5 Examples of Being an Everyday Great Employee

Do you think your supervisor and your associates recognize you at work as an everyday great employee?

What about yourself?

Have you ever felt like an everyday great employee in your work life?  But the truth is, you don’t have to do anything radical to feel like you’re making a change.

There are several ways you can be an everyday great employee just by doing the things that you do every day.

Still, does that make sense? Keep reading to discover five examples of how to be an everyday great employee.

1.You Stand Up For Something You Believe In

Maybe you’re sitting in a meeting, and your boss asks you to do something that you see as unethical. Instead of going along with the task, speak up.  Tell him or her why you are uncomfortable with the task. Although this may not seem like much.  But, taking a stand for something you truly believe in is one of the best ways you can be a great employee.

Stand up for your priorities

2. Support an Associate Having Trouble

Complex projects aren’t easy for you or co-workers.  And there will be times when those around you are feeling distress and discouraged.  You won’t know how to help. This is especially true in close work relationships, or as the supervisor of a newer employee. But just being there for a staff member who is under duress is truly an example of being an everyday great employee.

Often times you don’t even need to say anything either.  A touch on their arm, simple nod of your head, or a kind gesture can say it all to a co-worker who is really struggling.

3. Achieving Something You’ve Been Working Towards

Have you been working on a project for what seems like forever? Did you get discouraged, but stick with it even when the going got tough? This is a prime example of an everyday great employee. It isn’t easy to achieve a target, and it isn’t simple to stick with a project for the long term.

So just the fact that you were able to achieve a goal speaks highly about your character. And don’t be afraid to celebrate this achievement either.  After all, not every high-level performer can achieve their goals!

4. Extending a Hand to a Co-Worker That Needs One

As mentioned above, accomplishing an objective is not easy, and many workers will fail before they get that far. And sometimes, a fellow-team member who is about to fail may just need that one associate to believe in them.  Or better yet, help them out with one or two tasks to keep them on track. Maybe it isn’t even actual help they need, but rather a little bit of encouragement.

This is why, if you see a co-worker struggling to achieve something, it’s time to reach out a hand. Not only will they be grateful for your presence in their time of need, but you will achieve a sense of fulfillment that bolsters your own work satisfaction.

Follow your priorities

5. Making a New Ally

Making work ‘partners’ isn’t easy, especially because other employees have all kinds of different views that are dissimilar to your own. This is why, when you are able to go beyond differences to connect with another worker on a new level, this is an example of an everyday great employee.

So next time you see a co-worker eating alone, or maybe someone in an employer-sponsored training class that looks like they could use a hand, you might want to reach out to them.  Because you never know how another staff member could impact your career!

Final Thoughts

Overall, it doesn’t take some massive amount of effort to make an everyday great employee, rather, all you have to do is remember the above five examples of day-to-day greatness.

Then if you work to integrate them into your own life, you will be pleasantly surprised by how amazing and fulfilled you will feel just by doing the things that you do every day!

7 Simple Ways Managers Can Offer Employees Appreciation

Research indicates most employees lack a feeling of appreciation or acknowledgement.  HR personnel, executive coaches and trainers hear that frequently from employees. So what is necessary to change that phenomenon?Employee Appreciation

Here are seven easy techniques to show employees appreciation and help them feel their work is valued.

1. Thank Them

A simple way to give workers recognition is to thank them verbally for their hard work or  for their performance above expectations. A simple word of encouragement can boost morale and it only takes about 15 seconds.  When you take time to write employees a hand-written note, it makes a big impression and is important to them.

2. Hand Out Small Rewards

You could give out $10 gift cards to supervisors that they could provide to their team members when they excel. Frankly, it may be only a simple gift card and it may only be for $10, but the perceived value is much higher.

3. Provide an Extracurricular Opportunity

When a worker performs at a very high level, give them an opportunity as a token of your appreciation. Express your appreciation for their high-level performance  and show your appreciation by sending them to a training program they wanted or allow them to attend an external conference where they will hear about new industry trends that will support their jobs.

4. Reflect Employees’ Goals

Get together with workers regularly and consistently to ask them their short-term and longer-term goals. Let them know that you, as their supervisor want to help them achieve those goals. They will appreciate your willingness to support their success.

5. Spread the Word to Co-Workers about a Worker’s Achievement

When an employee contributes outstanding performance, distribute a ‘congrats’ group text or email to anyone on the team or those outside the team who interact closely with that worker and include key executives. Discuss the employee’s achievement with others and thank him/her for their creativity and their hard work. Doing this illustrates that you value their result  and  stimulates praise and recognition from their associates.

