careers forward and opens doors that might otherwise remain closed.
Finding Your Motivation
It’s important to find what motivates you to go above and beyond. Is it the satisfaction of mastering a new challenge? The thrill of seeing your work recognized? Or maybe it’s the desire to create a lasting impact in your industry. Whatever it is, use it as fuel to push yourself, not just for your company’s sake, but for your own.
Our “Get Hired in Your Dream Job Workbook” includes exercises to help you identify what drives you and how you can align that with your career path. By understanding your motivations, you can approach the idea of going above and beyond with a renewed sense of purpose.
Why Some Employees Are Hesitant to Go the Extra Mile
While we’ve discussed the importance of going above and beyond, it’s also crucial to acknowledge why many of today’s job seekers and employees might be reluctant to put in the extra effort. Understanding these reasons can help both employees and employers navigate the modern workplace more effectively.
1. Burnout and Work-Life Balance
The growing awareness of burnout and the need for work-life balance has led many employees to prioritize their well-being over extra work. The pandemic amplified this shift, as workers reassessed their priorities and recognized the importance of mental and physical health. In this context, going the extra mile can seem unsustainable, leading to a focus on maintaining balance instead.
2. Changing Expectations of Employers
The traditional employer-employee relationship has evolved, with job security and career advancement no longer guaranteed. As job instability and the gig economy become more prevalent, employees may be less inclined to invest extra effort if they don’t see clear long-term benefits. This transactional approach to work can diminish the motivation to go above and beyond.
3. Value Misalignment
Employees who feel disconnected from their company’s values or mission are less likely to go the extra mile. Today’s workforce, particularly younger generations, values alignment with their personal beliefs. When this alignment is missing, employees may focus on fulfilling their job requirements and conserving energy for pursuits that resonate more with their values.
4. The Rise of Quiet Quitting
“Quiet quitting” is a term used to describe employees who do just enough to meet job requirements without overextending themselves. This trend reflects a pushback against the relentless hustle culture and a desire to set boundaries. Quiet quitting can be a form of self-preservation, particularly in environments where extra effort goes unnoticed or unappreciated.
5. Lack of Clear Incentives
When hard work is not recognized or rewarded, employees may question the purpose of going above and beyond. Clear incentives, whether financial, promotional, or in the form of acknowledgment, are crucial for motivating employees to put in the extra effort.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, going above and beyond isn’t just about making your company happy—it’s about taking control of your career and maximizing your potential. Yes, companies need us, but we also need to ensure we’re continually growing, learning, and positioning ourselves for future success. By reframing how we view the concept of going the extra mile, we can find a balance that benefits both our professional aspirations and personal fulfillment.
So, the next time you’re pitching yourself to your dream company, remember that going above and beyond is not just a box to tick—it’s an opportunity to showcase why you’re the best fit for the role, both for now and for the future. For more tips on career growth and navigating the fashion industry, check out our other blog posts and subscribe to our newsletter. Let’s continue pushing boundaries and reaching new heights together.