Same Job, Not the Same Place

Seeing a former employee, he asked "You are still on the Pre Load?" Yes. Most advancement opportunities are lateral moves. I did not want to become a driver. Many train for that and in the probationary period they are sent back to square one.

Having a supervisor welcome them back- it's not like they took a leave of absence. Some drivers worked during the peak period and were not needed after Christmas. Having a retiree surprised that I maintain the standard I always have- there are reasons to stay in the same place.

There will always be new employees. I am always looking for new talent. Different people bring different perspectives. Management treats everyone equally.

Equally poorly. We come to this place with different experiences. To act like everyone is a blank slate- that is not the case. The "Tabula rasa" crowd acts like no one learns anything. This position is not at square one.

Talk to others. Let them feel better about the job of the moment. It can be challenging. I have told many they won't work here forever. Cleaning messes is something that happens. It isn't the only thing.

Seeing an employee who was nice until he wasn't- trust is important on this job. I trusted him until I did not. At the retirement party I did not gravitate towards him. I did not attend his retirement party a few years back.

He talked about it so much the actual end was almost a relief.The ones who retire quietly are the ones truly missed and fondly recalled. As for the next group of employees- you never know who will stay on the job and for how long.

If I treated them like statistics- Lord knows I was predicted to fail. New hires are treated like numbers until they leave becoming statistics. I talk to others. Even if they leave- many go back to college or move out of the area- there are vignettes from their time with the company I recall.

All the jerks who suggested I "Get a life"- it happened. I recall the good moments and perpetuate the present relationships as long as possible. I happen to make money. That is not the only positive at work. Treat others well and they will be more prone to stay on the job until such a time when they find something different.

Guide the next group of employees. We are in this together, if only briefly. Make others feel better. It keeps the job new and interesting. You never know the next great relationship that will rise up.