Day 39 of writing every day.
The biggest stresser in life for many people might just be work and I count myself amongst their ranks.
We or They
One thing I remember reading about is when people talk about work and the words they automatically use. If the word “they” gets used regarding the company the person works for/at, it’s a sign that whatever the company touts and sells in reality does not align with what the worker is experiencing nor are they necessarily feeling happy working there.
“They” implies a clear separation between the person’s identity and the organization they work for. How would you feel if a recruiter spoke to potential job candidates by referring to the company they’re representing as “They?” Probably that something feels unnatural and you don’t want to have anything to do with them.
The larger the organization, the easier it is to feel not a part of the organization as part of your identity. It could be simple as because of the distance separating those at the bottom from to those at the top with all the mid-level that stand in between. The head of a big company probably never even has met most of the employees in my mind of how most organizations tend to work, especially those with less than stellar reputations from employees both current and former.
On the other hand workers who say “We” with confidence are likely feeling like they have a say in their organization along with ownership over their work. They aren’t being managed and micromanages for the sake of because that’s how organizations work. Responsibility gets shared and it’s likely less a top-down structure and more equal and hopefully more transparent in regards to how things are run.
However I’d be cautious of any organization that speaks of “We” and “Us” a little too enthusiastically. It could be a front for a pyramid scheme or some cult-like organization for all you know. I thought I was maybe going to make friends when I had a friendly conversation that led to a meet up where I was given a presentation for a pyramid scheme. They always claim they’re not a pyramid scheme or multilevel marketing system that preys on those foolish enough to sign up and buy into their game.
If anything, be aware of the extremes of either end. Work and shared identity should always be kept at a safe distance from your private life as an individual.
Read. Literally and metaphorically
Lastly, always read the fine print and especially to read between the lines. Things that look too good to be true often are and come with clauses that can immediately reverse the situation and make it the worst thing you’ve ever naively signed. Be sure to take a step back and look at things negatively without the honeyed words urging you to sign or accept an offer.
When it comes to a job, sometimes you might not have a choice and are pushed by circumstances to take what you can get. But whenever possible, always prepare for the worst mentally, physically, and financially. You never know what might happen but what matters most is to still be alive to fight another day
Thanks for reading!
One Chance Works 