One of the greatest mistakes in any business is seeking blame when a problem occurs. A true timewaster, labeling someone as the enemy with blame does nothing to solve the problem. It wrecks morale and can seriously damage relationships, as well as building up resentment among co-workers. Blame is pointless until the problem is solved. Until solved, everyone should be working toward fixing the solution, and not toward blaming a co-worker.
As an employee, I have seen countless examples of several people arguing over who did what and who is going to fix it. Early on, these experiences made me extremely uncomfortable, and at times very anxious. Now? HA! It's hilarious. I mean, where else can you watch grown, responsible, hardworking adults bicker like children on the playground fighting over a swing?
It also makes the blamers look weak, especially if those laying blame are of management or even worse, ownership. Think about it- if you are a part of a fortune 500 company and suddenly your CEO comes down from their office and starts screaming because they noticed a problem? Worse yet, they didn't even come up with a solution, nor did they try to assemble the troops to try and solve the issue. It shows weak leadership, poor problem solving skills, and cruelty. Would you be motivated to help this person? I hope not.
That being said, if there truly is blame to place, place it later. In a private meeting, and discipline the person appropriately, IN PRIVATE. Berating and screaming at an individual that made a mistake does nothing. It does not make the aggressor look good, powerful, or intelligent. It does not make the employee being attacked more willing to work, or to even continue to work.
Try this. The next time crap hits the fan at your place of business and you're in the position to blame someone? Don't. Instead, come up with a solution, and then rally your fellow employees and superiors around you to help solve it. Then, leave the discipline and resulting discussion for later, and for god's sake, IN PRIVATE.
Be kind, get stuff done. Period.
Monday, May 11, 2015
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Family- Blood is Thicker than Profits
Over the course of my short time here on Earth, I have had a multitude of jobs. Why is this important? Well, it's because there is no loyalty, no determination, no strength better than the powerful dynamic of a healthy, family owned and operated business. Period.
I know what you're thinking! Family owned and operated business aren't always healthy. Sometimes, they are quite the opposite, and you are absolutely right. No business is safe from the touch of corruption, negativity, or even hatred. It has been said (by who I don't remember) that family can hurt you the most out of anyone on this planet. And that, sadly, is also true. But for a second, let's pretend we're not all jaded and cynical.
Family business is so much more than just passing down a lineage, or an ownership title. When hardships occur, you aren't alone in weathering them. When triumph occurs, you are not alone when celebrating them. When you feel like you can't trust anyone, well guess what? You can trust in family. And that trust is what makes it all work.
My family and I fight when it comes to the business. Of course we do! I can't imagine it any other way for anyone else either. But the key is that we are always looking out for each other- this foundation of trust and honesty helps drive the business forward even in the face of horrific economic hardship. Even bankruptcy. This unique strength is something no other business can achieve. It is impossible, no matter how close, or friendly, or dedicated a workforce is.
Money becomes something to help the business opposed to a point of contention. Petty things come up, sure- but they are always put aside in the name of the business. In the name of its future, or even the family's future.
One thing I have never experienced in any job was the feeling of being part of a team. Often, I would be on the outside of cliques that would form internally due to the silly garbage of office politics. I also found that my seriousness about any given job was not shared, or even ridiculed. I am a firm believer that the phrase, "That's not my job!" shouldn't exist, and that everyone working together in any given job should be doing just that: actually working together! For the first time in my life, in my career, I can say that I am part of a team.
And it's a team that I believe in. Do you believe in your team?
I know what you're thinking! Family owned and operated business aren't always healthy. Sometimes, they are quite the opposite, and you are absolutely right. No business is safe from the touch of corruption, negativity, or even hatred. It has been said (by who I don't remember) that family can hurt you the most out of anyone on this planet. And that, sadly, is also true. But for a second, let's pretend we're not all jaded and cynical.
Family business is so much more than just passing down a lineage, or an ownership title. When hardships occur, you aren't alone in weathering them. When triumph occurs, you are not alone when celebrating them. When you feel like you can't trust anyone, well guess what? You can trust in family. And that trust is what makes it all work.
My family and I fight when it comes to the business. Of course we do! I can't imagine it any other way for anyone else either. But the key is that we are always looking out for each other- this foundation of trust and honesty helps drive the business forward even in the face of horrific economic hardship. Even bankruptcy. This unique strength is something no other business can achieve. It is impossible, no matter how close, or friendly, or dedicated a workforce is.
Money becomes something to help the business opposed to a point of contention. Petty things come up, sure- but they are always put aside in the name of the business. In the name of its future, or even the family's future.
One thing I have never experienced in any job was the feeling of being part of a team. Often, I would be on the outside of cliques that would form internally due to the silly garbage of office politics. I also found that my seriousness about any given job was not shared, or even ridiculed. I am a firm believer that the phrase, "That's not my job!" shouldn't exist, and that everyone working together in any given job should be doing just that: actually working together! For the first time in my life, in my career, I can say that I am part of a team.
And it's a team that I believe in. Do you believe in your team?
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Rush Hour(s)
I've discovered something strange in my area.
Most people dread rush hour. It's when everyone clocks out, disconnects, and heads home. When I first started with Budget five years ago, rush hour in my area (New Jersey) was roughly from 05:00PM-06:00PM, with the final bits of congestion thinning out by 07:00PM. How do I know this? I've done the same commute to and from work just about every day of those five years. Honestly, it was easy to tell.
But this has changed. The rush hour has started to begin at 04:00PM (not too long ago really), and often, runs late into 07:00PM. Heavy traffic and congestion around these times are inevitable, as everyone is starting to go home. But! I've noticed that rush hour is not only longer now, but more hazardous. People often hang in large clusters on the highway, put putting along. As I look into these vehicles, I see the same thing all the time:
Fatigue. Or stress. Think about it- I'm sure you've been stuck in rush hour traffic at least once in your life. Have you once seen a happy face? Or hell, an emotionally neutral one? People look hollow. Vacant. Drained. These people are just moving forward through time and space to their next destination, unthinking. Probably exhausted, too.
I suspect that rush hour has gotten longer for two reasons. One, we are working more. A shift in the rush hour time, especially the beginning, may indicate traffic from supplementary or odd-houred jobs (when compared to the usual 9-5). Approaching 05:00PM, traffic is almost stopped, crawling inch by agonizing inch toward home. It only gets worse as it gets later, which could indicate that people are working later now, leaving work later. Longer hours, multiple jobs.
Busy does not mean productive. People drive home on their cellphones, probably still connected to their job somehow. I've seen people drift to the side of the road and jerk back, implying driver fatigue. Car crashes, stupid mistakes, everything. We are too tried and we are trying to do too many things.
Think long and hard about what is slowly happening, and how we are moving forward. How long will an average work week, or a shift be in twenty years? What will be expected as "just part of the job?" Think about it.
Most people dread rush hour. It's when everyone clocks out, disconnects, and heads home. When I first started with Budget five years ago, rush hour in my area (New Jersey) was roughly from 05:00PM-06:00PM, with the final bits of congestion thinning out by 07:00PM. How do I know this? I've done the same commute to and from work just about every day of those five years. Honestly, it was easy to tell.
But this has changed. The rush hour has started to begin at 04:00PM (not too long ago really), and often, runs late into 07:00PM. Heavy traffic and congestion around these times are inevitable, as everyone is starting to go home. But! I've noticed that rush hour is not only longer now, but more hazardous. People often hang in large clusters on the highway, put putting along. As I look into these vehicles, I see the same thing all the time:
Fatigue. Or stress. Think about it- I'm sure you've been stuck in rush hour traffic at least once in your life. Have you once seen a happy face? Or hell, an emotionally neutral one? People look hollow. Vacant. Drained. These people are just moving forward through time and space to their next destination, unthinking. Probably exhausted, too.
