I'm a CEO — The Women on My Team Who Impressed Me Most Prioritized These 10 Habits
Few things feel better than working in an office where you feel appreciated, respected and well-liked. If you’re feeling less than admired, consider the follow actions to boost your professional reputation with colleagues and managers, right from the books of highly successful people.
1. Taking ownership.
Rather than wait to be “voluntold,” take ownership of a project or initiative and run with it. Naturally, it’s ideal if it’s work you’re genuinely passionate about, but even if you aren’t, consider offering your leadership anyway. You might end up loving the assignment, and your boss will appreciate your ingenuity. Star employees possess a “roll-up-the-sleeves” mentality and a fearless enthusiasm to try new things and take risks.
2. Being timely.
Whether it’s a phone meeting or conference room gathering, arrive a few minutes early. Get water or coffee in advance and boot up the laptop. The few minutes these things take shouldn’t be part of the meeting – it’s more than just your time that you’re respecting.
3. Keeping promises.
Few things will plummet your reputation more quickly than lack of follow-through. Show your commitment to the company by working hard, persevering through setbacks and finding alternative solutions to achieve the best results.
4. Offering counterpoints.
Thoughtfully point out considerations that further illuminate an issue. It shows you have thought it through and have potential solutions or an alternative point of view.
5. Thinking forward.
There’s magic in the words “It’s already done.” Integrate yourself in the office and look for opportunities to anticipate what needs to be handled before it becomes a need.
6. Being flexible.
Business priorities can shift quickly and it reflects well if you can react and adapt in the moment. While other employees might grumble, use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your leadership and resilience by jumping into action.
7. Being passionate.
I’ve worked with all kinds of employees, and what I know for sure is the ones who approach their work with passion always stand out above the rest. Their commitment and positivity influence fellow employees and often helps the business achieve goals that seemed lofty, simply because their vision was so convicted.
8. Keeping calm.
We’ve all worked with people who seem to bring and create drama wherever they go. It’s one of the most draining and demoralizing traits in the workplace. Great employees don’t allow themselves to be drawn into this type of behavior, use their position to squelch it, or get angry. Learn how to maintain your composure and stay cool under pressure.
9. Being innovative.
Tackle problems head-on and find ways to create process efficiencies, save money or introduce a new concept.
10. Getting smart.
Whether it’s a global issue, an industry trend, or the latest best seller, stay informed. Chances are, by keeping up on what’s happening in the world, you’ll be able to offer intelligent insight on a variety of topics.
Have a question for the author? Leave a comment!
--
Tiffany Couch is the CEO and founder of Acuity Forensics, a forensic accounting and fraud investigation firm that helps unravel complex financial crimes.
Why women love us:
- Daily articles on career topics
- Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
- Advice and support from an authentic community
- Events that help you level up in your career
- Free membership, always