This blog post was written by Joey V., a member of the Marketing team. This past year Joey was recognized for his job performance at Reynolds and Reynolds.

One of Reynolds and Reynolds’ greatest strengths is how they recognize associates within their organization formally and informally. They realize the associates working here are the reason for the company’s success and what drives Reynolds to be an industry leader.

Throughout the year, senior leadership formally recognizes associates who have demonstrated exemplary performance. This recognition comes with a certificate and a post written about them on the front page of the company website.

Last month, I was recognized with an award for various projects I have been working on throughout the year. Having only been here for a short amount of time, I was a little shocked to receive such an award.

After reflecting , I wanted to share some tips that could help you get recognized at work:

Realize anyone can win.

No matter what company you work for, there will likely be awards that are not reserved for employees that have been around for a certain amount of years or hold certain positions. I have seen multiple people get recognized who have been here less than a year in my department alone. If you excel in your position, regardless of role or your time at your job, people will take notice.

Set goals and meet them.

Goals are what help us move forward in life and in our careers, so it is important to set daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. Even if your goals seem unrealistic, they will give you the motivation to continue to do great work. They will keep you locked in on your job and focused on the task at hand!

Go above and beyond.

It is very easy to come in every day and only do what is assigned to you. However, just doing what is expected will not get you noticed. Do a couple things every now and then that go outside of your job description (take on new responsibilities, volunteer when your manager asks, etc.). Managers will take note of your hard work.

Be patient.

Awards may only be given out every so often and competition may be tough. However, if you stay your course and keep working hard, it will only be a matter of time before you are the one accepting an award.

People are always watching.

People have a tendency to think what they say or do goes unnoticed. However, even if people do not say anything to you, they are making mental notes about you every day. Get to work on time, always be on task, work hard, and have a positive attitude. Many people overlook the last part, but on my award certificate it says, “Excellence in job performance and attitude.” Managers will be more inclined to award someone who has a positive, upbeat attitude versus someone who is always negative and complaining about their responsibilities.

I am glad to have a job at a place that recognizes its employees for their hard work. It is amazing knowing all the effort you put day-in and day-out does not go unnoticed or unrewarded. While it is nice to get a “good job” or a “keep up the good work” from your supervisor, formal recognition is a great motivator!