From Good to Great: How to Elevate Employee Job Performance

March 14, 2025

Every employer wants peak job performance from their team—but that’s not always easy. Burnout, personal challenges, and everyday stress can make it harder for employees to stay engaged and productive. By implementing a few key strategies, employers can create a workplace that supports employees and empowers them to do their best work. 

What is job performance?

Job performance is how well an employee does their job and helps the company succeed. Two key forms of job performance include task performance and contextual performance.

Task performance is the nuts and bolts of the job—hitting sales targets, meeting deadlines, or following safety protocols. It’s the measurable side of work, the details you can track on a performance review.

Contextual performance, on the other hand, is the glue that holds a team together. It’s going the extra mile, staying adaptable, and contributing to a positive work environment. While task performance keeps the wheels turning, contextual performance makes the ride smoother for everyone. 

Ways to improve job performance

Employees perform at their best when given the tools, support, and encouragement to succeed. Here are some practical tips on how to improve job performance and create a high-performing team:

#1 Give consistent feedback

Employees shouldn’t have to wait for formal reviews to know how they’re doing. Regular, actionable feedback—both praise and constructive guidance—helps them stay on track.

#2 Create a positive work environment

A positive work environment boosts both commitment and motivation. Psychological safety, open communication, and a supportive team culture all increase job performance. Managing workloads is just as important—preventing burnout keeps energy and performance high.

#3 Set measurable job performance goals

Work with employees to set achievable goals using frameworks like SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound). Clear expectations lead to better focus and motivation.

#4 Encourage work-life balance

Research finds that better work-life balance boosts employee satisfaction and job performance. Encourage employees to set boundaries, take breaks, and use their paid time off.

#5 Encourage autonomy

Give employees ownership over their work. When they have the freedom to make decisions and solve problems, they’re more engaged.

#6 Recognize and reward progress

Celebrate wins—big or small. Praise, bonuses, and incentives show employees their efforts matter and encourage ongoing improvement.

#7 Provide the right tools and resources

Outdated systems, inefficient processes, or lack of support can drag down performance. Make sure employees have what they need to work effectively.

#8 Invest in continual learning

Research ties training to better job satisfaction, which improves job performance. Offer training programs, mentorship, and skill-building that align with employees’ roles and career goals. 

#9 Lead by example

Leaders who demonstrate accountability, adaptability, and a strong work ethic set the tone for the rest of the team. In fact, research shows that strong leadership and social support are some of the best ways to improve job performance.

#10 Provide mental health support

Mental and physical health impact work performance. Offer mental health benefits like therapy, coaching, medication management, and family support to help employees thrive. When employees feel their best, they’re more likely to deliver their best work—and stick around for the long haul.

Set your employees up for success

Great job performance doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it thrives in a workplace that supports and empowers employees. With the right tools, culture, and care, you can help your team do their best work and feel good doing it.