34 answers
Keith
Student
Chapin, South Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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What habits or qualities helped you stand out early in your career and get noticed for leadership opportunities #Fall25?
Seeking leadership roles
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34 answers
Drex Thornton
Outbound Logistics Manager
1
Answer
Houston, Texas
Updated
Drex’s Answer
These are all great answers. What really shines is being a student of leadership. Always eager to learn and grow, whether through reading, attending webinars, or other ways. As you learn, share what you discover with your leader; you might teach them something new too. Remember, leaders are always learning and improving. Your question is an excellent start, so keep going!
London Warner, RHIA, PMP
IT Senior Consultant
2
Answers
Louisville, Kentucky
Updated
London’s Answer
Always lead with positivity even if you're not the leader in the situation. Volunteer when you can to learn new tasks within your position and take initiative to assist with co-workers and leadership. Focus on annual performance reviews to be able to show and describe the work effort you have put in throughout the year, this will give you an avenue to express your willingness to be great asset in a management role.
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
- Grit, determination, and overall impact
- Being reliable and consistent
- Being reliable and consistent
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
Taking opportunities as they come, anticipate, raise your hand to help out, be curious and ask questions, show up to the office (especially if it’s hybrid), do not engage with gossip, you’re not there to make friends (but you will make some along the way)
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
- Great communication skills and work ethic
- Being open to all opportunities
- Raising my hand to help fix problems
- Being open to all opportunities
- Raising my hand to help fix problems
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
- Being open minded and collaborative
- Problem solving, analytical insight
- Problem solving, analytical insight
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Clear communication. Meticulous organisation. Data & story visualisation. Solution focused. Proactive. Easy to work with.
Rich Streeter
Chief Security Officer
1
Answer
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Rich’s Answer
Build relationships and be an active listener and observer. Some people learn leadership from books; others learn by watching. When I stepped into my current role, I asked a mentor what to read. He said, “I don’t read books. I watched leaders, good and bad, and shaped my style from what I saw, while staying true to who I am.” That stuck with me. Know yourself; how you learn, how you grow, and what kind of leader you are. Don’t force a style that doesn’t fit. Be yourself. Be respectful. Be empathetic.
To put this into practice, invest in your network, sit in on key meetings, and pay attention to what effective leaders do and don’t do. Reflect after big interactions on what worked and why, try small experiments that fit your voice, and create feedback loops with peers and mentors. Use inputs that work for you; mentors, shadowing, select books or courses; without chasing everything. Stay direct, kind, and consistent.
To put this into practice, invest in your network, sit in on key meetings, and pay attention to what effective leaders do and don’t do. Reflect after big interactions on what worked and why, try small experiments that fit your voice, and create feedback loops with peers and mentors. Use inputs that work for you; mentors, shadowing, select books or courses; without chasing everything. Stay direct, kind, and consistent.
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Don't be afraid to fail. Ask the stupid question. Admit it when you don't know something. Make a suggestion even if it turns out to be wrong. Good leaders recognize that they don't know everything and will respect that, while you don't know everything either, you're being fearless and are trying to contribute.
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
Taking initiative and showing interest in learning the end to end processes. You become very valuable when you learn how your role fits into the broader picture because it allows you to predict and prevent.
Kay West
Customer Service
1
Answer
Irving, Texas
Updated
Kay’s Answer
To stand out early, focus on being reliable by always showing up when needed. Take responsibility for your growth by being curious and reaching out to learn new things. Be a team player with a mindset that helps everyone succeed. Embrace change positively, as it is unavoidable and can lead to growth.
Kelli Bentrewicz
1
Answer
Burlington, New Jersey
Updated
Kelli’s Answer
I love your ambition! Get yourself out there and let people know who you are. Connect with folks at your company, say hi, introduce yourself, ask questions, and schedule some one-on-one time to learn more about them!
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Humility to learn and listen, dedication, availability, continuous learning, relying on a role model/having a mentor, deliver real value results and last but not least important , have an owner mindset. Meaning even if you work for someone you have to think as the owner of that business in order to unlock the level of mindset and actions that will help you stand out. Don’t think the work you have now is transitory . Although it will be , learn at maximum , deliver results at maximum to build a legacy before your next move.
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
1) Do beyond your work
2) Be willing to learn
3) Bring solutions
4) Be emphatic
2) Be willing to learn
3) Bring solutions
4) Be emphatic
Sammy Reaves
Talent Sourcing Coordinator
4
Answers
Horn Lake, Mississippi
Updated
Sammy’s Answer
Hi Keith!
