After reading this article so many years ago, I learned a new workplace term that they’re using over at IBM. "Fungible" is a word used to describe workers who are “virtually indistinguishable from others” in terms of the value of their contributions in the workplace.
You see, IBM’s study is enabling them to identify top performers from average ones, with the latter being fungible—and I would assume that translates into expendable as well. In a time where layoffs continue to make the headlines, I guarantee that management teams all over the country are getting in rooms and saying, “Who’s fungible on the payroll right now?”
Okay, so they are most likely not using the term—but they are having that discussion, I assure you.
So, what does this mean for you and your career? It means now, more than ever, you need to stand out. If you blend in, you’re at risk. But if you make yourself indispensable—consistently delivering results, building key relationships, and owning your professional development—you become the person they can’t afford to lose.
The goal in today’s job market isn't just to stay employed. It's to be seen as irreplaceable. And that requires intentionality, strategy, and a deep understanding of the value you bring to the table.
How To Be Indispensable (Not Fungible)
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Employees must get on the ball and start doing two things if they want to keep their jobs:
- Produce quantifiable results that tie to the financial success of the company
- Market their success to those who determine if they are fungible
So, if you’ve been on autopilot when it comes to assessing your professional strengths, building your career identity, and marketing your personal brand (if you are unfamiliar with the career development terms I just used, suffice to say you’ve been on autopilot), then I encourage you to get started.
Start by identifying the specific skills and accomplishments that differentiate you from your peers. Then, find ways to align those strengths with your company’s current goals—especially the ones that impact revenue, customer retention, and operational efficiency. Remember, in today's competitive job market, being indispensable means being visible, valuable, and vocal about your contributions.
It takes a lot more to get and keep a good job these days, and there’s a whole new way to manage your career. If you need help learning how to be indispensable in your career so you don't end up fungible, check out our Free Resource Center today. Getting the career help you need has never been easier.
