Great Work Goes Unnoticed

Great Work Goes Unnoticed

Too often great work goes unnoticed. I'm not talking about 'good' work; the work which we expect we to occur  - great work which people have achieved by failing, continuing to pursue, trying even harder and finally succeeding.

And this week, so much great work was performed unnoticed with one fabulous exception. Our first Melbourne Cup was won by a female jockey, Michelle Payne! And the whole world is talking about it!

Thank heavens her tireless hard work, her family saga, her health issues and cheeky personality were noticed.  Whilst many are focusing on the emerging themes of feminism, male domination, boys clubs and women cracking the whip on the glass ceiling, I simply want to state this point, great work goes unnoticed ... all the time.

It's unfortunate and it's unforgivable. 

Leaders today should know that their fundamental role and future success relates to how they lead their teams of people. This means, notice what people are doing and acknowledge the great work which they create, fail at, produce and deliver.

On a personal level, this might be a challenge. It may not be in your nature to take note and have a concern for what people are doing. If that's that case you're going to have to work smarter, borrow some engaging and caring strengths and practise.

And then I find people who notice great work in their 'personal' life: sport, family and passionate interests. Then, this unnatural change into an uncaring person takes place when they arrive at the workplace. If this portrays you, consider the energy it takes to maintain this change of  persona.

Give this some thought and observe yourself for the next seven days. How many times can you catch great work going on and how many times do you hit the airwaves, letting them know about their great work.