Why Diligent Employees Don't Get What They Deserve
If so, you're not the only one. Many ambitious and conscientious people believe that if they just do their jobs well, they'll be noticed and recognized. They focus on only one thing to achieve their goals: their work performance.
However, those who are typically promoted or receive a raise have more “levers” they can pull. Here, then, are the three reasons why the “one-lever” strategy limits you:
You make life easier for your manager without actually saying so
If you don’t say what you want, it seems as though that’s just the kind of person you are—just a reliable employee. A naive manager might say they didn’t know you wanted more; a manager with other motives might prefer to keep you where you are because it benefits them.There isn’t enough time or energy, so you’ll never “reach the finish line”
Modern workplaces are all about prioritization. If you spend all your energy on completing tasks, you risk overlooking the value and results you create. You’re constantly busy and often feel like you’re not getting everything done—even though you may be delivering more than expected.You associate growth only with effort
If you believe that opportunities for growth come only from hard work, a lack of opportunities will quickly lead to doubt and uncertainty. You may end up pushing yourself even harder—which can lead to burnout.
What “tools” do colleagues have whose careers are evolving?
The Visibility Button: They make their results visible—documenting and communicating their contributions.
The Politics Button: They understand decision-making processes and who holds influence, and position themselves strategically.
The Negotiation Button: They ask for a raise, a promotion, or resources and can make a case for their value.
Conclusion
If you’re doing your best but still aren’t getting the opportunities you want, it’s important not to try to prove yourself by taking on more responsibility or doing more. Take a step back and look at your situation from a distance. Which of the three buttons do you need to press to get closer to what you want?
What you shouldn’t do to reach your goals is take on more responsibility and do more if, so far, that hasn’t led to roles with a corresponding increase in influence. After all, more responsibility without influence leads to dissatisfaction and doubt.
Your task: Choose one of the three buttons and incorporate it into your workday
The Visibility Button: How can you start making your results more visible to your manager as early as tomorrow?
The Politics Button: Who should you invite for a cup of coffee to learn more about decision-making processes or opportunities?
The Negotiation Button: What do you need that you haven't asked for yet—and what can you start asking for?
Good luck—I hope you find more flexibility in your work life without having to sacrifice yourself.
If you'd like to learn how I can support you in achieving your career goals—whether that means building more self-confidence, finding better opportunities, or increasing your well-being—please contact me for a no-obligation conversation.