6. Assign Them to a High-Profile Assignment

A simple approach to express appreciation is to assign a high performer to a high-profile project that illustrates confidence in their abilities and talent. This also gives them a chance to have a higher profile in the company. Make known that you designated them for the project because of how you’ve appreciated their high achievement.

7. Make Praise Specific

To recognize the achievement of workers, inform them specifically what it is you appreciate. Don’t praise their hard work.  Many employees work hard and put in overtime. Rather, express your appreciation for their accomplishment on a specific assignment. Point out how you liked that it was well organized and the implementation was well done and the results were outstanding.  This also makes them and associates want to repeat that behavior so they get praise and feel valued on the next project.

Need Help Finding Top Performers for your Team?

Call Flexicrew. As one of  the Southeast’s top staffing agencies, we have 14 years experience serving employers – and helping them find truly exceptional people. Contact us today to learn more!

Congratulations Michael Clark – Flexicrew Tennessee Employee of the Year 2019

Dedication, Commitment and Flexibility Lead to Advancement

CHATTANOOGA, TN, Sept. 18, 2019 – Flexicrew Staffing, a leader in the industrial staffing industry, selected from its over 2,000 temporary staff to choose Employee of the Year for Tennessee.

Michael Clark – Shipping Receiving Clerk

Clark is a dedicated employee who has a great attitude and has shown lots of flexibility when it comes to his work schedule.  When we first started working with him he interviewed with a client who loved Clark, but ended up filling the position in-house.  He had a positive attitude as we restarted the interview process.  He is now nearing the completion of his temporary assignment and will be hired permanently soon.

About the Award

The purpose of this annual award is to recognize an outstanding employee in each Flexicrew Staffing branch with the following attributes:

Responsibility Temporary staffer is punctual, works hard, and exhibits dedication to tasks and on- time completion.

Cooperative Displays courtesy with an agreeable attitude toward coworkers and supervisors. Good communication skills and willing to help others.

Creativity Temporary employee goes above-and-beyond to get the job done, holds self to a high standard, and tries to learn different aspects of the client operation to improve the work.

Safety Follows safety requirements and leads others by example in safety in the workplace.

About Flexicrew

Flexicrew was recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts in 2015 as the 4th fastest-growing staffing company in the U.S. over a 5-year period.  Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Flexicrew makes use of technology and industry best practices to deliver the most talented and qualified industrial – skilled and unskilled, technical, and professional talent to clients within most major industries. Flexicrew has more than 2,000 contractors currently placed in companies throughout the U.S. To learn more, visit www.flexicrew.com

 

Flexicrew Selects Corry Adams 2019 Employee of the Year Tucker/Norcross, Georgia

Flexicrew Staffing Employee of the Year Winner – Self-Starter, Go-Getter, All Around Top-Notch Performer

CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee, September 18, 2019 – Flexicrew Staffing, a leader in the industrial staffing industry, selected from its over 2,000 temporary staff to choose Employee of the Year for Tucker/Norcross, GA.

Mr. Adams attitude and performance has earned him praise and delighted Flexicrew.

Job Assignment – Production Assembler and Packer

Adams has a great personality and interviewed well.  We placed him in a production environment in June and he has done very well.  His client reached out to Flexicrew to discuss Corry.  Having employees like him is what helps make Flexicrew successful.

About the Award

The purpose of this annual award is to recognize an outstanding employee in each Flexicrew Staffing branch with the following attributes:

Responsibility Temporary staffer is punctual, works hard, and exhibits dedication to tasks and on- time completion.

Cooperative Displays courtesy with an agreeable attitude toward coworkers and supervisors. Good communication skills and willing to help others.

Creativity Temporary employee goes above-and-beyond to get the job done, holds self to a high standard, and tries to learn different aspects of the client operation to improve the work.

Safety Follows safety requirements and leads others by example in safety in the workplace.

About Flexicrew

Flexicrew was recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts in 2015 as the 4th fastest-growing staffing company in the U.S. over a 5-year period.  Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Flexicrew makes use of technology and industry best practices to deliver the most talented and qualified industrial – skilled and unskilled, technical, and professional talent to clients within most major industries. Flexicrew has more than 2,000 contractors currently placed in companies throughout the U.S. To learn more, visit www.flexicrew.com

 

 

Feliciano Palacios – 2019 Flexicrew Employee of the Year Gainesville, Georgia

CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee, September 18, 2019 – Flexicrew Staffing, a leader in the industrial staffing industry, selected from its over 2,000 temporary staff to choose Employee of the Year for Gainesville.

