No Thank You
Why is it that our services are often taken for granted, and it seems we seldom hear the magic words "please" and "thank you" from our customers. Yet, beyond any special accomplishments, we must recognize that it is human nature for people to complain about what goes wrong rather than praise what goes right. To gain consistent recognition and the valued "thank you" is not so much about doing your job but going beyond what is expected.
Why We Are Like the Electric Company
Just flip the switch and the electricity works. We take this service for granted until it stops working. The products and services that we produce are also taken for granted regardless of the work it takes to make them happen. Expectations may be met 99.9 percent of the time, but fail once and the electric company or any organization is cited for failing to provide the needed service. All of a sudden, the good guys become bad when it stops working. Business that has little room for emotion or reliance on others to make us feel important. Those looking for recognition must find ways of feeling good about themselves and not rely on others to give it.
Getting Out of the Rut
Recognition can achieved in several ways.
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The first is by getting involved with a professional organization of peers that can allow you to achieve personal recognition with fewer limitations than in the work environment.
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The second is to change your focus from "I am not appreciated" to finding ways to make it a more valued asset.Like electricity, your services should be a routine. Developing ways to save money or improve processes, or supporting a company-wide effort to increase efficiency are examples of how to move beyond your comfort zone and receive positive recognition.
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The third and most important is to not feel subservient to others when you know that you are not. Don't bother complaining about how little you are appreciated, but realize that you are delivering services that are subject to problems and criticisms. Organizations thrive on people who are positive and proactive and earn attention in a positive way. Granted, you should expect some negative recognition but take responsibility for the problem and ensure that it doesn't happen again.
Down Days
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Keep copies of your accomplishments and successes in your wallet. When the world is coming down on you, look at what you have accomplished to put a smile on your face. You are part of a service culture that expects perfection without a tolerance for mistakes. That one thank you from an employee who needs special service often makes up for those that you don't get.
Tomorrow is a new day and there is nothing wrong with giving yourself a pat on the back knowing that you did your best. "Thank you," "great job," "nice going," or "keep up the good work" will be bestowed on you when you least expect it. You know that you are the best, though it may be hard for others to express it.
© 2008 Thomson Reuters/RIA. All rights reserved.
