What Defines a Successful Employee at Hoffer Plastics?

Hoffer Plastics’ core values are Family, Integrity, Service, and Trust. Within each of those core values lie traits and characteristics that together, make up the secret to success for any employee at Hoffer Plastics. These are in no specific order; each being just as important as the next.

Dependability – The dependable employee is one that can always be relied on to get the job done; and more importantly, to do it to the best of their abilities. Mistakes will always happen; but the dependable employee doesn’t create short cuts. Dependability also means the employee listens to instructions, accepts training, and asks questions to ensure they understand expectations. It also describes those that get along well with others, sets a good example, has strong company loyalty, and encourages a team-like atmosphere.

Honesty & Integrity – This goes far beyond just telling the truth. These characteristics pertain to how we go about our jobs, interact with customers and vendors, and work with others. Ask yourself the following: Do I treat others fairly and respectfully? Do I treat vendors and customers in the same manner? Do I always try to do my best; and not pilfer company time that I am paid for? Do I always put the best interest of the company first; rather than myself or my agenda?

Accountable – The meaning of accountability is synonymous with responsibility, answerability, and liability. The accountable employee understands their role, responsibilities, and the expectations the organization has placed on them in their position. We all become better at this trait by setting and prioritizing goals, and monitoring and measuring progress. Managers are not the only ones responsible to do so. Every employee should set goals and work to obtain them. It is equally important to accept the responsibilities of your role in the organization; and answer for both your successes and failures without excuses.

Positive, Proactive Attitude – Positive does not always mean the employee is simply “happy”; although it certainly doesn’t hurt. Positive can also mean proactive which means you go after things and don’t wait for them to come to you. Positive attitudes are contagious and can have a profound impact on the productivity and overall job satisfaction of employees. It usually only takes one sour apple to ruin the bunch though. The ideal positive attitude includes pleasantness, courtesy, politeness, managing conflict, and addressing complaints through the proper channels, with ideas how to improve. Eliminate gossip!

Passionate & Compassionate – Passion in the workplace is the sense of doing everything with a sense of urgency, enthusiasm, and as if it’s the single most important goal you have at the moment. You see passion in those that always strive to do things better with each attempt because they feel so strongly about their role, and how it impacts the entire organization’s success. Compassionate should go hand in hand with passion because it is not considered acceptable to “walk over” others just because you’re passionate about your job. Compassion can be in the form of helping others to perform at your same level, using every opportunity to teach someone what you know so they can become better and understanding that not everyone may know as much as you do about a subject at work.

Aligned with the Organization – Alignment means that our work efforts, goals, and ambitions are all in line with those of the organization. So we are all “rowing in the same direction”. It doesn’t mean we have to assimilate per se; it simply means that ours goals and efforts should be devised in such a way that makes the organization successful. It also doesn’t mean loyalty; although loyalty can be an inherent factor of alignment. An employee can be loyal yet not aligned with the organization’s overall strategy plan, goals, or business ideas.

Self Improving – If the organization wants to be world class, then we must keep ourselves in a perpetual state of learning. If we do not have answers, then seek them out. Don’t wait for someone to show you the answer. Look for additional ways you can grow in your job, learn new skills, and opportunities for training.

High Energy – Jack Welch, former CEO of GE, recently said “don’t just be energetic, but energize others in your actions and words.” Do you carry yourself with a high degree of energy, confidence, and positive attitude? How does that convey to your coworkers, subordinates, or boss?

Engaged & Contributing – Employees should always be engaged with what is going on and more importantly, take initiative when opportunities present themselves to make a difference. There is a saying that has been shared amongst management that goes “You cannot coast without going downhill”. Regardless of your role in the organization, you have the ability to contribute ideas, share knowledge, and contribute to our overall success.

Leadership – You do not have to be in a supervisory or management role to exude leadership in your function. Leadership is about passion, motivating, teaching, and setting the example for those around you. Management is directing work tasks and making sure the job gets done. Remember, you are only a leader if there are those that want to follow you. Leaders are authentic and humble; and never take part in toxic behavior around the organization.

Strong Communication – We all need to communicate to function with excellence. Breakdowns in communication lead to losses in productivity, profitability, and even morale. Communication is not just about how much information you give to others, it is equally important to provide the right information, timely, and with the intent of solving a problem or addressing an issue. Open communication amongst coworkers and management is important to ensure our work environment stays healthy. Misunderstandings, dissent, disgruntlement, and confusion are all bi-products of a lack of communication and can cause major problems for even the healthiest organizations.