Ambitious?
That also means developing breadth!
Blog by
Paul Bongers
Nowadays, everything has to be faster, better, higher… Any ambitious employee has goals, climbs the ladder quickly, and wants more and more. It’s no wonder that young people experience a lot of stress these days. That brings me to the question: ‘What is really important in our careers?’ And following that: ‘Who sets these far-reaching ambitions?’ Is it the employer? Is it yourself? Your friends? A good moment to reflect on your motivation: ‘What genuinely makes me happy? Truly happy.’ I now know what gets me excited. And that’s growth—specifically, growth in breadth!
Ready for new impulses?
In August 2009, I started at MEPD as a Jobsearcher. I had experience in the staffing industry and was ready for a new career step. I interviewed candidates in an outplacement program and matched them with companies. Due to how busy our branch was, I helped the career advisors wherever I could. After an internal training program, I started coaching candidates myself—both individually and in groups. I found—and still find—the variety amazing!
When the question came up to organize our products and services, I raised my hand. Great, I love to think along! I was ready for new impulses. A new role awaited me—as product manager. I now alternate this role with my job as career advisor.
Ambition isn’t necessarily about climbing higher
My drive became increasingly clear. I love dynamism, broadening my horizons, changes, and challenges. I am curious, eager to learn, and enthusiastic. I also work in an environment that encourages me to think about my own development. Especially in the form, ‘What makes you happy, Paul?’. I’m allowed to think about that. And that’s stimulating. But, I realize, also quite a privilege!
And still with a clear focus on ambition. But right now, that ambition isn’t necessarily about growing into a management or leadership position. For me, ambition means doing my work with passion, enjoying my tasks, and excelling in them. I see an ambitious employee as someone who does their work with passion, is driven, and happy. In other words: their intrinsic motivation is tapped into.
So, seek out that drive, that sparkle
As an employer, you benefit from this too. So, should everyone look for that drive? Yes. How? Actually, it’s simple: Pay attention to your people. See what they’re good at and what makes them happy. Don’t force them into a role where you’d like to see them; like foreman or team leader. That’s actually stressful for a person. Ask your people. Where does your heart lie? What could you talk about endlessly? And watch out! When do they get that sparkle in their eyes? Want to see it, recognize it, and then encourage it.
The advantage of approaching your people this way? It brings your organization something. Something big, priceless! These motivated people stay with you. They’re engaged with you. They know your organization well— and you know them. Happy and enthusiastic employees have a positive impact on your customers. And on their surroundings. And this is invaluable. There are no better ambassadors than your own employees.
Put the ambitious employee on the map!
That specialist who wants to become even better at what he already does. Wonderful, help him! Embrace your employee who gets excited about implementing innovations. And that employee who loves new developments and changes. In the future, we can’t have too many of these types. Let people do what they’re passionate about, what they’re good at, and what makes them happy. Then you have ambition in-house—congratulations!
Do you know what makes your employee happy? Do you know his motivations? An assessment provides insight into a person’s personality, talents, and ambitions. Come and have a chat.
Paul Bongers
Product manager
Career advisor
I have experience on ‘both sides of the table’; as an employer and as an employee. That enables me to empathize very well with the questions of both parties and to offer practical solutions.
