What Is Your Ancillary Value (AV) To A Company?
A few years ago I was hired as a data manager for a company and in less than two (2) years on the job, I also became the main photographer; graphic designer; videographer; web developer; consultant; video editor, and much more. And this is in addition to my primary role as the sole data manager. I was of immense value to that company. I was saving them many thousands of dollars while providing top-tier services for free. I look at the company today and I still see my ancillary value all throughout the organization. The business cards were designed by me. I played a major role in their web development. I revamped the logo. I even used some of my external partnerships (from my many years as a serial entrepreneur building up partnerships) to get the company cheaper deals on marketing materials. And I wasn’t paid a penny extra.
I know! I know! That’s free labor you say! You are absolutely correct, but here’s the kicker; I cared more about being of value to the company. I mean I already had the skills so why not use them to make the company more valuable?! That’s me thinking like an employer. The more valuable the company is the better it is for all stockholders. I’ve seen that work so I’m not just saying some line you see on CNBC or Bloomberg Television.
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When I’m thinking about joining a company, I think about the value I can bring to the company outside of my primary role. And being a serial entrepreneur for so long I’m so used to wearing a multitude of hats, so it is very natural for me to think with that mindset. It’s almost like a reflex at this point where I do thorough research on the company and make a list of ways in which I can add value outside of the role I’m interviewing for.
If you think that your competitive advantage is that you can write code and know a bunch of different technologies, then you don’t have a competitive advantage. It’s that simple! Go to LinkedIn right now and type in Java, React, Angular, C#, .Net, etc and see how many people claim to know that language, library, or framework. And even if eighty percent (80%) of those individuals just put it on their profile because tech is cool; what about the other twenty percent (20%)? They can code and know a bunch of different technologies just like you so is that still your competitive advantage? Take some time and find your ancillary valuable. I’ve been fortunate enough to have the entrepreneurial mindset so I go out and do a bunch of things and gain REAL hands-on REAL world experience that I can utilize in other fields and at other companies. I know my ancillary value and smart employers/partners are definitely noticing it as well.