I suspect that rush hour has gotten longer for two reasons. One, we are working more. A shift in the rush hour time, especially the beginning, may indicate traffic from supplementary or odd-houred jobs (when compared to the usual 9-5). Approaching 05:00PM, traffic is almost stopped, crawling inch by agonizing inch toward home. It only gets worse as it gets later, which could indicate that people are working later now, leaving work later. Longer hours, multiple jobs.
Busy does not mean productive. People drive home on their cellphones, probably still connected to their job somehow. I've seen people drift to the side of the road and jerk back, implying driver fatigue. Car crashes, stupid mistakes, everything. We are too tried and we are trying to do too many things.
Think long and hard about what is slowly happening, and how we are moving forward. How long will an average work week, or a shift be in twenty years? What will be expected as "just part of the job?" Think about it.
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
We are Measuring Time Incorrectly
Business and humanity have evolved alongside one another for quite some time. Needless to say, the daily pace of normal and professional life has picked up considerably, yet we are still measuring time the same way. Therein lies the problem.
On planet Earth, we base our time on a 24 hour day with a seven day week. 28, 30, or 31 days in a month, 365 days a year. We base all of our business hours on these measurements of time, and all too often, there is NEVER enough time anywhere, any day. People work themselves sick (or to death) as we toil under the constant watchful, unwavering eye of time.
Why don't we just measure it differently?
Look at the world how it is. With all the fast paced careers, people working multiple jobs, business owners. Those who are employed have no choice but to work and balance their personal lives, all the while still trying to enjoy it, but all too often? They miss the mark. What if...we had 35 hours in a day? What about sticking with a 5 day work week, but adding an extra day onto the weekend? What if a month was 40, or 50 days instead?
Imagine all the extra work and life that you could fit into your life? What if we just...had extra time!? Would you sleep? Spend more time with your family? Explore education? Hobbies? All I'm saying is change the way we measure time, but keep the same pace.
Unlikely as that may be, we are only restricted by time because of how we measure it. When you have free time, think about what I've wrote. How will you measure time? Or better yet, how do you? Think about it.
On planet Earth, we base our time on a 24 hour day with a seven day week. 28, 30, or 31 days in a month, 365 days a year. We base all of our business hours on these measurements of time, and all too often, there is NEVER enough time anywhere, any day. People work themselves sick (or to death) as we toil under the constant watchful, unwavering eye of time.
Why don't we just measure it differently?
Look at the world how it is. With all the fast paced careers, people working multiple jobs, business owners. Those who are employed have no choice but to work and balance their personal lives, all the while still trying to enjoy it, but all too often? They miss the mark. What if...we had 35 hours in a day? What about sticking with a 5 day work week, but adding an extra day onto the weekend? What if a month was 40, or 50 days instead?
Imagine all the extra work and life that you could fit into your life? What if we just...had extra time!? Would you sleep? Spend more time with your family? Explore education? Hobbies? All I'm saying is change the way we measure time, but keep the same pace.
Unlikely as that may be, we are only restricted by time because of how we measure it. When you have free time, think about what I've wrote. How will you measure time? Or better yet, how do you? Think about it.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
An Important Lesson
Not too long ago, my father and I went on an estimate. This estimate was a little unique as it turned out- a person needed help cleaning their basement, and their basement only. It's not something we typically do, so I was curious as to why we were doing it. I kept asking my dad why we had chosen to do this estimate, and he kept repeating, "this person asked for help with their basement." The way he chose to phrase his response hung with me for some reason.
As we were driving out there, my father and I spoke about fun things, food, business, movies, television, the usual. It was nice, I must say. One of my favorite things to do at work, actually, is to go on first time cleanings and estimates with my father. He has a lot to teach, and simply by watching him work, one can learn a lot. We also do carpet cleanings together.
After a long time, we finally came to the house, and the owner was out to greet us. She was very kind, warm, and welcoming as she led us down to the basement. She also told her story as to why she needed us in the first place. Apparently, they had flooded (it had been drained when we were there), and a lot of old keepsakes were destroyed or damaged. She wanted to make sure that the basement was squeaky clean for fear of mold, mildew, and other unsavory basement surprises. But she was unable to clean it herself.
It was then I learned that we went to do this estimate to simply help someone. Would we turn a profit? No. But that's not what mattered. It turns out, she also wanted to the floor painted, which is something we don't do. But! We know a handyman (a damn good one to boot) that is the husband of a Budget employee, and referred him immediately.
My Dad and I walked out of the house when we were through, and then when we got back in the car, he explained why we came all the way out there- money wasn't the goal (what a concept, right?). We went out there to help someone in need, and in this instance, point them in the right direction. So what if we didn't make a buck?
That simple experience is one I will never forget because my father was able to summarize Budget's entire mission with a single act of kindness. We are here to help people. Yes, we are also in business to make money, but money comes and goes so quickly nowadays. We're so focused on it. And if we had been focused on money and nothing else, this person could still be struggling without us. And even the probability of that happening doesn't fly with me.
I'm not writing this as a commercial, or as a way to brag about how amazing Budget is. This entry is to remind us all that money is just an object. The real reason we should ALL be in business is to help others.
Money is fickle. Why follow its lead?
As we were driving out there, my father and I spoke about fun things, food, business, movies, television, the usual. It was nice, I must say. One of my favorite things to do at work, actually, is to go on first time cleanings and estimates with my father. He has a lot to teach, and simply by watching him work, one can learn a lot. We also do carpet cleanings together.
After a long time, we finally came to the house, and the owner was out to greet us. She was very kind, warm, and welcoming as she led us down to the basement. She also told her story as to why she needed us in the first place. Apparently, they had flooded (it had been drained when we were there), and a lot of old keepsakes were destroyed or damaged. She wanted to make sure that the basement was squeaky clean for fear of mold, mildew, and other unsavory basement surprises. But she was unable to clean it herself.
It was then I learned that we went to do this estimate to simply help someone. Would we turn a profit? No. But that's not what mattered. It turns out, she also wanted to the floor painted, which is something we don't do. But! We know a handyman (a damn good one to boot) that is the husband of a Budget employee, and referred him immediately.
My Dad and I walked out of the house when we were through, and then when we got back in the car, he explained why we came all the way out there- money wasn't the goal (what a concept, right?). We went out there to help someone in need, and in this instance, point them in the right direction. So what if we didn't make a buck?
That simple experience is one I will never forget because my father was able to summarize Budget's entire mission with a single act of kindness. We are here to help people. Yes, we are also in business to make money, but money comes and goes so quickly nowadays. We're so focused on it. And if we had been focused on money and nothing else, this person could still be struggling without us. And even the probability of that happening doesn't fly with me.
I'm not writing this as a commercial, or as a way to brag about how amazing Budget is. This entry is to remind us all that money is just an object. The real reason we should ALL be in business is to help others.
Money is fickle. Why follow its lead?
Monday, June 9, 2014
Motivation- A Finite Resource?
Critical for success, but elusive to attain. In my mind, motivation is most certainly a finite resource. Especially in business, where people are motivated by a multitude of things, it is something that should not be taken lightly, and should be moved upon when felt.
Motivation at work can dwindle. Many things can come into play here of course, but on the whole, I've experienced that motivation is more like a tide, whether I am describing myself, or the overall driving force that a company may have.
It's infectious- it will pass from person to person subconsciously, a little cheerleader to make sure all of your tasks, projects, hopes and dreams get fulfilled. But like I said before, motivation has an ebb and flow, something that many do not recognize, and only end up spinning their tires.
What motivates you? Your employees? Do you know? How is morale? Do your employees think they are being paid and treated fairly? What's your turnover rate like? Sales? Payroll? Ever single one of these business facets are directly related to the collective motivation of any one company.
Motivation needs to start with someone. Anyone! Best is an owner or executive, but it is something to be monitored on all levels of business. If you and your team are not motivated to work, develop, and grow your company, don't get mad.
Figure it out. Perhaps if you're unmotivated, you are now.
