How to not get fired

If you work for me or any other reasonable manager; here are some tips on how to keep your job (and maybe even excel at it).

1. Do your job. The first step in keeping your job is doing your job. Do the job that you were hired to do and you will likely be asked to stick around. If you are asked to do something that is not in your normal job scope, and you have time, do it; most job descriptions state "other duties as assigned." NEVER say "not my job."
2. Know your manager’s expectations. If you don't know what your manager expects of you from a clear job description, individual and departmental goal setting, etc.; then ask your manager. Ask what is expected of you daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc. 
3. Ask how to exceed expectations. Also, ask your manager how you can exceed expectations.  This shows your manager that you care and will also give you a hand up you when there are promotion opportunities. 
4. Show up! Attendance is also important for job performance. Show up and communicate. This doesn't mean showing up when you are sick, but it does mean over communicating with your manager what is going on if you do have to miss work. 

I currently "grade" my employees 1-5 during performance reviews twice a year. 

• 1 = Needs Improvement - Does not meet expectations
• 2 = Mostly Meets Expectations
• 3 = Meets Expectations
• 4 = Mostly Exceeds Expectations
• 5 = Consistently Exceeds Expectations

If you are rated a one or two during a performance review with me; feel lucky you are still on the team. I communicate issues in real time and if you have not taken into account feedback received and made improvements/changes, you will not be around much longer. 

Most of my team is typically rated with a three; all star performers are rated with a four. I have never given a five, but when I do, it will be for the person who is taking my place in the company.