How to be a Dream Employee

LEARN TO COPE WITH CRITICISM

 

When you can distinguish between constructive comments and negative remarks, you can use them to your advantage. Criticism from someone who has taken time to assess your work can be valuable, whereas an ill-tempered tirade is best ignored. Develop a filter to reject any irrational criticism.

 

ADMIT YOU'RE OVERLOADED

 

If you're regularly working through lunch and late into the evening, yet still not keeping up, ask for help. Go to your boss as soon as you realise you have a problem. But don't just whine pointlessly; make sure you spell out your situation. Your boss has given you the work, but you're the one who knows what's really involved.

 

DEVELOP A NEW SKILL EACH YEAR

 

Continually upgrading your skills will keep you one step ahead. They'll make you more valuable or even help you make a smooth transition to another company. The main attribute employers look for in employees is flexibility. And at the very least you'll be keeping yourself interested in your job.

 

HELP YOUR BOSS SUCCEED

 

Bosses appreciate staff who help them look good. Any little thing you can do to help your boss keep her job will help you keep yours. Loyalty is very important. You can support them by giving feedback - positive and negative - but word your criticism carefully.

 

HAVE PLAN B UP YOUR SLEEVE

 

It's important to have a second strategy in mind should your original plan of action be thwarted. Someone who offers solutions rather than problems will be viewed as enthusiastic and committed. It shows you're not avoiding responsibility when things get difficult.

 

AVOID BEING A CHANGE CASUALTY

 

Many people resist change, whether it's a new procedure for ordering stationery or a corporate merger, but these people will be the first to go when job cuts are made. Don't fight change. Being able to go with it is the key to remaining employed, never mind being a good employee.