Landing a job is only the first step of your career. Now that you have the opportunity to use your skills and talents, it’s time to start moving towards some of your work goals (for how to develop these goals, please see our post on developing your career). Showing your employer that you are committed to excellence in the workplace and dedicated to growing your skills can help you achieve your career objectives. Here are a few tips to help you be a superstar at work.
- Be flexible
“Flexibility is the greatest strength.” ― Steven Redhead, Life Is Simply A GameThis doesn’t mean that you need to always make the daily coffee run, but it does mean that you should be willing to help out at your workplace performing tasks that may be outside your specialty. For example, your company may have hired you as a developer. However, if your project manager is ill, you may be asked to meet with the client to help determine the project specifications or even address some service issues. You are more likely to stand out at your company if you are willing to help out instead of saying “Not My Job”. - Keep learning and applying your knowledge
“The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” ― Albert EinsteinIt almost goes without saying that you must keep learning to keep your skills fresh and up-to-date. Unfortunately, not all employers are willing to pay for continuing education. That means you might be on your own when it comes to finding and pursuing valuable skills in your field. While going to a brick-and-mortar college may be one possible solution, you may also want to consider online courses or weekend boot camps. Of course, you should apply your new-found knowledge at work. Working on side projects related to your field is another useful way to keep your mind sharp and your skills ready. - Don’t complain (at work)
“…complaining isn’t a strategy.”—Jeff BezosEveryone has bad days. Every company has its problems. However, how you approach these issues is foundational to your success as a star employee. Complaining loudly to co-workers or during the monthly meeting is not the best approach. Instead, think about what the problem is and then move to address it. For example, if you find that you have too much work, telling everyone in the office won’t help you solve your problem—but it will get back to the supervisor that you are complaining. Instead, identify the problem and ask to speak with your supervisor when she is not busy. Calmly explain that you are excited to work on the project, but believe that you will require some assistance or extra time in order to complete it. - Praise others
“I praise loudly. I blame softly.”—Catherine the GreatWhile you should limit the negative comments, an appropriate comment praising others’ work is extremely beneficial. It not only lets the co-worker know that you appreciate their contributions, but it also shows that you are invested in creating a positive work culture. To provide effective, appropriate praise, choose positive comments that highlight specific individual or team contributions to the workplace or project. For example, highlighting Mary’s programming acumen with solving tough development issues or Mike’s success in delivering his part of your project well before the deadline would both be appropriate. Positive comments about efficiency, innovative solutions, teamwork, or collaborations all contribute to a positive work environment.
. - Exhibit leadership qualities
“Management is about arranging and telling. Leadership is about nurturing and enhancing.”—Tom PetersDo you want to be a project manager? How about CEO? If your dreams are taking you into the corner office, then the best time to start working on them is now. An article in Harvard Business Review offers time-tested advice to those who would like to advance to the highest offices at the company. Amy Gallo notes that the way to the top involves thinking like a leader now. That means doing a fantastic job with your current responsibilities, looking for leadership opportunities (even very small ones), and building relationships.
Being a superstar at work is a matter of hard work, a good attitude, and dedication to your company’s success. Since a significant portion of your life is spent at work, it makes sense to put your best foot forward. While some may dream of a corner office and others may dream of more challenging projects in the same field, the best time to start working on these goals is now.