What was your favourite job?

In the early 1980s, I was fortunate to land a position as a cleaner/labourer in an engineering company. My responsibilities included preparing drinks for the team during breaks, running the sandwich errands, sweeping the workshop, and cleaning the toilets.

Through this role, I quickly grasped the importance of customer service, managing expectations, and the essence of integrity. While my job involved serving and tidying up after the skilled and valuable workforce, it wasn't glamorous. Initially receiving little appreciation and often dealing with a messy workplace, I embraced the challenge.

I made a concerted effort to remember everyone's drink preferences and sandwich orders, ensuring not to disrupt them when busy. Surprisingly, one of the highlights of my job became cleaning the toilets. Despite my initial shock and disgust at the state of the toilet block, I tackled the deep cleaning with the goal of providing a comfortable and sanitary space for my colleagues.

Even though the transformation wasn't immediate, I observed a gradual shift in behaviour. Colleagues began flushing toilets, rinsing sinks, and properly disposing of paper towels. This change extended beyond the restrooms, influencing their conduct in the canteen and on the shop floor.

As a result, their perception of me evolved. I was no longer seen as a lesser employee serving them but as a valuable teammate contributing to the overall purpose of the business. While scrubbing toilets, I felt a sense of pride, knowing that my role held significance. Despite initial challenges, I persisted, finding satisfaction in leaving the toilets clean and fresh.

Over time, my colleagues recognized the benefits of my role and began treating me with respect. This experience instilled a lasting sense of pride and purpose in serving others. Although not a glamorous job, cleaning that toilet block remains one of my favourites, symbolizing the roots of my commitment to service.

To this day, I continue to serve my colleagues and customers with pride, finding fulfilment in a job well done and disappointment when falling short. The lessons learned from the toilet block experience are enduring, shaping my dedication to service, and defining my purpose.

We are all here to serve, and this service to others helps define our purpose.

?I hope you have a great week.

Cheers,

?Noel

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