The 10-Step Program to Becoming a Better Employee

It is usually pretty easy to identify those behaviors that make you less than the model employee. But what about ways to make yourself more valuable? Compare your daily work habits to the following list to see what you are and aren’t doing to highlight your value to your employer and become a better employee.

1. The first, and most obvious, behavior is to not miss work. Situations arise that can make life temporarily more difficult but unless you meet an emergency that absolutely requires your time, make the effort to go to work. No employer wants a chronically absent employee who will undoubtedly be viewed as unreliable and unmotivated.

2. Use what you learn to push yourself forward. Take your insights and unique perspective of your company and use them to make suggestions for improvements. Use what you learn on your job to make your company better and make a positive difference in the way it functions.

3. Don’t take advantage of the privileges that your employer provides. Respect the property and perspectives of your employer and take care to use what your company provides responsibly. Don’t steal supplies, trash bathrooms and break rooms, damage property, or abuse Internet access.

4. Be considerate and complimentary to your co-workers. You spend more time with these people than nearly anyone else so there is little point in making that time more difficult to tolerate by being irritable or difficult. Be polite, compliment on a job well done, and be appreciative of any help you receive from your co-workers.

5. Be active in the events your employer chooses to participate in within your community. It not only shows your employer that you appreciate their time and money in providing a service, but helps you to better know your co-workers and management big-wigs.

6. Keep your workspace as organized and accessible as possible. The cleanliness and organization of your work area represents you well, shows that you value your company enough to put forth a good image, and prevents any confusion should anyone have to fill in for you for any reason.

7. Stay up-to-date with emails and policy changes that can affect the operation and procedures of your organization.

8. Stay relevant by keeping up with current industry trends, research, and tools that can help you perform your job better or otherwise improve the operation of your company. Stay informed.

9. Don’t just participate in employer-sponsored activities, but volunteer in your community during your own time. Use your skills and pursue your passions outside of the office t0 gain new skills and experiences that may not be available at work.

10. Be you. Granting your company allows it, tastefully personalize your desk and communications to show that you are more than just a cubicle-dwelling automaton. Expressing who you are helps to shape how your employer perceives you and values your contribution to corporate culture.