Work ethic is a set of essential values that strengthens your character, boosts your career, and leads to a more fulfilling life. In addition, a strong work ethic is instrumental in helping an organization achieve success.
Work ethic is as much an attitude as it is an activity. As Ken Blanchard, leadership expert and author, said, “There’s a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in doing something, you do it only when it’s convenient. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses; only results.”
Here are 25 principles that characterize a strong work ethic:
- Take pride in what you do.
- Put in the effort, not just the time.
- Do what’s required before being asked.
- Bring out the best in others.
- Set high expectations.
- Do the job right rather than cutting corners.
- Contribute rather than complain.
- Get the job done — regardless of whether it’s in your job description or not.
- Treat feedback as a gift rather than as a slap in the face.
- Run toward problems rather than away from them.
- Stop comparing your effort to that of others.
- Volunteer — without expecting something in return.
- Do what’s right rather than what’s politically expedient.
- Earn your rewards rather than demanding them.
- Roll up your sleeves — even when you dread the activity.
- Smile instead of acting like a prima donna.
- Challenge yourself before challenging others.
- Put in extra work — even when it’s on your own time.
- Finish the job rather than playing Cinderella — running out the door when the clock strikes five.
- Treat the customer as a treasure, not a nuisance.
- Show what you’re made of when times are tough.
- Be a cheerleader for the company and its people.
- Do more than required.
- Invest in your personal and professional growth.
- Be the person that others look up to.
Do You Have a Strong Work Ethic?
Please leave a comment and tell us what you think or share it with someone who can benefit from the information.
Additional Reading:
Do You Have a Strong Work Ethic?
Why Work If You Don’t Have To?
Is Self-Reliance More Than a Buzzword?
Moral Character Matters
Make Personal Development a Priority
Hard Work Is Good for Your Soul
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Hi Frank, Totally agree with these 25 strong work ethics attributes. My comment is not directly related to Work Ethics, but instead, an adjacent topic – recognition for your contributions. To get ahead, among other requirements, one has to work hard, (work ethics) and be recognized by the organization for his/her contributions. I feel it is insufficient to believe that if I simply work hard and contribute, people will recognize my efforts and be rewarded because that recognition might or might not happen. It would be great if you can write about how one can be recognized for his/her contributions in a graceful manner without constantly blowing his/her own horn.
Hi Kim
I absolutely hear what you’re saying. I keep a running list of topics that I plan to write about. Thank you for your suggestion.
I have always had the philosophy that if I work hard and do what’s right the folks who I work for will take notice. That said, if I didn’t receive the recognition that I felt I deserved, it would be time to move on.
I’ve been very fortunate to work for some fantastic people. I can honestly say that for the most part, they did right by me.
Thanks for taking the time to write.
Best,
Frank