So, you've given yourself a good 'talking to' and decided that 2017 is the year you stop being taken for granted at work.
Good for you!
Staying in the same role year after year can (sometimes) lend itself to both feeling and being taken for granted.
Sure, you know everything about how everything in your business works - you've become indispensable, and that's a great feeling, you bring a HUGE amount of value to the business and the business owners.
But, if the truth be told, it’s tiring to constantly prove yourself when you’d like to think all those years of being a dependable, hardworking person willing to go the extra mile should have already proved that.
Whether you’re stuck in a rut, been passed over for that promotion, or you’re just looking for a little more support and encouragement, work-life can be rough on office managers. Especially the good ones.
Below are 5 ways to stop being taken for granted at work and get the respect and recognition you’ve already earned countless times before.
It can be challenging to self-evaluate since we don’t have much perspective on our own work, but one of the best ways for your workmates and bosses to take you seriously is for you to determine your unique value. Think about your standout qualifications and skills. What would people say makes you worth keeping around? Knowing your value gives you the confidence you need and also helps you implement the other tips we have for you.
This may sound crazy, but if you’re the office "can-do" person, always available at the drop of a hat, people come to expect it, and you’re inadvertently reinforcing their behavior. Become a little less available. Just a little! There’s no need to go overboard with it, but chances are, you can take a step back, chill out a second and still get all of your work done. Test the waters in a small ways and see what happens.
Sadly, constantly talking about how you’re being taken for granted might not make a difference. If your worth isn’t already on display, give yourself opportunities to demonstrate your superhero-esque qualities, especially in front of the decision-makers. Showcase yourself (and don’t even feel bad about it).
You might be the only one with a clear picture of how your work matters, and that’s okay, as long as you’re comfortable in your own skin. Really take the time to "own" what you bring to the table and your confidence will reach new heights. Others won’t be able to ignore the strength and positivity you’re exuding.
When all else fails, schedule a meeting with your boss. Rather than bottling it all up inside and feeling resentful and unappreciated, bring concrete facts and figures to the table. Ask for a raise or a promotion when the case allows for it. Avoid misunderstandings by clearly, directly communicating with your management team. Share your concerns in a professional manner and avoid blaming anyone in the office. People are much more likely to listen when you’re being calm and reasonable.
Maybe you’re handling too many roles, really tackling three positions instead of one. Rather than pretending everything is fine and burning out before you even give other options a chance, suggest hiring new team members or delegating some of your responsibilities. With supportive resources, you really could be in this thing for the long haul.
And that's exactly what your boss would want, they'd (usually) much rather work through these issues than lose you...
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