you're right. someone needs to be present to be productive. i just want to add this: someone needs to be present and focused at work, not just physically present.
other traits:
be innovative: 1. do not just do your work as instructed. if you think you can do something to make the job easier, do it. ex. a report done in excel with the same formula, but with different data each day can be done with a macro.
2. if you think there is a way to cut cost, propose it to your boss. ex. provide soft-copy reports to clients to cut paper and printing costs.
inspire others and promote teamwork: instead of pulling your colleagues down to get your employers attention, be a role model. help if you can and do not look at your colleagues as your opponents.