By: Jennifer Brazer
Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.
Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen
Be an Employee That Employers Love: A Step-by-Step Guide to Standing Out at Work
Did you know valued employees are 26% less likely to leave their company for a competitor? Many people think being a great employee begins and ends with clocking in on time and completing assignments, but it’s much more than that. Employers are not just looking for competence—they’re searching for consistency, adaptability, proactive problem-solving, and, perhaps most importantly, team players who seamlessly fit into the company culture.
Over the past 15 years as CEO of Complete Controller, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformation that happens when employees prioritize excelling at work, not just by working harder but by working smarter and fostering stronger connections. Let’s break down the key ways you can not just survive but truly thrive in the modern workplace. Let’s begin.
Understanding Employer Expectations
What do employers really want?
Here’s a hard truth: employers hire character alongside skill. Yes, skills are critical to getting your foot in the door, but traits such as reliability, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving separate someone who just does the job from someone who thrives. Employers want individuals whose actions align with the company’s goals and values.
Take Mary, for instance, a software engineer at Google. Mary carved out her space not by simply checking boxes on a to-do list but by identifying problems and presenting innovative solutions. Her knack for partnering with her teammates and consistently executing challenging projects propelled her career to leader-level responsibilities at lightning speed. The key takeaway here? People who solve problems—rather than just completing tasks—are the ones who get noticed and rewarded.
For more insights into employer expectations, you can find practical resources on effective employee performance management.
Building Strong Workplace Relationships
Communication builds trust
I’ve found repeatedly that great communication is the bedrock of strong relationships in any workplace. Open, clear, and respectful communication doesn’t just foster trust; it also prevents misunderstandings that can snowball into larger issues.
Here’s a simple example from my own career. In the early days of Complete Controller, one of my team members was frustrated over delayed software updates that were impeding her workflow. Instead of brushing it off or avoiding conflict, I took the time to sit down with her to understand her concerns. What followed was a collaborative discussion that resulted in productivity gains for her and our entire team.
Every interaction—whether hallway small talk, emails, or team meetings—is an opportunity to build rapport. If you focus on listening as closely as you speak, you’ll see your relationships flourish.
Demonstrating High-Performing Employee Attributes
Be proactive, not passive
High-performing employees don’t simply execute tasks—they seek opportunities to improve processes and make a tangible impact. It’s not about being a perfectionist; it’s about taking ownership.
I’ll share what happened with an Amazon warehouse team member who noticed inefficiencies in the supply chain. They didn’t shrug their shoulders and carry on with their duties. Instead, they proposed a solution that ultimately reduced costs by millions. The result? A promotion, public recognition, and, most importantly, a significant improvement in the company’s profitability.
Proactivity isn’t a skill you’re born with—it’s a habit you build. Start by asking yourself, “How can this be done better?” or “What’s a small step I can take today to make a meaningful difference?”
Mastering Time Management and Productivity
Tame the clock
We all get the same 24 hours, which begs the question: How do some employees seem to get twice as much done in a day as others? It all boils down to time management strategies.
Here are three proven tactics:
- Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Tackle the high-priority items first before distractions creep in.
- Try the Pomodoro Technique. Work for 25 minutes, focus entirely, and then reward yourself with a short break.
- Reduce interruptions. Mute notifications and tackle one task at a time instead of juggling multiple incomplete projects.
Simple practices like implementing effective bookkeeping practices can also streamline your workflow significantly.
For additional time management tips, visit this comprehensive guide on time management techniques.
Embracing Continuous Learning and Development
Why learning never stops
The workplace moves at lightning speed, and standing still means falling behind. Employers notice team members who actively pursue growth—whether it’s mastering a new skill, attending industry seminars, or pursuing certifications.
When I worked with a particularly engaged team at Complete Controller, I encouraged them to enroll in workshops focused on advancing technological proficiency. These initiatives sharpened their skills and demonstrated their dedication to helping clients more effectively. It was a win-win-win for the employees, the company, and, most importantly, the clients.
Need help sharpening your leadership or financial expertise? Employers respect team members who are focused on efficient business finance management as part of their ongoing growth.
Creating a Culture of Appreciation in the Workplace
Recognizing and being recognized
One often overlooked aspect of thriving in the workplace is fostering a sense of appreciation. Employers notice employees who boost morale with words of encouragement and recognition, especially during high-pressure projects.
Salesforce thrives on a recognition platform that allows employees to send kudos—and guess what? They’ve measured significant boosts in morale and productivity as a result. No fancy software is necessary, though! Simply saying “thank you” or “great job” can create ripples of goodwill that extend across the entire team.
As someone who’s made financial literacy and teamwork my life’s work, I can tell you that responsible financial management starts with managing relationships and resources with care and appreciation.
Adapting to Change and Being Flexible
Why adaptability matters
Change is inevitable, whether it’s a global crisis or a new client management strategy. To succeed as a top-performing employee, adaptability isn’t optional—it’s vital.
Take the massive shift to remote work in 2020. Employees who not only embraced the change but took the initiative to master new tools like Zoom and Slack stood out. Employers will always lean toward employees who are solution-oriented in times of uncertainty.
Flexibility doesn’t just mean surviving change—it means embracing it as an opportunity to shine.
Maintaining a Positive Attitude and Work Ethic
Energy is contagious
It’s easy to spot someone with a positive attitude because they’re the ones rallying their teams when pressure is at its peak. Hard work combined with optimism is a hallmark of standout employees.
I recall a project deadline where my team was burning the candle at both ends. One individual, despite the stress, cracked jokes, offered motivation and inspired all of us to push through. We met the deadline, and no one doubted how integral that teammate’s positivity was to our success.
Attitude isn’t just a gift to your team—it’s an invaluable asset for yourself.
Conclusion
In today’s competitive landscape, becoming an employee that employers love takes intentionality. From proactive problem-solving and effective time management to adaptability, continuous learning, and appreciation, the skills you cultivate can accelerate your career and bring out the best in your relationships at work.
Success doesn’t happen by accident—it happens by design. Want to take things even further? Check out our team at Complete Controller for more expert advice to help you level up.
FAQ
What are the top qualities employers look for in employees?
Teamwork, reliability, adaptability, problem-solving, and continuous learning are key traits that stand out to employers.
How can I improve my time management skills at work?
Use prioritization methods, try tools like the Pomodoro Technique, and minimize distractions to stay focused.
Why is continuous learning important?
It allows employees to refine skills, stay competitive, and demonstrate commitment to growth.
How do I build strong workplace relationships?
Focus on clear, respectful communication and actively listen to understand your colleagues’ needs.
What’s the secret to being adaptable?
Stay solution-oriented, keep an open mind, and view challenges as growth opportunities.
Sources
- Select Software Reviews. “Employee Retention Statistics: Why Companies Need to Pay Attention.“
- My Perfect Resume. “How to Answer ‘What Can You Bring To the Team?'”
- Merritt Recruitment. “Staff Retention in 2024: Global Stats and Trends.”
- WorkRamp. “33 Examples of Employee Strengths.”
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
