As working individuals, we all want to impress our managers. We want to show them that we’re reliable, skilled, and capable of handling any task they throw our way. Sometimes, however, we tend to showcase behaviours that impress our managers, but they don’t. So, let’s look at some of the top employee behaviours that don’t impress your manager, but you think they do.
Overworking: One of the most common behaviours employees exhibit to impress their manager is working long hours. While completing tasks and meeting deadlines on time are crucial, overworking is unnecessary. It’s important to remember that your managers es don’t judge you based on the number of hours you work; they evaluate your performance. Instead of overworking, focus on delivering quality work that meets your manager’s expectations.
Being busy: Some people tend to appear busy and overloaded with work. They may think that this behaviour shows their dedication and efficiency at work. However, constantly looking busy can also give the impression that you are not managing your time effectively or handling multiple tasks simultaneously. It’s better to prioritise your tasks and communicate with your manager if you feel overwhelmed instead of trying to look busy.
Checking in: Constantly Checking is another behaviour that perceivably impresses Managers. However, this constant back-and-forth communication is often seen as a lack of trust. Instead of checking in frequently, ensure clarity on the task or project before beginning work. This will show your manager that you can manage your time and resources effectively.
Being a “Yes” person: Many employees feel that agreeing to everything their manager says will show them in a positive light. On the contrary, this is not the case. Being a “yes” person can be perceived as a lack of originality and critical thinking. A great employee isn’t afraid to voice their concerns and provide constructive feedback and suggestions. They also know the difference between what is up for debate and what is a reasonable direction.
Rushing: Another behaviour employees exhibit to appear productive and efficient is rushing through tasks. While being efficient is essential, rushing through tasks can lead to mistakes and errors in your work. Take your time to complete each task thoroughly and accurately rather than trying to finish it quickly. It’s important to remember that your manager values quality over quantity.
Over-Promising: Promising more than you can deliver is another employee behaviour perceived as detrimental. In a rush to impress their manager, employees often take on too much work and make unrealistic promises. This usually leads to negative consequences such as missed deadlines and compromised quality of work. Instead, it’s better to be transparent about your strengths and weaknesses and take on manageable work.
Brown-Nosing: One of the most evident and cringeworthy behaviours employees exhibit to impress their manager is brown-nosing. While being respectful and courteous is important, going out of your way to butter up your manager can be perceived as insincere. Instead of trying to get on your manager’s good side, build a healthy and transparent professional relationship based on mutual respect.
Constantly Complaining: Nobody likes a complainer, least of all your manager. While speaking up and addressing issues is essential, continually complaining about your job, colleagues, or work environment is not a good look. It suggests a lack of initiative and problem-solving skills. Instead, try to offer constructive solutions to problems and maintain a positive attitude in the workplace.
Taking Credit for Others’ Work: While it might seem impressive to your colleagues that you are getting all the recognition, it is an absolute no-go in front of your manager. Taking credit for other people’s work and forgetting the team effort is disrespectful and shows that you are not a team player. To impress your manager, be a team player, acknowledge others’ contributions, celebrate the organisational outcome, not yours and share credit where it is due.
Being Overconfident: While confidence is admirable, being overconfident can have the opposite effect. When you overestimate your abilities and exaggerate your accomplishments, it shows a lack of self-awareness and can make you look arrogant to your manager and colleagues. Instead, try to strike a balance between being confident and being humble. Focus on your strengths and acknowledge areas that need improvement.
Gossiping: Gossiping about colleagues, clients, or the company itself is never acceptable. Not only does it create a hostile atmosphere in the workplace, but it can also harm your reputation. Your manager might see you as someone who cannot be trusted with confidential information and is not professional. Instead, stay away from gossip, focus on your work, and maintain a professional attitude in the workplace.
Coming to work sick and not taking leave: While you might think that showing up to work even when sick portrays dedication and commitment, it’s not always the case. Coming to work sick can result in decreased productivity, spreading of illness to colleagues and a longer recovery time for yourself. Taking leave, when necessary, shows responsibility and consideration towards your health and those around you.
Spending time and energy on new projects: Many employees often need to take on new projects or initiatives to impress. While this can show ambition and drive, it’s important not to spread yourself too thin. Ensure you have enough time and resources to devote to each project effectively without compromising your work quality or missing deadlines. It’s better to focus on and excel at a few tasks rather than take on too many and struggle to keep up.
Remember to prioritise what has been delegated and communicate about your workload to avoid overloading yourself. Overall, it’s important to remember that while some behaviours may seem impressive at first glance, they can harm your reputation and productivity in the long run. It’s better to focus on being reliable, efficient, and transparent.
Working on your priorities: While it’s essential to prioritise your work and manage your time effectively, aligning your preferences with the company’s goals and objectives is equally crucial. Your manager will value employees who meet their goals and contribute to the organisation’s success. Be proactive in seeking out ways to align your projects and tasks with the company’s vision, priorities, and mission.
Being reactionary: Responding to every minor issue or request from your manager might seem like a way to show your dedication. Still, it can come across as being easily overwhelmed and disorganised. Instead, prioritise tasks and focus on completing them efficiently rather than constantly reacting to new jobs or issues. This will demonstrate your ability to handle multiple responsibilities and prioritise effectively. Communicate with your Manager.
White lies: Lastly, many employees think that telling white lies or withholding information from their manager will make them look good and avoid confrontation. However, this can quickly backfire and damage your credibility. It’s always better to be honest with your manager, even if it means admitting mistakes or shortcomings. This shows integrity and responsibility, highly valued traits in any employee.
In conclusion, while impressing your manager isn’t rocket science, it’s also not achieved by engaging in counterproductive activities that will overshadow your positive traits.
Instead of overworking, constantly checking in, being a “yes” person, overpromising, or brown-nosing, focus on delivering quality work that meets your manager’s expectations. Doing so will help you gain your manager’s respect and admiration and make you a highly valued team member.
