Can I order my employees in QBO (employees tab, and in payroll list) by first name instead of last name?

I don't believe this is possible within QBO.  You could download the Employee List (Reports - Employee Directory) and then manipulate the excel file to give you the list you want but there is no one-click option in QBO for this type of list.

Hi userkalebpenner,

It's a pleasure to see you in Community.  Welcome!  As mentioned by AdminAndrea, the option to sort your employee list by their first name, isn't available at this time.  However, if you would like to see this as an option in future updates, please don't hesitate to submit a suggestion by going to your Settings ⚙, then select Feedback.  Customer recommendations are very much appreciated, in assisting us with improving your overall customer experience in QuickBooks Online Payroll.

Please feel free to reach back out with any other questions.  We're always happy to help!

I use quickbooks online and my employee list has always been in first name order. I would much prefer this to be Surname first but can't find a way of doing this?

I've only ever seen the listing of Employees in the Payroll module showing as Last Name, First Name.  

My employees also show as Last Name, First Name in the employee listing in the payroll module. However, if I pull a report such as the 'Time Activities by Employee Detail' they show up as First Name Last name. It would be helpful to have the other option for reports.

I've never used that report but if that is the way the report prints... what a pain!