Just like in the playground, the workplace can also bring about some tough situations. While confidence comes as you get older, it can still be difficult to find your voice and speak up – especially at work. Get advice on how to manage tough workplace situations below and start speaking up for yourself at work.
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Not getting credit for your work
When you work in a team, it can be difficult to let your individual efforts shine through. It’s a tricky one to manage – you don’t want to come across as petty, but you also want to make sure that you get the credit you deserve. There are different ways you can handle a colleague who takes credit for your work. One suggestion is to conduct an evaluation at the end of a project outlining who was responsible for what, what the outcomes were and what lessons were learnt will help get your point across in a subtle and fair way. Discuss your efforts with your boss and make it clear what you did.
Dealing with the workplace bully
Some people never grow up. While you might have dealt with bullies in school, you might find yourself dealing with them at work too. A workplace bully can make your work life miserable, making you feel intimidated or even upset and scared to go to work. You can try confronting them – but that’s not always an easy task. Talk to colleagues about what you’re feeling or speak to your manager or HR representative about the situation. Encourage your boss to put initiatives in place for identifying and solving bullying in the workplace as a way to curb the behaviour across the organisation. You shouldn’t have to tolerate workplace bullying so make sure you talk to someone to help find a solution.
Having difficult conversations with your boss
If you’ve been looking for a promotion or a pay rise, then having that conversation with your boss can be difficult. The best way to manage this is to prepare in advance. Put forward a persuasive argument highlighting your achievements, any additional responsibilities you’ve taken on an how you see your future at the company. Arrange a meeting with your manager and have an honest conversation. Do some research on how to ask for a pay rise and make sure what you’re asking for is fair and reasonable.
Making friends at work
If you ever moved schools as a kid, you’ll know what it’s like to be the new person and find some people to connect with. Starting a new job is never easy, but it will help you settle in quicker if you can make some friends. Invite some colleagues out to lunch or coffee, and ask to join them at their table when you can – most people will be happy to accept a new addition to a group.
Navigating relationships in the workplace is one of those things you can help to prepare your children for as they get older. Get more useful advice to teach your children about careers and managing their finances here. The more you can teach them at a young age, the more confident they will feel when they enter the world of work.
