Standing out as a high performer can be a game-changer when planning on advancing in your career. Whether you’re after a promotion, transitioning into a leadership role, or simply wanting to excel in your current position, embracing the traits of a high performer is important. As well as Core Skills, employers will be looking for candidates who also have the traits of a high performer.
Here’s a look at 10 essential traits that can help you elevate your career to the next level.
1. Proactivity
High performers don’t sit around waiting for things to happen—they make things happen. They take the initiative, look for opportunities, and take control of their own development.
According to a study from the University of Exeter, proactive employees are 80% more likely to be promoted within the first two years of starting a role. To be proactive, you must stay ahead, both in your daily tasks and your overall career plans.
2. Resilience
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and to stay focused when faced with challenges. High-performers handle pressure well and can quickly adapt to change. A study from the University of Warwick found that resilient employees are 25% more productive. Building resilience means keeping a positive outlook and learning from your mistakes, rather than letting them hold you back.
3. Continuous Learning
High performers never stop learning. They know that to stay ahead, they need to keep developing their skills and knowledge. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) reports that UK employees who regularly engage in learning activities are 30% more likely to achieve their career goals. This could mean taking courses, keeping up with industry news, or seeking out new challenges at work.
4. Time Management
Good time management is a must. High performing individuals are skilled at prioritising their tasks, avoiding distractions, and making the most of their time. According to the London School of Economics, effective time management can boost productivity by up to 20%. If you find yourself struggling with time management, try using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to get on top of your tasks.
5. Emotional Intelligence
Being in tune with your own emotions and understanding others’ feelings is vital for success at work. High performers excel in emotional intelligence (EQ), which helps them build strong relationships and lead with empathy. The British Psychological Society reports that employees with high EQ are 60% more effective in leadership roles. Improving your EQ involves becoming more self-aware, practising empathy, and communicating clearly.
6. Goal Setting
High performers have a clear vision of what they want to achieve. They set SMART goals and make plans to reach them. A survey by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) found that 75% of successful professionals link their achievements to goal setting. To get started, set both short-term and long-term goals, and regularly check in on your progress.
7. Accountability
Taking responsibility for your actions is one of the biggest traits of a high performer. They own their mistakes and learn from them, rather than trying to shift the blame to others. Research from the University of Edinburgh shows that teams with a strong culture of accountability are 35% more likely to deliver projects on time and within budget. Being accountable means being reliable and honest, even when things don’t go as planned.
8. Networking
High performers know that building a strong professional network is a great tool for career growth. They make an effort to connect with others, both inside and outside their organisations. According to Hays, 70% of job opportunities are secured through networking. This could involve attending industry events, joining professional groups, or simply connecting with colleagues and peers on LinkedIn.
9. Innovation and Creativity
High performers aren’t afraid to think differently. They bring fresh ideas to the table and are often the driving force behind innovation in their organisations. Nesta, the UK’s innovation foundation, found that companies that encourage creativity in their employees are 45% more likely to outperform their competitors. To foster creativity, challenge yourself to think beyond the obvious and be open to new ways of doing things. Don’t be ashamed to share your ideas.
10. Adaptability
Adaptability is increasingly important in a fast-changing job market, especially with the development and integration of AI systems and tools. High performers are flexible and open to change, whether it’s adopting new technologies or adjusting to new strategies. The UK government’s Future of Work report highlights that adaptable employees are 40% more likely to thrive in dynamic environments. Becoming more adaptable involves being open-minded and viewing changes as opportunities rather than obstacles.
Conclusion
Embracing these 10 traits of a high performer can make a real difference in your performance and help you stand out in your career. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to move up, developing these qualities will help you take on the challenges and opportunities that come your way. Remember, being a high performer isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter and always looking for ways to improve.
Start small, focus on developing these traits, and before you know it, you’ll be on your way to becoming a high performer in your field.