Motivation at work can dwindle. Many things can come into play here of course, but on the whole, I've experienced that motivation is more like a tide, whether I am describing myself, or the overall driving force that a company may have.
It's infectious- it will pass from person to person subconsciously, a little cheerleader to make sure all of your tasks, projects, hopes and dreams get fulfilled. But like I said before, motivation has an ebb and flow, something that many do not recognize, and only end up spinning their tires.
What motivates you? Your employees? Do you know? How is morale? Do your employees think they are being paid and treated fairly? What's your turnover rate like? Sales? Payroll? Ever single one of these business facets are directly related to the collective motivation of any one company.
Motivation needs to start with someone. Anyone! Best is an owner or executive, but it is something to be monitored on all levels of business. If you and your team are not motivated to work, develop, and grow your company, don't get mad.
Figure it out. Perhaps if you're unmotivated, you are now.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Has your Business Enslaved you?
Imagine dying at your desk. On the job. Pretty awful, right? Well it happens. When work becomes the only thing you live for, it kills you. Did you know that sitting for too long can hurt you? Working for too long, not taking vacations, it's all there and it can all cause damage. I touched on it before in this blog, but I want to cover something different.
Stress from your job can trap you by itself. But there are other aspects of work that we can fall into and not even recognize that we are doing ourselves harm. This article discusses the aspects of self-enslavement, especially at work. We trap ourselves within our own lives- too many activities, too many jobs, not enough vacations. Many people that I know have enslaved themselves.
We constantly tell ourselves that we must work more. More activity to cram into a day, more work to get ahead, more strain, stress, and worry. People all around the world (including America) are literally working themselves to death, and it is socially acceptable.
And that's the tragedy.
Work should support your life, not become it. No living being was meant to work for as long or hard as humans do, or force others to do. You work to (hopefully) be fulfilled, and to support yourself and/or your family. Work has a duty to support you, not trap you inside a cage.
Working hard is fine. Don't get me wrong. But I've said it before, and I'll say it again- there are so many more things to life than just work. And there are so many more things to life than not working! The key is simply balance, and that my friend, is not what humanity has. The scales are tipping toward toil and death, and it's time to lighten things up, no matter how grim any given situation is.
Lighten up!
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Employees: Friends or Assets?
Neither.
In the workplace, there are many different obstacles and trials to confront and overcome. One of these is human nature. Sure, we can say we're professional. We can act that way, dress that way. But beneath the surface of that smiling suit is a person. A person with emotions, desires, and ideas. Should your employee be your friend? As an owner, no. Should they just be another expendable asset in a spreadsheet? Absolutely not. Balance is key.
I hear too many stories about hundreds of people being laid off en masse from a huge company. Hell, way back when, I received a pink slip along with five thousand other hardworking people because the company I worked for decided to outsource all of our jobs. And there's my problem, right there. I understand that there is a company to maintain and sustain. But people are alive. They have feelings, they can be hurt. They can feel neglected, or used.
See? They're seen just as assets. Expendables. This is just wrong. I'm sorry, but it is. Now don't get me wrong. If an employee is not doing his/her job, you should consider giving them the axe, but there are right ways and wrong ways to go about doing it.
Then there's the other hand. Employees as best friends. Employers playing favorites, getting comfortable. There is no pulling back once you have made the plunge from employee to friend, especially if you share company/personal secrets with him or her. Most employees? I don't think they would hold sensitive information against you, but. Some will. Period. Once a boss becomes too personable, they lose authority, and are easily written off. I've seen it firsthand! As they lose authority, they lose respect, and then? Well. Do you really need to know what's next?
Balance is key. The maintenance and health of a business is very important- not only to you but to your employees too. Whether they wanted to or not, they are working at your establishment, your business. But they are not robots. They are people. And should be treated with respect. That's the key. Respect is a finite commodity. It ebbs and flows with society, and it also changes on the fly in everyday situations.
Friendship is...difficult in business, especially when defining the boundaries of employee/employer relationships, but a surefire thing that everyone recognizes is respect. Have respect for yourself and your business first, and everything else that revolves around these two very important items should start to settle into their proper perspectives.
In the workplace, there are many different obstacles and trials to confront and overcome. One of these is human nature. Sure, we can say we're professional. We can act that way, dress that way. But beneath the surface of that smiling suit is a person. A person with emotions, desires, and ideas. Should your employee be your friend? As an owner, no. Should they just be another expendable asset in a spreadsheet? Absolutely not. Balance is key.
I hear too many stories about hundreds of people being laid off en masse from a huge company. Hell, way back when, I received a pink slip along with five thousand other hardworking people because the company I worked for decided to outsource all of our jobs. And there's my problem, right there. I understand that there is a company to maintain and sustain. But people are alive. They have feelings, they can be hurt. They can feel neglected, or used.
See? They're seen just as assets. Expendables. This is just wrong. I'm sorry, but it is. Now don't get me wrong. If an employee is not doing his/her job, you should consider giving them the axe, but there are right ways and wrong ways to go about doing it.
Then there's the other hand. Employees as best friends. Employers playing favorites, getting comfortable. There is no pulling back once you have made the plunge from employee to friend, especially if you share company/personal secrets with him or her. Most employees? I don't think they would hold sensitive information against you, but. Some will. Period. Once a boss becomes too personable, they lose authority, and are easily written off. I've seen it firsthand! As they lose authority, they lose respect, and then? Well. Do you really need to know what's next?
Balance is key. The maintenance and health of a business is very important- not only to you but to your employees too. Whether they wanted to or not, they are working at your establishment, your business. But they are not robots. They are people. And should be treated with respect. That's the key. Respect is a finite commodity. It ebbs and flows with society, and it also changes on the fly in everyday situations.
Friendship is...difficult in business, especially when defining the boundaries of employee/employer relationships, but a surefire thing that everyone recognizes is respect. Have respect for yourself and your business first, and everything else that revolves around these two very important items should start to settle into their proper perspectives.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Meaningful Business Growth
I heard a terrific quote the other day, but I cannot remember who said it, or where I saw it. It's a pity because I'd really like to give them credit, but the saying basically went like this:
"Growth for the sake of growth is the same goal of a cancer cell."
Powerful stuff. This idiom can be applied over many different situations and over many different perspectives, but let's shift the focus onto business. Or better yet, business growth. In a typical mindset, an owner wants to expand their business. You know, more equipment, more customers, more assets, more more more! And it's good to be motivated! Don't get me wrong. But sometimes, that motivation can be toxic, and maybe not for the reasons you'd suspect.
Businesses that are not turning over a profit typically look at this solution first- more sales. More income is great! It helps you run the business more efficiently, give bonuses, treat your employees right, and let's not forget about building you that nest egg. But some businesses don't have difficulty with finding work. Yet they still push for the gain of more customers, more cashflow. And often, they will keep on expanding until they reach a point where they might have to close down. Wait...what?
Why would that happen? A business with a lot of customers, literally flush with work, is going out of business? Oh yeah. It's easier than you think, and it's because no-one thought to look at all the other problems. Every business has problems- Budget is no exception. But when business owners, CEOs, Presidents, you name it, get flustered over money, more often than not? That's all they focus on. Other problems get overlooked.
Is your pricing right? Is your overhead realistic? Do you have to put any customers to collection? Are employees too slow on the job? Are customers being treated well? How's the quality of our work? These are just a handful of the questions that sometimes never get asked simply because a business was focused too much on the wrong thing.
See what I mean by meaningful business growth? It doesn't always mean a new client, a fat check from a recent job, or even a bigger office. Business growth is a process, because a business grows in parts. If one part gets too big, the whole operation suffers, and if you aren't looking at the problem, well. I don't think I need to go on.
Make sure you know what's wrong in your business. What's right! Have a finger on your business' heartbeat because until you ask the questions and do the digging? You're just guessing.
"Growth for the sake of growth is the same goal of a cancer cell."
