The Dilemma of Minimal Effort: Expecting Promotions Without Putting in the Work

In today's fast paced and competitive corporate world, it is common for employees to expect promotions and career growth. However, some putt in the minimal effort yet expect to reap its rewards posing challenges to organization's productivity. This undermines the principles of meritocracy that many institutions strive to uphold (meritocracy defined by the Webster dictionary as "system, organization, or society in which people are chosen and moved into positions of success, power, and influence on the basis of their demonstrated abilities and merit").

Who are these employees?

They adopt a minimal effort approach often required to keep their jobs. They arrive at work just on time, avoid taking on extra responsibilities, and show little initiative. They do not go above and beyond to complete their tasks nor establish good rapport with their colleagues. One's reputation is crucial especially in small companies and in stepping into a new role.

Merely showing up and fulfilling basic duties does not entitle anyone to promotions.

Such employee will be negative, confrontational and avoid additional responsibilities. Monetary gains is important to them and is the source for their efforts often delivering mediocre results.

In my opinion, the consequences of mininal efforts leads to a culture of mediocrity.

In contrast, employees who dedicate themselves to their roles and go above and beyond their basic duties are more likely to achieve their career goals. Hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to take on challenges are key ingredients for success.

Who are these employees?

These emplyees seek out new challenges but most importantly are succeeding at their role. They are on top of their day to day, go above and beyond in completing their tasks without expecting anything in return and are a point of reference for their colleagues. Theeir reputation supersedes them.

Those are the employees that are recognized by their peers for their contributions as well as their guidance. They invest in their work, leading them to be recognized by leadership and fulfilling their career growth.

A hard worker will emanate a postive aura; his/her performance will exceed expectation, look our for opportunities to learn & develop, and be recognized for his/her contributions.

The expectation of promotions and career advancement without putting in the necessary effort is a detrimental mindset that can harm any employee, leading some to point fingers at the system rather than looking inwards for reasons of failing at work.

By fostering and embracing hard work, perseverance, and continuous improvement, employees can ensure that they are on a clear path to achieving their career goals. Ultimately, it is the dedicated, proactive, and hardworking employees who will find themselves rewarded with the promotions and opportunities they seek.

The rest will complacently go on with the day to day and move on to a different company/role to seek the much awaited promotion.