It’s no secret that many members of the workforce feel undervalued. Despite throwing themselves into their jobs, these individuals see little in the way of recognition or respect from their respective employers. While it’s true that many employers are simply unappreciative by nature, it’s also possible that certain actions on your end are preventing you from getting ahead at work. So, if you regularly engage in any of the following behaviors, take care to get a handle on them posthaste.
You’re Frequently Late to Work
It should come as no surprise that most employers frown on habitual tardiness. Not only does it undermine their rules, but it also suggests a clear lack of dependability on your part. After all, if your colleagues are able to arrive at the office by a certain time, why should you be held to the same standard? Even if you excel at your work, most bosses are unlikely to overlook frequent incidents of lateness.
In addition to preventing you from getting ahead, being a habitual latecomer can result in strict disciplinary action. While some employers are willing to let the occasional late arrival slide, they often become far less forgiving in the face of repeat tardiness. In fact, some businesses only allow employees a set number of late arrivals before consequences are imposed. Depending on how late you are and how frequently you fail to arrive at work on time, you may eventually find yourself faced with such severe repercussions as suspension and job loss.
If your sleep schedule is the problem, give yourself a bedtime that allows for seven to eight hours of sleep and stick to it. Alternatively, if a long, unpredictable commute is the culprit, consider relocating to a residence that’s much closer to your place of business.
You Don’t Meet Deadlines
Deadlines are an important part of virtually any job, and when people fail to meet them, it causes problems for everyone. Furthermore, if you develop a reputation for blowing off deadlines, you’re liable to have trouble hanging onto your job. With this in mind, regard every deadline that comes your way as if it’s been set in stone. Additionally, if you have concerns about a deadline, make them known at the outset, not the night before an assignment is due.
You Contribute Very Little to Group Projects
It’s easy to see why so many of us feel a sense of trepidation when it comes to group projects. Depending on the size of the group and how familiar you are with its various members, coming to a consensus and making meaningful progress can be an uphill battle. Still, if you hang back and refuse to be an active participant in these projects, the rest of the group is likely to take notice and potentially hold it against you.
Mind you, this doesn’t mean you’ll need to assume a leadership role in every group project you’re required to take part in. However, you should make a point of regularly offering your input, making contributions whenever possible, and generally doing your fair share of the work. As you’re likely to find, a steady amount of participation can go a long way in most professional settings.
You Show No Interest in Your Colleagues
If your goal is to build meaningful relationships with your colleagues, it’s important that you take an interest in them. This means being an active listener whenever they speak and remembering things that are said to you. For example, if a boss or coworker is celebrating a birthday or significant professional accomplishment, you can boost your reputation by organizing a small gathering and/or purchasing an appropriate gift for them. Should you ever find yourself at a loss for a suitable gift, start shopping around for dependable luxury pens.
There’s no big mystery behind why so many members of the workforce feel unappreciated. After all, given how much time and effort most of us pour into our jobs, it’s only natural that we’d be disappointed to see our hard work go unrecognized. Although general ingratitude on the part of employers is often to blame, there’s a chance that your lack of recognition stems from certain actions on your part. If you suspect this to be the case, take care to get a handle on the various behaviors discussed above.