Powerful stuff. This idiom can be applied over many different situations and over many different perspectives, but let's shift the focus onto business. Or better yet, business growth. In a typical mindset, an owner wants to expand their business. You know, more equipment, more customers, more assets, more more more! And it's good to be motivated! Don't get me wrong. But sometimes, that motivation can be toxic, and maybe not for the reasons you'd suspect.
Businesses that are not turning over a profit typically look at this solution first- more sales. More income is great! It helps you run the business more efficiently, give bonuses, treat your employees right, and let's not forget about building you that nest egg. But some businesses don't have difficulty with finding work. Yet they still push for the gain of more customers, more cashflow. And often, they will keep on expanding until they reach a point where they might have to close down. Wait...what?
Why would that happen? A business with a lot of customers, literally flush with work, is going out of business? Oh yeah. It's easier than you think, and it's because no-one thought to look at all the other problems. Every business has problems- Budget is no exception. But when business owners, CEOs, Presidents, you name it, get flustered over money, more often than not? That's all they focus on. Other problems get overlooked.
Is your pricing right? Is your overhead realistic? Do you have to put any customers to collection? Are employees too slow on the job? Are customers being treated well? How's the quality of our work? These are just a handful of the questions that sometimes never get asked simply because a business was focused too much on the wrong thing.
See what I mean by meaningful business growth? It doesn't always mean a new client, a fat check from a recent job, or even a bigger office. Business growth is a process, because a business grows in parts. If one part gets too big, the whole operation suffers, and if you aren't looking at the problem, well. I don't think I need to go on.
Make sure you know what's wrong in your business. What's right! Have a finger on your business' heartbeat because until you ask the questions and do the digging? You're just guessing.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Dealing with Theft in the Workplace
Money causes trouble. Bottom line. When money is involved, mark my words- everyone will have their eye on the bottom line. That being said, some individuals may not approve of their bottom line and search for other...opportunities in spite of morality or decency.
Theft occurs in the workplace. Where there are humans, there are thieves and heroes, basically. But as a manager, theft means something completely different, and it is a scary notion to entertain. I mean, think about it: someone you hired went into a house, took money (or whatever), and then left without a second word. Don't just limit this to a cleaning business, either. If you are an owner/manager, one of the things on your mind should be loss prevention.
An associate of mine runs a business. Runs it well! Unfortunately, he had a bad run with a few hiring websites, and he got some people that were less than ideal. A few would steal from the company and the customers, along with poor attitude and a whole host of other things. And he could have avoided the madness and frustration of a resolving the matter in if he knew how to deal with theft better.
The idea is not solving the problem after it has begun- it's solving the problem before it happens. I did some research and found good information in this article detailing the ways you can keep theft nonexistent, or minimal.But tips and tricks aside, a mindset is what you need more than anything.
Going back to my associate, he not only did his own personal investigation, but certain customers wished to have the police involved, and he had to cooperate. He also lost these customers and will never get them back due to the trust lost. He had to find good people (although now he's gunshy) to replace the bad apples, and he had to get his insurance company involved to help cover the value of any stolen items.
My bottom line is this. Money is useful. It is everywhere, and it dictates much. So knowing that, keep two things in your mind. One- never be satisfied with the appearance of "everything is okay", and Two- know who you are hiring first because the money you might save in not doing a background check will cost you much, much more in the end. Just ask my associate!
Theft occurs in the workplace. Where there are humans, there are thieves and heroes, basically. But as a manager, theft means something completely different, and it is a scary notion to entertain. I mean, think about it: someone you hired went into a house, took money (or whatever), and then left without a second word. Don't just limit this to a cleaning business, either. If you are an owner/manager, one of the things on your mind should be loss prevention.
An associate of mine runs a business. Runs it well! Unfortunately, he had a bad run with a few hiring websites, and he got some people that were less than ideal. A few would steal from the company and the customers, along with poor attitude and a whole host of other things. And he could have avoided the madness and frustration of a resolving the matter in if he knew how to deal with theft better.
The idea is not solving the problem after it has begun- it's solving the problem before it happens. I did some research and found good information in this article detailing the ways you can keep theft nonexistent, or minimal.But tips and tricks aside, a mindset is what you need more than anything.
Going back to my associate, he not only did his own personal investigation, but certain customers wished to have the police involved, and he had to cooperate. He also lost these customers and will never get them back due to the trust lost. He had to find good people (although now he's gunshy) to replace the bad apples, and he had to get his insurance company involved to help cover the value of any stolen items.
My bottom line is this. Money is useful. It is everywhere, and it dictates much. So knowing that, keep two things in your mind. One- never be satisfied with the appearance of "everything is okay", and Two- know who you are hiring first because the money you might save in not doing a background check will cost you much, much more in the end. Just ask my associate!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Going the Extra Mile
There's a phrase that is certain to set someone up for failure: "going the extra mile." It is difficult to quantify what that mile is; especially in the metaphorical sense as it is applied to daily situations.
Working harder or longer is not a bad thing. The extra mile for you might be staying an hour later, or handling a project when no-one else would. But the meaning changes with the person, and their superiors. Is your extra mile as long as it needs to be? As silly as that sounds, it's true. How can we ever know if we are living up to the expectations of a boss? Ourself? There is no way to know. That's why I hate that phrase, especially when it is used in a business setting.
People will work until they die. Literally. I have this family member you see that keeps his nose to the grindstone. Works hard, doesn't slack off, and planned on enjoying his leisure years. As soon as he retired, he was dead.
What a waste.
Work is a beautiful thing. It supplies ourselves and others with invaluable goods and services, things that we could probably no longer live with, or at least live well with. But when your entire life becomes "the extra mile", you stop looking where you need to go, and simply focus on moving forward.
An extra mile, simply put, should be defined by you. Work is typically a group activity, or at least indirectly. I've said this before- it is pointless to work if you are not resting and enjoying your own life. If all you ever do is go the extra mile, you won't even be able to continue your career's journey. Only you know what you can and can't do. Don't let anyone tell you how to "go the extra mile" because what works for them, may not work for you. And that, my friend, is your discovery. And yours alone.
Working harder or longer is not a bad thing. The extra mile for you might be staying an hour later, or handling a project when no-one else would. But the meaning changes with the person, and their superiors. Is your extra mile as long as it needs to be? As silly as that sounds, it's true. How can we ever know if we are living up to the expectations of a boss? Ourself? There is no way to know. That's why I hate that phrase, especially when it is used in a business setting.
People will work until they die. Literally. I have this family member you see that keeps his nose to the grindstone. Works hard, doesn't slack off, and planned on enjoying his leisure years. As soon as he retired, he was dead.
What a waste.
Work is a beautiful thing. It supplies ourselves and others with invaluable goods and services, things that we could probably no longer live with, or at least live well with. But when your entire life becomes "the extra mile", you stop looking where you need to go, and simply focus on moving forward.
An extra mile, simply put, should be defined by you. Work is typically a group activity, or at least indirectly. I've said this before- it is pointless to work if you are not resting and enjoying your own life. If all you ever do is go the extra mile, you won't even be able to continue your career's journey. Only you know what you can and can't do. Don't let anyone tell you how to "go the extra mile" because what works for them, may not work for you. And that, my friend, is your discovery. And yours alone.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
People Mean More than Money
Some businesses are under the impression all over the world that human lives and safety must take a back seat to profit and running the business.
They are wrong.
There comes a time when one must decide if they are to be the owner that forces their employees to come in to work in danger, or in safety. Some owners will argue that, "I can't lose this money!", or "we have to think of the customers!" when it comes to pushing a work day. It's this type of thinking that is just so tragically skewed, and can often lead to tragedy.
Here in New Jersey, we've been hit with a lot of snow. And ice. And cold. And there are a lot of owner/operators out there that are still running their business. In spite of hazards (let's focus on weather, but really? This concept can be applied to anything), some owners become desperate because of loss of work, or some owners don't care at all about worker safety and just their profit margin.
