Nurturing Self-Worth: 4 Ways to Become Valued at Work

November 29, 2023 | Work , Appreciation , Strategies , Value

Don't feel as appreciated or valued at work as you should? Most of us don't. Here are 4 steps you can take.

Nurturing Self-Worth: 4 Ways to Become Valued at Work

You know that amazing feeling, right? Stepping into the office or firing up your computer at home, knowing that you are truly valued and appreciated as a member of the team. It’s like that perfect cup of coffee that warms you up and gets you ready to conquer the day.

But have you ever wondered how feeling appreciated actually impacts our work? Well, research shows that when we feel appreciated, our overall productivity flows (source: Research Study). Employee appreciation goes way beyond token gestures or occasional praise. It’s all about fostering an environment that thrives on positivity and ongoing exchange of positive feedback. Because let’s face it, when people feel valued, they naturally open up, showcase their best selves, and are always eager to find new ways to demonstrate their worth in such a supportive atmosphere. (source: Research Study)

Click here for an overview of the 4 unique ways to become more valued and appreciated at work

Demonstrating Value in Your Work: The Practical Steps

Admit it: We all want our work to get noticed. But it’s not always about being louder or working harder. Sometimes, it’s about tuning into the expectations of your role while also tuning out the noise. Let’s break down how you can illuminate your contributions without burning out.

  1. Understand Your Role: The Work Journey

    It’s really easy to get stuck in the day-to-day grind of your job and lose sight of the broader picture. What is your job, really? What do people expect from you? These aren’t just fancy HR mumbo jumbo - this is your roadmap. Try this: set aside 15 minutes at the start of every week, grab a cup of coffee, and just think about your role. Jot down your responsibilities on one side of a piece of paper, and your current contributions on the other side. Compare them, and see where you’re matching up and where you’re not. It’s not about scolding yourself for not doing enough. It’s just about orienting yourself and keeping your compass pointed in the right direction.

    Let’s say you’re working as a marketing coordinator for some tech start-up. On paper, your role includes managing social media channels, updating the company website, and coordinating marketing events. But the bigger picture unfolds when you realize your company is in a crucial growth phase and reaching more customers through effective marketing is vital.

    John, in that same role - sensed the mismatch between this requirement and his current operations, which were primarily handling routine social media updates and web content changes. Although these tasks were a part of his job, he realized they weren’t contributing significantly to the company’s larger goal. To bridge this gap, he undertook to initiate marketing campaigns targeting specific user demographics, and coordinated thought-leader webinars to introduce potential clients to the company’s unique value proposition. His efforts led to a significant uptick in customer engagements - a big win that didn’t go unnoticed.

When you go above and beyond your work requirements – DOCUMENT IT

  1. Track Your Outcomes: The Evidence Trail

    You’re not in a court of law, but data is the evidence of your professional life. And this trail of evidence is worth its weight in gold. It’s proof of your journey, your abilities, and the tangible result of your hard work. Make it a point to record your accomplishments on a regular basis. Whether it’s finishing a major project, making a big sale, or even just doing something quicker or better than before - it all counts. This isn’t about bragging or posturing. This gives you a realistic record of progress: who you are, where you’ve been, and the value you bring.

Click here for a quick guide to setting up an accomplishment-tracking spreadsheet that's user-friendly and effective

Remember, this isn’t about just gathering data to impress your boss at your next review (although that is usually a big part of it). It’s also about recognizing your own progress, contribution, and professional growth.

Cultivating Authentic Connections: The Journey to Better Interpersonal Skills

A major (and often overlooked) aspect of work is your relationship with your colleagues. Why? Because people notice those who lean into teamwork and genuine connections.

  1. Networking with Colleagues: Casual Connection

    Think of the ‘coffee corner chat’ kind of networking. You know, the quick catch up while waiting for your caffeine fix, exchanging greetings in the hallway, or even a friendly chat in the elevator. These small interactions are the building blocks of better relationships in the workplace. They let your colleagues know you’re approachable, friendly, and importantly, part of the team. Increasing visibility and fostering connections this way can help you be more appreciated at work.

    Click here for 30 conversation ideas

  2. Staying Proactive: The Power Gear of Activity

    A sad fact is that at work, only doing what’s strictly in your job description might get you through, but it won’t necessarily get you noticed. Show some proactivity. If a problem arises, don’t wait for others to solve it - jump in and offer your two cents. Got a solution to an issue? Share it. A colleague struggling? Lend a hand. This not only shows you’re a team player, it also projects an image of you as someone who is committed and dedicated to your work and your team.

  3. Showing Empathy: The Heartbeat of Understanding

    Yes, work is about facts, figures, and deadlines. But buried beneath those spreadsheets and files are people: people with different perspectives, feelings, and ideas. In a world crazed with productivity, showing understanding and respect for your colleagues can make a world of difference. Listen to them, try to see through their lens, and offer support when you can. It’s about being a positive presence in the workplace. And in return, you not only become likable, but also someone others appreciate and respect.

