Do you ever feel like those who don't work as hard reap more benefits in their career?

Question

I have found in every company that I have worked that those who are over-achievers in their job tend to be left behind by those who don't do their own work or work to the best of their ability. I wanted to find out if anyone else has ever had these experiences.

Carolina · Answer

Pretty sure I've been the over-achiever that's undervalued. I've felt that to my core. I learned my lesson though - I'd never work less on purpose but I stopped seeking the recognition and really started 
paying attention to my gut to do what's right for me.

MoneyCareerMotherhood · Answer

Such great feedback from everyone here! Networking and advocating for yourself within the office is #1. If you see someone get promoted that you're friendly with, after a heartfelt congratulations, ask them how they did it because you want to learn! Each organization has a different perspective on how they value and promote talent. Also talk to your boss about what the company values in the next level position from yours. Often we think we should get promoted from hard work, but hard work doesn't always show our leadership potential. As you move up the managerial steps it's less about hard work and more about the soft skills. Make sure you have the opportunity to demonstrate your abilities to reach the next level! And finally, some companies just don't do a good job at this, while others are amazing. If you find yourself at one that doesn't promote talent in a way you respect, it may be time for a change.

Kay Fittes · Answer

Stephanie,  it's understandable that this does not seem fair.  What you may find is that a shift in perspective is necessary.  Since you are already putting in hard work and expertise, don't you deserve to reap the rewards?  To do that, my recommendation to my clients is THEY have to become responsible for shining the light on their excellent work.  Step one is keep track of your successes.  Step two is determine who needs to know about your successes. Step three is update those individuals with that information.  It might be in a weekly meeting with your manager, a weekly email, or an update on LinkedIn.  Additionally, get out of your space, nose to the grindstone makes you invisible.   Network both internally and externally.  When you get in front of key people start the relationship building process.  Finally, remember, your career or responsibility.

Alyssa N. Batchelor, M.S. · Answer

Hi Stephanie, yes I've noticed this as well. In my own industry, it's more beneficial to be 'one of the boys' than it is to necessarily be a hard worker. Playing office politics is evidently a more crucial part of getting ahead than hard work.

Laura McCann · Answer

There was a great article on SmartBrief talking about this very topic!!  It was identifying the hidden leaders within the organization.  https://www.smartbrief.com/original/2020/08/spot-these-types-hidden-talent-your-organization?utm_source=brief

Kristina Yager · Answer

Hi Stephanie! 
Yes, I absolutely know what you're going through. Through the years, though, there are some things I learned about this pesky problem. 
1) Employees who are goofing off, even if they're well-liked and charismatic, will end up having difficult performance conversations with their manager(s) at some point. (And it's out of your control how soon that happens!) 
2) Put blinders on. Try not to pay attention to what everyone else is doing and continue to work hard. It will pay off. 
3) Stay friendly & encouraging of your colleagues. Everyone likes the employee who always has a smile on their face and an encouraging word for others. Be that colleague!
4) Adamantly avoid gossip and complaining about others. Although it is sometimes difficult to avoid lamenting to a like-minded colleague, most of the time these conversations come back to haunt you. Keep your chin up, smile, and focus on the work that needs to get done. 
Those are just a few things I've found to be helpful in the workplace. 
Cheers + good luck!

Kriti · Answer

Hi Stephanie,

I have experienced a lot in the workplace too. I used to work in a company where I was the only woman. I was expected to work from 9am- 7 pm non stop, whereas my male counterparts would float down the office at 10:30 and sit till 12:30. They would leave for an early lunch and then return by 4. And then finally they would start working. If I was late by even 15 minutes, I would be questioned. Taking a lunch break that is longer than an hour period or even adjusting it would elicit a warning or a taunt from the team leader.

Although we can change our attitudes, I feel we need to speak up .

Alexis Amsden · Answer

That is something that caused me to leave previous jobs, it happens quite often!

Anonymous · Answer

From my experience, management especially in small business tends to choose their favorites rather it’s a family member of someone who already works there which the person who was treated like a rock star right when he started. Yes, despite his harassment issues, he may go far because his Mom is good friends with the CEO.
My other job at a small financial institution, no matter how hard or smart that I worked, management refused to promote me because of my honesty which they didn’t want to hear and because the customers loved me. Events occurred near the end of my employment that I was grateful for not moving up the ladder.
When I worked at a global investment firm a few years ago, I found that when I improved my performance so did my opportunities because of their beliefs of employee empowerment.

Do you ever feel like those who don't work as hard reap more benefits in their career?

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