Dear Dr. Mimi:
I work hard. I do good work. My coworkers even let me know that they value what I do … and my boss never says a word. In fact, he rarely even thanks me. We don’t even get annual reviews. It is so frustrating. Is there anything that I can do?
-Unrecognized
Dear Unrecognized:
You are not alone. Many managers underestimate the power of a pat on the back, especially with top performers who are intrinsically motivated. Ask for a review and come prepared to let him know all that you do and how well you do it. Be specific, pointing out particular projects and accomplishments. In addition, let him know that while you are motivated from within, it would be good to hear some positive words and a thank-you periodically.
-Dr. Mimi
Dear Dr. Mimi – Feeling Unappreciated
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Backup
Dear Dr. Mimi,My boss favors another employee and schedules them for more shifts. We are on the same skill level and have had the same training, but I am being treated like a “backup” for them. I am afraid to bring this up to my manager for fear that they will reprimand or even fire…
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Overworked Student
Dear Dr. Mimi,I am a working college student, and my company is supposed to be accommodating to students’ schedules. However, my boss keeps asking me to come into work at times she knows that I have classes or study groups. I have tried to make this issue known to her, but she keeps dismissing me.…
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Dear Dr. Mimi — Frustrated
Dear Dr. Mimi,I trained a new employee about a month ago, but they still don’t seem to be getting it. They mess up almost every task I give them. What can I do to fix this? Should I just fire them?—Frustrated Dear Frustrated,It can be tricky working with new employees. If you think they are…