Embrace Feedback, Foster Growth: Continuous Improvement

So your work is going great and you’re feeling reasonably confident. But here’s a question: How confident are you that others view your work the same way? Sometimes our own perceptions can trip us up. That’s where feedback steps in. Let’s explore how asking for feedback (and acting on it) can help you shine brighter at your workplace.

  1. Regularly Ask for Feedback: The Listening Ear

    Asking for feedback can feel a bit daunting. It’s like opening the door to criticism, but remember, it’s also the gateway to improvement. Make it a habit to reach out to your colleagues and managers for feedback. This shows them you’re engaged, eager to grow and value their insights. You’re not just shouting your triumphs from the rooftops, you’re also inviting others to help you improve the symphony. Here are some examples of how you can effectively ask for feedback at work:

    1. The Direct Approach: “Hey [Name], I was wondering if you could provide some feedback on my performance recently in the [specific task/project]? I’m looking to improve and thought your insights could really help.”

    2. Post-Project Evaluation: “Now that we’ve wrapped up [project/task], do you have any thoughts on how I could improve my performance for next time or things I handled particularly well?”

    3. During One-on-One Meetings: “During our one-on-one today, could we spend some time discussing my role and areas where you think I could improve?”

    4. Via Email: “Dear [Name], I was hoping to get some feedback from you regarding [specific task/project]. Your insights could be really helpful for me to develop further in this area.”

    5. Targeted Feedback: “I’ve been working on improving my [specific skill] and was wondering if you’ve noticed any progress? If so, do you have further suggestions for me to enhance this skill?”

    6. Casual Conversation: During a water cooler chat or a work lunch, you could casually say, “Hey, you know, I really value your opinion, and I was hoping to get some feedback on my work. What do you think are some areas I could work on?”

    7. Feedback on Interpersonal Skills: “I am trying to improve my communication skills within the team. Have you noticed any situations where my communication could’ve been clearer?”

    Each of these examples is framed positively and opens the door for constructive feedback as opposed to just criticism. Remember, the key to asking for feedback is to be open, positive, and ready to listen.

  2. Working on Feedback: The Action Track

    Okay, so you’ve got the feedback. That’s step one. Step two is putting that feedback into action. No doubt some criticisms might sting, but remember, it’s all part of a learning process. Look at every piece of feedback through a lens of positivity. Take it as a tool to shape you, mold you and prepare you for bigger challenges. When you visibly work on feedback, you’re showing your adaptability and resilience - two qualities every workplace appreciates.

  3. Showing your Progress: The Exhibition Stage

    Alright, you’ve asked for feedback and you’re making changes to improve, but how does everyone know this? By showcasing it. Keep your managers and colleagues posted about your progress. This doesn’t mean you’ve got to send daily updates, but regular notifications about your progress can go a long way. Try incorporating it into relevant discussions or meetings. This not only highlights your work but also shows that you take feedback seriously and are proactive in your growth.

Incorporating feedback isn’t about highlighting your flaws, it’s about showcasing your commitment to learning.

Shine Through Leadership: Steps To Elevate Your Leadership

You’re good at your job, no question about it. But if you really want to steer your career forward, you don’t want to just be ‘good’, you want to be an influencer (not the Instagram kind), but a leader. Here are a few simple steps to help you take the helm in showcasing your leadership skills.

  1. Volunteer for Projects: The Vanguard Vitality

    Stepping up to take on new projects, especially those outside your comfort zone, speaks volumes about your work persona. It lets your team and managers see you’re not afraid to face challenges head-on and are ready to pioneer change if needed. So, the next time there’s a volunteer call for a task or project, consider putting your hand up. Go on, grab hold of the opportunities that come your way!

    However, don’t let yourself be taken advantage of. Remember sometimes it’s okay to say, “Sorry I rather not.”

  2. Encourage Team Members: The Optimism Oasis

    Being a leader doesn’t mean you have to be the loudest voice in the room. Sometimes, it’s about being the voice that lifts everyone else up. Whenever you can, be the one who motivates your team members and cheers them on towards their own success. An optimistic outlook not only uplifts the team spirit but also cultivates a positive work environment that people appreciate.

  3. Lead by Example: The Exhibit of Ethics

    Leadership is not about bossing people around, it’s about setting the standards that encourage others to bring out their best. Showcase your work ethics, prompt decision-making, and effective problem-solving skills – not to score brownie points, but to inspire others. Remember, a leader models the way, so let your actions echo authenticity and dedication.

  4. Communicate Effectively: The Clarity Canal

    The best ideas remain just ideas unless they are effectively communicated. When you have a point to make, say it clearly and confidently. It not only puts your expertise in the spotlight but also reinforces your leadership potential. This doesn’t mean you have to give speeches daily, but whenever you speak, ensure it’s meaningful, helpful, and clearly understood.