Leaders love to welcome high performers to their team. These people show up and get things moving, raising the bar for everyone else. Being a high performer doesn’t require some fixed personality trait. Even someone new to selling branded merchandise can grow into a standout contributor. You just need to know which behaviors and habits to cultivate.

Writer Audrey Eads says building and retaining high performers is so important because they drive a disproportionate amount of impact in the workplace. Research shows that high performers tend to be 4 times as productive as average employees. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we share her thoughts on the top qualities and attributes of high-performing professionals.

  1. They focus on their goals. They may start each day and each week by reviewing their personal and professional goals and aligning their behaviors accordingly. When facing a sales-related or task-related decision, they act in a way that helps them reach their goals.

  2. They stay positive. High-performing employees keep a positive attitude. They’re pleasant when working with clients and co-workers. When they run into a challenge, they don’t complain but focus on what needs to happen to keep moving forward.

  3. They always give their best. Eads says these employees have a well-developed work routine, and others can always count on them to complete their tasks and achieve their goals.

  4. They have a strong skill set. According to Eads, top-performing employees possess strong technical knowledge and subject expertise. They also shine in their interpersonal and relational abilities.

  5. They accept constructive criticism. High performers understand that constructive feedback helps them grow. They take into consideration who is offering their advice or opinions, and then then try to grow from that feedback.

  6. They seek professional development. Professional growth opportunities include continuing education, skills-based training, research and additional responsibilities, Eads says. Top-performing employees are always on the lookout for these types of career development opportunities.

  7. They find a healthy work-life balance. According to Eads, top performers recognize that having a healthy work-life balance and ensuring they take time for themselves is crucial for establishing sustainable routines and performance outcomes. They are consistent in their work efforts, but they take sick days when they’re sick and schedule PTO to recenter or reset.

Think about the high performers on your team. They don’t rely on natural talent or flashy tactics, especially in branded merch. What sets them apart is the right attitude and a commitment to continue improving.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Audrey Eads is a senior editor for Indeed. She has over 10 years of experience writing and editing for media outlets across the country.