27 Comments
Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

A very important guide on remaining clear on one's worth. Some people imagine that it's enough to do, but they're wrong because having this doing known by the right people is just as important.

Intentionality is key in the workplace; one cannot be passive. If you'll be shy, meek, and passive, someone who isn't will get the promotion and raise.

Whoever can be ignored will, and whoever is clear on his value will be treated as such. He may even get more that he deserves.

Many people aren't good at this, and that's why writing as this is crucial in reminding them that being skilled isn't enough if one doesn't tell her boss how much the organization would be poorer without her.

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Being proactive and intentional about showcasing your value is crucial. Passivity leads to being overlooked while communicating your worth earns you the recognition and opportunities you deserve. I find that we are generally not taught how to do this, so it is one of those that is learned on the journey. Thanks for commenting bro, your insights are appreciated.

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

Always welcome bro, and thanks once again.

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

I certainly made the mistake of keeping my head down and doing my job, in hopes that someone would notice. All that got me was frustration. They did notice, but they were not going to give me the recognition I deserved until I said something. Companies will always want to get the most from an employee, while giving them the least. Well said, Tinashe.

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I am glad it resonates Sharon. I agree with you, as mentioned I also did not articulate this earlier on but it is something I am aware of going forward. We grow from learning.

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This is an insightful message. You need to be ready to get the job you desire and the tips you gave are most helpful. People just want something without putting in the work to worth that job. Perhaps, people should learn from your message as I have learned

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Thank you for engaging Precious, I agree you have to put in the work and time.

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

Wisdom that is worth sharing.

Speak up, don't wait to be discovered: your employee value proposition #45

In today's competitive job market, it is not enough to simply show up and punch the clock.

To truly enjoy and advance your career, you need to take proactive to showcasing the unique value you bring to your organisation. Your employee value proposition, on the other hand is how you articulate your own unique skills, experience, and capabilities to your employer. It is the answer to the question. Why should this company invest in me and help me grow my career. Well done brother,and thanks for sharing this.

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Thank you for the kind words Ali, it is about one being able to clearly articulate their "employee value proposition" to the organization. I appreciate the restack.

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

Could you or have you ever written about this topic within a non-profit? I'd love to read your insights there.

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Hi Sue, I have never worked in that environment so I am lacking in knowledge. I can do some research and share what I find.

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

Excellent piece. This has got my neurons firing! Thank you for sharing.

I’m curious about your perspective. Here, in America (maybe elsewhere too?), there’s quiet quitting going on as a protest to the toxic, abusive, and opportunistic culture in corporate America. Essentially, doing what you get paid to do with boundaries and protecting yourself from burnout.

I’m curious what tips you might have to balance both. I think proactivity is key, but I’m curious how to do it within reason so it doesn’t take a toll on mental health. Many have chosen to build side hustles or gig work into full time income. Perhaps there are things that can be done in the environment though. Thank you for sharing your insights!

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Bri, I am glad this got your neurons firing :-).

I have read about quiet quitting, over the last few years, and having worked in a couple of countries, it is not only happening in corporate America. The work environment plays a key role, as toxic cultures breed burnout and can lead to disengagement [ the best is to remove yourself from this situation and protect your mental well-being], while supportive cultures foster trust and empowerment. [ you can try the below ].

I would take the following approach:

Strike a balanced approach - try to find a middle ground between being proactive in showcasing your value and protecting your mental well-being. Be strategic about the initiatives you take, focusing on the ones that align with the company's goals and demonstrate your unique contributions. Set clear boundaries around your time and availability to avoid burnout. Communicate openly with your manager about your needs and constraints. This balanced approach can help you progress in your career without compromising your personal health.

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

This is helpful. Thank you. I especially connect with the strategic planning. That might be a way to connect our values with the company’s objectives. Thank you!

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

This is wonderfully helpful! And also a good idea in one’s personal life maybe?, to articulate to oneself and to others what your goals and accomplishments are in life, in friendships, etc.

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Thanks, Karen, this applies to a lot of situations, and I agree that in our personal lives, we must do the same otherwise we leave it to others.

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Thanks Tinashe! This inspired me to write my own unique value proposition. While I have been guilty of the "letting my work speak for itself" mentality when I was younger, I have learned to regularly take note of my accomplishments and communicate them with managers, for example, so I have tangibles to present during promotion period, or can confidently counter when one is not given. But one thing I haven't done is coming up with my unique value proposition which I think is so powerful because it will succinctly describe what sets one apart, not just in their current role but when they look elsewhere. Especially helpful when the job market is highly competitive.

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That is a helpful tip, to note your accomplishments, if you are not prepared you will forget. I agree, the unique value proposition is on highlighting what makes "Janice" great, not just what Janice does in her job. This elevated perspective can open up new possibilities for growth and advancement. It's a proactive way to take control of showcasing your full value. Thank you for engaging and I am glad to have you here :-).

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Apr 15Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

As an employer, I concur that hiring employees with this level of awareness would be refreshing!

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Thank you for engaging and sharing your perspective Wayne.

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Tinashe, thank you, great essay. This approach is very useful everywhere. It not only shows your contributions to others but enables self-awareness for personal introspection in the benefits of ones actions. Keep up the good work.

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Thank you for the kind words Tomas, I appreciate you being here in the comments.

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Apr 15Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

I made the mistake of assuming my employers could see my value. It's important to recognize that we should see ourselves as business partners and make our value known. This was great!

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Thanks for engaging Eva, I am glad it resonated.

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Apr 14Liked by Tinashe D. Ndhlovu

Thank you for this, Tinashe! This was definitely something I needed to read as I'm historically bad at advocating for myself in a workplace. We should all know our own worth and value!

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Society often tells us to be humble. We need to overcome that and communicate our worth to our employers. Doing good work isn't enough - we have to make sure others recognize our contributions. Thank you for engaging and glad it resonates Leah!

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So true! And communicating our gains regularly - and soon after we've accomplished them - is a great way to stay front and center in our manager's mind. Don't wait until too much time has passed. Wait until later and you could forget what made your contribution unique, above-and-beyond what others have done or could do. Nothing beats a reminder that's fresh! It's better to highlight any accomplishment when it's recent news!

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