Are you afraid to change jobs because you do not think you are qualified? Lack of recognition at their current position makes people fearful that they do not deserve a better job. But everyone should receive recognition for their achievements.
“It’s Just My Job”
In a survey by Blackhawk Network, 80% of employees agree that employers should celebrate workplace achievements. Yet, another survey by Globoforce showed that only 14% of companies give their workforce a way to recognize the contributions of their coworkers.
Both employers and employees are guilty of relying on “it’s just their/my job” to avoid giving or expecting praise. Yet, a lack of recognition at work leads to self-doubt, a sense of not belonging, and a feeling of powerlessness, leading to less productivity, fewer chances for recognition, and a stalled career. You might be able to fix that situation at your current job, but some companies simply do not understand the value of appreciation.
What an Appreciative Company Looks Like
If you feel the need for more recognition at work, now may be the time to set aside your fear of changing jobs. You will want to concentrate on companies that have:
- An existing employee recognition program that does not rely solely on years of employment or pits one employee against another (also called gamification)
- Someone in charge of employee recognition—for example, a VP of Training and Development
- A culture that values what you value: creativity, flexibility, collaboration, career advancement, bonuses, or anything else that says “appreciation” to you
- Good reviews from current and past employees
- Demonstrated need for what you offer.
How to Find an Appreciative Company
You can find out about employee recognition programs, personnel dedicated to employee appreciation, and the company culture by searching the company website.
Online review sites, like Glassdoor, are also good sources for finding out how employees feel about the company. Also search out customer reviews of products and services: significant customer complaints may suggest a company culture that does not respect other people.
Similarly, profiles posted by company employees provide insight into the company culture. For example, profiles of past employees may offer clues to the amount of turnover the company experiences.
Perhaps most important, you want a company that needs and values the specific skills, education, and accomplishments that you offer. That should be apparent in the job description or posting.
Making Sure Your Resume Shows Your Value
Your resume should stress your ability to meet a company’s needs, such as improving operations, growing revenue and profits, communicating between stakeholders, and—yes—recognizing and inspiring others. However, simply stating “I’m a good communicator” is not enough. Your resume must show, through your accomplishments, that your communication skills have brought genuine benefit to your previous company.
Stress those keywords that reflect the values of the company where you are applying. For example, if the company emphasizes creativity, include examples in your resume of your creative input at your old company.
Do not let your fear of changing jobs keep you shackled to a company that is unappreciative. When you are ready to find a company that knows how to show appreciation, contact Robin’s Resumes®.