Flexicrew is particularly proud of how Mr. Palacios is dedicated and wants to get his assignment done just right.  That reflects in his performance for his client and Flexicrew.

Feliciano Palacios – Fabrication Welder                                                                                             

Mr. Palacios reports to work every day and is willing to go the extra mile.  He is a good worker with great attendance.  He helps our client train other employees when needed.

About the Award

The purpose of this annual award is to recognize an outstanding employee in each Flexicrew Staffing branch with the following attributes:

Responsibility Temporary staffer is punctual, works hard, and exhibits dedication to tasks and on- time completion.

Cooperative Displays courtesy with an agreeable attitude toward coworkers and supervisors. Good communication skills and willing to help others.

Creativity Temporary employee goes above-and-beyond to get the job done, holds self to a high standard, and tries to learn different aspects of the client operation to improve the work.

Safety Follows safety requirements and leads others by example in safety in the workplace.

About Flexicrew

Flexicrew was recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts in 2015 as the 4th fastest-growing staffing company in the U.S. over a 5-year period.  Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Flexicrew makes use of technology and industry best practices to deliver the most talented and qualified industrial – skilled and unskilled, technical, and professional talent to clients within most major industries. Flexicrew has more than 2,000 contractors currently placed in companies throughout the U.S. To learn more, visit www.flexicrew.com

 

 

How to Motivate Your Team in 5 Easy Lessons

To motivate your team and achieve greater productivity use these 5 ideas that work.

There is one area that ranks high up in what workers want from their job – motivation.

What comes to mind when you want to motivate your team?  Methods like money and praise drive people to work hard.

But, you’ll need to make sure that your team has the incentive to reach for higher levels of excellence. The most successful workers rely on a mix of outside and internal motivation.

Money is the most common motivator used with employees. And money is obviously quite relevant. But it can become a problem if it’s the only type of motivation you offer workers.

Soft motivators are important also because they are what tend to produce energy among workers and keep them going through difficult tasks.

How to Motivate Your Team on a Budget

Actually, how to motivate your team is personal for each different worker.

Encourage workers to figure out what motivates them to reach goals in addition to money. Then help optimize those motivators.  Several benefits result…

  • productivity goes up
  • work stress reduces
  • burnout goes down
  • the whole team gets closer to its individual and team goals.

Similarly, as a manager, it’s not your job to provide your workers with motivation. (You can lead a horse to water, etc.)  But, you can help them figure out what blend of factors drive them to work at their best.

Here are some accepted ideas to motivate your team that don’t involve financials.

1. Employee Value

To find satisfaction in a job well done, workers want to understand the value they deliver.

Do you have an employee who is very satisfied working for your company? That employee is probably driven by a strong sense of purpose and recognizes his value in the company.  Most likely his supervisor gives him adequate and specific feedback on how he’s doing.

Use that motivation to motivate your team by making sure you offer everyone feedback. Share constructive reactions with the team to remind them of why they work.

2. Responsibility

When you set your own goals, you’re more likely to go after them. While the company will have goals for the team, it’s important to let your workers set some individual goals and define how they will achieve them. These goals should be specific, realistic, and challenging.

Also, personal targets that relate back to team and company-wide goals helps with self-motivation.

Employees need a “coach” to advise on company and department goals or provide specific hands-on fine-tuning.  But they don’t need an auditor constantly looking over their shoulder with criticism and micromanaging.

3. Independence

Trust and a level of independence is a great way to motivate your team. Workers’ daily activities feed into working towards the established company goal.  But letting them control how they prioritize their daily schedules or the approach they use can be a great motivator.

Micromanagement is often listed as a key reason someone leaves a job. Instead, managers should ensure their team has the tools and authority they need to make decisions and problem-solve at an appropriate level.   That frees them from having to move everything up the hierarchy for resolution.

4. Rapport

Discuss with your workers your supervision style and the feedback you will offer. Some may find it motivating to have frequent, quick meetings with you to check in and get quick answers. But for others, a less frequent sit-down is more desirable – and effective. Decide with your staff what works best for each member.

Some managers use personality type testing to determine the best working relationship for each team member. Knowing how they think and are likely to act and respond in the workplace helps build rapport between supervisors and each individual worker.

5. Work Environment

Research indicates the environment you work in plays a big role in motivation and success. Workplaces with more natural daylight and places to get privacy or some quiet time promote productivity.

You might add greenery, encourage breaks, and regulate the office temperature. (If you’re unsure, studies have found 70-77° F ideal for peak productivity.)

