What are the qualities of a good employee? Different bosses may emphasize different traits, but many habits are universal in any career. Knowing which work habits are important can help you figure out where to focus your efforts.
Having Problem-Solving Skills
How you handle those roadblocks can determine your success. Having problem-solving skills will give you the tools to keep moving forward, even when things become challenging. That enables you to correct issues before they become major problems.
Having Strong Organizational Habits
Your physical workspace is just one part of being organized. It helps to have a tidy workspace with physical tools so that you can keep things sorted and easy to find. The other part of being organized is how you act. Do you know how to prioritize tasks? Do you have some way of keeping track of your tasks? Little changes can help improve your organization. For example, you might tackle the most difficult tasks first, so that you can fly through the easier projects later. Find organizational strategies that will work for you, so that you can improve your productivity.
Having the Ability to Focus
The ability to focus on your work makes you more productive, and it can improve the quality of your work. If you’re constantly stopping and starting or getting distracted, you lose your flow. You may forget important details or you may miss information in the tasks you’re working on. You can improve your focus by making changes to your workspace, or take short breaks throughout the day.
Being Punctual for Work Responsibilities
Being punctual not only impresses your boss, it also starts your day on a positive note. Think about mornings when you’re running late. You feel rushed and frazzled. You feel like you’re already behind. Now, imagine a more peaceful start to your morning. You wake up in plenty of time to eat a healthy breakfast and to get to work without rushing.
If you struggle with punctuality, start by giving yourself a schedule. Calculate when you need to wake up and leave the house so that you can get to work early. Setting reminders on your phone and using timers for different activities can help remind you of upcoming appointments so that you can stick to your schedule.
Having Good Time-Management Skills
How you use your time at work is another habit that can affect your success. People with strong time-management skills are able to get to work right away, and they get more done in less time. Having a plan in place to tackle your workload helps. Instead of having a general to-do list, break down each task into steps so that you know exactly how to spend your time. Using a timer can help you stay focused so that you can finish your tasks on time.
Being a Team Player
Being a team player isn’t only about working well with others. It’s also about raising up the atmosphere of those you work with. Instead of waiting for a colleague to ask you for help, lend a hand, if you know he has a big project that he’s handling. When you notice someone doing well, tell her. Maybe you decide to bring in a box of donuts because it makes your co-workers happy. These little things can boost morale and can solidify that you are a valuable team player.
Reflecting on Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Don’t forget positive self-reflection. Even if you have a terrible day, looking for something good in it helps you develop a sense of gratitude. That little shift in your outlook can make a big difference in your job satisfaction. Finding positive points during the day can also help you identify your strengths and help you exploit those traits.
