Initiative

Meets/Exceeds Expectations

Consistently pursues her own professional development

Regularly takes on responsibility for areas beyond his basic duties

Assists other departments with special projects that arise

Reinvents processes and redefines the workflow in light of changing needs

Has successfully automated portions of a manual process

Is willing to work whatever hours are necessary in order to get the job done

Approaches clients with a can-do attitude

Looks for creative solutions around traditional obstacles

Assumes new responsibilities whenever the opportunity arises

Researches outside sources and best practices to improve her knowledge

Does not hesitate to question ways we’ve always done business

Is typically the first in line to put newly acquired training tools to the test

Requires little or no direction in performing day-to-day responsibilities

Looks for what needs to be done rather than waiting to be told

Assumes a leadership role whenever an appropriate occasion arises

Asks for additional responsibilities whenever possible

Is not afraid to make errors

Needs Improvement

Tends to demonstrate a “time clock mentality”

Fails to assume responsibilities beyond the basic, written job description

Often says, “That’s not how we did this at my last company”

Discourages others from assuming broader job responsibilities

Resists training and continues to “do things the old way”

Lacks the confidence necessary to bring about change in the department

Offers few creative suggestions or alternatives

Fails to pursue out-of-the-ordinary solutions for customers with special needs

Resists applying newly learned skills

Sometimes takes initiative too far by overstepping his authority

Fails to take advantage of available external training options

Always sticks to the tried and true

Resists picking up his pace when the tempo of the office increases

Has trouble doing her work without ongoing direction from management

Initiative Goals

Look for ways of adding value to your role

Reconfigure your work in light of our department’s changing needs

Don’t wait for work to come to you—go out and find it

Ask not what your company can do for you—ask what you can do for your company

Research matters thoroughly before asking for help

Keep a notebook handy with shortcuts and rules of thumb to save time

Make yourself a valuable business partner to your clients

Identify and fulfill customers’ needs on a proactive basis

Demonstrate interest in professional development opportunities

When things are slow in our area, ask for more work

Look for ways you can contribute beyond your current job description

Keep abreast of trends and changes in our business

Attend two outside workshops to further your professional development

Take advantage of our tuition reimbursement program to complete your degree

Identify ways to fill any skills gap that may exist in your resume

Self-identify areas for development and growth

Strive to become more independent in your role