If forcing a work day in hazardous conditions isn't bad enough during bad weather, it is also understood that employees will have a difficult time going to and from work. But that owner. Oh, that owner has other ideas. I'm at work, why shouldn't everyone else be? Because you're wrong, that's why.
To be clear, Budget has closed twice this week because it was simply not safe to work. And that fact should be enough for any business to cease work, or to improve work conditions (if applicable).
That being said, owners can be a strange breed. I, wanting to be a future owner, well. I already started off as a strange breed, but I have seen many owners across MANY. Many. Different jobs waste and conserve money (across many situations) with no rhyme or reason, with no cause, with no sense.
And when it makes the most sense to duck out of the working world for a day, that's where no sense is usually found.
It is also in my experience that when businesses force a work day, they wind up closing early because of the snow, and usually? Customers that would patronize an establishment would stay indoors because they got the day off thanks to bad weather. The money gets lost, the morale gets lost, and life could get lost. For what?
Money.
I, for one, will not be that type of owner, and I am very proud to say that I work for a company whose owner places human life above making a buck. I am going to use common sense to know when it's safe to work, and when we should all just stay home. I am not lazy. I work my ass off, and then I work my leg bones off for this business. The business that I will one day have the pride of running.
But if I'm to be expected to value it over people, well then that's going to be a problem. And if being that way doesn't make me successful?
I'm ok with that!
They are wrong.
There comes a time when one must decide if they are to be the owner that forces their employees to come in to work in danger, or in safety. Some owners will argue that, "I can't lose this money!", or "we have to think of the customers!" when it comes to pushing a work day. It's this type of thinking that is just so tragically skewed, and can often lead to tragedy.
Here in New Jersey, we've been hit with a lot of snow. And ice. And cold. And there are a lot of owner/operators out there that are still running their business. In spite of hazards (let's focus on weather, but really? This concept can be applied to anything), some owners become desperate because of loss of work, or some owners don't care at all about worker safety and just their profit margin.
If forcing a work day in hazardous conditions isn't bad enough during bad weather, it is also understood that employees will have a difficult time going to and from work. But that owner. Oh, that owner has other ideas. I'm at work, why shouldn't everyone else be? Because you're wrong, that's why.
To be clear, Budget has closed twice this week because it was simply not safe to work. And that fact should be enough for any business to cease work, or to improve work conditions (if applicable).
That being said, owners can be a strange breed. I, wanting to be a future owner, well. I already started off as a strange breed, but I have seen many owners across MANY. Many. Different jobs waste and conserve money (across many situations) with no rhyme or reason, with no cause, with no sense.
And when it makes the most sense to duck out of the working world for a day, that's where no sense is usually found.
It is also in my experience that when businesses force a work day, they wind up closing early because of the snow, and usually? Customers that would patronize an establishment would stay indoors because they got the day off thanks to bad weather. The money gets lost, the morale gets lost, and life could get lost. For what?
Money.
I, for one, will not be that type of owner, and I am very proud to say that I work for a company whose owner places human life above making a buck. I am going to use common sense to know when it's safe to work, and when we should all just stay home. I am not lazy. I work my ass off, and then I work my leg bones off for this business. The business that I will one day have the pride of running.
But if I'm to be expected to value it over people, well then that's going to be a problem. And if being that way doesn't make me successful?
I'm ok with that!
Thursday, January 16, 2014
How to Work when you Don't Want To
Willpower is an amazing thing. It helps us do countless things in our life, and it also helps shape us as individuals. It is something that constantly needs to be maintained and developed, or it becomes lost. Work demands a lot from us. Physical, mental, emotional. It always has an impact. But what to do if you stagnate? Get tired? Depressed? There's no simple answer there. But I do have some tips and tricks that could help get you back on track.
I hear a lot of complaints about lack of energy. Waking up, getting up, doing tasks. There are oral ways to combat this, like coffee, energy drinks, etc. Me? I choose to work through it. Piece by piece, when I'm tired? I do one task at a time until it's done. As I work when I'm tried, I build up a resistance to fatigue. Once again, willpower.
Depression, or similar feelings that we harbor within ourselves often make very unpleasant and unwelcome debuts at work. Not only does it look bad, it can get you fired if the timing is right. Of course, if you think you have depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness you should get help. But help isn't always readily available, and sometimes? You must trudge on.
When I feel down, I latch onto something that has meaning, deep personal meaning. The answer for me is obvious- my wife! I can be a little self destructive, and I will usually cut my nose off to spite my face just for the hell of it. But. One of the only ways I can keep it all together is thinking of my wife. I stop thinking about working, and start working because of her. For me, she is a compass heading that helps get me through days where I'm feeling blue. Find a core and hold onto it. Endure. Be calm.
What about good ol' fashioned stagnation? No matter how much we love our jobs, or no matter how motivated we are, humans lose heart. It's the nature of our being. And in my opinion? Losing heart is the quickest way to find yourself trapped within a job you despise.
When you feel like you're stagnating, ask for more work. Or, if you're overwhelmed, ask for less. It may seem strange to do this, especially if you're speaking to your boss, but any manager/owner worth their salt will, at the very least, listen to your concerns and try to help you. Sometimes, just outing a work problem you have can be therapeutic. Speak up!
Work is hard. It is taxing. But it is not something we should face each day with a knot of regret, or disgust. When the going gets tough, endurance will prevail. Evolution and survival are key elements of the world, you know. It applies to the animal world, and the human world. You wanna make it out there? Endure. Work hard, and endure. When you see your opportunity, don't grab it. Attack it, because there might not be another chance.
I hear a lot of complaints about lack of energy. Waking up, getting up, doing tasks. There are oral ways to combat this, like coffee, energy drinks, etc. Me? I choose to work through it. Piece by piece, when I'm tired? I do one task at a time until it's done. As I work when I'm tried, I build up a resistance to fatigue. Once again, willpower.
Depression, or similar feelings that we harbor within ourselves often make very unpleasant and unwelcome debuts at work. Not only does it look bad, it can get you fired if the timing is right. Of course, if you think you have depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness you should get help. But help isn't always readily available, and sometimes? You must trudge on.
When I feel down, I latch onto something that has meaning, deep personal meaning. The answer for me is obvious- my wife! I can be a little self destructive, and I will usually cut my nose off to spite my face just for the hell of it. But. One of the only ways I can keep it all together is thinking of my wife. I stop thinking about working, and start working because of her. For me, she is a compass heading that helps get me through days where I'm feeling blue. Find a core and hold onto it. Endure. Be calm.
What about good ol' fashioned stagnation? No matter how much we love our jobs, or no matter how motivated we are, humans lose heart. It's the nature of our being. And in my opinion? Losing heart is the quickest way to find yourself trapped within a job you despise.
When you feel like you're stagnating, ask for more work. Or, if you're overwhelmed, ask for less. It may seem strange to do this, especially if you're speaking to your boss, but any manager/owner worth their salt will, at the very least, listen to your concerns and try to help you. Sometimes, just outing a work problem you have can be therapeutic. Speak up!
Work is hard. It is taxing. But it is not something we should face each day with a knot of regret, or disgust. When the going gets tough, endurance will prevail. Evolution and survival are key elements of the world, you know. It applies to the animal world, and the human world. You wanna make it out there? Endure. Work hard, and endure. When you see your opportunity, don't grab it. Attack it, because there might not be another chance.
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Point the Finger at Yourself
Across my time in the working world, I've noticed something. There are leaders, and then there are bosses. And the difference is very simple. Leaders point the finger at themselves when there are problems in the business, and bosses blame everyone else. What do I mean?
I've worked under, and with, many different people all on different parts of the personality spectrum. I've dealt with individuals that are centered merely on themselves, saying that they "work harder than anyone here". I've worked with people that do nothing but complain, and often? They are complaining about everyone else. If they don't complete a task, they often have a laundry list of outside excuses that involve everyone except...guess. Who.
