When Your Contributions Go Unrecognized: Strategies for Gaining Visibility and Credibility in the Workplace, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

The HCL Review Podcast

Abstract: This paper examines why some high-performing employees feel overlooked and underappreciated in the workplace, despite their hard work and contributions. The authors identify several organizational factors that can lead to "invisible employees," including lack of clear performance metrics, unassertive communication styles, undervalued roles, internal politics, and work overload. To address this issue, the paper recommends that companies implement objective performance measures, encourage employees to take ownership of their visibility, support innovative initiatives, provide stretch assignments, and develop political acumen. The authors also emphasize the importance of intentional leadership in counteracting attribution bias and ensuring valuable employees feel seen and recognized. By adopting these strategies, organizations can better retain and advance their top talent, benefiting both individual careers and overall organizational success.