It is included among the basic human needs to be listed in the well-known Maslow Pyramid: the need for appreciation is a necessity concrete for every individual.
Immersed in a professional context, every day we seek favorable feedback from peers or superiors to make sense of our efforts and celebrate successes.
Often, however, positive reinforcement never seems to arrive: the boss, the colleagues, the team seem not to notice our good performances, making us feel frustrated.
Working in a context where there is little appreciation and recognition, in the long run, can extinguish the flame of motivation and remove the mirage of a promotion.
If you think you are not valued enough in the workplace, here are some concrete and diplomatic advice to show off smartly and without self-celebrating.
Refresh the boss’s memory
We frequently talk about enlightened and empathetic leaders, but reality doesn’t always meet expectations.
The “average boss” often does not pay attention to human emotions, neglecting the need for esteem and appreciation perceived by employees.
It is not always the desired attitude: the numerous commitments and pressure from above to which he is subjected can make him quickly forget the good work you have done for the Company.
To get the compliments you are due to remind him how many excellent goals you have achieved: set a moment for discussion and dialogue with him, presenting yourself prepared and organized with a list of the latest successes.
Set a review of the last semester as the objective of the meeting in which to retrace your work and get advice on how to improve.
In the face of recent positive results, the boss will have a clear picture of your talent and become fully aware of the good work you are doing for the Company.
Like for like?
It is a powerful social mechanism that is also applied effectively in reality: to receive appreciation, show interest in the work of others.
Congratulate a colleague who just submitted a winning project and show that you’ve noticed his talent. Don’t be surprised if, after thanking you, the other expresses esteem and appreciation for your work.
This virtuous exchange of admiration is a very useful process for generating optimism, enthusiasm, and confidence within a team or department.
In order not to weaken it, however, use it sparingly by identifying the truly excellent cases to celebrate and choosing resources in search of positive stimuli to increase commitment.
Valuing teamwork
Perhaps more important than personal appreciation is the enhancement of the work of an entire team: if you are leading a team, showcasing the successes of the group you coordinate means also illuminate your talent as a leader and justify your position, consolidating it.
To emphasize the professional qualities of the team, without resorting to self-congratulations, keep in mind simple daily precautions.
For example, always insert the complete “credits” in each job, mentioning the names of all contributors, and invite the team to personally present each project, to emphasize it properly.
Always sponsor your team, mentioning their strengths on every useful occasion. And don’t forget to also value your role as leader and coordinator of the team, taking the credit you deserve.
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