As a job seeker, I am constantly looking for information on what qualities employers want to find in a candidate. I’ve read a lot of the same things: enthusiastic about the position, hard worker, multi-tasker. But what makes a truly extraordinary employee? Recently, I read an Inc.com article in which Jeff Haden listed eight qualities of remarkable employees. Haden describes these employees as “possessing qualities that may not appear on performance appraisals but nonetheless make a major impact on performance.”
Here are three defining characteristics of remarkable employees, according to Haden, that we could all give a try:
1. They ignore job descriptions. Extraordinary employees are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. This sometimes means going outside the bounds of the job description to please a client or complete an assignment. Employees who stick only to what they need to do will be confined to those things. Thinking outside the box and stepping up to the plate will help you move up quicker– and become the company’s go-to employee.
2. They publicly praise… and privately complain. Remarkable employees are happy to praise peers in group settings. Yes, praise from your boss is nice, but it feels good to recognized by those on the same level as you. Extraordinary employees recognize the importance of high office morale. You can count on these employees to praise work that really deserves it. Also, remarkable employees recognize controversial issues and address them privately. Haden discusses how employees sometimes bring issues up in a group setting to avoid a personal conversation regarding a controversial topic. Remarkable employees handle these situations directly and with grace.
3. They speak when others won’t. On the same note, remarkable employees speak up. They will step up and ask questions or raise issues when others hesitate. We all know the person who is in charge of calling ahead to make a reservation or will ask an awkward question to a professor or professional. Speaking up for others is a defining characteristic of a leader and of a remarkable employee.
View the rest of Haden’s list here.
Do you have any qualities to add to the list? What do your remarkable employees do that makes them stand out?
