Soft skills

Overcoming ‘under-appreciated’ feelings

Pallavi Jha writes on how one should cope with lack of appreciation at the workplace

Most people have a misconception that money is the number one motivator for everyone. According to Maslow, a well-known researcher on motivation, there are general types of needs that motivate people to act—physiological, safety, love and esteem. As one desire is satisfied, another pops up to take its place. Money and job security fall in the first two categories and are easily satisfied. However, the more important needs that people crave for are love and esteem, which are achieved by feeling recognised and appreciated.

At one time or another in our career, we feel as if we are not appreciated by our organisation. Perhaps we do not get the most-ideal job while we watch our colleagues tackle amazing opportunities. We may feel our supervisor does not think we can handle more responsibilities, although in our minds we are hard workers. In the world of business, there are highs and lows, and it is important to remember that we should accept the lows and take the highs with a grain of salt. Here are some important points to remember when you feel under-appreciated.

Be a team player

Understand that not every task which you are given will be enjoyable. Although it is difficult to see your colleagues receiving enjoyable projects, understand that your job is important to the company’s success also. Even if it seems mindless, your assignment is important and it needs to be done. Take pride in your assignment and do it to the best of your ability.

Be positive

It is easy to complain when you receive a task that you feel is not up to your potential. Take it in stride, however, and realise that other projects will also be coming your way. Accept the fact that sometimes we need to do tasks that we do not enjoy in order to get things done and meet deadlines. It is alright to feel frustrated, but just remember that you are a professional and that everyone encounters this at one time or another.

Express how you feel

In this circumstance, you may also want to talk to your supervisor about how you are feeling. Be careful not to complain; instead let them know that you are ready to take on tasks that are more complex. Perhaps you could help with other jobs when you get a break from your assignment to show that you are capable of handling more responsibilities. It may help to explain to your supervisor that you are ready and efficient to help with anything else when needed.

Getting appreciated

People have their own ideas and opinions in the workplace. Getting everyone to listen and consider each other’s view with an open mind can be difficult. The main endeavour must be to ‘gain’ or ‘win’ this respect. We cannot impose our opinion on others. It is said that people support an environment they help create. When people respect your ideas and agree with you, they will support your initiatives. There are techniques to promote open communication.

Different perspective

Your colleagues may be comparing your ideas to theirs. Try to see your proposal from their perspectives. Imagine the questions that your co-workers may have, and how you would answer them.

Be sympathetic

Be sympathetic with the other person’s ideas and desires. Understand that your colleagues can be just as enthusiastic regarding their work as much as yourself. Being receptive to their opinions can bring on a new perspective you haven’t considered, and will assist your colleagues in keeping an open mind to your ideas once they realise you are sincerely interested in theirs. Perhaps you can even incorporate each other’s suggestions into your project.

Value ideas

Never say, ‘You’re wrong.’ Your colleagues have their own views and ideas, and want to be heard as much as you do. While their opinions may differ from your own, that doesn’t necessarily make them incorrect or useless. Negative comments will create defensive walls and arguments, and essentially cause others to tune out. Be attentive to what your colleagues are saying, and sincerely consider their proposals.

Market yourself

Be enthusiastic about the work you have done, and back it up with facts and examples. Your colleagues will appreciate your well-thought-out plan and enthusiasm, and give it the credibility it deserves.

By incorporating these techniques in your next meeting, you will begin to get appreciation from your colleagues for your suggestions, and learn to become a better listener as well.

Pallavi Jha is Managing Director, Dale Carnegie Training India.

Email: pallavi_jha@dalecarnegie.com