5 Things A Janitor Can Do To Become A Manager

The unemployment situation in the country has led to the increase in the number of underemployed individuals. Many with very great and high level qualifications, who had waited long enough for jobs and had none coming their ways, have resolved to accepting low paying and belittling jobs. It’s no longer news that graduates are now being hired as security guards, janitors, cleaners amongst others.

The good news here is whatever role you are in an organisation, you can be become the boss. The followings can be of help:

1. Have a clearly defined vision – How you see yourself matters. The first thing to do is to have a clear vision for yourself. Regardless of what your present role is, what you see yourself becoming will determine a lot about you – What you will do, learn, act on and react to. Seeing yourself in your preferred role will make you to, sometimes unconsciously, develop some capabilities and attitudes that will show to people that you’re fit for the role. So, get the right vision first!

2. Have the qualification requirement – Don’t wait until the opportunity come, prepare ahead of it! If having a bachelor’s degree is a requirement, get one. Many universities in Nigeria and even abroad now offer affordable distance learning programmes. Open university centers are also widely available. If Masters, MBA or any professional qualification is required, get one. Prepare ahead!

3. Solve problems creatively – Managers are not hired to work but to use others to solve problems. Becoming a manager starts with what you’re doing now – the common problems that come with your job. Don’t solve them like others, solve them in a way that differentiates you. Stand out! Take every problem that comes your way as an opportunity to sell yourself. Did you notice someone having difficulty using the printer or photocopier, help resolve it quickly if you know how to. Be passionate about helping others solve critical problems and don’t just solve them, solve them creatively!

4. Sell your skills – Don’t wait till you get the job you want, start using your skills even in your current role. Are you a cleaner and there is no notice that tells people how to use the toilets? That’s an opportunity for you to sell your PowerPoint skills – you can prepare a slide on “Tips on how to use the Toilet” or “How to Safely Use the Toilets”. Prepare the slide the best way you can. Or do you work in a place where they still write daily rosters on paper, sell your Excel Skills and prepare a well-designed table instead.

5. Be respectful – Being respectful is not being subservient or a sycophant. Greet everyone with smile, be welcoming, willing to help others always, give much regards to work rules and in conflict, resolve amicable and professionally. Don’t be among those who discuss the issues of other staff. Respect other people’s views – religious, cultural and social views.

http://joblytics.com.ng/blog/2018/02/18/5-things-a-janitor-needs-to-do-to-become-a-manager/

cc: davide470, Lalasticlala, uboma