ALT-1 Top Ten Attributes of a Good Employee
In today’s economy it has never been more vital to hone and develop those qualities or attributes that make you indispensable to your employer. Top employees share certain characteristics that put them far ahead of the pack. Different studies have found different attributes based on where they are globally and developmentally. For example, patience is valued very highly in Asian countries but barely mentioned in western ones. Generally, here are the attributes that rated the best:-
1. Communication skills
Being skilled at communication came first in most studies. Particularly the ability to communicate in an honest and confidential manner is valued very highly. If one can connect with co-workers and their superiors in a respectful and tactful manner, trusting relationships will develop. With the growth of these relationships, will be the simultaneous growth of your career.
2. Strong work ethic
Anyone with a strong work ethic is, if not envied - truly admired and respected by all. This includes being discrete, reliable and pitching up for work even if you have the sniffles. You want to work hard and smart. Giving the extra mile service and going for win-win situations asStephen R Coveyspeaks about in his book, ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’. Coming in earlier than others and leaving later, even if it’s only by minutes – they add up and it gives you an edge. You will not abuse the companies’ resources like making personal calls and surfing the net during office hours.
3. Positive attitude
A positive attitude is always appreciated by everyone. Individuals who are positive and easy-going bring a great energy into the work environment – that is welcomed by everyone. If you are a ‘can do’ person, you will be climbing that career ladder in no time at all.
4. High performance standards
Being positive is fine but truly delivering on your promises in the work environment is what you want. Taking responsibility, showing initiative and being dependable will rapidly build your work integrity. This will make you practically indispensable to your bosses and your co-workers alike. Getting the job done before deadline and delivering with consistency will result in your performance being rated consistently high.
5. Exceed expectations
In most workplaces there are expectations of you. It is required that one meets certain deadlines and fulfills certain requirements. Exceeding those expectations by doing more, going further and stretching yourself will benefit not only the company but you too.
6. Flexibility and adaptability
Being flexible and adaptable has never been more necessary than it is in today’s work environment. Individuals are being asked to take cut backs, move offices or many other changes are being requested. Generally, the human race does not like change but now rapidly adapting to new environments is essential if not necessary. You may even be requested to move to a new city or country, how you respond to these requests will determine your work future.
7. Productivity: quality and quantity
Delivering high quality work and doing more than is expected is a highly valued quality in anyone. The stars that shine are those that are not afraid to go the extra mile. Producing work on time every time shows productivity and the numbers never lie.
8. Lifelong learner
To stay in front, you have to up-skill. The competition is too fierce not to. Ideally, you want to be constantly learning, if it’s new languages or business courses. Study anything that you enjoy and can give you the competitive edge. Life long learners are generally admired and looked up to in any environment, including the work environment. It makes life more interesting too and opens up more doors.
9. Being a team-player
Take responsibility and give credit to others. Be responsive, alert and dependable. Being likeable is great but being respected is much better. Help your co-workers look good and they will admire and respect you. Being able to take and give instructions is important. Know when to lead and when to follow, do those quietly and remember as they say ‘there is no ‘I’ in the word team’.
10. Patience, tolerance and understanding
Patience, tolerance and understanding are thought to be attributes that come with age. It certainly comes with wisdom and patience is considered a virtue. Someone once said that if you are patient, all things will come to you. There is also a cliché that good things come to those who wait. Knowing when to step back and be patient calls on tolerance and understanding. It will bring the success that you seek, in the time that it must be.
Most people go to work and do the bare minimum but then others, like you, are truly interested in becoming a more accomplished individual. You would not be reading this otherwise. Your light will shine brighter, whether you are self-employed or employed by another – as you grow further in the attributes that you already have and those you need to grow.
