10 Signs You're Undervalued at Work

Do you feel underappreciated at work? If so, you should know that you're not the only one to feel this way. Many employers fail to value their employees, and you could be working for someone who doesn't see your worth. If you notice any of the following, your boss is undervaluing you, and it may be time to find a new position.

1. You Don't Have Autonomy

If you can't do anything without your boss on top of you, then there's a good chance your boss doesn't trust or value you. The next time you work on something, pay attention to the steps you take to get your work done. Is your employer constantly checking on you? Do you need to update them every step of the way?

Being under constant supervision is more than an inconvenience. It keeps you from living up to your full potential and also slows your pace. To thrive in the workplace, you need some degree of autonomy.

2. You Never Receive Recognition

How many times has your employer acknowledged your achievements? You should be able to think of at least one or two times your employer mentioned your accolades. If you surpassed a sales goal, had exceptional results, or did anything else worth recognizing and were ignored, it might be time to find a new job. It's obvious that your employer doesn't see the value in your work.

Recognition is essential because it motivates you to succeed. Why struggle in a workplace that doesn't reward you for your accomplishments or see your worth? A good employer will make mention of your achievements.

3. Others Get Promoted

It's normal for an employer to promote one or two other people before promoting you. But if you notice a trend and everyone around you seems to get promoted, your employer doesn't see how valuable you are. If the manager or employer saw your worth, they would promote you.

Pay attention to who receives promotions in your workplace. If you were more qualified than the other person, you might want to speak with your employer. A face-to-face conversation could explain why your employer passed you up for the job.

4. You Keep Getting More Responsibilities

As you receive a heavier workload, you should also receive compensation for your added responsibility. This means receiving a promotion or raise. If you don't receive either, your extra work is going unnoticed.

It's possible that your supervisor is unaware of your increased workload. By bringing it to their attention, you may finally get the recognition you deserve. Keeping silent only means you will continue to be overworked and underpaid. Eventually, you'll be on the hunt for a new position.

5. You're Punished for Sick Time or Vacation Times

As part of your benefits package, you should receive paid or sick time off. Unfortunately, some employers don't allow their employees to make use of their time or they punish them for using it. In either case, your employer doesn't see your value.

You work hard and earn your time off. If your current company makes you feel guilty for using your time away from the office, it might be an excellent opportunity to find a better business to work for. It's only fair that you can use your sick or paid time off.

6. There are No Performance Reviews, or They are Delayed

If you don't receive performance reviews, you can't know if you're meeting your employer's standards. A company that fails to offer regular performance reviews doesn't value its employees. Their lack of interest in your personal growth is a sign that you're undervalued.

This is something you can remedy on your own. In many cases, employees need to reach out to their employers for constructive criticism. If the time for your review has come and gone, consider bringing it up to your boss. Mention that you're interested in learning how you can improve and would like your performance review.

7. No One Listens to Your Ideas

You might be a wealth of ideas, but that doesn't mean everyone listens to them. If you bring up ideas and no one even gives them a second thought, you're being undervalued. While some ideas are better than others, you deserve some acknowledgment of your ideas. Your boss should at least give you some feedback or input.

8. You Don't Have Room to Grow

A good employer who values their employees offers opportunities for growth. They might provide you with access to training, conferences, and other learning experiences. Whether you seek them out or your employer offers them to you, these growth opportunities should be available.

If you feel stuck and as if there's no room for growth, it's time to move on. Your career could be hindered by your current employer, and you need someone who is willing to nurture you and develop your skills.

9. You Only Have a Cost of Living Raise

Typically, employers offer raises to account for the increase in the cost of living. But a cost of living raise doesn't show that you're a valued team member. Once every few years, you should receive a raise for your loyalty and dedication to the job.

If you feel as if you're undervalued, look at the current salary for individuals in your field. How does your salary compare? There's a chance you deserve a much better pay, and only a raise or a new job can remedy that.

10. There's a High Demand for Your Skills

Are you in a field that's grown or has a shortage of workers? If so, take some time to think about whether or not your employer values you. It might be the right time to apply for a new position, as you could experience a pay increase. At the very least, you could end up with an employer who appreciates your skills.

Whether you've experienced any of the situations above or you just have a gut feeling you're undervalued, don't sell yourself short. Have a talk with your employer or begin looking for a new position, and you could have more success in the workplace.