Want to be truly essential to your business? Then do these things

Every ambitious person wants to be an asset to their business. Exceed expectations and not only can you enjoy longevity in your role, but also throughout your career. But some people simply look to work harder to get ahead. The danger here is overworking simply to make that favourable impression - and it's just not sustainable.

So what should you actually do instead?

 1. Work smart

If you work so tirelessly that you burn out, you become a worry to your employer. Over-workers tend to be less efficient, snappier and harder to work with. The tendency also suggests that you have something to prove, are avoiding things at home or simply can't manage your time. Remember, your career's a marathon. Rather than attempting to do it all, work out what you bring to your employer that's unique. This is the way that entrepreneurs think - and you need to see yourself as the product.

Forget doing standard things brilliantly. Find something that no one else can do, and do it superbly well. If this isn't possible, look at a task that people don't want to do, or that they can't do efficiently. You'll start to get noticed for the right reasons.

2. Don't overwhelm yourself

Prioritise what you are doing and start every day with a streamlined task list, by priority order. Some experts suggest writing a to-do list before slashing it in half once - and then again. Always focus on what needs doing most and begin with that while your energy is at its highest. This way you'll always get the essentials done.

3. Retain pace

If your workplace is fast paced, make sure you learn how to manage your own flow effectively so that you aren't rushing. Constant internal stress can wear you down and also make you less effective. Work quickly and don't compromise on quality. Remember the adage about the busy fool! The calmer you remain when approaching work, the more you'll actually achieve over time.

4. Don't make things worse

Successful individuals are invariably problem-solvers. They don't look to find problems or to stop others from succeeding. They are friendly and helpful. They are personable. If you can be that person, then people will always want you around. Remember, everyone wants to enjoy work and to find solutions to make their lives easier. Funnily enough, you don't even need to be working that hard yourself to become that solution-finder and motivation-giver that people naturally gravitate towards!

5. Set boundaries

Some people just can't say no. They end up being taken advantage of - gaining extra work, short notice deadlines and all the least popular tasks. They tend to get the least praise too as others can take advantage of them. Be the person who sets clear boundaries about what you'll do and what you expect from others. This will earn you respect and help you to prioritise on the things that you are tasked with, which will get you ahead and allow you to demonstrate your true worth.

Follow these steps and you'll start to become far clearer about where your true value and worth really lie!