Tuesday, February 28, 2006

Most Admired Employees

FORTUNE magazine's Most Admired Companies list is the definitive report card on corporate reputations. The 2006 ranking has been released. The 1,000 largest U.S. companies, ranked by revenue, were included in the evaluation process. The Top 20 were determined by surveying 10,000 executives, directors and securities analysts.

The seven Most Admired Companies in Massachusetts were as follows (including location and
ranking within their industry):

Rankings were based on the following criteria:

  • Innovation
  • People management
  • Use of corporate assets
  • Social responsibility
  • Quality of management
  • Financial soundness
  • Long-term investment
  • Quality of products/services

Wouldn't it be interesting if we had access to a Most Admired Employees list! Workers who made the list would be prize candidates for the best assignments. Job satisfaction would improve. Recruiters would call. Compensation would skyrocket.

While no such list exists, Ajilon Professional Staffing offers these five tips to elevate your admiration ranking in your current position:

  • Manage up. The ability to communicate with your manager in his or her own terms is essential to help you reach your career goals. Be aware of your boss’ management style and goals and communicate your ideas or plans in a similar manner.
  • Make your boss your #1 fan. Your boss’ success is tied to your success, so work with your manager to better understand his/her goals – and help achieve them!
  • Work even harder when the boss is away. Complete jobs they assigned before they return and make sure other projects did not slip through the cracks. Stay organized and pay attention to details. Before they return to the office, send them an e-mail update on the status of projects. They will appreciate this report waiting for them in their inbox.
  • Track your accomplishments. Although sometimes it’s difficult to toot your own horn, make sure your boss is aware of your accomplishments and the times you go above and beyond the call of duty so he/she knows about your successes to reward you with time off, bonuses or a raise.
  • Be a team player. Every boss likes to have his team on his side. Demonstrate that you're committed to the company, not just to your own personal goals.
Set a goal this week to improve in one of these five areas, then chart your progress. By striving to become a Most Admired Employee in your current position your reputation will grow and Most Admired Companies will seek you out for more satisfying and better paying opportunities.