Themselves.
Leaders and bosses differ because leaders want to improve, learn, and uh, LEAD. Bosses do just that- be bossy. Superfluous delegation, martyrism, shifting the blame. Leaders see a problem and think about how they can fix it, and how they can prevent it from happening again. Bosses see a problem and then says, "not my job!" and then assign someone below them to take care of the situation.
Business owners all over the world should all strive to be leaders. Someone workers and managerial staff can look to for answers, wisdom, and guidance. And all too often, business owners and other executive staff point the finger at everyone else but...
Themselves.
See a pattern? If something is wrong in your business, take some damn initiative and fix it. Matter of fact, why don't you get started right now? I know I will.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Reflections and Motivations
Reflection on a year that's come to pass can be a difficult thing, but it always should be done in business. Motivation is a constant, however, that needs to be maintained like any other useful tool. Using both together makes for a good plan that anyone can be empowered by.
Work is hard, man. It is. No matter what you're doing, no matter how much you love it, work is difficult. And there are many times during the year when we work that we would have liked to do something differently.
Mistakes are invaluable. When we look back on what we've done incorrectly, we typically learn from these situations and come out much wiser on the other side. Not everyone does this, nor does every business. At the end of a year, I like to reflect on good and bad decisions made during the year, not just in business! But for myself as well. I mean, you are working at your job, so your own personal well being and growth is important, too.
So that's why I make a very simple New Year's resolution. Every year it's the same thing, it's the same broad goal that can be easily measured by any means I wish. My resolution? "Be a better person." And let's strip morality, personal flaws, habits. Let's strip that all away and just focus on business. When you work, if you're miserable for whatever reason, your work suffers. As you come to terms with your flaws, you learn how to use what you're good at much better.
Today is New Year's Eve, so I'll keep this short. Party hard, party safe, work harder, and evolve. Evolve as a person, and your business will follow.
Have a happy, healthy New Year, and don't hate yourself for your mistakes. Learn from them!
Work is hard, man. It is. No matter what you're doing, no matter how much you love it, work is difficult. And there are many times during the year when we work that we would have liked to do something differently.
Mistakes are invaluable. When we look back on what we've done incorrectly, we typically learn from these situations and come out much wiser on the other side. Not everyone does this, nor does every business. At the end of a year, I like to reflect on good and bad decisions made during the year, not just in business! But for myself as well. I mean, you are working at your job, so your own personal well being and growth is important, too.
So that's why I make a very simple New Year's resolution. Every year it's the same thing, it's the same broad goal that can be easily measured by any means I wish. My resolution? "Be a better person." And let's strip morality, personal flaws, habits. Let's strip that all away and just focus on business. When you work, if you're miserable for whatever reason, your work suffers. As you come to terms with your flaws, you learn how to use what you're good at much better.
Today is New Year's Eve, so I'll keep this short. Party hard, party safe, work harder, and evolve. Evolve as a person, and your business will follow.
Have a happy, healthy New Year, and don't hate yourself for your mistakes. Learn from them!
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Dealing with REALLY Angry Customers
Customer dissatisfaction occurs for a number of different reasons, and just as varied are the reactions of our customers to said dissatisfaction. Hey, as long as business is run by humans for humans, there will be mistakes made. And sometimes, the mistakes will be yours to own up to.
Lemmie get one thing straight before I begin, though. The strategies and tips that I am writing about have developed over many different jobs with many different customers. I'm not singling anyone out! Anyway, let's get right into it.
The first thing I notice is that everyone approaches the concept of dissatisfaction incorrectly. Both sides of the fence too; both customer and client. Things go wrong. It happens. And in all honesty, a customer knows when they are in a business relationship that is just plain useless. But that doesn't matter right now. What matters is that both sides are currently divided- the customer is unhappy, and it's the fault of the business. When dealing with these situations, try to remember the following points:
1. Some customers will take mistakes personally. They just do. Instead of matching their emotion, get on their side. Don't trash talk the company you work for, but if you or your organization made a legitimate error that led to a customer's dissatisfaction, own up to it! Let the customer know that the whole business is on their side, and you are merely their guide towards compromise. Honesty.
2. Stay calm. You must never scream or insult a customer. Stay even. Keep your tone regular, and constantly remind them that whatever problems they are having can, and will, be solved. Some customers will get nasty, and swear or abuse you. Don't get mad! Simply inform them that if they are going to continue to talk to you in this manner, that you will hang up. And if they continue guess what?
HANG UP. Life's to freakin' short, man.
3. Empathy, not sympathy. In a perfect situation, a business knows whether or not its at fault for something that has caused a customer's displeasure, and that customer is telling the truth. This is not always the case, but let's pretend we live in a perfect world. You are not the customer's slave, and they are not just dollar signs. When you work on coming up with a solution to the customer's complaint, always keep compromise in mind. Make sure the customer knows that you want to work towards a solution that works for everyone, not just the customer. And not just you.
4. Same team! I can't emphasize this enough. You and your customer are on the same team. There is no "us versus them" mentality that applies here.You want them to keep on frequenting your business, and they want to get their issue resolved. Now that you've chosen sides, meet in the middle! There are myriad ways to deal with problems. Don't limit yourself!
5. Sometimes...people suck. It's true. Sometimes, you just come across someone that is just plain nasty, and no matter what you do, they are never happy and always a miserable chore to deal with. These aren't customers. These are bullies. And no matter how much their business is worth to you, you should never put up with outright cruelty. Do not be afraid to divorce from certain customers. Sometimes, it's the best and only choice for both of you.
In summation, just be a good human being to each other. Put yourself in their shoes, and try to understand the situation from their point of view. When you look at an unhappy customer and decide to be on their side, you'll get much better results than approaching such a situation in an accusatory, or defensive manner. People are people the world around, and on the most part, people want to be treated fairly, and with respect. That's it.
Go spread some joy, willya?
Lemmie get one thing straight before I begin, though. The strategies and tips that I am writing about have developed over many different jobs with many different customers. I'm not singling anyone out! Anyway, let's get right into it.
The first thing I notice is that everyone approaches the concept of dissatisfaction incorrectly. Both sides of the fence too; both customer and client. Things go wrong. It happens. And in all honesty, a customer knows when they are in a business relationship that is just plain useless. But that doesn't matter right now. What matters is that both sides are currently divided- the customer is unhappy, and it's the fault of the business. When dealing with these situations, try to remember the following points:
1. Some customers will take mistakes personally. They just do. Instead of matching their emotion, get on their side. Don't trash talk the company you work for, but if you or your organization made a legitimate error that led to a customer's dissatisfaction, own up to it! Let the customer know that the whole business is on their side, and you are merely their guide towards compromise. Honesty.
2. Stay calm. You must never scream or insult a customer. Stay even. Keep your tone regular, and constantly remind them that whatever problems they are having can, and will, be solved. Some customers will get nasty, and swear or abuse you. Don't get mad! Simply inform them that if they are going to continue to talk to you in this manner, that you will hang up. And if they continue guess what?
HANG UP. Life's to freakin' short, man.
3. Empathy, not sympathy. In a perfect situation, a business knows whether or not its at fault for something that has caused a customer's displeasure, and that customer is telling the truth. This is not always the case, but let's pretend we live in a perfect world. You are not the customer's slave, and they are not just dollar signs. When you work on coming up with a solution to the customer's complaint, always keep compromise in mind. Make sure the customer knows that you want to work towards a solution that works for everyone, not just the customer. And not just you.
4. Same team! I can't emphasize this enough. You and your customer are on the same team. There is no "us versus them" mentality that applies here.You want them to keep on frequenting your business, and they want to get their issue resolved. Now that you've chosen sides, meet in the middle! There are myriad ways to deal with problems. Don't limit yourself!
