Ya know, it’s so easy to get into a habit of complaining. Your commute may be from hell, your work day may be long and hectic, and your coworkers or boss might be the bane of your existence.
Even those who love the work they do find reason to complain, sigh or scream from time to time. It’s just the way of the world. You have your ups and your downs.
We’ve featured plenty stories on workplace mistakes, employee vices and bad bosses. Well, I’m going to change it up a bit.
To get in the spirit of the holidays, I’d like to shout out the workplace personalities I’m most grateful for. (Yes, there are reasons to be thankful other than the fact that you’re gainfully employed and able to pay the bills every month).
See if you’re one of these types, and if you’re the total opposite, maybe it’s time for an attitude change in the new year:
1. The Go-Getter: This person doesn’t sit on their laurels, even when the job allows for it. They are always the first person to volunteer to give a hand on a project and are more than willing to take initiative. They motivate you to stay on your game because they’re always on top of things or working toward the achieving the next goal. Truly, their only competition is themselves, and they take pride in hustling to see their dreams come true. Salute to you!
2. The Innovator: He or she doesn’t just come up with awesome ideas; he or she changes the game. This person is often the go-to person when it’s time for an overhaul or tweak that will help increase productivity, efficiency and advancement of the company’s bottom line. They are always up on the latest trends and procedures and embrace change and collaboration. They inspire you with their savvy way of thinking, almost to the point where you’re amazed. You’re thinking, “Where in the world did he/she get that idea from or how did they even think to do that?!” Amazing. Many thanks to you.
3. The Executor: This may not be your strongest player on the team, but they’re great at following directions and getting things done. This is the person you can count on to execute, on deadline and professionally. You tell them to get a task done, and not only is it completed, but it’s done to the highest of standards. Keep up the great work!
4. The Mediator: This person is likeable but not a pushover or brown-noser. (Don’t mix this up with a “fixer” or crisis manager. They do not camouflage or patch-up disasters after the fact.) They will often be the voice of reason during conflict, and they are good at putting out fires in the office before they get to four-alarm status. They know how to handle any situation professionally and are solutions-focused, not drama kings or queens. They can handle disgruntled customers, smooth over a mistake with their bosses without losing their cool or pick up a flopped pass during a meeting with a prospective client without blinking. Big-up yourself. You’re awesome.
5. The Connector: This professional knows any and everybody. They know what departments or the perfect person to call to get anything done and they can find or get almost anything via their network or savvy with people. They see synergies before anyone else and are often good with linking the perfect partnerships, whether in-office or outside of it. This is that person who you can say, “If it wasn’t for him/her, we wouldn’t have … ”
What personalities at your job are you thankful for? #Soundoff and follow me on Twitter @JPHazelwood.