Your question is fantastic because everyone wants to stand out. Here are some tips that helped me during my career as a retail manager. Always ask questions; it's a great way to learn from both peers and managers. This shows leaders you're proactive and eager to learn. Teamwork is also key, so aim to be collaborative. Another important step in my growth was discussing my career goals with my leader. Talk about where you want to go, what you're doing to reach that next role, and have open conversations about your opportunities. My current manager always advises me to work as if I'm already in the position I aspire to have!
Your question is fantastic because everyone wants to stand out. Here are some tips that helped me during my career as a retail manager. Always ask questions; it's a great way to learn from both peers and managers. This shows leaders you're proactive and eager to learn. Teamwork is also key, so aim to be collaborative. Another important step in my growth was discussing my career goals with my leader. Talk about where you want to go, what you're doing to reach that next role, and have open conversations about your opportunities. My current manager always advises me to work as if I'm already in the position I aspire to have!
Sara Rezaee
Inventory Control Management
3
Answers
Corona, California
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Early in my career, the habits that helped me stand out were taking initiative, being extremely detail oriented, and always following through. I developed a reputation for being someone who could take a complex problem, break it down, and execute with accuracy. I consistently looked for ways to improve processes, not just complete them.
Another quality that set me apart was how intentional I was with communication. I focused on being clear, organized, and solutions oriented, whether I was partnering with my peers, coaching associates, or presenting data.
Those habits helped people trust me with more responsibility, because I showed that I could understand the bigger picture, support my team, and still hit the metrics. I think that combination of ownership, consistency, and strong communication is ultimately what positioned me for leadership opportunities.
Another quality that set me apart was how intentional I was with communication. I focused on being clear, organized, and solutions oriented, whether I was partnering with my peers, coaching associates, or presenting data.
Those habits helped people trust me with more responsibility, because I showed that I could understand the bigger picture, support my team, and still hit the metrics. I think that combination of ownership, consistency, and strong communication is ultimately what positioned me for leadership opportunities.
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Spend at least five minutes helping someone else—whether it’s a colleague, a neighbor, or family. Always do the right thing.
Rajib Choudhury
Customer support
3
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Rajib’s Answer
Early in my career, what helped me stand out wasn’t a job title or technical expertise alone—it was how I approached my work and people around me.
First, I focused on taking ownership beyond my role. If I saw a problem impacting customers or the business, I didn’t limit myself to “that’s not my responsibility.” I tried to understand the root cause and contribute to the solution. Leaders notice people who think end‑to‑end, not just task‑to‑task.
Second, I invested heavily in continuous learning—both technical and non‑technical. In IT, tools and platforms change rapidly, but I realized early that skills like problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management are what truly differentiate future leaders.
Another habit that helped was being reliable and consistent. Delivering on commitments, meeting timelines, and being someone others could depend on built trust. Leadership opportunities often come to those who are trusted before they are promoted.
I also made a conscious effort to support others and share knowledge. Helping teammates succeed, mentoring juniors, and collaborating across teams naturally positioned me as a go‑to person, which is often how informal leadership begins.
Finally, I learned to listen—to customers, to data, and to feedback, even when it was uncomfortable. Being open to feedback and acting on it accelerated my growth and showed maturity early on.
Over time, these habits—ownership, learning mindset, reliability, collaboration, and customer focus—created visibility and credibility. Leadership roles followed naturally as a result, not as a goal by themselves.
First, I focused on taking ownership beyond my role. If I saw a problem impacting customers or the business, I didn’t limit myself to “that’s not my responsibility.” I tried to understand the root cause and contribute to the solution. Leaders notice people who think end‑to‑end, not just task‑to‑task.
Second, I invested heavily in continuous learning—both technical and non‑technical. In IT, tools and platforms change rapidly, but I realized early that skills like problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management are what truly differentiate future leaders.
Another habit that helped was being reliable and consistent. Delivering on commitments, meeting timelines, and being someone others could depend on built trust. Leadership opportunities often come to those who are trusted before they are promoted.
I also made a conscious effort to support others and share knowledge. Helping teammates succeed, mentoring juniors, and collaborating across teams naturally positioned me as a go‑to person, which is often how informal leadership begins.
Finally, I learned to listen—to customers, to data, and to feedback, even when it was uncomfortable. Being open to feedback and acting on it accelerated my growth and showed maturity early on.
