Along the lines of last month’s article, men sometimes feel they are asked to do too many tasks at work. At the same time, men also complain that their individual skills are not recognized by their bosses.
There are several ways we learn our own employable skills. The process is part of learning about the singular special individual each of us is taught that we are.
Some self-knowledge comes from natural interests and inclinations. Some of it comes from life and work experiences. It shows when we get into unexpected, difficult, or unusual situations and yet are able to figure out the best way to handle the challenge. We have our self-realization moments when we understand that others around us didn’t reach the same conclusion we did; indeed, they might not understand our suggestions at first. That might be part of the reason a man’s skills are not recognized by his supervisor. If the boss doesn’t understand a man’s accomplishment, he or she isn’t going to be able to applaud it.
Maybe you don’t know your skills, or how to explain them to others. Being able to explain yourself is a skill in itself. Many people gain or lose in job interviews based on that ability.
However, you cannot expect your boss to know you better than you know yourself. If you feel your supervisor doesn’t recognize your personal skills and isn’t taking advantage of your particular abilities, it is up to you to pass the information along.
Look at on-line job sites under the “Nature of Work” headings. You will find knowledge, skills and abilities associated with your particular job. Don’t try to claim every term you see. Use the list as a starting place.
Next, find a comprehensive skills list. These are often found in resume-building texts. Pick words from that list that also define your skills and blend it with your words from the “Nature of Work.” Next, memorize the list you have made. Make sure you understand the meaning of each word as it applies to you.
Finally, put the words into a story that describes who you are. Practice the story and then approach your supervisor with your concerns. You will have a better chance to use your specific skills once you have clearly explained them to someone who is in a position to do something about your desires.
If you are asked to do work that you don’t have the skills for, think of it as a temporary setback. Expect to learn the procedures more slowly, and to complete the work with more difficulty than usual. It’s OK to use more care than usual when doing something new, too.
Managers want the best people they can get for any position. If you are able to let them know what you have to offer that will help the company succeed, you are more likely to get the opportunity to use your particular skills — they will be recognized and understood by your bosses.
Ronda Bishop is a licensed mental health counselor and experienced parenting educator. She has worked as a counselor, teacher, and life coach for the past 15 years. Questions for Ronda can be e-mailed to letters@reporternewspapers.com or Mslrbishop@comcast.net.
