Supervisor didn't pass along positive feedback?

Question

Recently, I spoke to one of my former clients, and she paid me a huge compliment and said I did an especially great job for her. She went on to say she spoke to my supervisor over the phone and complimented me directly to her.

When I talked to my supervisor today, she didn't even mention it! I guess my feelings were kind of hurt, because if the client hadn't told me herself, I never would have known.

We have a reward system at work and when clients feel the staff goes above and beyond, the staff are supposed to be rewarded, and I felt this would have qualified. Not that I'm terribly worried about the reward, I just think an employer should take advantage of such an opportunity to reward the dedicated work of their employees.

What should I do, if anything?

Answer 1

Usually a policy like ones you mentioned (reward for feed backs) have rather strict guideline on how such a compliment has to be submitted. Most usually, the requirement includes such statements made in writing. I suggest you find out what they are. They are implemented to fend off fraud.

I would STRONGLY suggest that you DO NOT ask your client to write a letter as it would obligate them and also expose them to side of the business they really should not see. Just keep it in your mind that you made someone very happy and let it go...

Next time, when someone says they are exceedingly pleased with your work, casually mention that your boss would really appreciate a brief e-mail (or something) from them, so he/she can pass it on... I'm afraid it's probably too late to tell your client this. (timing of this is really an art)

Yes, it is not fair. I agree 100%

By the way, I have received dozens of "thank you" words, and about half of it with a promise of letters, but only a few actually did, and I can only recall once or twice I actually received rewards. I just do my job to best of my ability.

Answer 2

Be up front and ask your supervisor. If you did something wrong, your supervisor would come straight out and tell you. Sometimes we need to keep them in check, too.