Over time, these habits—ownership, learning mindset, reliability, collaboration, and customer focus—created visibility and credibility. Leadership roles followed naturally as a result, not as a goal by themselves.
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Early in my career, a few habits helped me stand out and earn leadership opportunities. First, I took responsibility seriously. When I was given a task, I made sure it was done well and on time, even if no one was checking. People quickly learned they could rely on me.
Second, I was curious and willing to learn. I asked thoughtful questions, listened carefully, and looked for ways to improve instead of just doing the minimum. That mindset helped me grow faster and showed others that I cared about doing good work.
Another important quality was a positive attitude. I tried to stay open-minded, handle feedback well, and support my teammates. Leaders notice people who bring energy and solutions instead of complaints.
Finally, I spoke up when I had ideas and volunteered for opportunities, even when I felt a little nervous. Being willing to step outside my comfort zone helped others see my potential.
Together, these habits—reliability, curiosity, positivity, and courage—helped me build trust and opened the door to leadership early in my career.
Second, I was curious and willing to learn. I asked thoughtful questions, listened carefully, and looked for ways to improve instead of just doing the minimum. That mindset helped me grow faster and showed others that I cared about doing good work.
Another important quality was a positive attitude. I tried to stay open-minded, handle feedback well, and support my teammates. Leaders notice people who bring energy and solutions instead of complaints.
Finally, I spoke up when I had ideas and volunteered for opportunities, even when I felt a little nervous. Being willing to step outside my comfort zone helped others see my potential.
Together, these habits—reliability, curiosity, positivity, and courage—helped me build trust and opened the door to leadership early in my career.
Zara Malhotra
Management Consultant
1
Answer
Delhi, DL
Updated
Zara’s Answer
Early in my career, the biggest habit that helped me stand out was taking ownership beyond my job description. I didn’t wait to be told what to fix or improve. If I saw a gap, I tried to understand it and propose a solution.
I also focused on being reliable. Delivering consistently, communicating clearly, and following through built trust quickly. People are more willing to give leadership opportunities to someone they know will handle responsibility well.
Another important quality was curiosity. I asked questions to understand the “why” behind decisions, not just the “how.” That helped me see the bigger picture and contribute more thoughtfully in discussions.
Finally, I paid attention to how I worked with others. Listening, giving credit and supporting teammates made collaboration easier and helped me build strong relationships, which often matters as much as individual performance.
I also focused on being reliable. Delivering consistently, communicating clearly, and following through built trust quickly. People are more willing to give leadership opportunities to someone they know will handle responsibility well.
Another important quality was curiosity. I asked questions to understand the “why” behind decisions, not just the “how.” That helped me see the bigger picture and contribute more thoughtfully in discussions.
Finally, I paid attention to how I worked with others. Listening, giving credit and supporting teammates made collaboration easier and helped me build strong relationships, which often matters as much as individual performance.
Candi Emerson
AVP- Program Management at AT&T
5
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Candi’s Answer
Early in my career, I developed habits that helped me get noticed for leadership roles:
1. Clear Communication:
I made sure to communicate clearly and regularly with my team and supervisors. Sharing updates, asking questions, and giving feedback helped build trust and showed I cared about our success. I also remembered that leaders are people too, with their own lives and experiences, so I treated everyone with kindness.
2. Taking Initiative:
When I saw a chance to improve something, I volunteered to help, even if it wasn't part of my job. This showed my commitment and eagerness to learn. Sometimes, it meant working longer hours, but I always supported my coworkers and helped create a positive work environment. By helping others and building good relationships, I showed I could lead by example.
3. Being Reliable:
I became known for meeting deadlines and doing quality work. People trusted me with important projects because they knew I would deliver.
4. Always Learning:
I looked for ways to learn new skills, whether through training, mentorship, or feedback. This showed I was adaptable and ready to grow with the business. I also focused on solving problems, not just identifying them, by bringing solutions to the table. This approach demonstrated leadership and a results-driven mindset.
1. Clear Communication:
I made sure to communicate clearly and regularly with my team and supervisors. Sharing updates, asking questions, and giving feedback helped build trust and showed I cared about our success. I also remembered that leaders are people too, with their own lives and experiences, so I treated everyone with kindness.
2. Taking Initiative:
When I saw a chance to improve something, I volunteered to help, even if it wasn't part of my job. This showed my commitment and eagerness to learn. Sometimes, it meant working longer hours, but I always supported my coworkers and helped create a positive work environment. By helping others and building good relationships, I showed I could lead by example.
