Dear Dr. Mimi:
I feel unappreciated in my current job. I have been working for my employer for two and a half years, and I’m still treated like a brand-new employee. I receive assignments and responsibilities too small for someone of my experience, and it makes me feel like my boss doesn’t see me as a reliable employee. My reviews are OK,but she doesn’t give me much feedback. I think I am doing a great job. Certainly, no one complains. How can I show my boss that I am a dedicated worker and deserve to be trusted with larger responsibilities?
—Unappreciated
Dear Unappreciated:
If you have been working in the same position for two years, maybe your boss sees you differently than you see yourself. Maybe what you consider to be an outstanding day’s work, she sees as the bare minimum. Meet with your boss and let her know how you feel about your status in the workplace. Gauge her expectations of you so you have a clear understanding of your responsibilities. Ask what you have to do to really convey your dedication and put you in line for bigger and/or better assignments.
—Dr. Mimi