Everyone likes to be noticed. At work, you would rather be remembered for being the one who got the project done early and under budget than for winning at last year's chili cook-off, but you want to be thought of in a positive light by your management and coworkers no matter what the situation to establish your integrity. Here are some tips on how you can stand out at your job no matter how big the company is.

1. Practice Leadership

No matter what your position is in your business, putting into practice basic leadership qualities will make you stand out to your managers. These include being an active listener, making decisions based on your company's vision, being honest, communicating clearly and volunteering to take the lead on projects. Incorporating into your everyday habits the role of a leader and taking on responsibilities without being asked will make you the go-to person for co-workers and supervisors alike. 

2. Encourage Talent

You have strengths and weaknesses and so do your peers. Recognizing what others do well and encouraging them in these areas is good not only for your company but for your relationship with your coworkers as well. Lifting up others is for the greater good because everyone benefits by using the best each has to offer for the work that needs to be done. You display intelligence, confidence, unselfishness and thoughtfulness when you encourage the talents of your peers and this makes you stand out in very positive ways. 

3. Offer Solutions

Look for ways to make things better for you and your company. Sometimes unfortunate circumstances evolve that you didn't anticipate and can present an opportunity for your problem-solving abilities to stand out. Be prepared to offer solutions when meeting about the problem. If there are no immediate issues, imagine what you can do in your position to not just meet, but exceed the description and requirements of your job for the growth of the business. This will not only make you stand out in your office but can be highlighted during performance reviews as examples of progress and achievements. 

4. Look the Part

You need to not just act like a professional, you need to look like one, too. Even in the virtual world of working from home, be prepared for calls by paying attention to your appearance at least from the waist up just as you would in the office. Getting ready for work begins with the make-up and tie and is completed with a smile on your face. People will take you seriously if you take how you present yourself seriously. If you do work outside the home, put time and effort into making your work space look professional and inviting, too. It is a strong part of your persona in the building and should be set up with consideration of how it portrays your image and helps you stand out.

5. Make it Personal

Maybe one of your favorite items on your desk is a funny birthday card you received last year from your friend across the hall. It made you feel special that she remembered and helped you realize how small gestures make a big difference. You can be the person who remembers anniversaries and birthdays, names of pets and kids, or favorite teams and hobbies of your peers and managers. This not only makes you stand out in your office but builds personal connections that make working together enjoyable. Make a conscious effort every day to focus on the positive and bring energy into your company that makes it a better place to be.

Your work environment is made up of both the job you do and the connections you have there. You can stand out in a busy company by being a leader who lifts others up, offers solutions and encourages efficient work with a positive attitude for the benefit of you and the business.