Feeling Unvalued at Work? 8 Ways to Address It with Your Manager & Change the Narrative

In the fast-paced world of sales, feeling undervalued can be a major motivation killer. You put in the hours, hit your targets (or come close), and yet—no recognition, no appreciation, and definitely no extra rewards. When this happens, frustration builds, and disengagement creeps in. But instead of silently stewing in resentment, it’s time to take control and shift the narrative.

As a sales manager, I’ve seen both sides of the coin—employees who feel overlooked and managers who (unknowingly) contribute to the issue. Here’s how to address the problem and reframe the situation so that you get the recognition, respect, and opportunities you deserve.

1. Start with Self-Reflection: Are You Truly Undervalued or Just Feeling Overlooked?

Before jumping to conclusions, ask yourself:

✔️ Have my contributions genuinely been ignored, or do I expect more recognition than what’s standard?✔️ Am I comparing myself to colleagues unfairly?

✔️ Have I clearly communicated my expectations for appreciation, growth, and compensation?

Sometimes, it’s not that your manager doesn’t value you—it’s that they assume you already know your worth. If that’s the case, it’s time to speak up.

2. Gather Data: Show Your Impact in Measurable Terms

Numbers don’t lie—especially in sales. If you feel undervalued, back up your case with data. Bring to the table:📊 Revenue you’ve generated📈 Deals closed vs. the team average📝 Positive client feedback💡 Process improvements you’ve contributed to

This removes emotion from the conversation and makes it clear that your work deserves recognition.

3. Initiate a Direct but Strategic Conversation

Don’t wait for your annual review to address the issue. Schedule a one-on-one with your manager and structure the conversation around:✅ The value you’ve added✅ Areas where you’d like more feedback and recognition✅ Career growth opportunities

Instead of saying, “I feel unappreciated,” try, “I want to contribute even more to the team. Can we discuss my impact and potential opportunities for growth?”

4. Understand Your Manager’s Perspective

Sales leaders juggle numbers, strategy, and team dynamics. If they’re not vocal with praise, it might not mean they don’t appreciate you—it might mean they assume you don’t need it. Ask questions like:🗣️ “What do you see as my biggest strengths?”🔍 “How do you assess value in the team?”

This helps you understand their perspective and gives them a chance to clarify how they see your contributions.

5. Align Your Efforts with What the Business Values Most

If you’re doing great work but not getting noticed, you might be focusing on the wrong things.🔹 Does leadership prioritize new business, but you’re mainly handling renewals?🔹 Are you closing deals, but the company is focused on upsells?

Find out what leadership values most and align your efforts with those priorities.

6. Speak the Language of Growth, Not Complaints

Managers respond better to solutions than problems. Instead of saying:❌ “I work so hard, and no one notices.”Try:✅ “I’d love to take on more responsibility. How can I position myself for the next level?”

This shifts the conversation from frustration to ambition.

7. Look for Opportunities Beyond Your Manager

If direct recognition from your manager isn’t happening, expand your visibility.🔹 Share your wins in team meetings.🔹 Volunteer for cross-department projects.🔹 Network with leadership outside of your immediate team.

Sometimes, the best way to feel valued is to make sure the right people see your contributions.

8. Know When to Walk Away

If you’ve done all the above and still feel like your work is being taken for granted, it may be time to consider your options.🚩 Is there a pattern of employees being undervalued?🚩 Are promotions and raises happening, but not for you?🚩 Are your contributions met with indifference, no matter how hard you push?

If the answer is yes, don’t be afraid to explore opportunities where your value will be recognized.

You Control the Narrative

Feeling unvalued at work is frustrating, but you have more control than you think. By shifting your mindset from why don’t they see my worth? to how can I make my value undeniable?, you put yourself in the driver’s seat.

Speak up, show your impact, and position yourself for success—whether that’s in your current company or somewhere that truly appreciates what you bring to the table. 💼🔥

From Jack