Have you ever felt that you are not taken seriously enough by others at work? Does this fact distress you? And how do you know that your perception is objective (i.e., you are under no illusions)? It may be worthwhile to ask yourself this question, especially if you are trying to advance within your workplace.

First of all, question why people tend to ignore you. Or why you are not able to attract others' attention as easily or as much as you would have wanted. Is it simply that you want all the attention and to be in the limelight all the time at work?

Too much desire for the attention of others implies inward poverty and weakness of character. However, you may genuinely and legitimately be concerned about the fact that others do not take you seriously and you should look at your own communication skills and deficiencies.

If you determine that you do need to shore up your communications skills in order to be taken more seriously, some of the causes may be as follow:

Serious Vs. Frivolous

Are you serious or frivolous by nature? Remember that in order to be taken seriously, you must be serious. This does not mean that you need to have a sad and pensive demeanor.

It simply means you are business-like and professionl - even when you crack a joke. Serious people don't joke as an escape from their boredom. Their jokes are the spontaneous expression of their senses of humor, especially in the workplace. It is important to be the "witty professional" instead of the "class clown" when joking with your peers and coworkers in the workplace.

Elegant Vs. Shabby

Do you dress shabbily or elegantly? How do you conduct yourself? Remember, your appearance is integral to your persona. Keeping a professional appearance is the beginning and end of being taken seriously by others.

Sloppy and casual dress and attitude are the greatest enemies of professionalism.

Talkative Vs. Eloquent

Be eloquent rather than talkative. The words of a talkative person do not hold much substance. Besides, words are often used like arrows out of a quiver. You can make friends or foes just by your diction. So be discreet in your choice of words.

Simply speaking without quality is not good enough.

Striving for excellence in your work is the foundation of your work ethic. Always pursue excellence in all your endeavors. Mediocrity in your work does not exude professionalism. If you produce inferior or mediocre work, you will not be taken seriously by your colleagues or superiors.