Public recognition and private recognition are both cardinal practices to make employees feel valued. Private recognition through bonuses, raises and lifestyle benefits all work well, especially for employees who prefer to stay out of the limelight.
This includes becoming an expert in your field or asking helpful questions at a team meeting. Each contribution that leads to an efficient, consistent or successful outcome adds value. It's important to strive to add value to your workplace to show your dedication to the company and its success.
It's not unusual. At some point in our working lives, we feel like our manager or coworkers just don't appreciate us. Whether you're doing great work and not getting credit for it, or people at work generally don't give you the support you need, there are many signs that you're being undervalued.
Being taken for granted at work (HOW TO FEEL VALUED)
18 related questions found
Should I tell my boss I don't feel valued?
If you feel undervalued in your position, being proactive and talking to your manager about your perspective is important for ensuring that you have a positive experience in the workplace and continue to experience growth in your career.
However, if your authority is constantly being questioned, criticized, or skirted, you should probably take note — especially if your adversaries are on the same level or below you on the hierarchy. That's a sign that your coworkers don't take you seriously at all.
If someone doesn't thank you for your hard work, acknowledge your effort, talk to you, or show interest in your actions, they may be taking advantage of you. This behavior may make you feel unappreciated, insecure, unloved, or sad. In this case, counseling or a change in the relationship may be in order.
That idea goes both ways--if people ask for your opinion, even on small matters, it means they feel close to you (in some way), and they respect you enough to value your opinion. Think about how many people ask for your input on a regular basis around the office--the answer will be telling.
Actions such as gossiping, bullying, and inappropriate tone are included in disrespectful behavior from employees in the workplace. Disrespect at work may arise in any work setting. Individual irritation and system failures can mostly play a role in disrespectful behavior.
Valued employees work harder, stay with the company longer, and are more committed. It can lead them in turn to feel confident in themselves and their position within the company.
Being appreciated is a way to feel that we're important to others; we make a difference in their lives. We are valued — or even cherished. It is validating and meaningful to hear that what we've done something thing good or that who we are is appreciated. As human beings, we long for connection.
How do you know if your boss thinks highly of you?
They provide constructive criticism
If your manager offers constructive advice, it's likely they value your work ethic and want to help you grow as an employee. A supervisor who provides clear and effective commentary is showing they believe in you and want to give you the knowledge you need to succeed.
If you're doing the same work as someone else who's being paid more than you, or if you're doing more work than someone else who's being paid more than you, this may be a sign that you're not appreciated at work.
Respect Others—The most important way to gain respect from others is to show it first. Treat everyone at work, from those with the highest-ranking positions to the lowest, with common courtesy. Even when critiquing performance or letting someone go, make sure you are considerate and appreciative.
How to professionally tell your boss you feel disrespected?
Express clearly how your boss's jerk-like behavior is affecting you. Remind your boss that they can help you perform at your best when they treat you professionally and with respect. You may also want to consider making an appointment to talk to your boss about why you're being treated so poorly.
