Feedback: September 2009 Archives

Last week, I published an article on Welcoming Work Environments.  Here are some comments from readers on ways they were welcomed to their job.

Starting people off on the right foot with your company, department or classroom begins with effective disciplinary procedures.  This doesn't mean threatening behavior, looking for reasons to discipline, but creating an environment where policy and procedure are clear and strict.

It is an old saying that it is "far easier to loosen up than it is to tighten up."  Having strict policies when it comes to decorum, attendance, methods of communicating, and the like can pay huge dividends down the road.  When you have a strict but fair policy governing your workplace, you can then afford to make concessions for reasonable accommodations.

Again, be careful when it comes to being accommodating, as this too can be seen as "giving in" or being "too flexible" to those who follow everything by the book.  

Those who follow what you and your company stand for deserve consistency.  By walking your talk, making clear and concise (but fair) rules, and by never succumbing to emotions in responses to requests or in making decisions, you can have the respect and honor you and your company deserve.

Discipline isn't just about "disciplining" people; it's about having the discipline to know how to carry yourself gracefully regardless of the circumstances.  When the people who report to you can see you responding well no matter the pressure, this breeds the same type of character traits that you possess.

If you work hard at maintaining your cool, keeping your head when others have lost theirs, and are consistent in your delivery of company and personal practices, you will earn many "disciples" who will make it easier for you and your company to meet its goals and vision.

From a standing ovation at our first training meeting at Apple to the Traditions class at Disney on my first or second day of work, I have been a part of so many welcoming experiences to my organizations.

Q:  I was selected for a management training program for a retailer based on my professional background and my interest in working for the company.  I made it clear in the interview that my long-term goal was to be in administration with the company.  A few months into training, I realize that that is where my heart lies.  How do I handle this yet keep my chances solid of pursuing a greater role in this company?

Q:  My new job doesn't grant any sick time.  What am I supposed to do, just come in to work sick?

A:  As a relative put it so eloquently, "Are you expecting to be sick?" Sometimes the perception of not having sick time is not as foreboding as the reality.

Many companies today do not grant sick leave out of the gate, because they expect employees to be there and be on time.  However, that does not certainly guarantee that you will not have sick pay after a probation period. 

Other companies I know don't grant "sick days", but do award unlimited sick time in the event of a real medical emergency so people who have an illness can stomach the long term prospects illness can bring.

Give the company a chance, and give yourself hope that you will be well for the first 90 days.  Sickness happens, but having a positive outlook on your health is very important as well.