What makes an unsuccessful employee?

What don’t managers want from em­­ployees? Check out this list of flaws that describe unsuccessful em­­ployees, according to their bosses. The list was compiled by John Feather­­stone, author of Start Hiring Winners:

1.  They don’t listen. Antidote: Ask yourself mental questions about the person’s words. For example, what’s her main point?

2.  They don’t follow instructions. Antidote: Carry a pad and pen with you, so you can write down details as you hear them.

3.  They don’t complete work as­­sign­­­­ments. Antidote: Don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for support on a project running behind.

4.  They don’t keep the boss in­­formed. Antidote: Be proactive, rather than waiting for a boss to ask the status of work. Initiate a weekly meeting or a daily check-in.

MGR Handbook D

5.  They don’t understand the job. Antidote: If you don’t know, ask how your work impacts others and the company as a whole.

6.  They make up excuses. Anti­­dote: Own up to mistakes and see them as an opportunity to grow.