Resources

Keep It Simple

Let’s listen to one employer describe some keys to being a great employee.

“I hire people every year and watch them either grow into the job or move on. Let me share with you the basic things we expect from our employees. First they need to be dependable. Second, they have to be able to work effectively with each other. And third, we need them to contribute. Just doing these three little things makes a huge difference in their success with us. Let me share an experience as an example.

“We recently hired two people to work here. Their positions were the same. They started around the same time. The first person has been great. She is never late for work, rarely calls in sick, and she just has her stuff together. Other people don’t cover for her. She fits in well and gets along with others. Beyond that, she also does a great job. She not only gets the work done, but she looks for more to do. She has been here a few months, and we are already looking at possible promotions or raises.

“The second person is not working out. He is frequently late and always has an excuse, from a sick child to missing the bus. He can’t seem to pull it together, and others have to pick up his slack. I have also noticed that he is disruptive while he is here. He can’t seem to get through the week without getting into some kind of disagreement. My employees have come to me complaining about things he has said or done. I really don’t want to deal with that stuff. I just wish he could get along better or behave more appropriately at work. Finally, he just isn’t that great at his job. He is meeting minimum expectations, but I wouldn’t say we are getting any type of return on investment from him. I am planning on letting him go.

“Keeping a job is simple. Be dependable, be easy to work with, and do a good job. If you can do those things, you will probably always have a job and more opportunities when you need them.”

Back to page 175.

Growing

Angela shares what she is doing to grow at work.

“I worked hard to get the job I have, and I think that makes me appreciate it. It’s a great job that I enjoy and provides for my family. I have plans to move up but also want to do a good job right now. So I have been using my job search skills to grow here at work. Knowing that there is always more to learn motivates me, and accomplishing my daily goals keeps me progressing toward long-term goals. Every day I want to be better.

“I am always looking for how I can do a better job. I found a few resources that have really helped, including some books. But people have been my best resource. Some of my more experienced colleagues and other managers have been very willing to help me. All you have to do is ask, and most people are glad to help you get better. And it makes you want to exceed their expectations.

“I am also continuing to network. Many of the positions in my company are filled through promotions. I have been doing informational interviews with others here to learn more about their roles and to seek their advice. This has helped me make some great connections and learn things I would not have known otherwise. I know there is a better chance that people will think of me when positions do open up for two reasons: first, I am a good worker, and second, they know me and trust me.

“I also know Heavenly Father wants me to succeed and be able to grow. He blessed me with this job, and I know He can help me as I work and try to grow.”

Back to page 179.