How to Prove Your Worth at Work

Do you often feel overlooked at work? It can be frustrating when your hard work isn’t getting acknowledged. Don’t worry! There are plenty of easy ways you can stand apart from the crowd and prove your worth. We’ve put together a few ideas to get you on your way.

1

Work efficiently throughout the week.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-1.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You might write out a to-do list, so you can keep track of what you’ve accomplished and what still needs to be done. [1] You could also set time limits for different tasks, so you don’t spend too much time on a single project. [2] Whatever you do, organizational and time management systems can help you consistently hand in high-quality, punctual work.
    • For instance, you might manage your schedule with an online calendar, so you can review all your upcoming due dates. [3]
    • You could spend 15 minutes each night planning your to-do list for the following day.
    • You might set a timer for yourself so you don’t spend too much time on a single task.
    • You could set a personal productivity goal for yourself each day. For instance, you might say “I want to finish 30 invoices today” or “I want to finish and send out this memo.”
    Advertisement
2

Go the extra mile.

  1. 1
    Look for small ways to help your boss. You might hand in an assignment a little early, or take extra time to get ready before a meeting. You could even offer to take on extra projects, if you think they’d be manageable. [4] Your boss will appreciate the extra help, and may keep you in mind for future promotions and opportunities. [5]
{"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-2.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
  1. 1
    • For example, you might check in with your boss each week to see if they need extra help with an assignment.
    • You might offer to come in early or stay late to help with some extra projects.
    • You could reply to your boss’s emails really quickly, so they know you’re efficient and reliable.
    • If you really want to go the extra mile, spend time helping your co-workers, too. You might lend a hand on a big project, or offer to take a few tasks off their to-do list.
    Advertisement
3

Make new opportunities.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-3.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Spend time researching helpful, innovative ideas for your workplace. Then, present the new idea to your manager and offer to take the lead on the project you’ve created. Your boss may appreciate you taking initiative! [6]
    • You might say, “I’ve brainstormed a few different ways to advertise for the upcoming 5K. Would it be okay if I spent tomorrow updating our social media accounts and making an Eventbrite page?”
    • You could suggest, “I’ve come up with a new way to organize all our invoices. Would I be allowed to tackle this tomorrow?”
    • You could say, “I thought of a few ways we could increase our audience engagement on social media. Could I try making a few posts on our accounts and see how it goes?”
    • You might offer, “I noticed that we don’t have a first-aid kit around here. Would it be okay if I put something together?”
4

Highlight your achievements.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-4.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    At the end of the week, you might highlight and summarize your work week in a quick email to your boss. Or, you could be more vocal in a meeting about a new project you’re working on. Subtle statements are great ways to prove your worth without sounding arrogant. [7]
    • You might say, “This past week, I organized and queued the company’s social media calendars for the next 3 months” or “I recorded all of the company’s transactions in the master spreadsheet.”
    • You could also say, “Over the past 2 weeks, I’ve researched social media keywords that better match our target customer base.”
    Advertisement
5

Act like a team player.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e1\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e1\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-5.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It’s great to highlight your own achievements, but it’s also important to boost morale, too. [8] In a big project, remind your co-workers about what they accomplished, as well. This kind gesture will help you stand out, and leave a positive impression in everyone’s minds. [9]
    • You might say, “This fundraiser was a huge team effort. I couldn’t have done it without you guys” or “This really is a team victory. Thank you all for your hard work!”
6

Adapt to your boss’s management style.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-6.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pay attention to the way your manager runs things around the workplace—are they more direct, or do they tend to take a step back? You’re more likely to prove your worth if you align with their approach. [10] When it comes to showing your value at work, it really is about understanding what's important to those stakeholders in terms of performance and expectations and delivering upon those expectations.
    • For example, if your boss likes to be kept in the loop, you might send them a daily email update. If your boss is more laid-back, you might pop in their office once a week.
    • For a more hands-on boss, you might say, “Here’s everything I accomplished today!” For a more relaxed boss, you could say, “This is what I’ve worked on over the past 2 weeks.”
    • Feel free to ask your boss what their personal preferences are, too. You might say, “I just wanted to check in regarding this latest assignment. Would you like daily updates, or do you want me to email you once I’m done?”
    Advertisement
7

Be polite.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-7.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These can be stressful for the entire workplace, and won’t make a very positive impression. Instead, do your best to settle your differences in a polite, civil way. Your co-workers and superiors will appreciate your transparent, hands-on attitude. [11]
    • Instead of saying “I can’t believe you forgot to email me the project files,” say something like, “Sorry to nag you, but could you send me those project files today?”
    • You might say, “I feel like you’ve been avoiding me all week, and I just want to clear the air. Did I do something to upset you?”
8

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/17\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/17\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-8.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [12] Share a fun video that you watched, or something positive you heard on the news. Even small acts of kindness and positivity can really make a difference in the long run. [13]
    • You could say, “I saw the funniest cat video on my Facebook feed last night. Could I send it to you?” or “My sister sent me such a ridiculous meme last night. It’s really silly, but I still got a laugh out of it. Mind if I sent it your way?”
    • You might bring your co-worker a cup of coffee, or bring in a box of donuts for everyone to enjoy.
    Advertisement
9

