Oftentimes, individuals work so hard to get their ideal position and once they’ve got it, they feel that the hard work is over. Think again. With massive layoffs occurring all over the world and the economy growing increasingly unstable, it’s important to make the most of your current position. I’ve put together a few ways you can maximize your experience

Document accomplishments

Always keep a catalog of tasks, accomplishments and work done on behalf of the company. Be sure to record every promotion and be sure to revise this list as more is accomplished. In fact, it would also be wise to keep a subfolder (via email) for correspondence and updates that can benefit a resume. No matter what, do NOT rely on memory when it comes to professional development, as you are bound to forget specific detail later on. You will find that having things organized and documented can be a huge benefit in the long run.

Accept every new opportunity

Consider being exposed to as many new experiences as possible. If the boss asks for someone to conduct research or take part in a reviewing a client project, do not think twice about it. The correct answer is always a resounding “I’ll do it!” Projects, in particular, look great on a resume. Also, make a point of getting out of the ‘comfort zone’. Volunteering to do presentations, for example, is a great way to overcome the fear of public speaking. Finally, view business travel as a great opportunity to both see the world and bolster professional value.

Seek additional training

If new opportunities aren’t presenting themselves, then create them. A good way is to deliberately go outside your job description and ask to be trained in other areas of specialty. Thus, utilizing the opportunity to gain new skills and solidify dedication to the company. To avoid coming off like an overachiever, wait for the load to lighten up, and then offer up assistance to departments that need it most. Make sure to emphasize both teamwork and professional development when fulfilling the opportunity.

Build your network

One of the most overlooked perks of working in an office is the fact that employees are constantly exposed to accomplished, like-minded professionals. It is crucial to make full use of this network and develop lasting connections that reach beyond the office. If applicable, draw upon tour client base to make new contacts. Furthermore, never pass up an opportunity for mentorship. Tag along to lunch with the president, attend an event with the boss, or even arrive early to help with a deadline project that another team member is crucially working on. Performance goes a long way, and will be the stamp for any future employment opportunities.

Join a social committee

Getting involved in the office culture is a great way to extend responsibilities and gain expose to new opportunities. Volunteering for a social committee is not just about writing jokes for the company newsletter and putting up decorations on holidays. The work also involves maintaining a budget, raising funds and organizing charity events. Keep in mind that those tasks on the social committee are considered legitimate work experience by most employers. Besides, no resume is complete without a few community activities to demonstrate initiative and team spirit.

These are a few starting tips, however it is solely up to the you to maximize your ultimate potential. Plenty of opportunities lie within the walls of an office, and many may be sitting in the next cubicle over.