10 Traits of a High Performer [Recognize the Signs]
Potential employees come in an endless variety of traits. It goes without saying that many organizations want and need to retain great performing employees. It takes time and effort for the human resource department to on board and retain staff even with the help of department heads who may assist in identifying the best prospects.
It helps when you know what to look for in your employees. Some employees may not be the best fit for a particular position, while others will be naturally high performing. There are employees within your organization that may have some potential to reach a high level of performance but will require coaching to do so. Here are ten traits that will help you identify high performing employees for your organization.
- They Develop their own Systems
Highly productive employees have their set schedules. Once they grasp the ins and outs of their roles, they quickly work out a system that keeps them at the forefront. They can stay focused on the important things. A system can be a simple thing like a checklist or a morning routine. This system helps them to remain organized.
- They are good with Time Management
Closely related to the first trait, a high-performing employee manages time correctly. They know their working style and how best to achieve results. For example, if he or she is a morning person, they will complete complex tasks early in the morning and work on the routine tasks in the afternoon when they are less productive.
- They are Active Listeners
They listen to others for suggestions, feedback, and proven strategies. They know the importance and value of other people sharing insights. They proactively seek information from those around them to improve their performance. Regular feedback motivates them to come up with new ideas.
- They are Accountable to Themselves
They understand that success starts from within before it can spread to others. It is about what he or she stands for that others will follow; team members know what to expect from such an individual. A high-performing employee will keep his or her word.
- They Will Take Risks
They are not afraid of taking on a new challenge. He or she will see a problem, and before presenting it will research viable solutions. This risk taker’s attitude helps to take on tough tasks without any prompting from the supervisor. Taking risks means they are ready to stand with the organization through thick and thin.
- They Learn from their Mistakes
The high performer makes an effort to learn from their mistakes. They use these lessons to sharpen their skills. Mistakes are used as a platform for excellent learning and reflection moments.
- They Set their Targets
A high performing employee sets his or her targets beyond what the company assigns them. These goals stretch them to achieve more as compared to others who only work to meet the company goals. Setting their own targets helps them to exceed expectations.
- They Have a Strong Personal Development Commitment
A high performing individual has a high level of personal effectiveness. He or she believes in their ability to deliver excellent results. Therefore, they focus on personal development by looking for ways to grow their skills set, inside and outside the organization. Personal development leads to professional success, which trickles down to organizational success. These individuals are dependable because of their commitment.
- They are Highly Engaged
Top performers take responsibility for their engagement, sharing in the investments the company makes towards engaging them and leveraging their talents. That engagement level leads to high productivity and distinction compared to their peers. An engaged employee is happy with their workplace and freely gives his or her best to the organization.
- They are Cool Under Pressure
Star employees maintain their composure and demonstrate that the calm exterior is more than pretense; their confidence enables them to analyze the stressful situation at hand and resolve it. They keep calm even when the deadline looms ahead. Controlling their emotions under pressure allows objectivity and good decision-making.
Set aside time to observe your employees in their day-to-day work, and you will see the above ten traits in the high performing employees. Once you identify them, invest in them to keep them even more engaged. They are the future of the organization.
This blog was written by Veronica Chimney, Vice President of Human Resources for Etech Global Services.
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