Are You a Hard Working Manager and Not Getting Noticed?

Visibility or getting noticed at the office is essential if you want to be recognized for your excellent work. More than that, it is also necessary so that you can get promoted and take on interesting new assignments. All this happens only if they have you in their minds.

A lot of us, me included, think that if we do a good job and work hard, we will be rewarded. We hate to beat our own drums.  This is especially true if you come from another culture. Unfortunately, life is not always fair. Here are a few suggestions to help you advance your career and maintain your dignity.

BUILD A NETWORK

There is an old saying: “If you want a friend, be a friend.”

In this case, it means help others and they will help you. Then you will have visibility.

Build alliances with people throughout the company. When some exciting new project comes up they will tell you or even recommend you. You do the same for them. Listen to shop talk and contribute your part.

Take the time to sit down at lunch or a coffee break and talk with a wide range of your fellow employees. Even, go out for a drink after work. Don’t just sit at your desk.

ANALYZE WHAT THE COMPANY NEEDS

Try to figure out where the company is going and what skills will be needed. Think about how you could contribute in areas where there will be a shortage. Make sure that you are ready to advance with the company to the next level. That will add to your visibility if you make sure that people know what you are thinking.

Try to combine competences. For example, if you are a specialist in IT, see if you can develop a soft or non-technical skill like coaching. Be flexible and willing to take on challenging new assignments.

DOCUMENT YOUR WORK

Keep a record of all the work you do. Collect compliments from satisfied clients or supervisors. Make sure that you have a handy way to refresh your mind regarding your accomplishments. When it is time for a performance appraisal or writing a new resume, you will be ready to show exactly what you have been doing.

BE PATIENT

Build a long term view of your career and where you want to do with it.

LOOK FOR A MENTOR

Few people get to the top without the help of some that are already there. Look for someone who could take an interest in your career. It has to be someone who likes you and is impressed with your ability. You in turn may be able to help that person. Then, when the time comes, and you are in that upper level, give someone else a boost.

COMPETENCE COUNTS

All your efforts to succeed will collapse unless you do competent work. Keep up to date in your field and add new skills. This includes being a good people person.

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER:

1. RELATIONSHIPS COUNT
2. ADD VALUE TO YOUR COMPANY
3. BE PATIENT