The best managers want people to work for them who are better than they are because those high-performing workers make the team, company and manager look good. Unfortunately, there are many managers who feel threatened by the high performers working for them. If you excel at your job, how can you continue to be a success but not intimidate the person in charge of your performance evaluations? Use these three tips for avoiding resentment.
An Award Benefits Everyone, Not Just You
If you are receiving an award for your excellent work as a high performer in your company, make sure to let your manager know how that award also benefits him. Pile on the praise by telling your manager how he helped you get to the top and be eligible for the award. Thank him for all the opportunities he has given you to shine as an employee and further your career. You're not being dishonest by telling him this information. It's most likely your manager did play a part in helping you excel, whether he offered great support or challenged you along the way. Point out how your award is a reflection of his management skills because his leadership helped you hone your own skills.
Pay It Forward
Ask your manager if you can share the knowledge you learned to help you become a high performer. This might mean putting together a program to help your colleagues become successful, holding a workshop or offering to be a mentor. Be aware of the feelings of those around you. You don't want to come off as condescending or overbearing. One of the characteristics of a high-performing worker is emotional intelligence, which helps this type of worker create strong and lasting relationships. You can pay it forward by offering to help those around you become high performers, too, thus promoting productivity and success for the company.
Recognize Other's Performances
Another way you can go about avoiding resentment from your manager and co-workers is to look for opportunities to recognize their own accomplishments. If your company has an awards program, nominate those other high performers for their dedication to the company. If there isn't a formal awards program, look for other ways to nominate by checking out industry awards through associations or other sponsors. You could even take the time to write a nice letter about your manager and send it up the ladder to his boss. Not only does this make you look good because you are valuing and recognizing other people's strengths, but you are pointing out your manager's strengths, which is sure to make its way back to him.
High performers shouldn't have to hide their light under a bushel; your talents and accomplishments are something to be celebrated. However, to engender positive feelings and promote morale in the workplace, you also want to celebrate the accomplishments of others around you and offer your expertise and guidance to help the whole team succeed.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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