Leanna Cruz
Editorial Director

When frustrated it is always easier to tell others what the problem is with them, but unfortunately those who approach their career from that perspective will find that that path leads them to a dead end in the maze of career advancement. In trying to understand the frustrations of employees I sat through a speaker’s presentation to be enlightened on the issue. The speaker’s conclusion is that “employers are not providing the tools, technology, information, support and other resources needed to be effective.” This sounds as though employers expect you to show up at the front door with your superb knowledge and skills and get to work with nothing given on their part. If this is true then it is understandable if employees are frustrated. If this is the case, my question for these employees is “what have you done to get the resources you need?”

It would seem that any high potential employee ready to fill a leadership position would ask for the specific resources needed, rather than remain frustrated with the lack of needed tools and resources preventing them from being effective. Don’t let this be the reason you are not effective. Learn the unspoken rules to getting what you need to get your work done. If you have effectively communicated with the right person you should see movement toward getting the resources you need.

Shedding light on the problem without aiding progress with a solution is as frustrating as not having the resources you need. Stand out by clearly communicating your needs with innovative solutions. Presenting your need for specific resources, illustrating how having them will be beneficial to your team, department and the company goals is more likely to get you what you need.

The speaker at this event suggested that “most organizations are poorly positioned to identify and respond to the concerns of frustrated employees.” This sounds terminal and illuminates the urgency for you to take on the responsibility to ensure you have what you need to succeed. Given the economic changes companies experienced during the last two years leaders are open to innovative ideas which will allow you to be effective.

Now I don’t share the same pessimism as the speaker, but I do know that those who do more than point out the problems, who do more than remain quiet in their frustration, but who instead effectively communicate innovative solutions which will ensure they are able to effectively contribute, are the winners. These are the people executives select to fill leadership positions.