Workers nationwide say they feel unappreciated at work. In fact, according to Inc. magazine, more than 60 percent of workers feel unappreciated on the job.
But there are ways to make yourself and your work shine.
1. Be positive and approachable.
Accept assignments with a confident smile, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Greet others cheerfully. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Stay out of the gossip mill. Show others that you value your company and your job.
2. Stay organized. Keep your obligations and deadlines top of mind. Keep your desk tidy.
3. If you want greater responsibility, talk to your boss. Summarize what you have achieved in the past and explain why you think you could contribute more.
4. Lift others up. Your colleagues are more likely to recognize your work when you notice and appreciate theirs.
5. Take the initiative. Offer possible solutions to problems when you see them — don't wait for your boss to assign a task.
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader’s money, real estate, and business coverage.
