Want to be an All-Star Employee? Follow These Simple Steps

By Brian Maynor

 

Close your eyes; think about your office for a moment and picture an all-star employee. Chances are they will immediately jump to mind.

These aren’t the people that are constantly sucking up to the powers that be, or trying to prove their worth by being a work martyr. All-star employees are the ones you really like to work with; constantly being recommended for promotions and generally set and raise the bar for office standards.

Beyond an exceptional ability to be team players and leaders and their laser focus on goals and details there are other qualities that place them above the fray. Here are the most common behaviors exhibited by truly great employees that everyone can adopt, especially if you’re trying to make the all-star team yourself:

1.    The consummate professional. When we get caught in the day-to-day grind of work, it’s easy to let bad habits slip into our professional behavior. Standout employees never cave to office norms. They know what is expected and exemplify impeccable professionalism at all times.

This means they make an effort to arrive at meetings early and if they will be late or absent will send a concise email to the entire group. They never text or reply to emails during a meeting because they are giving their undivided attention to the person speaking and contribute to the discussion. Finally they dress a step or two above the norm, making them appropriate, but always pulled together. This is the visual cue to reinforce the behavioral ones that place them a cut above the rest.

2.    Goal oriented. This doesn’t mean constantly angling for the next promotion, but it does mean knowing where they want to go. All-star employees are constantly planning and setting goals for the next step and can verbalize them without time to think. They consistently work within a six-month timeframe, because that is realistic and an optimal time to take a goal from concept to fruition.

3.    Problem solvers. Leading employees don’t ever shy away from criticism, conflict or difficult conversations. Instead they address them head on with concise and clear communication, but they also make a point to actively listen to everyone and bring solutions to the table, not just complaints. Taking responsibility and offering solutions is a hallmark of leadership and the best way to showcase your integrity.

4.    Maintain a positive attitude. Work takes up a lot of our time so keeping a positive outlook while engaging with peers is essential to create a pleasant working environment. That doesn’t mean you have to be best friends with everyone, or even acquaintances. Simply saying ‘hello’ or asking ‘how are you?’ when you pass by them will go a long way. It’s not so much about making a friend, as it is being polite and personable.

Standout employees aren’t born with an x-factor that naturally sets them apart. We all have the potential, because it comes from work and practice. It’s never too late to step up and be recognized as the work star you are; sometimes we just need a little guidance knowing how to do it.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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