I feel invisible at work.

Anonymous

October 1,2021 at 1:23AM UTC

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I feel invisible at work. I lead a big department but am often left out of strategic discussions to help align my efforts with company plans. I have never felt disengaged in a job, but this is hard to keep feeling motivated without support. In addition to strategic conversations, 4 times this week I was left off of emails that went to my group, managers that are in my care were even consulted, but I was not.

I want to make this better, but each time I raise concern it feels like (or maybe comes across as) venting or throwing a tantrum. I want to effectively say, I cannot do my job if I am not involved in the conversations and plans. How would you work that?

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AnonymousOctober 1,2021 at 1:27AM UTC
Tie it to department goals and deliverable and lack of involvement from the onset. Have a heart to heart with your boss and be specific and detailed.
VictoriaOctober 1,2021 at 3:12AM UTC
I have been there. It sucks. That being said, what has worked for me was to discuss my concerns professionally and respectfully with my peers. If you're worried that you sound as if you are venting then you probably are. Acknowledge your feelings because they are valid! Talk to someone outside your workplace or journal, whatever helps you vent, do it! and then take some time to write down what you would like to say to your coworkers. I think it helps to use "I" phrases: "I feel that..." "It seems like..." because people do not like being told they are doing something wrong and if you sound like you're venting they may take your concerns as just that. Also, start the convo with postive statements about the job and the people and then go into your concerns, and end on a positive. Hope this helps!
Amy EdmondsOctober 1,2021 at 6:47PM UTC
This is a bad sign. Polish your resume and check in with your references!
Crystal Miller O'BrienOctober 6,2021 at 3:35PM UTC
Painful emotion, feeling as though you do not matter. This is what most work culture professionals strive to prevent:disengagement.
You likely feel invisible because people do not know you and aren’t familiar or have not asked what it is that you can contribute. I am sorry.
I think you should try to present ideas to maybe a workplace mentor who can give you tips on how to interrupt the cycle of your leaders working in the same manner. You might also want to look for other work. Your interviews with other companies will help you to see what else is out there in your field and may help to validate your concerns as to whether things can change at your current career “station” .
Best wishes to you and don’t settle. The fact you are writing means you are not interested in just collecting a paycheck and this is good!
AnonymousOctober 13,2021 at 1:43AM UTC
I really appreciate you for taking the time to reply and for these helpful, practical tips. I can tell you are a natural leader, supportive and empowering. It restores my faith and I will give it my best or find the next environment that fits me best.
Kay FittesOctober 6,2021 at 10:04PM UTC
This can be a painful and unproductive situation. Who is the linchpin? Developing a stronger relationship with the person who wields the most power could work to your advantage. Not only do they have influence on who is included in conversations, they may also give you some insight into what is afoot here. At the same time, you may need to work on your overall visibility. That entails not just doing your work but also being known for your expertise and abilities.