As you attempt to launch your career or try to jump-start a career that is off-track you might be wondering what employers really want from their employees. This can be a difficult question to answer in today's ever-changing job market. Many of the old assumptions have fallen by the wayside as the workplace has transformed to meet the demands of our high-tech world.
It should be stated at the outset that employers do differ in their expectations for employees. These differences may depend upon the line of work involved, the size of the staff, the computerization of the workplace, and other factors. Therefore, if you are interested in exploring career options with a specific company, it is important that you talk with employees of that company to find out about expectations for employees in that particular business. Nevertheless, there are a few common threads that run through managers' offices things that employers look for in their employees.
Dependability
Perhaps the single-most important trait for an employee today is dependability. It is critical to have workers who show up on time for work, who stay a full day, and who complete their work in a timely manner. Managers want to be assured that their employees will take their jobs seriously and that their workers will act in a professional manner. There is nothing worse than having an employee who is chronically late, who takes frequent unscheduled breaks, who leaves early, and who procrastinates in getting work done.
Honesty
Another key trait for employees is honesty. They must be candid with their bosses. Otherwise, the workplace can erupt in turmoil. Managers must know that they can trust their employees with money, with sensitive information, and with privacy issues. A dishonest employee can be a real detriment to a company, and can significantly impact the company's bottom line.
A recognition of the value of teamwork
The days when individualists dominated the workplace are over. Today's corporate managers want employees who truly recognize the value of teamwork. Workplace divas can drain the lifeblood out of an organization, preventing a company from growing. In order to achieve anything significant in the workplace, it is important for employees to work together as a team. It is only through unity of vision that major gains can be made.
Creative problem-solving
Increasingly, employers want employees who are creative problem-solvers. Problems creep up in the workplace everyday, particularly regarding customer service. Employees need to be able to think on their feet and must be willing to try fresh approaches to solving problems. Otherwise, it is likely that a business will stagnate and profits could take a downturn.
Respect
It is also important that employees respect their bosses. Of course, it is important that bosses respect their workers as well. Only in an atmosphere of mutual respect can a workforce remain cohesive. Employee job satisfaction is also likely to grow where bosses and their employees respect one another. People want to be valued and workers who feel they are valued are more likely to perform well on the job. |
