Word of the week

In the past year or so, I have noticed that each week seems to bring a different word to the forefront of discussions, and maybe it is because we are all so focused at work now, that we are choosing what is going to be the goal, the issue, the situation, or the feelings for that week.

When we focus on something so intently, when we want or need something so badly, it seems to be a part of everything we do. It is just like buying a car, never having noticed it before, but now that you own it, it seems that everyone has the same car. The words of each week seem to be the same way.

In the past year there are some words, basic everyday words that seem to be everywhere for a week or so, then we’re on to a new shiny word the following week. Some words are obvious, like economy, recovery, jail, fires, layoffs, bombs, gangs, and investments. But, I also seem to hear and speak about whatever we are really focusing on at About Staffing. One of the words so far this year has been assume! We all know what can happen when we assume, and the misjudgments assumptions create. We often assume all people looking for jobs are interested in working! We assume lots of things every day, in every business, and I have heard that word to death. Now, we try not to assume anything, and instead look at facts and make plans.

Last week’s word around our office was technically. Technically we work hard, technically we are logical people, technically we can negotiate everything, technically we mean well, and technically we do our best. Technically we should all make it through this economy.

This week the word is emotions. How can we leave our emotions at the door when we come to work? How can we manage the emotions of employees who are fearful of losing their jobs, making a living, and surviving the stress of today’s workplace? How do business owners handle the emotions of running a business in today’s market, and taking that stress home every night?

Maybe next week I’ll focus on the word hope. I hope I am making all the right decisions for my business, for my employees, and for my clients! There is a great deal of energy and excitement about the word hope. I hope everyone had a great long weekend (that is hoping that you got Monday off)!