Work that Works:
How to stay motivated in your job
Question: How can I stay engaged in a position that I find somewhat monotonous or boring?
Answer: It's not uncommon to feel a lack of excitement or engagement in a position that may be perceived as boring. Here are some suggestions to help you stay tuned in and find fulfillment in your role:
Opportunities
Seek New Challenges: Look for opportunities to take on additional responsibilities or projects that align with your skills and interests. Talk to your supervisor about expanding your role or volunteering for cross-functional assignments. Embracing new challenges can bring a sense of freshness and stimulate your motivation.
Goals
Set Personal Goals: Establish personal goals that are meaningful to you within your current role. These goals could be related to improving specific skills, streamlining processes, or enhancing your contribution to the team. By working towards objectives that excite you, you can regain a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Meaning
Find Meaning in Your Work: Explore how your role contributes to the larger goals and mission of the organization. Connect with the impact your work has on customers, colleagues, or the community. Understanding the significance of your contributions can infuse meaning into seemingly mundane tasks.
Knowledge
Seek Learning Opportunities: Look for ways to expand your knowledge and expertise within your role. Take advantage of training programs, webinars, or workshops that can enhance your skills and keep you engaged. Continuously learning and growing can make even routine tasks more interesting.
Relationship
Collaborate and Network: Engage with colleagues and build relationships across departments. Collaborating with others on projects or seeking out mentorship opportunities can add a social element to your work and create a sense of camaraderie. Networking can also open doors to new opportunities within or outside your current position.
Take Breaks and Manage Your Energy: Even in a less stimulating role, it's important to take regular breaks and manage your energy effectively. Incorporate short breaks throughout the day to recharge and refocus. Additionally, consider engaging in activities outside of work that bring you joy and fulfillment, which can positively impact your overall engagement.
Energy
Reflect and Evaluate: Take time to reflect on what aspects of your role you genuinely enjoy and excel at. Evaluate if there are any adjustments or modifications that can be made to your responsibilities to align better with your strengths and interests. Discuss your thoughts with your supervisor to explore potential adjustments or opportunities for growth.
Joy
Remember, maintaining engagement in a seemingly boring position often requires proactive effort and a mindset shift. By seeking new challenges, setting personal goals, finding meaning, seeking learning opportunities, collaborating, managing your energy, and reflecting on your role, you can uncover hidden potentials and reignite your enthusiasm for the work at hand.
Ask it the right way
Question: How do I effectively ask for a raise?
Answer: Requesting a raise can be a significant step in advancing your career and recognizing the value you bring to the organization. Here are some steps to help you navigate the process effectively:
Prepare and Research: Before asking for a raise, gather information to support your request. Research industry standards, salary ranges for similar positions, and the company's financial health. Evaluate your own accomplishments, contributions, and growth within the organization. Compile specific examples of your achievements and how they have positively impacted the company.
Research
Choose the Right Timing: Timing is crucial when asking for a raise. Consider when the company is in a stable financial position, and choose a moment when your performance has been exceptional or when you have achieved significant milestones. Additionally, consider the company's performance review cycles or any upcoming discussions related to compensation.
Timing
Schedule a Meeting: Request a meeting with your supervisor or manager to discuss your performance and career progression. Clearly communicate that you would like to discuss your compensation during this meeting. Ensure you give them ample time to prepare and provide any necessary documentation or evidence to support your request.
Prepare
Make a Strong Case: During the meeting, articulate your achievements, contributions, and growth within the company. Present the research you have gathered to demonstrate your value and market worth. Discuss how your efforts have positively impacted the organization's goals, productivity, profitability, or customer satisfaction. Emphasize your commitment to the company's success and your ongoing dedication to excellence.
Efforts
Be Professional and Confident: Approach the conversation with a professional and confident demeanor. Maintain a positive tone and avoid sounding entitled. Clearly express your desire to grow within the company and your enthusiasm for future challenges and responsibilities. Be open to feedback and willing to discuss potential areas for improvement or additional responsibilities.
Confident
Discuss Compensation Expectations: Clearly and confidently state your desired salary or compensation increase. Provide a reasonable and well-researched range based on industry standards and your contributions. Be prepared to negotiate and consider other forms of compensation, such as additional benefits, bonuses, or professional development opportunities.
Be Open
Follow-Up and Remain Flexible: After the meeting, follow up with a written summary of your discussion and any agreed-upon action steps. Be patient and prepared to engage in further discussions or negotiations. If the request is declined, seek feedback on how you can further develop and position yourself for future opportunities.
Follow Up
Remember, approaching the topic of a raise requires preparation, confidence, and a clear demonstration of your value. By presenting a compelling case and having an open and professional conversation, you increase the chances of a positive outcome.