Do you need more help finding top performers for your team?

Call Flexicrew. As one of  the Southeast’s top staffing agencies, we have years of experience serving employers – and helping them find truly exceptional people. Contact us today to learn more!

Ask the Flexpert…Why is Employee Recognition and Appreciation Important?

Employee recognition and appreciation pays solid dividends to businesses that excel in this.

Results of Employee Recognition and Appreciation

Ask the Flexpert

Firms that have a genuine process of recognizing employees have:

  • improved morale
  • stronger employee engagement
  • reduced worker turnover and
  • superior customer service

Results produced by employee recognition and appreciation programs have been as much as 50% greater productivity and up to a 20% increase in business outcomes.

So…

Purpose of Employee Recognition

Employee appreciation helps to salute hard work and the accomplishments of your individuals and groups. The reason you create an ongoing system of employee recognition is to:

  • build an employee-company emotional connection
  • make employees feel valued and respected
  • support your employees’ efforts and
  • reflect your company’s culture and values

With these in mind, give a tip-of-the-hat “thank you” to your top workers this Thanksgiving. Begin to plan for starting a systematic employee recognition and appreciation strategy for next year.

Your Next Step:

So, do some research, and when you are ready, contact Flexicrew Staffing. Of course, we are committed to helping businesses successfully improve operations, manage ROI and achieve greater workforce flexibility. So locate your local Flexicrew office and let’s get to work!

Then, if you still have questions, give us a call at 1-866-720-3539 (FLEX) for the answers to your staffing needs!

6 Ways to Show Employee Appreciation at Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time we give thanks for family and friends and it’s equally important to show employee appreciation. Although you should express gratitude to your staff all year, Thanksgiving is a perfect time to boost your attempts to show them how much you are grateful their contributions.6 ways to show employee appreciation at Thanksgiving

And, as one of the Southeast’s top staffing agencies, Flexicrew Staffing knows that saying ‘thank you’ is much more than just a feel-good exercise. It can make a measurable impact on productivity, worker engagement  and profits. Also, the way you show employee appreciation is frequently the way they will treat your customers.

Equally, It’s important to define how employees want to be recognized, given their work environments and their job roles.

6 Ways to Show Employee Appreciation at Thanksgiving

To help you get started, here are six ways to show employee appreciation:

 

1. You’ve got to express your thanks

Each member of your team wants to know they are appreciated and that there is meaning and purpose to what they do.  And a simple ‘thank you’ for efforts or contributions or even going the extra mile is the easiest, fastest and least costly way to show employees you care  and notice their contributions. So get into the habit of saying ‘thank you.’  When was the last time you thanked an employee for a job well done?  And realize that recognition is best when it is specific and timely.

Another good way to show employee appreciation is in writing.  A simple way say ‘thanks’ is to jot a handwritten note. Just be specific with your employee and add at least one mention of a major strong point, behavior or completed assignment that you really appreciated and why.

2. Shine light on top performers

Send out an email to your entire staff recognizing certain employees for their excellent performance. You can promote their performance, too, in your company newsletter to customers.  Don’t hide their success under a bushel basket.

3. Casual conversations

Schedule a casual meeting with each employee to talk more about performance. But don’t simply talk about your goals and expectations.

Keep it low key.  Attempt to get to know them better. Ask about their career hopes and aspirations and how you can help them achieve more. Find out how they think things are going on the job and find out what you can do to give them more support.

4. Describe opportunities for career or job growth

Show your employees how much you trust and respect them by offering growth opportunities. By expanding access to opportunity, not only will you enhance their skills, but their loyalty as well.  Whether you recommend a stretch assignment, you can enhance their personal growth while also rewarding employees.

5. Employee appreciation day

By all means, if you want a formal event, plan an employee appreciation day once a month. Then you would highlight one or two staff members who have made an especially big impact that month. Not only will you recognize a top performer, but you’ll also stimulate others to work harder and expand their performance.   Look at it as a meaningful way to foster employee engagement, thank employees for their hard work and build employee camaraderie.

6. Reward system

Develop a program where every time an employee meets a goal or completes a project, they can earn points towards prizes.

Start to Show Employee Appreciation

In short, don’t assume your staff knows how much you value and appreciate them. Your responsibility is to show it – and these six suggestions are useful ways to start.  You will strengthen the emotional relationship between your organization and the people who deliver your results.

Do you need more help finding top performers for your team?

Call Flexicrew. As one of  the Southeast’s top staffing agencies, we have years of experience serving employers – and helping them find truly exceptional people. Contact us today to learn more!