Employment Readiness
Good Employee Qualities: 6 Ways to Stand Out at Work
You don’t have to be best friends with your boss. Having a good work relationship can make your job easier. It can also show your boss that you’re someone they can count on.
Here are six good employee qualities that help build a better relationship with your boss.
1. Show Up on Time
One of the easiest ways to make a good impression is to be there when you’re supposed to be. Give yourself enough time to get to work and be ready when your shift starts.
If you’re going to be late or can’t make it to work, let your supervisor know as soon as possible. Don’t just show up.
2. Listen to Instructions
Pay attention when your boss explains what needs to be done. If you’re working around equipment, tools or other safety risks, following instructions is especially important.
Don’t understand something? Ask. It’s better to ask a question than guess and do the job wrong.
3. Ask for Help When You Need It
You aren’t expected to know everything. If you’re new to the job or don’t know how to do a task, you can simply say: “Can you show me how you want me to do this?” Asking for help shows that you want to do the job the right way.
4. Speak Up When There's a Problem
Things happen.
Maybe your ride falls through. Maybe you're running late. Maybe something at the job site doesn't seem right.
Don't wait until the problem gets worse.
Talk to your supervisor and explain what's going on. Good communication can prevent a small problem from becoming a bigger one.
5. Own Your Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes at work. If you make one, be honest about it. Find out how to fix it and try not to make the same mistake again. Making excuses or blaming someone else usually doesn’t help. Your boss may care more about how you handle the mistake than the mistake itself.
6. Be Respectful
You won't agree with your boss about everything. That's okay.
Stay respectful, listen, and focus on getting the job done. Avoid arguing, yelling, or talking badly about your supervisor to everyone else at work.
If you have a serious problem, talk to the right person about it.
What If You're Having a Problem With Your Boss?
Start by talking to your supervisor calmly. Explain the problem and give them a chance to respond.
If you're working a temporary assignment through Labor Finders and there's a serious problem you can't resolve at the job site, contact your local Labor Finders office.
Communication is always better than simply walking off an assignment or not showing up for your next shift.
Ready for Your Next Job?
Being reliable, communicating and treating people with respect can help you make a good impression wherever you work.
Labor Finders can help connect you with jobs that match your skills, schedule and experience.
