What to Do When Your Manager Sees Potential in You That You Haven’t Used Yet

There is a particular kind of career conversation that can catch you off guard.

Your manager says:

“I think you could do more than you’re doing now.”

Or:

“You have potential for something bigger.”

Or maybe:

“Have you ever thought about taking on a leadership role?”

It sounds positive.

But it can also leave you wondering what you’re supposed to do with the comment.

What exactly do they see?

Are they talking about a promotion?

More responsibility?

Leadership?

A different role?

A skill you haven’t been using?

And perhaps the most uncomfortable question:

What if they see something in you that you haven’t noticed yourself?

This situation can be an excellent career opportunity, but only if you handle it thoughtfully.

You don’t need to immediately accept whatever path your manager imagines for you.

You also shouldn’t dismiss the feedback simply because you hadn’t considered it before.

Sometimes another person’s view can reveal a capability that has been hiding inside your ordinary work.

“Potential” Is Too Vague to Act On