‘ A high performer can deliver 400% more productivity than the average performer.’ –Harvard Business Review
At Spindle we pride ourselves in our ability to help companies improve productivity and exceed business goals. However, our software is only a piece of the efficiency puzzle. It all starts with people. Building a strong high-performance workforce is vital to the success of your manufacturing operations.
We’ve put together a list of the top 5 traits of high performing employees that we’ve seen both on staff at Spindle and at some of the best performing facilities on our client list.
1. Intelligence
As you have probably experienced, intelligence is never something that should be underestimated. When building a high performing workforce the ability to learn is arguably the most important trait for a prospective employee. All manufacturing facilities have varied processes to keep things running smoothly. When hiring, aim to choose candidates that are willing to learn new things; moreover, able to learn the specific production and safety processes of your facility. While a paper trail of work experience is great, it does not always lead to the right fit for the job. An eager, intelligent high performer should not be overlooked.
2. Strong Work Ethic with Accountability
High performing employees take pride in their work. They have no problem taking ownership of projects and often show leadership potential. High performers push themselves to get ahead with a clear sense of direction and a self-starting attitude.
3. Team Player
‘A chain is only as strong as its weakest link,’ ‘a rotten apple spoils the barrel.’ Even today, these old sayings ring true especially in a manufacturing environment. Though high performing employees are intelligent they are not know-it-alls. They are able to collaborate on tasks and work alongside less productive employees in order to elevate the overall performance.
4. Goal Driven & Ambitious
High performers strive to achieve their goals both in the short-term and long-term.
Not only are they are able to recognize goals, but high performers know (and are capable of taking) the steps necessary for the goals to be achieved.
5. Need Performance Feedback
High performing employees want to understand how their contributions affect the big picture. Without feedback high performers are left guessing the results of their work. Constructive feedback fuels the high performer because it makes it easier to get better. Though high performing employees do not need micromanaging, they do expect a consistent form of communication with management on their performance.
