Step Out, Step Up: Becoming a Top Performer at Work

Sonya Grattan
Apr 7
4 min read

Updated: Aug 27

Being a model employee is about more than just clocking in hours and completing tasks. It's about embracing a growth mindset, developing useful skills, and contributing positively to the team and the organisation. So, what sets the standout employees apart from the rest? Here are seven habits that define a model employee, along with three critical mistakes to avoid.

1. Embrace Continuous Learning

Model employees understand that learning never truly ends. They seek opportunities to expand their knowledge, whether through online courses, workshops, or friendly exchanges with colleagues.

Do: Enrol in relevant courses to upgrade your skills and remain current in your field.
Do Not: Become complacent. Relying on outdated knowledge can limit your potential and growth.

This proactive learning approach not only improves individual competencies but also promotes a culture of growth within the organisation.

2. Nurture your Emotional Intelligence

Being skilled is important, but emotional intelligence is essential. Model employees are aware of their own emotions and sensitive to those of their colleagues, which leads to improved collaboration and problem-solving.

Do: Practice active listening and empathy. Take a moment to ask a colleague how they're feeling, and genuinely listen to their response.
Do Not: Dismiss others' feelings. Reacting impulsively can disrupt team dynamics.

Strengthening emotional intelligence fosters better workplace relationships and contributes to a more positive work culture.

3. Set Clear Goals and Prioritise

Successful employees are goal-oriented. They establish clear objectives and prioritise tasks effectively. By setting specific goals you are 10 times more likely to achieve them.

Do: Use tools like planners or digital task managers to organise tasks based on importance and deadlines.
Do Not: Jump aimlessly from task to task. A scattered approach increases stress and decreases overall effectiveness, leading to potential burnout.

By clearly defining goals, employees can deliver meaningful results that align with their organisation’s objectives.

4. Show Initiative (or gumption as my mum used to call it)

One of the key traits of high-performing employees is their proactive nature. Model employees don’t wait to be assigned tasks; they identify opportunities for improvement and take action.

Do: Volunteer for projects that align with personal growth and the company's needs. For example, if there's a project involving social media, and you have experience in that area, don't hesitate to step forward.
Do Not: Wait for tasks to be assigned. Being proactive not only helps you grow but also sets a tone of leadership within the team.

Taking initiative can influence colleagues positively and create a dynamic work environment.

5. Build Strong Relationships

Networking within the workplace is crucial. Building genuine relationships with colleagues fosters collaboration and support. Employees with close friends at work are more likely to report job satisfaction.

Do: Spend time connecting with colleagues over lunch or coffee breaks.
Do Not: Isolate yourself. Fostering a network within your workplace encourages teamwork and opens doors to new ideas and solutions.

Strong relationships can enhance workplace morale and lead to innovative solutions through collaboration.

6. Provide Constructive Feedback

Understanding the role of feedback in personal and team development is essential. Model employees give constructive criticism that is specific, actionable, and delivered with care.

Do: Offer constructive feedback that includes recommendations for improvement. For example, instead of saying "This is not good," try "I think this aspect could improve if we focused on X Y Z."
Do Not: Criticise without providing guidance. Negative feedback without solutions can lower morale and motivation.

When feedback is part of healthy communication, it encourages individual and team growth.

7. Maintain a Positive Attitude

A model employee shines with positivity. They recognise that a positive attitude doesn't just uplift them; it boosts team morale too. A positive work environment can increase productivity.

Do: Practise gratitude daily and celebrate small wins with your colleagues. Establishing a tradition of sharing triumphs at team meetings can reinforce this practice.
Do Not: Dwell on the negatives. Creating a culture of pessimism can lead to disengagement and reduced productivity.

Promoting a cheerful atmosphere leads to greater efficiency and satisfaction among team members.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While striving to be a model employee, it's equally critical to recognise mistakes that can hinder your career progress.

1. Neglecting Work-Life Balance

Do Not: Overwork yourself to the point of burnout. Ensure you schedule personal time, as a healthy work-life balance boosts overall well-being and effectiveness.

2. Resisting Change

Do Not: Hold tightly to outdated methods. Embracing new processes or technologies can greatly enhance your performance and contribute to the team's progress.

3. Ignoring Company Culture

Do Not: Turn a blind eye to your organisation's core values. Aligning with your company’s mission is key to long-term satisfaction and teamwork.

Moving Forward as a Model Employee

Striving to be a model employee isn't out of reach; it's about adopting a set of practical habits. By committing to continuous learning, emotional intelligence, initiative, networking, and a positive outlook, you can enhance your career and enrich your workplace.

Remember, the journey toward becoming a model employee is continuous. Integrate these impactful habits today and witness the transformation in your professional life.