Ever feel like you finish an 8-hour task in 2 hours… and get “rewarded” with even more work while your slow colleagues coast by? 😅
Welcome to the harsh reality of modern workplaces.
We spilled some bitter-but-necessary truths on how to survive—and thrive—when your productivity feels like it’s working against you.
Here’s the cheat sheet to flipping the “work hard, get punished” cycle:
1️⃣ Watch Out for “Performance Punishment”
Yes, it’s a real thing. High performers often get more work simply because bosses know you can handle it.
How to fight back:
Communicate Early: Let your boss know your priorities. Extra tasks? Make sure they’re acknowledged as “bonus,” not “standard.”
Set Personal Targets: Don’t burn out chasing the company’s pace. Build your own benchmarks for a sustainable career.
The “Fire Fast” Rule: Great managers remove underperformers quickly. Holding onto them only punishes those doing the heavy lifting.
2️⃣ Technical Skills Are Your Secret Weapon ⚡
Everyone “knows Excel,” but few can actually analyze data.
It’s not the formulas—they want the answers.
If you can quantify results and present a clear Decision A vs. Decision B path, you instantly become indispensable. Pro tip: tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or even AI dashboards can make you look like a superstar. 🌟
3️⃣ Networking > Nepotism
In Malaysia, people hate the “cable” system. Iman points out the difference: strategic networking is essential, unqualified hires are the problem.
Global firms—even with referrals—demand proof of competence. Sometimes 7 stages of testing. So yes, connections help, but skills still rule. 💪
4️⃣ Be a “Jack of All Trades”
With AI automating technical tasks, the future favors flexible, multi-skilled people.
Know how to communicate, negotiate, and adapt across industries. One skill alone isn’t enough. Be the person who can do it all—and teach others to follow.
Stop being a “Pak Sanggup” (yes-man) who silently takes on everything until burnout hits.
Work smart, make it visible, quantify your impact, and get compensated. If your worth isn’t appreciated… maybe it’s time to take those skills elsewhere. 💼
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