3. Being Reliable:
I became known for meeting deadlines and doing quality work. People trusted me with important projects because they knew I would deliver.
4. Always Learning:
I looked for ways to learn new skills, whether through training, mentorship, or feedback. This showed I was adaptable and ready to grow with the business. I also focused on solving problems, not just identifying them, by bringing solutions to the table. This approach demonstrated leadership and a results-driven mindset.
Daven Arellano
Insurance Agent
2
Answers
Pueblo, Colorado
Updated
Daven’s Answer
There are many ways to stand out, buts it up to you to put in the work. The best approach to be noticed for upper management opportunities that I used were:
1. Always be early, being on time is being late.
2. Always be willing to take on extra work to build your skills that can make you more qualified for the job you are wanting to move up too.
3. Take responsibility for your mistakes, lying is never the answer. Most managers know what the truth is, even if they act like they don’t know. So just be truthful from the very beginning, it will help you in the long run.
4. Be reliable, having good attendance at work is always a plus. Which most managers looks at when you are applying for a promotion.
5. Be a team player, and always be available. Helping your team with questions, problems, or goals will help you stand out. As well as always being available for your team and managers.
I hope these tips help you, like they have helped me in my career. I wish you the best on your future endeavors and journey in the workforce!
1. Always be early, being on time is being late.
2. Always be willing to take on extra work to build your skills that can make you more qualified for the job you are wanting to move up too.
3. Take responsibility for your mistakes, lying is never the answer. Most managers know what the truth is, even if they act like they don’t know. So just be truthful from the very beginning, it will help you in the long run.
4. Be reliable, having good attendance at work is always a plus. Which most managers looks at when you are applying for a promotion.
5. Be a team player, and always be available. Helping your team with questions, problems, or goals will help you stand out. As well as always being available for your team and managers.
I hope these tips help you, like they have helped me in my career. I wish you the best on your future endeavors and journey in the workforce!
ted greenleaf
Architect and Project Manager
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
ted’s Answer
Keith,
#1: Don't just show up on time but be early. Often times a boss or higher up will beat you in but they will notice you as well.
#2: Whenever possible volunteer for tasks no one else wants to do - and show them what you can do.
Three months into my first job as a carpenter I was told to clean a new house out of all the scrap, cut and surplus lumber. It was not a small task and I wasn't happy about it. When I carried all the scrap and surplus lumber out I threw it into a pile outside of the house. Afterwards the boss came along, looked at the pile, and said "So now we are going to have to pull that pile of wood apart and stack it properly so we can use it later". I was given a task and did it poorly and grudgingly. He was 100% right and I was ashamed of myself. I can never erase the memory of how I performed that day.
And keep in mind your first job is a stepping stone to the next. Develop a plan and sense of where you want to go. What you think you want to do now may very likely change - that's OK, it happens to most. While new opportunities may arise, consider each in the big picture, as every new opportunity may not fit in your bigger hopes or plan.
One last thing: look up the "Desiderata" by Max Ehrmann - get a copy and pin it to your wall.
Good luck.
#1: Don't just show up on time but be early. Often times a boss or higher up will beat you in but they will notice you as well.
#2: Whenever possible volunteer for tasks no one else wants to do - and show them what you can do.
Three months into my first job as a carpenter I was told to clean a new house out of all the scrap, cut and surplus lumber. It was not a small task and I wasn't happy about it. When I carried all the scrap and surplus lumber out I threw it into a pile outside of the house. Afterwards the boss came along, looked at the pile, and said "So now we are going to have to pull that pile of wood apart and stack it properly so we can use it later". I was given a task and did it poorly and grudgingly. He was 100% right and I was ashamed of myself. I can never erase the memory of how I performed that day.
And keep in mind your first job is a stepping stone to the next. Develop a plan and sense of where you want to go. What you think you want to do now may very likely change - that's OK, it happens to most. While new opportunities may arise, consider each in the big picture, as every new opportunity may not fit in your bigger hopes or plan.
One last thing: look up the "Desiderata" by Max Ehrmann - get a copy and pin it to your wall.
Good luck.
