Some managers place a priority on recognizing the achievements of their staff members. However, sometimes that doesn't occur naturally. If not, here are five ways you can get the recognition you desire.
1. Keep a Record Of Your Achievements
If your managers aren't documenting your achievements, nothing is stopping you from doing so yourself. Your notes may end up being an excellent record of your performance, whether you use the information to ask for a raise or use it in a job interview. Every week, set aside time to write down your achievements. Be sure to include those you are most satisfied with and use data to back up your point of view. If you work on a team of court reporters Bend, for example, you can note the dates you showed up to court early so that your equipment was in order. If your reports have a high level of accuracy or you recently obtained a diploma in stenography, you can note that as well. A record of your accomplishments allows you to be ready at a moment's notice if your boss asks to meet with you. You can also keep your record for your next performance review.
2. Provide Updates During Meetings
During your regular staff meetings, be sure to speak up and let your coworkers know your progress on the projects you're working on. Let them know about any successes or challenges you face, your plan of action and estimated completion dates. Ask any relevant questions and offer to assist on projects when you have the time. This simple action opens the lines of communication with others and lets your manager know you take your work seriously and are prepared to be held accountable.
3. Request a One-On-One Meeting With Your Boss
Rather than wait for your boss to ask for a meeting, take the initiative to request one yourself. It's an excellent way to promote transparency and keep your manager up to date. You can also use the time to request performance checks. Ask your boss if there's anything you should be working on or where you should place your priorities. Ask your manager if there is a preferred schedule on which you can send project updates. If you don't meet in person very often, you can send email updates between meetings to keep your schedule — and your associated accomplishments — in front of your manager's eyes.
4. Work With Others Outside Your Department
If you have the chance to collaborate with other departments on a project, take the opportunity. Working with people you don't normally interact with lets you collaborate with those who have fresh perspectives. Maybe a manager outside your department will observe your skills and professionalism and let your boss know. Working alongside people outside your department can broaden your overall knowledge of company procedures and best practices. It also increases your professional network.
5. Consider Asking For Recognition
Once you have had time to build up evidence of your hard work and achievements, you can approach your manager and ask for feedback. If you feel you deserve recognition, you may consider making the bold move of asking for it. Not all managers are inclined to hand out praise or reward employees for a job well done, but if prompted, they may eagerly recognize the achievements of their employees. Asking for recognition doesn't have to be an aggressive move. You can simply check in and ask, "How has my performance been over the past six months? Is there anything you'd like me to do differently? Am I on par with the expectations of this position?" In this way, you've opened the door to a conversation that can lead to recognition — or an opportunity for improvement.
Conclusion
Getting the recognition you want can happen even if your manager doesn't make the first move. Consider trying these tactics to see if they help. At minimum, they can open the door to better communication, and perhaps they will lead to more recognition than you anticipated.