What is a Good Employee?
Redefining Success in the Modern Workplace
When most people hear the phrase “good employee,” they imagine someone who’s punctual, meets deadlines, and stays out of trouble. While those traits matter, they barely scratch the surface of what truly makes someone an asset to their team.
At the fun dept., we believe a good employee is so much more than a box-checker or a rule-follower. They’re the ones who lift others up, approach challenges with curiosity, and contribute to the overall culture of kindness, connection, and collaboration.
Why Redefine What Makes a “Good Employee”?
The workplace has evolved, and so should our definition of a good employee. It’s no longer just about individual performance—it’s about how employees contribute to the team, adapt to change, and embody the organization’s values.
Here’s why it matters:
- Employees who prioritize teamwork and kindness create a more cohesive, engaged workplace.
- Celebrating diverse qualities like creativity, empathy, and resilience helps foster a culture of innovation.
- Defining success more broadly allows everyone to feel valued for their unique contributions.
The Traits of a Good Employee
Being a good employee isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up with the right mindset and making an effort to impact the people and work around you positively. Here’s what it looks like in action:
1. Collaboration
A good employee doesn’t just focus on their own success—they’re invested in the team’s success. They actively share ideas, offer support, and celebrate others’ wins.
2. Curiosity
Good employees ask questions, seek feedback, and look for ways to grow. They don’t just do what’s expected—they explore what’s possible.
3. Kindness and Empathy
They try to understand others’ perspectives and show compassion in their interactions. They know that small acts of kindness—like offering help or saying thank you—can make a big difference.
4. Resilience
Challenges don’t stop them—they learn from mistakes, adapt to change, and keep moving forward positively.
5. Accountability
They take ownership of their work and follow through on commitments, building trust with their teammates and leaders.
How Leaders Can Foster “Good Employees”
Being a good employee doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it’s nurtured by a workplace culture that values and supports these traits. As a leader, here’s how you can help your team shine:
1. Recognize and Celebrate Strengths
- Acknowledge the unique qualities each employee brings, whether it’s their problem-solving skills, creativity, or ability to connect with others.
- Publicly celebrate wins, but don’t forget to give private, personal recognition too.
2. Encourage Teamwork Over Competition
- Shift the focus from individual performance metrics to collective goals.
- Promote cross-functional projects that require employees to collaborate and share their strengths.
3. Provide Opportunities for Growth
- Offer learning opportunities, mentorship programs, or stretch assignments to keep employees engaged and growing.
- Create a safe space for feedback where employees feel comfortable asking for help or admitting mistakes.
4. Lead with Kindness and Respect
- Model the behaviors you want to see. When leaders show empathy, appreciation, and patience, employees are more likely to mirror those traits.
A Good Employee in Action
Let’s put this into perspective with a story. One of our clients at the fun dept. shared how a new hire transformed their team culture. While this employee wasn’t the fastest or most experienced, they stood out for their ability to bring people together. They regularly checked in on teammates, offered to help when someone was overwhelmed, and even organized weekly “fun five minutes” during team meetings to lighten the mood.
Over time, this employee’s small, thoughtful actions created a ripple effect. Their team became more connected, collaborative, and resilient—and their productivity skyrocketed.
Why It’s Important to Evolve the Definition
When we stop viewing employees as cogs in a machine and start valuing their humanity, we create workplaces that inspire people to do their best work. A good employee isn’t just someone who does the job—they’re someone who helps others do theirs, builds a positive culture, and contributes to the success of the whole.
Your Challenge
If you’re a leader, take a moment to reflect: Are you recognizing the traits that truly matter in your employees? And if you’re an employee, ask yourself: How can I be a better teammate, problem-solver, or supporter this week?
At the fun dept., we help organizations redefine success and create cultures where good employees become great teams. Visit the fun dept. to learn how we can bring play, kindness, and connection to your workplace.