If you are ambitious, you want to get the attention of upper management. That’s okay. Just be careful you get noticed at the right time and for the right reasons.

Time after time we see employees who think they know what the boss wants. They think they know how to please management by doing their job, but that is only what is expected. Others think they know how to do extra work that will please the boss. The only trouble is they may not pick the projects or jobs that the boss will appreciate.

If you want to excel at your job, first make sure you do all that is expected. Finish the projects on time. Make sure your work is complete and accurate. Then discuss with your boss what else you may do that will be most beneficial. Ask how you can help achieve his or her objectives.

However, there are times when your boss will not be receptive. You may not get support either through jealousy or fear of being overshadowed. If you face this situation, you must be very careful or you will find yourself out on the street. Carefully avoid embarrassing such a boss, or any boss for that matter. Do your job and make little contributions that make your boss look good. Eventually, your qualifications will be recognized. If you can’t wait, then you must look for another position where your talents will be recognized more quickly.

One way to become recognized in your profession is to become certified. Another is to gain recognition by helping your Society. Submit ideas and articles for publication. Offer to teach a course.