by Anne Brodgesell

Created on: April 11, 2009

I can honestly and without reservation say I love my job. Over the course of my 32 years in the workforce, I have worked for the government as well as various industries in the private sector and for a short while was self-employed. Of all of the positions I have held at various companies, the job I am currently in is the one that has given me the deepest sense of self-worth and satisfaction.

Throughout my years of employment I have faced harassment, bullying, discrimination and just plain boredom. I have never hated a job but have worked for some companies that made life very unpleasant. When you spend eight hours a day, five days a week in a position or atmosphere that is unpleasant, it takes a toll on your health and emotions.

Six and a half years ago I left a position with a company that was being mismanaged and was well on its way to shutting down. It was the best decision I ever made. I figured I had another twelve to fifteen years before retiring so wanted to take my time and find a job that would take me to retirement. I have no degrees or diplomas other than my high school diploma but have over twenty years of accounting experience in various construction type businesses as well as two years of a recognized accounting program.

I was contacted about a position that was outside of my area of expertise but still within the scope of my abilities. I met with the Vice President of the company to discuss the position and was immediately taken with the position but most importantly, with the qualities of the Vice President. He began the interview with the history of the company, walked me through all aspects of the position and outlined what each member of his staff was responsible for and how it related to the position being offered. He made sure I understood what would be expected from me and after a second, shorter interview, offered me the job.

I have not had a moment's regret about taking this job. My boss (the VP) has taught me more about the land development process than I could have learned from a textbook. His door is always open and there are no "stupid" questions. Mistakes will be pointed out and forgiven and praise and appreciation given freely. The atmosphere in our office is similar to being part of a family. Everyone may have their off days but for the most part, we help each other, encourage each other and look out for one another. When deadlines loom, everyone does what they can to help meet them. During a personal health crisis, the focus was on "how can we help you?" not on "how can you be replaced?". We are a part of a large organization with various branches throughout the country but I have always been treated as an important and valued individual within the company.

I truly believe that if you want to have loyal and dedicated employees, you need to treat them as such. An employee that feels that they contribute to the company and are valued will give their all to their job. A boss that values his/her employee's thoughts and opinions and treats them with dignity will find that when the need arises, his/her staff will go the extra mile to help out or support a project and their loyalty and respect will never be in question.

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