5. Sometimes...people suck. It's true. Sometimes, you just come across someone that is just plain nasty, and no matter what you do, they are never happy and always a miserable chore to deal with. These aren't customers. These are bullies. And no matter how much their business is worth to you, you should never put up with outright cruelty. Do not be afraid to divorce from certain customers. Sometimes, it's the best and only choice for both of you.
In summation, just be a good human being to each other. Put yourself in their shoes, and try to understand the situation from their point of view. When you look at an unhappy customer and decide to be on their side, you'll get much better results than approaching such a situation in an accusatory, or defensive manner. People are people the world around, and on the most part, people want to be treated fairly, and with respect. That's it.
Go spread some joy, willya?
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
What Employers are Looking For
Any person that writes an article claiming to know exactly what ALL employers are looking for is lying. Period. Me? I'm no different. I don't know what all employers are looking for! But I will tell you what I do know. I am an employer. There's no other way to look at it, and I am going to tell you, you who might be looking for a job, what I look for in a new hire.
Like I was saying before, every job is different. Just because you follow what I say, or what someone else says, doesn't mean these "tips and tricks" will work for you. But rather, I don't want to direct you. It's not my place. I'd rather just toss information out there and hope it helps someone! And that's exactly what I'm gonna do right now.
1. Reliability
This is one of the biggest values I look for in a new hire. Someone that wants the job, sets up an interview, shows up for the interview, and then (if hired) shows up to work every day more or less on time. Punctuality is nice, but not as much as reliability. They are closely related, true. But I'd rather someone show up every day 5 minutes late than have a punctual person that calls out two or three times a week.
2. Honesty
Of course, I don't want thieves, thugs, or other shifty people running around in other people's homes, so I look for honesty and honor in those I hire. Let's face it- Budget is a cleaning business. Our work isn't glamorous or easy, but it is a job nonetheless. And I expect any new hire to act professionally, do their job, and do it as best as they possibly can. Don't lie. Tell the truth, always. It's not lost on employers believe me, and if it is? They're a bad company to be working for anyway.
3. Autonomy
After training is complete, I look for people that can make their own decisions (where possible) when out in the field. An employee that's basically a robot has no use to me. If there isn't a brain, then longevity in a company where often you must make choices on the fly isn't in the cards. I also look at how they handle pressure, or how a new hire approaches a task they are unfamiliar with. Do they smile and fake it? Or do they take it upon themselves to admit they need help? All things I look at.
4. Humility
As a new hire, you will be told to do things. You will be trained, and you may be criticized. These are not because we enjoy belittling others. It is done to shape you into a better employee, and make your time at Budget less difficult. Not working well with others, bullying, gossiping, name calling. Big turn-offs for an employer.
And that's it. I'm not dancing around this one. Wanna know what an employer wants? Ask them. Wanna know what one employer wants? You just found out!
Best of luck if you're looking for work. It's a jungle out there...
Like I was saying before, every job is different. Just because you follow what I say, or what someone else says, doesn't mean these "tips and tricks" will work for you. But rather, I don't want to direct you. It's not my place. I'd rather just toss information out there and hope it helps someone! And that's exactly what I'm gonna do right now.
1. Reliability
This is one of the biggest values I look for in a new hire. Someone that wants the job, sets up an interview, shows up for the interview, and then (if hired) shows up to work every day more or less on time. Punctuality is nice, but not as much as reliability. They are closely related, true. But I'd rather someone show up every day 5 minutes late than have a punctual person that calls out two or three times a week.
2. Honesty
Of course, I don't want thieves, thugs, or other shifty people running around in other people's homes, so I look for honesty and honor in those I hire. Let's face it- Budget is a cleaning business. Our work isn't glamorous or easy, but it is a job nonetheless. And I expect any new hire to act professionally, do their job, and do it as best as they possibly can. Don't lie. Tell the truth, always. It's not lost on employers believe me, and if it is? They're a bad company to be working for anyway.
3. Autonomy
After training is complete, I look for people that can make their own decisions (where possible) when out in the field. An employee that's basically a robot has no use to me. If there isn't a brain, then longevity in a company where often you must make choices on the fly isn't in the cards. I also look at how they handle pressure, or how a new hire approaches a task they are unfamiliar with. Do they smile and fake it? Or do they take it upon themselves to admit they need help? All things I look at.
4. Humility
As a new hire, you will be told to do things. You will be trained, and you may be criticized. These are not because we enjoy belittling others. It is done to shape you into a better employee, and make your time at Budget less difficult. Not working well with others, bullying, gossiping, name calling. Big turn-offs for an employer.
And that's it. I'm not dancing around this one. Wanna know what an employer wants? Ask them. Wanna know what one employer wants? You just found out!
Best of luck if you're looking for work. It's a jungle out there...
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Vacations can Save your Life
Not hypothetically. In reality.
I am a strong advocate of working hard, and playing hard. Quite often, these two can mix and cause damage. Or great success if the timing is right. Now we all work hard, right? Grinding away, making sure things get done, people get paid, and our business grows well. Long hours, extra tasks, extra stress, it's all in the name of creating a better life and business. No time to rest- the business isn't waiting. It needs to be constantly fed, constantly maintained! Well. I've got news for you.
Not taking a vacation can actually kill you.
Not immediately of course. But it can. The article included above, written by an actual doctor opposed to some random blogger like myself, states that a study comprised of 12 thousand men was conducted over the course of 14 years. It found that "...taking multiple vacations, up to five a year, resulted in a 32% lower chance of death from all causes, compared to the men who didn't take vacations." That's pretty powerful.
In a different view, this blogger (I had to include one) takes a more philosophical approach to a vacation saving your life. His views are simple: we work too much, and we forget that there is more to life than your next work shift. Vacations aren't the thing that's important. It's the break, the ability to unwind, the ability to let your guard down. That's what really matters. You don't have to go anywhere to do whatever you want, to be honest.
And let's not forget about one of the most insidious killers in the United States. Stress. Chronic stress has a LOT of health problems associated with it. I mean, you name it. Heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke. But here's the funny thing.
What I find the most alarming is the contradictory nature of the "more work is better" model. We work hard. Forever. Never taking vacations, always mired in responsibility and stress, and then? We wind up dead for all our trouble. So...work has to cease when you're dead, correct? So how is this model helping anyone? It's not, that's how.
Vacations are not excuses to be lazy. Rather, they are rewards for a lot of hard work that we all do. If we cannot reward ourselves, how will we even know when we get the carrot attached to the stick that we've been following for so long?
I am a strong advocate of working hard, and playing hard. Quite often, these two can mix and cause damage. Or great success if the timing is right. Now we all work hard, right? Grinding away, making sure things get done, people get paid, and our business grows well. Long hours, extra tasks, extra stress, it's all in the name of creating a better life and business. No time to rest- the business isn't waiting. It needs to be constantly fed, constantly maintained! Well. I've got news for you.
Not taking a vacation can actually kill you.
Not immediately of course. But it can. The article included above, written by an actual doctor opposed to some random blogger like myself, states that a study comprised of 12 thousand men was conducted over the course of 14 years. It found that "...taking multiple vacations, up to five a year, resulted in a 32% lower chance of death from all causes, compared to the men who didn't take vacations." That's pretty powerful.
In a different view, this blogger (I had to include one) takes a more philosophical approach to a vacation saving your life. His views are simple: we work too much, and we forget that there is more to life than your next work shift. Vacations aren't the thing that's important. It's the break, the ability to unwind, the ability to let your guard down. That's what really matters. You don't have to go anywhere to do whatever you want, to be honest.
And let's not forget about one of the most insidious killers in the United States. Stress. Chronic stress has a LOT of health problems associated with it. I mean, you name it. Heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke. But here's the funny thing.
What I find the most alarming is the contradictory nature of the "more work is better" model. We work hard. Forever. Never taking vacations, always mired in responsibility and stress, and then? We wind up dead for all our trouble. So...work has to cease when you're dead, correct? So how is this model helping anyone? It's not, that's how.
