by Mari-Anne Grimaldi

Created on: August 14, 2009   Last Updated: August 16, 2009

I would say that just about all of us find ourselves going off to work every day to earn the mighty dollar. Those of us who in work in the smaller business's, in close contact with all of our coworkers, managers and owners are also looking for friends, "family" , socialization and respect.

I work in a family owned three generation deli. Most of the people that I work with have been working there for a good fifteen years, some more.We are more like a family even though we are not related. We know everything there is to know about each other. We share love and laughter through happiness and tears.

The "deli" has seen so many births, and yes even our fair share of tragedy together, that through the years it has bonded us together for a lifetime. When we go to work in this smaller environment, we definitely are sharing and giving a piece of ourselves. If one of us is down, there's always someone there to lift us back up. I'm not sure if all restaurants are like this or if we are truly blessed to have developed such strong bonds and friendships.

I work with about twenty great gals and guys every day and I wouldn't trade it for the world. We work hard and have great respect for each other , and it shows. We have regular customers who come in at least once a day. They love to see people who get along so well.(Not to mention the fabulous food!) The owners as well as the management team are as much a part of the family as the employees. They are right out there working side by side with us every day. Making people happy is the main goal at the "deli". So what I want from work is the satisfaction of a job well done, being with people I love and enjoy working with.

I have always felt that it is so important to really like your job. If you don't, you should definitely look for a new one. One thing I hate is people who work with the public who clearly have no people skills. They should not be hired for positions where customer service is a priority. If you can't smile and make at least one person smile, do us all a favor and move along. Go out there and earn your living, but also earn as well as give respect . Go home feeling you have accomplished something every day.If you go to work and can send somebody home with a small smile -satisfaction guaranteed.

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