THE SCENARIO
My boss is always asking me to take on extra work, which I don't mind because I enjoy my job. But he always takes credit for this work when he reports to his superiors. How do I enlighten people about my contribution without causing offence to my boss?
THE ADVICE
Meet with your boss and tell him how much you enjoy working for him and the company. Point out the things that you appreciate about him, such as his trust, his confidence in you, his openness and receptivity.
Ask him how he finds your performance and if there are any suggestions that he can give you about your work because you are interested in being recognized and getting ahead in the company.
Indicate that you have observed and heard how he does such a good job in presenting new ideas and innovations to his superiors. Tell him that you like taking on extra work and assignments for him. but remind him that you would also like to be recognized for your input so that you can advance in the company.
Design a mutual recognition agreement. Indicate to your boss that you are happy to point out to others and his superiors the great contributions that he makes to the company. Ask him if he is willing to do the same for you. Point out that if you provide each other with mutual support that it will benefit both of you and the company in the long run.
Say that you would like to have your name placed on documents that you have worked on and that you would like to have him indicate to his superiors the contributions that you make. Ask him if he will do this for you.
Don't place all your eggs in one recognition basket. Volunteer to work on committees, task forces and projects in your company. Pick projects that have a company-wide focus. Volunteer to chair or be recording secretary for these committees and project groups. Make sure you speak up at these meetings and let your views be heard.
As well, volunteer to make presentations at company or staff functions about the new ideas, projects or innovations in your division. Deliver presentations to local professional or industry groups, business councils, chambers of commerce, and college or university business schools about your company and the work your division is performing.
Send your boss a list of the committees and project teams you are on and the presentations you have delivered. Ask him to share this with his boss and the company executive team. Send copies to the head of the human resources department so that they can be placed in your personnel file.
Follow these steps and you will definitely be noticed both inside your company and in your profession.
Bruce Sandy is a career coach in Vancouver.
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