Business coaching - do you feel unappreciated at work?

"The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated." - William James.

When talking to a recruitment specialist recently she said few managers and business owners understood what made their staff feel motivated and satisfied at work. She also said that one of the main reasons why people changed jobs was because they felt their work efforts were not appreciated by their line manager or boss. 

Could this be you? Do you feel taken for granted? Do you only seem to get recognition for things when they don't go so well rather than for all the outstanding work that you do?

I suggest to clients that they have three options: to grin and bear it, find another job or choose to deal with and react to the situation in a different, more positive way.

Begin by considering why you may be unappreciated at work:

• Are you not doing a good job?
• You're boss doesn't realise what work you're doing and what it entails?
• Your boss is overworked and overwhelmed?
• Maybe your boss doesn't know how to motivate and encourage his staff to get the best out of them.

The first reason is unlikely as you would have been told by now if your work was unsatisfactory. There's not a lot you can do about the last two reasons but you can do something about the second.

Say what's on your mind
Your boss may think that giving you more work shows his appreciation for what you do. A bit of basic communication can go a long way to iron out any issues. It may be a case of having a frank conversation as to how you work best and how long it takes to achieve certain tasks.

Do others feel the same as you?
Without casting blame on anyone or making things worse, discretely ask colleagues if they feel the same. It could be that you are not alone and that showing appreciation for his employees work is simply not your bosses strength. He may offer more praise and recognition if he is made aware that several of his staff would welcome more appreciation.

Appreciate the work others are doing
Just because no one seems to acknowledge the good work you are doing, it doesn't mean you have to follow. It is easy to become self-absorbed at work so try taking the initiative and recognise other's work. Compliment team mates and let others know how well you think work colleagues are doing.

Socialise with key people out of work
You may not welcome the idea of meeting work colleagues outside of work (and especially not the boss!) and I'm not suggesting you become best of buddies. However, meeting in an impartial setting can break down barriers. Just by having a friendly chat about non work-related things can make it easier to approach difficult situations.

Remember, you have the choice: you can grin and bear it, walk away or do something about it. You have it in you to make the changes you would like to see.