Mentor someone.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8c\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-9.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Superiors love to see their employees sharing their experiences and insights with less experienced workers. If you have some free time, offer a helping hand to an employee who’s still learning the basics. They’ll appreciate the extra help and insight, especially if they’re brand new. [14]
    • You might say, “Hi there! I just wanted to officially welcome you to the team. If you need any help learning the ropes, please let me know!”
    • You could also say, “How are things going? I’d be happy to walk you through the employee handbook, if you’d like.”
10

Ask for help.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-10.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If anything, asking for help proves that you prioritize your work quality over your own personal pride. An experienced co-worker or boss will be happy to explain how things work, and will appreciate your honesty and integrity. [15]
    • For example, you might say, “Hey Caitlin! Would you mind walking me through the vector mask function in Adobe Photoshop?” or “David, could you show me how to make a new database in Microsoft Access?”
    Advertisement
11

Say no if you need to.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-11.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You won’t make a good impression if you spread yourself thin and submit low-quality work. Instead, take a close look at your workload and step back from projects that are a bit too stressful. Your boss may appreciate your honesty and integrity, which can help you stand out. [16]
    • You might say, “I’d love to work on that, but this week’s data entry is really taking over my schedule. Could someone else cover that task for now?”
    • You could always compromise, saying something like, “I’m really swamped this week, but I’ll have more free time next week after our publication deadline. Could I start then?”
12

Create a work-life balance.

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-12.jpg\/aid12470034-v4-728px-Prove-Your-Worth-at-Work-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    To really prove your worth, draw a line in the sand between your working hours and personal time. Don’t take working vacations or spend long hours working overtime. If you are refreshed, happy, and productive, your boss is sure to take notice. [17]
    • Instead of finishing up extra work at home, catch up on your favorite TV show or read a chapter of your favorite book.
    • Instead of staying late at work, set firm “clock in” and “clock out” times for yourself.
    Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do you deal with not feeling valued at work?
    Jessica George, MA, CHt
    Certified Professional Master Life Coach
    Jessica George is a Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Professional Master Life Coach, and Co-Founder of Evolve Therapy Coaching based in Glendale, California. With more than 20 years of experience, she specializes in hybrid therapy and coaching services, couples counseling, and clinical hypnotherapy. Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree from The University of California, Santa Barbara and an MA in Counseling Psychology and Talk Therapy from Ryokan College. Jessica is trained in the Imago technique and the Gottman method for couples therapy. She also earned a Professional Life-Coach Certification from The Fowler Academy and an Infinite Possibilities Relationship Certification. She is a member of the International Board of Coaches and Practitioners (IBCP).
    Jessica George, MA, CHt
    Certified Professional Master Life Coach
    Expert Answer
    Stay consistent, motivate and encourage everyone. Check-in with people and make sure you are all on the same page, as great communication and willingness to learn are essential to prove your worth.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit

      Advertisement

      Tips

      • To really show your value, you need to be working in an area that naturally energizes you.
        Thanks
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      Top 10 Crypto & Bitcoin Casinos
      How to
      Become Taller Naturally
      Advertisement
      How to
      Fry Chicken Livers
      How to
      Iron
      How to
      Forget Someone
      How to
      Apply for a Grant
      How to
      Slim Your Face
      How to
      Get Rid of Blackheads on Your Nose
      How to
      Use Pore Strips
      How to
      Find Things You Lost
      How to
      Be a Cholo
      How to
      Bleach a White Shirt
      How to
      Be Concise
      How to
      Get Your House to Not Smell Like Your Pets
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://hbr.org/2020/06/5-ways-to-demonstrate-your-value-remotely
      2. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnrampton/2018/05/01/manipulate-time-with-these-powerful-20-time-management-tips/?sh=67b747d057ab
      3. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnrampton/2018/05/01/manipulate-time-with-these-powerful-20-time-management-tips/?sh=67b747d057ab
      4. ↑ Jessica George, MA, CHt. Certified Professional Master Life Coach. Expert Interview. 11 February 2022.
      5. ↑ Michael McCutcheon, PhD. Career Coach & Psychologist. Expert Interview. 24 February 2021.
      6. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2014/01/17/7-ways-to-prove-your-value-at-work-after-50/?sh=19ff8594765d
      7. ↑ https://hbr.org/2020/06/5-ways-to-demonstrate-your-value-remotely
      8. ↑ Jessica George, MA, CHt. Certified Professional Master Life Coach. Expert Interview. 11 February 2022.
      9. ↑ https://www.fastcompany.com/90234847/here-are-the-ways-to-demonstrate-your-value-at-work-you-probably-havent-thought-of
      1. ↑ https://www.fastcompany.com/40448332/this-is-how-to-prove-your-worth-to-your-new-boss
      2. ↑ https://hbr.org/2020/06/5-ways-to-demonstrate-your-value-remotely
      3. ↑ Jessica George, MA, CHt. Certified Professional Master Life Coach. Expert Interview. 11 February 2022.
      4. ↑ https://hbr.org/2020/06/5-ways-to-demonstrate-your-value-remotely
      5. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2014/01/17/7-ways-to-prove-your-value-at-work-after-50/?sh=19ff8594765d
      6. ↑ https://www.amanet.org/articles/fifteen-ways-to-show-your-value-at-work/
      7. ↑ https://www.fastcompany.com/90234847/here-are-the-ways-to-demonstrate-your-value-at-work-you-probably-havent-thought-of
      8. ↑ https://www.amanet.org/articles/fifteen-ways-to-show-your-value-at-work/

      About this article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 21,021 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement