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Although we focus a lot on what makes a good boss, what are some of the elements of being a good employee? Try these useful strategies to both impress your boss and make you a better employee.
1. Take Notes at Meetings. Taking notes at meetings signals to your boss that you are attentive and zoned in on what is taking place. Although many people prefer to take notes on a laptop or pad, consider using pen and paper (you can retype notes later). Being focused on a laptop can signal inattention.
How this strategy benefits you: Research shows that handwritten notes are better committed to memory than typed notes.
2. Show Appreciation. Remember to thank others for their contributions (your boss will notice). A quick “thanks,” or an emailed thank you, is always appreciated, and a handwritten thank you note shows true appreciation. Of course, remember to thank your boss appropriately, but sincerely – you don’t want to be seen as a brown-noser.
How this strategy benefits you: Showing gratitude triggers a similar response in others, and they are more likely to pay attention to and recognize your contributions.
3. Respond Quickly. Don’t put off answering a text, email, or returning a phone call, particularly to your boss. Delaying a response may lead the other person to assume that you are inefficient or simply not engaged in your work.
How this strategy benefits you: It gives the impression that you are competent and efficient, and it may actually make you more efficient because an “I’ll-do-it-later” attitude makes you more likely to forget to respond.
4. Take the High Road. When in a conflict with a colleague, or your boss, don’t escalate it. Keep your emotions under control and try to defuse the situation. Don’t fall prey to the blame game. When they go low, you go high. Your boss will notice your maturity and level-headedness.
How this strategy benefits you: Interpersonal conflict is the biggest source of work stress. By resolving conflict situations, you will be less stressed and more balanced.
5. Talk Up the Company. Research on employee behaviors has focused on Organizational Citizenship Behaviors, or OCBs. These are behaviors that distinguish the best employees. One OCB is to consistently speak positively about your organization. As the saying goes, “if you can’t say something nice…” Your boss will notice.
How this strategy benefits you: Focusing on the positive aspects of your job and organization can be motivating and uplifting. If there’s nothing positive, it’s time to look for a new job.
6. Be a Helper. Another OCB is helping behavior. Lend a hand to others in need. Be a mentor. Help show someone the ropes. Your boss will notice and your colleagues will appreciate you.
How this strategy benefits you: As the saying goes, “one good turn deserves another.” Helping someone triggers the norm of reciprocity and others will feel like returning the favor.
7. Be Positive. My leadership scholar colleague, Marty Chemers, talks about having “mettle,” which consists of being optimistic and confident. Exuding confidence, having an optimistic, “can-do” attitude, and avoiding negative emotions, will definitely get your boss’s attention and make you look like a model employee.
How this strategy benefits you: Besides making you feel better, research shows that the most effective leaders possess mettle and positive affect. In all likelihood, this will lead to you being labeled as a potential leader.
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