Regardless if you work in a warehouse, an office, in the field, from home or anywhere else there are things you can do to be the best employee possible. Contrary to popular belief, there are companies run by people who actually do care about their employees. The key is, it needs to be a two-sided relationship.
“Big Al” started working for our company in 2004. He really was not a big huge guy; we just called him “Big Al.” Al began working as an outbound telemarketer and salesperson. Due to his positive attitude, work ethic and loyalty he ended up moving to a top position within the company. Al passed away after a fierce battle with cancer in 2010. Big “Al” may you rest in peace, this one’s for you. Here is how Al became one of the best employees:
1.) Stay Positive
Let’s face it, life is tough but a negative attitude is not your friend. One of Al’s greatest strengths was the ability to smile, say nice things and do great work under pressure. It isn’t always easy coming to work in your best shape. Our company offers a high end product, Distribution and Manufacturing Software. Although we had to really negotiate, work harder and build a better business case for our offerings during tough economic times we survived. Each morning when we arrived at work, Al was smiling as he did his duties. Al was a true team player; he completed his tasks as well as help others around the office. His positive attitude was contagious and worked in his benefit and ours.
2.) Avoid Gossip
It is human nature to gossip but it is extremely harmful to the work place. Al loved to talk, don’t get me wrong, but he talked about things that mattered. He talked about our clients, prospects, vendors and employees in a positive light. Our conversations revolved around what we could do better with these people and how we could progress. Al did not have time for the pettiness and time-wasting gossip.
3.) Work Hard
There are only a certain number of hours in the day, do not waste them. Al had a balanced life and he could afford this life because he worked extremely hard during his time at DCSC Inc. Al loved the Saint Louis Cardinals and we enjoyed going to their games. He had a myriad of friends that he enjoyed immensely. Al also had a wonderful and close relationship with his family. He absolutely loved riding his bicycle and his annual hunting trip with “the boys”. Al was the type of employee that had to hear, “Go home, you have the flu!” This is an admirable trait and good leaders make hard decisions each day but in the end, if they can, they take care of those who work hard and produce.
4.) Respect Others
Al happened to be a very spiritual person. He did not push his beliefs on anyone or act “Holier than Thou”. What he did do, is live his beliefs. His favorite saying was, “Give that person a chance to the right thing.” He took criticism extremely well, handled day-to-day issues with a sense of respect but best of all; he set an example for everyone around him that somehow, everyone will be OK. When anyone was going through a personal crisis or issue he quietly did nice favors for them or said just the right thing to make us smile. There were many evenings I worked late and found him quietly at his desk working just as hard. He made our employee Holiday Parties fun by talking to everyone and making everyone feel special.
