What do you do if your leadership abilities are not recognized in performance evaluations?

1 Identify the gap

The first step is to understand why your leadership skills are not being acknowledged or appreciated by your managers or peers. Is it because you lack clarity, feedback, or alignment on your goals and expectations? Is it because you have a different leadership style or approach than others in your organization? Is it because you face challenges or biases that affect your visibility or credibility? By identifying the gap, you can address it more effectively and strategically.

2 Communicate your achievements

The next step is to communicate your achievements and contributions as a leader in a clear, concise, and consistent way. You can use various channels and formats, such as reports, presentations, meetings, or emails, to highlight your results, impact, and value. You can also use metrics, testimonials, or stories to demonstrate your skills and competencies. Make sure you tailor your message to your audience and emphasize how your leadership supports the organization's vision, mission, and values.

3 Seek feedback and guidance

The third step is to seek feedback and guidance from your managers, mentors, or coaches on how to improve your leadership performance and potential. You can ask for specific, constructive, and actionable suggestions on your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. You can also request regular, formal, or informal reviews or check-ins to monitor your progress and achievements. Be open, receptive, and responsive to the feedback and guidance you receive and use it to enhance your skills and behaviors.

4 Expand your network and influence

The fourth step is to expand your network and influence within and outside your organization. You can connect with other leaders, experts, or stakeholders in your field or industry and learn from their experiences, insights, or best practices. You can also participate in or initiate projects, initiatives, or events that showcase your leadership skills and abilities. By expanding your network and influence, you can increase your exposure, reputation, and recognition as a leader.

6 Seek opportunities and challenges

The final step is to seek opportunities and challenges that allow you to demonstrate and grow your leadership skills and potential. You can volunteer for or apply for roles, tasks, or assignments that require you to lead, manage, or coordinate teams, projects, or processes. You can also take risks, experiment, or innovate with new ideas, methods, or solutions that solve problems, create value, or improve performance. By seeking opportunities and challenges, you can prove your capabilities and readiness as a leader.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?