Mary Ann Faue
Communications, Training, and People Development
71
Answers
Hayward, California
Updated
Mary Ann’s Answer
Hi Keith,
Curiosity, enthusiasm, and willingness to try new things. We all enter the workforce knowing something about ourselves and what we know how to do. But, we also enter the workforce having to learn things. So, when you're new in a job, being curious about how things work and who does what is a great way to get known. When you ask questions, that reinforces in you manager's/leader's mind that you are engaged and interested in the work you and the company do. When you get an answer, be sure to apply that knowledge. That shows that you are absorbing the information being shared with you and that you have the capacity to learn.
Over time, you will build a reputation for being that person that is always willing to pitch in to help and is always wanting to learn more. Having that reputation puts you on the radar of decision makers when it's time to consider people for new positions.
Good Luck!
Curiosity, enthusiasm, and willingness to try new things. We all enter the workforce knowing something about ourselves and what we know how to do. But, we also enter the workforce having to learn things. So, when you're new in a job, being curious about how things work and who does what is a great way to get known. When you ask questions, that reinforces in you manager's/leader's mind that you are engaged and interested in the work you and the company do. When you get an answer, be sure to apply that knowledge. That shows that you are absorbing the information being shared with you and that you have the capacity to learn.
Over time, you will build a reputation for being that person that is always willing to pitch in to help and is always wanting to learn more. Having that reputation puts you on the radar of decision makers when it's time to consider people for new positions.
Good Luck!
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
- Curiosity, leadership, sense of urgency and customer focus
- Taking measured risks
- Honesty and a strong work ethic
- Taking measured risks
- Honesty and a strong work ethic
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Early in my career, a few habits helped me stand out and earn leadership opportunities. First, I took responsibility seriously. When I was given a task, I made sure it was done well and on time, even if no one was checking. People quickly learned they could rely on me.
Peter Leonard
Financial Services
14
Answers
Fountain Valley, California
Updated
Peter’s Answer
Be an excellent listener
Observe quietly
Don't get sucked into office politics, including talking behind others backs
Don't kiss a**
Show initiative
Do more than what's required
Network
Volunteer for initiatives
Always be professional and respectful to everyone you interact with
Just a few thoughts
Good luck
Regards
PL
Observe quietly
Don't get sucked into office politics, including talking behind others backs
Don't kiss a**
Show initiative
Do more than what's required
Network
Volunteer for initiatives
Always be professional and respectful to everyone you interact with
Just a few thoughts
Good luck
Regards
PL
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Critical thinking. Cutting through noise to identify and understand root causes in order to find solutions that work.
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
Show discipline and genuine interest in what you’re doing but first make sure you’re pursuing something you truly enjoy and that connects with your purpose in life. From there, opportunities will come. Stay focused, recalibrate your plan as needed, and don’t panic if things don’t work out on the first try!
Marty Meyer
General Manager
91
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Marty’s Answer
Show up on time, volunteer to do extra work, be curious about things you don't know, show interest, help co-workers, be reliable and rise to the top.
Sarah McNaughton
2
Answers
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Hi Keith, that's a fantastic question! Being trustworthy and dependable are key qualities that will set you apart as a leader. Always stay open to learning and make connections with people beyond your team. You never know when those relationships might be helpful!
HP Volunteers
63
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
HP’s Answer
Going the extra mile at work to not only follow how everyone else does things but also incorporate my own creativity and background into the work as well
Davielle Panzullo, M.A., PMP
Business Transformation Sr. Manager
54
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Davielle’s Answer
Step up, put your hand up. You will grow your skills as a result.
Skill up! Focus on identifying and gowing those skills you are lackluster in.
Know your own strengths. Take an online strengths test. This helps you understand what is in your arsenal so you can apply them.
Focus on tasks that utilize your skills and interests
Accountability, take responsibility of your mistakes. Never leave anything unfinished.
Understand the vision of the organization you are working for. Not being afraid to question it.
Not being afraid to take chances, fail.
Skill up! Focus on identifying and gowing those skills you are lackluster in.
Know your own strengths. Take an online strengths test. This helps you understand what is in your arsenal so you can apply them.
Focus on tasks that utilize your skills and interests
Accountability, take responsibility of your mistakes. Never leave anything unfinished.
Understand the vision of the organization you are working for. Not being afraid to question it.
Not being afraid to take chances, fail.
Genesys Volunteers
96
Answers
Menlo Park, California
Updated
Genesys’s Answer
It was my passion for delivering superior customer service. I realized early on that happy customers would return, and grow the business. Also realised that unhappy customers are a real drain on time and resources. Besides that, we all feel good after a positive customer interaction.