Recognise The Signs That Set High Achieving Employees Apart from the Rest.

In today's fast-paced work environment, identifying and nurturing high achieving employees can significantly influence an organisation's success. These individuals often showcase behaviours that not only enhance their performance but also contribute positively to their teams and workplaces. Recognising these signs is essential for both employers seeking to build a competent workforce and employees aspiring to excel in their careers. Here are 16 key indicators to identify these employees:?

1. They Treat Everyone Equally?

Highly intelligent employees possess a strong sense of equality and respect for all colleagues, regardless of their position within the organisation. They understand that every role contributes to the company's success, it is important to value everyone's efforts. This attitude fosters a positive work environment where collaboration thrives, enabling teams to achieve collective goals.?

2. They Engage in Side Hustles?

Many high achieving employees particularly Gen Z’s, is their tendency to engage in side hustles. This behaviour can be seen as a reflection of their entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to explore new opportunities. While some may view side hustles as a form of disloyalty, employees often use ventures to enhance their skills to gain new experiences, while generating additional income. This broadens their skillset, equipping them with more diverse perspectives that they bring back to their primary roles.?

Example?

Consider an employee who works in marketing but also runs an online store selling handmade crafts. This individual learns about e-commerce, customer relations, and marketing strategies that can be beneficial in their main job, ultimately making them a more valuable team member.?

3. They Rebel Against Being Micromanaged?

Micromanagement can stifle creativity and initiative in employees. High achievers tend to value autonomy and prefer to work in environments that empower them to take ownership of their tasks. When faced with micromanagement, they are likely to push back and advocate for a more collaborative approach that allows them to flourish.?

Example?

A project manager who believes in her team's capabilities may choose to delegate tasks without hovering. By trusting her team, she creates an atmosphere that is conducive to innovation and problem-solving.?

4. They Know When to Say No?

Time management is crucial for productivity and intelligent employees understand the importance of prioritisation. They know when to decline unnecessary meetings or tasks that may detract from their focus. This ability to say no is not a sign of arrogance; rather, it reflects self-awareness and an understanding of their limits.?

Example?

One employee learnt to decline invitations to each meeting that did not require his input, allowing him to dedicate more time to work required and project development. This resulted in his contributions becoming more impactful, ultimately benefiting the entire team.?

5. They Help Others to Advance??

Highly achievers understand that success is often a collective effort. They actively support their colleagues in advancing their careers by sharing knowledge, mentoring and providing constructive feedback. This collaborative spirit not only builds stronger relationships but also elevates the overall performance of the team.?

Example?

A senior developer regularly holds informal sessions with junior developers, helping them troubleshoot issues and learn new skills. This not only enhances the junior employees' growth but also fosters a sense of camaraderie within the team.?

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6. They Stay Away from Gossip and Corporate Politics?

High EQ employees recognise that gossip and office politics can be detrimental to workplace harmony and productivity. They consciously avoid engaging in such discussions, choosing instead to focus on their work and contribute positively to the company culture.?

7. They Create Passive Income?

High achievers often seek financial avenues beyond their primary employment. By creating passive income streams through investments, rental properties, or online businesses, financial pressure is reduced. Having a level of financial freedom allows greater flexibility in pursuing desired career aspirations, without fear of making risky financial choice and potentially increasing job satisfaction.?

Example?

An employee who invests in stocks or real estate may find themselves less stressed about job security, allowing them to take calculated risks in their primary career to achieve greater innovation and growth.?

8. They're Fine Being the Dumbest Person in the Room?

Humility is a crucial trait for highly intelligent individuals. They are comfortable admitting when they don’t know something and are open to learning from others. This willingness fosters an environment where knowledge-sharing becomes standard practice, enriching the team as a whole.?

Example?

During a brainstorming session, an employee may openly acknowledge their lack of expertise, inviting input from more knowledgeable colleagues. This not only promotes collaboration but also potentially leads to more comprehensive solutions.?

9. They Ruthlessly Protect Their Time?

High achievers understand that time is one of their most valuable resources. They prioritise tasks that align with their goals and are disciplined about minimising distractions. By protecting their time fiercely, they ensure maximum productivity and effectiveness in their roles.?

10. They're Wildly Open to New Ideas?

Intelligent employees thrive on new ideas and perspectives. They are curious by nature and actively seek out opportunities for growth and learning. This openness allows them to adapt quickly to change and embrace innovation within their teams.?

Example?

An employee who regularly attends industry conferences or workshops brings fresh ideas back to the team to spark discussions leading to innovative projects or processes that benefit the entire organisation.?

11. They Learn Without Being Told?

High achievers tend to be motivated employees that take the initiative to seek out knowledge and skills independently. Rather than waiting for formal training sessions or instructions from supervisors, they proactively pursue learning opportunities that enhance their expertise.?

Example?

An employee interested in data analysis may take it upon themselves to enrol in online courses, applying new techniques directly to ongoing projects without waiting for organisational support.?

12. They're Humble?

Finally, humility is perhaps one of the most defining traits of high achieving employees. They recognise that intelligence doesn’t equate to superiority instead, they appreciate the contributions of others and remain grounded in their achievements.?

Intelligence can be mistaken for arrogance or aloofness; however, truly intelligent individuals embody humility by valuing collaboration and shared success over personal accolades.?

Recognising and Nurturing Intelligence in the Workplace?

Identifying these signs of highly intelligent employees is crucial for fostering a thriving workplace culture. Organisations that recognise these traits can create an environment where individuals feel valued and supported in their endeavours. Nurturing high achieving characteristics can be done through mentorship programmes, open channels. Opportunities for professional development mean that employers can cultivate a workforce that not only excels individually but also collectively propelling the business toward greater success.?

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