Employers today are looking for employees who are going to give 100 percent and devote themselves toward the goals and vision of the company. These high performers form the backbone of any company — and are first in line for promotions and plum assignments; however, becoming a high performer requires more than just showing up on time and getting your work done. If you want to impress your employer and reap the rewards of more responsibility, more challenging assignments and a larger salary, you’ll have to devote yourself to becoming a high performer. As the students of PGDM 2013-15 batch are placed and have started their journey to a successful career, below are few things they can do to become high performers at work.
- Take that step: Being a high performer requires you to go above and beyond your general role and responsibilities. If you observe something that needs to be done, quit thinking that it’s not “your job” and simply do it. Employers like employees who are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Take initiative. Don’t just stick to your job description, instead, do more and see how you would be able to stream line the tasks and processes at work.
- Know your Co-worker: Being a top performer does not mean that you stay glued to your desk all the time and do not acknowledge anyone’s presence. Although going to the extra mile is important, high performers aren’t generally antisocial. They take the time to get to know their co-workers and build relationships. This provides them an opportunity to get to know who the experts would be and they can approach them for feedback or advice whenever required. High performers respect their colleagues and want everyone to succeed, so they do their part.
- Keep the focus: Though it is understood that you may have an off day wherein you have some other personal commitments hampering your focus at work; making a habit of focusing on everything other than your work will hamper your chances of attaining success at work. Keep the focus, stay engaged. Take up challenging projects; continuously enhance your skills and knowledge to keep yourself abreast with the happening of the industry. Take steps to minimize things that weigh you down.
- The Wise shall Prevail: High performers are always looking for better ways to perform their task and stay on top of developments in the field. Enhance your knowledge by taking up professional certifications which will aid you in your current job. Be in tune with the happenings in the industry and apply the learning and knowledge to your work and help your company grow and improve.
- Take Care of Yourself: You aren’t any good to anyone if you are sick or rundown. If you are too stressed to function, have serious health problems or are sluggish, unfocused or grouchy, you aren’t going to impress your co-workers or boss. Take time to care for yourself by exercising, eating right and getting adequate rest and downtime so, when you are at work, you can focus on your work and be a high performer.
Every employer has its own definition of a high-performing worker. Speak to your supervisor about what you specifically need to do to earn that designation and take the necessary steps. In the end, you’ll have a more satisfying career and greater opportunities.