The Office Favorites: 4 Types of Popular Employees

Every office has its favorites – employees who are widely admired and appreciated by their colleagues. However, sometimes it is not a good thing because it means less admiration and appreciation. Let’s dive into four types of popular employees and explore what makes them stand out.

1. “The Rock”: Popular due to Reliability

    Meet the employee who is always dependable, always on time, and always delivers high-quality work. They are the go-to person for critical tasks and are often discussed by executives for succession planning. Their reliability earns them the respect and admiration of their colleagues, who know they can count on them to get the job done. They have a high chance of being promoted or poached by other employers.

    These employees are often characterized by their:

    • Consistency in delivering results
    • Ability to work well under pressure
    • Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence
    • Strategic Thinking

    2. “The Hustler”: Popular due to Hard Work

      This employee is always putting in extra hours, taking on additional responsibilities, and striving to improve processes. The problem with them is, they are often discussed by managers as someone who can handle more work. As they say, the reward for hard work is more work. While they do things out of their good heart, no one is thinking about promoting them. They would rather keep them where they are, serving everyone else.

      These employees are often characterized by their:

      • Strong work habits and willingness to put in extra effort
      • Ability to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively
      • Stress and Burnout often

      3. “The Caregiver”: Popular due to Being Caring

        This employee is always willing to lend a helping hand, offer words of encouragement, and provide support to their colleagues. They are often discussed by subordinates, who appreciate their kindness and empathy. The problem is, executives may not always notice their caring nature. Actually, they do not care. It is all about money and KPI’s, and unfortunately that does not serve that. They will never earn a promotion unless they balance that good heart with other things that satisfy the bottom-line.

        These employees are often characterized by their:

        • Empathy and ability to understand others’ perspectives
        • Willingness to help others and provide support
        • Positive attitude and friendly demeanor

        4. “The Socialite”: Popular due to Gossip

          This employee is always in the know, always sharing the latest news and gossip, and always seems to be at the center of office social gatherings. This is the worst kind of popularity in the workplace. They are loved by the negative and toxic people in the office. It is nice to be the class clown, until it’s time for downsizing. Your head is first on the list, understandably so. These employees are the pot stirrers.

          These employees are often characterized by their:

          • Constant negative attitude
          • Loudness and interrupting other employees
          • Toxic behavior and very little regard for morality

          Popularity in the office can come in many forms, but it may not always be a good thing.

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          About Sibusiso Nkosi

          Seasoned Executive. Board Member. Certified Life Coach (Specializing in Career Coaching).

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