We’ve all heard the narrative: “Join our company, and you’re part of the family.” Many businesses try to build a sense of loyalty and community. They offer benefits, throw in a few perks, and create a work environment that feels warm and inviting. However, beneath the surface, the reality is far different. The truth is, companies often prioritize profits over people, and when it comes down to it, you are ultimately in charge of your own career.
The Family Myth vs. Reality
It’s easy to get swept up in the idea that the company you work for is like a family. You feel supported, included, and even valued. But here’s where things get uncomfortable. In the real world, businesses are more like sports teams than families.
Think of it this way: in a sports team, your value is tied to your performance. If someone else can do your job better, you’re easily replaced. Similarly, while a company might talk about loyalty, when business needs change—layoffs, restructuring, or even shifts in strategy—the personal connections take a back seat.
A shocking story underscores this. A long-time employee who had dedicated years to the company found themselves denied paid time off after the death of a family member. Despite their loyalty, the company chose profits over empathy. This example highlights a sobering truth: loyalty is often disregarded when the business faces tough times.
Why You Have to Take Charge of Your Own Career
Realizing that your career is your responsibility is the first and most important step. You can’t always rely on the company to have your back. Even in smaller, more tight-knit organizations where the “family vibe” feels authentic, business decisions often override personal relationships.
This doesn’t mean you need to be cynical about every company. There are definitely companies out there that value their employees and foster a positive, supportive work environment. But it’s important to be realistic. At the end of the day, businesses exist to make money and grow. The choices they make may not always benefit you as an individual, even if they’re necessary for the company’s survival.
We talk extensively about this topic on our podcast.
Become the CEO of Your Career
Instead of waiting for your company to look out for your career, treat your career like your own business. You are the CEO. This means investing in yourself, expanding your skill set, and actively creating opportunities for growth. Here’s how you can take charge and ensure that your career stays on the upward track, even when the company you work for might not be able to promise the same.
1. Invest in Learning and Growth
Your skills today may be outdated in five years, so staying relevant is key. The job market and industries are constantly evolving, so you need to keep up. The best way to do this is through continuous learning.
- Take courses in areas that interest you or will help you advance in your current role.
- Stay updated on industry trends by reading blogs, attending webinars, or following thought leaders.
- Broaden your skill set by learning new tools, technologies, or even picking up a side skill like coding, marketing, or project management. The more you know, the more valuable you become.
2. Network Like a Pro
Networking is not just about attending boring events or adding people on LinkedIn. It’s about forming genuine relationships that can open doors when you need them the most. Here’s how you can network effectively:
- Join online communities or professional groups in your field and engage in conversations.
- Reach out to people whose work you admire and ask for advice or insights.
- Build relationships, not just connections. People will help you more if they know and like you.
Networking can lead to new opportunities and can also keep you informed about what’s going on in your industry.
3. Don’t Ignore the Power of Side Hustles
A side hustle isn’t just a way to make extra cash; it can teach you valuable skills and provide a safety net in case your main job falls through. Here’s why side hustles matter:
- They help you develop new skills outside of your day job, like entrepreneurship, marketing, or customer service.
- They boost your confidence and can challenge you in ways your main job doesn’t.
- They give you options. If your main job ever gets affected by layoffs, restructuring, or any other unforeseen circumstances, a side hustle can offer a reliable backup income.
A side hustle can be the training ground for your future career, or even the path to a full-time business.
4. Show Off Your Achievements
Don’t be shy about promoting your accomplishments. Too many people sit quietly, waiting for recognition. Instead, make sure your hard work is visible. Here’s how:
- Update your resume regularly, even when you’re not actively job hunting. Keep track of your achievements, promotions, and new skills.
- Build a portfolio to showcase your work and demonstrate your value to others.
- Keep your LinkedIn profile fresh with relevant information about your career and successes.
By keeping your profile up-to-date, you’re always prepared for new opportunities.
5. Focus on Soft Skills
While technical skills are important, don’t forget to work on your soft skills. These are the abilities that make you easy to work with, like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
- Employers value emotional intelligence. How you communicate, collaborate, and solve problems can be just as important as what you know.
- Work on being a well-rounded individual. A balance of hard and soft skills will make you a more attractive candidate for promotion or job opportunities.
6. Become a Top Performer
Always strive to be the best in your role. Don’t just meet expectations—exceed them.
- Look for ways to take initiative, improve processes, or help the company reach its goals.
- Go above and beyond in your job, whether it’s staying late to finish a project or finding innovative solutions to challenges.
Being known as someone who consistently delivers will keep you in high demand, whether within your current company or at another one.
7. Set and Follow Clear Career Goals
The key to taking control of your career is having a clear direction. Start by defining what you want and how you’ll get there.
- Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps. Each achievement will get you closer to your ultimate career vision.
- Regularly review and adjust your goals to make sure they’re still aligned with what you truly want.
Balancing Loyalty to Yourself and Your Company
Company loyalty is a tricky subject. While it’s great to feel valued by your employer, don’t forget that companies prioritize their own survival. Your job is not guaranteed, and the company’s decisions can change on a dime.
To protect your career, you have to be smart. It’s not about being disloyal—it’s about being strategic. Be proactive in your learning, networking, and skill-building. And remember, a side hustle can be a game-changer, giving you a cushion and even potentially opening up a whole new career path.
In Conclusion: Company loyalty should be approached with a clear mind. While it’s good to feel valued by your employer, you must understand that your career is ultimately in your hands. Focus on investing in yourself, building your skills, and creating opportunities. By doing this, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the unpredictable job market and build a successful career, no matter what happens with your current employer.
