The "Secret to Success": Give "More" Than You "Expect"

"Opportunities don’t happen. You create them." Chris Grosser

Having spent many years in the software industry, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of teammates and customers. Throughout this time, I've observed a common reaction in some people when they are given extra responsibilities—whether it's handling a small task adjustment, staying a bit longer in a meeting, or engaging in additional discussions. These individuals often express discomfort or frustration, feeling that they’re being burdened with more work than their peers.

This reaction is understandable; no one wants to feel overwhelmed or unfairly treated. However, is this mindset beneficial in the long run? Does resisting these extra tasks actually limit personal and professional growth?

In my experience, being willing to take on additional responsibilities, even the small ones, can offer more advantages than downsides. Though seemingly minor, these moments can provide opportunities to stand out, learn new skills, and build stronger relationships with your team. Rather than viewing extra work as a burden, seeing it as a chance to contribute more and gain valuable experience might be more productive.

The Value of Overdelivering in Your Work

"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." Robert Collier

Let me share a story from my early freelancing days. On one of my first projects, I was given a task with an estimated completion time of one or two weeks. I was thrilled to get the opportunity, so I immediately dove into the work. However, instead of just focusing on completing the assigned task, I decided to go the extra mile. I actively communicated with the team, providing updates and asking for feedback, and offered advice on areas that weren’t directly part of my responsibilities. Whether it was suggesting improvements or highlighting potential issues, I contributed to the project beyond what was expected of me.

As a freelancer, it’s common to finish one project and then move on to find another. But this experience was different. After the project was completed, the client approached me with an offer for another position—this time with the salary I had been hoping for. Reflecting on it, I realized this opportunity wasn’t just the result of completing my tasks; it was the outcome of my dedication, hard work, and willingness to take responsibility beyond what was required.

Going above and beyond in your tasks can often lead to unexpected rewards, not just for your career but for your professional growth as well.

If You Can Do It, Why Give It to Someone Else?

"The only way to do great work is to love what you do." Steve Jobs

When you come across an issue or challenge at work, don't just identify it—take ownership of it. Instead of passing it off to someone else or waiting for instructions, create a detailed report outlining the problem, and go one step further by suggesting a solution. If you're confident that your proposed solution is within your abilities, take initiative and work on resolving it. However, always ensure that you communicate with your leader or manager first, providing them with the report and your solution, and wait for their confirmation before taking action.

This proactive approach not only demonstrates your problem-solving abilities but also shows that you’re willing to take responsibility and contribute to the team’s success. It shifts your role from someone who merely executes tasks to someone who actively seeks the best outcome for the project or team. Leaders and managers appreciate employees who are solution-oriented, as it reduces their workload and helps projects run more smoothly. By taking initiative, you'll likely receive more positive feedback, and you'll build trust with your team, showing them that you're capable of handling more responsibility.

In the long run, being proactive and accountable helps solidify your reputation as a reliable and resourceful team member.

When You Give Your Best, but Your Boss Doesn’t Acknowledge It

"Don’t let someone else’s opinion of you become your reality." Les Brown

Sometimes, despite your best efforts—working hard, solving problems, delivering positive results—you might find that your boss or lead doesn’t provide the positive feedback you expect. It can be frustrating when you feel like you’ve done everything right but still don’t receive the recognition you deserve. So, what should you do in this situation?

The first step is to communicate openly with your boss. Don’t wait for feedback—initiate the conversation yourself. During this discussion, present the results you've achieved, highlight the tasks you’ve completed, and share any positive feedback you’ve received from other teams or stakeholders. By doing this, you can create a clearer picture of your contributions and the value you've brought to the project.

Next, try to understand your boss’s expectations. Sometimes the gap between your efforts and their feedback is simply a misunderstanding or misalignment of expectations. Ask questions to clarify what they expect from you and see if there's anything you're missing in your approach. This could give you a chance to adjust your work style or focus on areas that matter more to them.

If, after this communication, you still feel that your hard work isn’t being valued, don’t be afraid to consider other opportunities. Be confident in your abilities and know that there are places where your contributions will be recognized and rewarded. It’s important to work in an environment where your efforts are appreciated and align with your career goals.

Finally

Ultimately, not every piece of advice or situation will fit perfectly with your own experiences, as each person's context and challenges are unique. What works for one individual might not be applicable to another. The recommendations I've shared are based on my personal experiences and observations in the workplace. They represent general principles that I believe can be valuable in navigating career challenges and seeking recognition.

Remember, you are the best judge of your own situation. Your insights into your work environment, your relationships with colleagues and leaders, and your personal goals are crucial in determining the right approach for you. It's important to stay true to yourself and find what works best for your career growth and satisfaction.

If you have any suggestions or experiences that differ from what I've discussed, I’d love to hear them. Sharing perspectives can provide additional insights and help us all grow together. Thank you for joining me in this discussion, and may you find peace and fulfillment in your professional journey.