5 Tips for Becoming Employee of the Year

Posted on September 10, 2015

Are you looking to make an impact at your company but struggling to stand out among your colleagues? Here are five tips to give you a leg up in the competitive job industry so you can make a name for yourself and be in line for the next promotion or company recognition.

Lend a Hand

Your boss’ primary focus is likely to develop strategic initiatives to ensure the organization’s long-term future. In addition, their to-do list is overwhelming and little details can be lost along the way. How can you make a difference for your boss and the organization? Don’t wait to be asked to complete a task or project. Take the initiative and formulate a strategy or ask how you can lessen your boss’ workload. Your contribution will not go unnoticed.

Be Positive

Your attitude and demeanor can make a difference when being evaluated by your manager. Are you enthusiastic and willing to contribute wherever possible, or do you sulk when things don’t go your way and appear disinterested? No one wants to be around someone who is irritable and unapproachable. Exhibit a positive attitude and good things will come your way. Plus, your attitude will have a positive effect on your work environment.

Develop Multiple Skills

Always increase your value in the workplace by enhancing and improving your skills while looking to develop new ones. If you are asked to attend a meeting that does not directly impact your role, accept and make the most out of the opportunity. You could develop valuable insight into another area of the company and decide this may be a better fit for you in the long run. The more you can learn about your organization as a whole, the more marketable you will be in the future.

Become Your Manager’s Go-To Person

The more reliable and responsible you are, the more you will be trusted by your manager. Do you execute and complete tasks effectively and in a timely manner, or is your manager constantly correcting your work and reminding you to do things? Gaining your manager’s trust will offer more opportunities for you to work on a variety of projects because you have demonstrated the ability to perform at a high level. Being identified as the go-to person for your boss can go a long way in your development.

Take Responsibility for Your Work

You were hired to do a job so it is up to you to know it inside and out. Take training seriously and pick the brains of your peers to better understand the position. The more you go above and beyond what is required of you, the more you will be noticed. When issues arise, take responsibility for the problem and determine a course of action to correct it. During times of adversity, people are often quick to point the finger at others. Break the mold and take responsibility. It is up to you to make the most out of your opportunities and challenges—how will you respond?

Sources: Forbes and The Real Truth