Workplace builders

This week’s post is about what it is like to work in a Respectful workplace. We have seen the fraudsters and the malevolent managers, what about decent places to work in? What does it feel like? All the signs I am about to give you relates to any type of workplace, from luxe retail to factories to fast driven industrial kitchens. Why? Because it is always down to the management.

First of all, you will feel equal to your manager/supervisor. There is no power gap, with power over - like a slave driver; or power under - like being manipulated and having to second guess what’s going on.

You will see no inconsistencies. There are no lies – even Little White Ones, just straight up honest truth. Ask a Respectful manager about your performance, you will receive a candid assessment. If there are areas to be worked on, work on them. If praise is given enjoy it. Praise from a Respectful manager is praise indeed. 

Change is introduced fairly. All our jobs are changing now with the advent of AI. Covid taught us to work remotely, AI will teach us to be better at our work deliverables, introducing new ways that really work. Look at videos of manufacturing companies where there has been massive change to using robots. There are always people checking on the quality of work and the product rather than slogging away with an air pressure hose and being bored out of your mind.

There are no ‘in’ groups or cliques. And definitely no favouritism. No one laughs behind your back. You can make a joke and people laugh because it is funny not because you are higher than them on the organisational chart. Humour should never be at someone’s expense, that is actually dressed up emotional abuse and would be stopped by a Respectful manager.

The environment that you work in is pleasant – even if you are the toilet cleaner. One of my secret tools is checking out the toilets. If dirty or unpleasant everything that has been told to you is a lie. A clean toilet is a sign of positive emotion. Don’t get mixed up with old versus new toilets though. A new one can be far worse than a clean old one.

You will receive fair pay. No differences based on gender or race; longevity with the company is rewarded not ignored or abused. Rewards given are not transactional, they are based on the true value of the work done.

Want to work in such an idyllic place? Well, it’s possible, but my estimate is that’s only 15-20% of workplaces. So, what you have to do is a deep job search - not on company time I may add. Look for the above signs and you will be well on the way to being appreciated and respected in all your aspects in your job.