Vacations are not excuses to be lazy. Rather, they are rewards for a lot of hard work that we all do. If we cannot reward ourselves, how will we even know when we get the carrot attached to the stick that we've been following for so long?
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Change in Business- Change your Business
Change is good. Overall, anyway. I've noticed that a simple shift of tactics, or a different piece of equipment, or even a new employee, can breathe new life into a business that is stagnating. Here's the thing though- your business is always stagnating if you aren't helping it evolve.
There is no one way to do anything. As life continues and so does business, shades of grey are being added to the spectrum or reality every day. Forgive the metaphorical side note, but it's true! Many businesses that I have worked at before coming to Budget were perpetually stuck. Just stuck in their own ways and habits so deeply, that they were in complete denial when the proof of such errors slapped them in the face.
Business, like anything, can get really boring if nothing is going on. And I don't mean cash transactions, or store activity. What you sell, whether it's a product or a service, is merely a tiny fraction of your total business. The people you employ, the business practices you enforce, the brand of coffee you serve in the break room. It's all part of one entity- it's the most life an intangible concept like "a business" can achieve.
Change what's not broken. Fix what is. Constantly evolve.
Change can be scary, I know. Many people out there are resistant or downright hostile towards the concept of change, but it is merely a base fear triggered by the encounter of something new. Humans fear the unknown, but they are eager to accept changes that make their life better. In that same vein, your employees and yourself are good metrics for new things that you are trying out in business. See how the employees respond. See how you respond. Change is good, but it isn't always the best option.
Don't be afraid to look at your current systems, employees, and equipment with an eye on the future. Is what you are doing working? Don't blame the economy. It could very well be you. And this brings me to my main point. If I can't sell you on change now, I won't ever.
Sometimes, carrying on the same way you have always done can get you in trouble. Especially if you are in a situation where you are trying to do the same old same old to fix a problem that requires a different touch. That fear of change might have saved some businesses here and there. Maybe a change you are unwilling to make is finally accepting help or guidance from others. It's a common fear and a matter of pride that will do nothing but hold you back.
If you are reluctant about changing your business up here and there, start with your own personal life. Do something different, get coffee from a different shop, eat an unusual breakfast, do something different! The more we settle in our ways, the more our business suffers. You work is a reflection of yourself- make sure you recognize your face in the mirror.
There is no one way to do anything. As life continues and so does business, shades of grey are being added to the spectrum or reality every day. Forgive the metaphorical side note, but it's true! Many businesses that I have worked at before coming to Budget were perpetually stuck. Just stuck in their own ways and habits so deeply, that they were in complete denial when the proof of such errors slapped them in the face.
Business, like anything, can get really boring if nothing is going on. And I don't mean cash transactions, or store activity. What you sell, whether it's a product or a service, is merely a tiny fraction of your total business. The people you employ, the business practices you enforce, the brand of coffee you serve in the break room. It's all part of one entity- it's the most life an intangible concept like "a business" can achieve.
Change what's not broken. Fix what is. Constantly evolve.
Change can be scary, I know. Many people out there are resistant or downright hostile towards the concept of change, but it is merely a base fear triggered by the encounter of something new. Humans fear the unknown, but they are eager to accept changes that make their life better. In that same vein, your employees and yourself are good metrics for new things that you are trying out in business. See how the employees respond. See how you respond. Change is good, but it isn't always the best option.
Don't be afraid to look at your current systems, employees, and equipment with an eye on the future. Is what you are doing working? Don't blame the economy. It could very well be you. And this brings me to my main point. If I can't sell you on change now, I won't ever.
Sometimes, carrying on the same way you have always done can get you in trouble. Especially if you are in a situation where you are trying to do the same old same old to fix a problem that requires a different touch. That fear of change might have saved some businesses here and there. Maybe a change you are unwilling to make is finally accepting help or guidance from others. It's a common fear and a matter of pride that will do nothing but hold you back.
If you are reluctant about changing your business up here and there, start with your own personal life. Do something different, get coffee from a different shop, eat an unusual breakfast, do something different! The more we settle in our ways, the more our business suffers. You work is a reflection of yourself- make sure you recognize your face in the mirror.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Deadly Commute
If you're anything like me, you get up REALLY early and drive to work for a while.This seems innocuous enough, but it can get dangerous. Not to mention all the usual hazards of driving, but there is something that I fight every day that I simply wasn't expecting. Fatigue. More specifically, falling asleep when I'm driving.
Fortunately, I have never completely fallen asleep at the wheel and driven off a road, or gotten into a car crash. But there have been times too close for comfort. Falling asleep at red lights, or in bumper to bumper traffic is another problem. This is a common problem as I learned from some basic research. There is even an article on how to stay awake while driving.
This seems like a boring subject, I know. But it is something that many, many people face every day when driving to, or coming home from work. You know how it is! Whether it's a poor night sleep, lack of sleep, boredom, things make us tired, and sometimes we have no control over when. And falling asleep while driving doesn't always end well. There are consequences which should be obvious.
Sleepy drivers, as I found out, can be just as dangerous as drunk drivers. I found this article that laid it all out quite nicely. It's a real problem with real consequences. Like any problem, there are usually a whole host of ways to solve it.
As for me, I've learned tips and tricks here and there, and I even recognized a few from the article that helps me stay awake when I'm pushing through my morning commute. Drinking cold water helps, along with moving your body so that you can never get completely comfortable. Strong flavors work well too, especially ones that you don't like. I avoid energy drinks like the plague when driving- if the drink wears off while I'm behind the wheel, now I have double the amount of grogginess that I have to deal with.
Your commute's time of day and work schedule can also screw you up so badly that you may develop Shift Work Sleep Disorder, or SWSD. I never even knew about it until I did some research. Evidently, people that suffer from this disorder either can't fall asleep, or fall asleep at inopportune times. Combine this with a commute that varies in time and involves a lot of steady driving, and you have a recipe for disaster, trust me.
I know this subject is dry, but if you are like me, you know how scary it is to feel yourself slipping into sleep while you're driving a damn car. Hopefully, this entry helps someone stay awake on the road out there. For all our sakes.
Fortunately, I have never completely fallen asleep at the wheel and driven off a road, or gotten into a car crash. But there have been times too close for comfort. Falling asleep at red lights, or in bumper to bumper traffic is another problem. This is a common problem as I learned from some basic research. There is even an article on how to stay awake while driving.
 |
| Ugh, if I had a nickel...(source) |
This seems like a boring subject, I know. But it is something that many, many people face every day when driving to, or coming home from work. You know how it is! Whether it's a poor night sleep, lack of sleep, boredom, things make us tired, and sometimes we have no control over when. And falling asleep while driving doesn't always end well. There are consequences which should be obvious.
Sleepy drivers, as I found out, can be just as dangerous as drunk drivers. I found this article that laid it all out quite nicely. It's a real problem with real consequences. Like any problem, there are usually a whole host of ways to solve it.
As for me, I've learned tips and tricks here and there, and I even recognized a few from the article that helps me stay awake when I'm pushing through my morning commute. Drinking cold water helps, along with moving your body so that you can never get completely comfortable. Strong flavors work well too, especially ones that you don't like. I avoid energy drinks like the plague when driving- if the drink wears off while I'm behind the wheel, now I have double the amount of grogginess that I have to deal with.
 |
| Don't be this guy! (source) |
Your commute's time of day and work schedule can also screw you up so badly that you may develop Shift Work Sleep Disorder, or SWSD. I never even knew about it until I did some research. Evidently, people that suffer from this disorder either can't fall asleep, or fall asleep at inopportune times. Combine this with a commute that varies in time and involves a lot of steady driving, and you have a recipe for disaster, trust me.
I know this subject is dry, but if you are like me, you know how scary it is to feel yourself slipping into sleep while you're driving a damn car. Hopefully, this entry helps someone stay awake on the road out there. For all our sakes.
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