Find Great People
Are You a Great Employee?
By Kacie Burdette, Associate Recruiter
Everyone wants to make a good first impression when they start a new position.
Dressing professionally, arriving on time, listening and taking notes, and being eager to learn all about the job and how to perform in the position are usually ways to impress your boss on the first day. But, you also want to continue to exceed expectations months or even years down the road. Here are a few tips when it comes to being a great employee:
Own up to your mistakes:If you make a mistake at work, and mistakes do happen, own up to it. Your boss will be impressed with your maturity and will be more confident that you are learning from your mistakes.
Avoid office drama or gossip:Let’s face it; some people thrive off of drama and gossip. Don’t be that person. Participating in office drama does nothing good for your rapport with your coworkers or for your attitude while you’re at work. It not only causes tension, but it is also the quickest way to burn bridges and provide distractions.
Don’t abuse office technology:Having a fax machine, copier, access to Internet and phones, and other technology at your fingertips can be tempting. Be sure not to abuse your right to use these devices. Although it seems like these are “free resources,” be aware that they still cost your company money.
Be personable, not personal: Working with people who you get along with and can relate to can be great. However, you don’t want to distract your coworkers with personal problems or issues that would more appropriately be discussed outside of work. These are distractions that can cause people to lose focus on the work they could be accomplishing.
Don’t watch the clock: It can be tempting to count down the minutes until 5 o’clock. Watching the clock makes the day go by so much slower and will only distract you, decreasing productivity. If you find yourself counting the minutes, try putting a post it note over the clock so you won’t be tempted to peak at what time it is!
Stay away from controversy:Controversial conversation can rub people the wrong way and result in more tension and distractions. Topics such as religion, race, sex, and others should not be brought up in the workplace.
Don’t get too comfortable:No matter how casual your office may be, be sure to dress appropriately for work. Always show up for work in professional clothes and posture yourself professionally. You never know what the day may bring and you wouldn’t want to find yourself meeting a client when dressed unprofessionally.
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