In many ways, ABAP staff form a special group within KU Leuven. ABAP colleagues make a fundamental contribution to the core missions of our university – teaching and research – but sometimes experience the fixed term of their contract as frustrating. Too often they still feel sidelined and insufficiently heard or appreciated. We, therefore, intend to work with them towards concrete actions and initiatives that can sustainably be implemented throughout the organisation and that can positively contribute to how they experience their work environment and to their perception of appreciation. Receiving and giving feedback in structural career development conversations is key. If ABAP colleagues are weighed down by inappropriate behaviour or too high a workload, we as an organisation have to take responsibility, fully aware that they are all too often in a vulnerable position.