Fix your work reputation -

Fix your work reputation - Hows your work reputation? Your future career depends on how well you maintain and manage your reputation as a reliable, competent employee. Getting started at a new job can be tough, and sometimes, youll make a misstep that has the potential to derail your path. Fix your work reputation Your reputation is one of your most important assets, so dont let a mistake at work interfere with your dreams. If you need a career turnaround, follow these tips from Emily Bennington, author of Effective Immediately and Who Says Its a Mans World to repair your damaged reputation and get back on track at work. 1. Get to work early. Bennington notes: Most colleagues arent around to see who stays late, but its hard to miss the employee who shows the initiative to come early. Not only can you make a good impression, but getting to work early eliminates any need to rush to set yourself up for the day. When you come into a quiet officeâ€"before your boss, ideallyâ€"youll have a chance to plan for a successful and productive day. Dont hesitate to occasionally take a walk around first thing in the morning so people know youre a go-getter and get an early start. (You may be surprised by the impression it leaves.) 2. Write down your priorities. Keep a notebook and write down your top five priorities each morning or, ideally, the night before, Bennington suggests. 3. Do the work. If youve let down your guard and earned a reputation as someone who is less focused, one of the best things you can do is put your head down and focus. Keep track of the details and be alert for things your supervisor is likely to ask for next, Bennington says. When possible, try to deliver on those things too. 4. Stay positive. Never let people know when youre frustrated. Bennington advises, Ask questions to clarify anything you dont understand, but stay positive. 5. Keep a check on your attitude. Expect colleagues to judge you based on how you act. Bennington says, Run your behavior through this filter multiple times each day. Literally stop and ask yourself, Hows my attitude right now?' She also suggests asking yourself, Am I showing initiative? Am I being as productive as possible? Dont beat yourself up too much if you make some early mistakes at work, but recognize its up to you to rectify the situation. Your behavior and attitude directly impact what people think of you as a colleague, which will either hurt or help you when its time to go for a promotion or find a new opportunity. Read the post on my U.S. News World Report column. photo by by jeffedoe