Susan,

Great post! All are great points, but I especially like point 2; "Become an Expert on a Subject Matter". I have relayed this same point to new hires that find themselves in distress mode, not really knowing what to do or where to fit in. I say, "What's something within your objectives that you both like and are good at?" It usually doesn't take long for a response, in which I can then reply, "Great! Become GREAT at that! Be irreplaceable when it comes to ___!"

I find it to be a win/win because you are then "choosing" to spend time developing skills in an area of interest, eventually donned "the expert", all while solidifying your spot within the organization and within your team.

Who doesn't want to like what their doing, receive recognition, and create more job security? In my mind, that's just what Becoming an Expert does!