... and I don't think it's a train heading this way!!
I felt sorry for My Dwight during our meeting yesterday. I could hear sadness in his voice. When asked how he was doing and how things were going, he quickly told me he was "busy." That's his typical response over the years - he's BUSY. Normally he's busier than anyone else in the company and obviously most of his tasks that keep him busy are more complex and more time-consuming than what anyone else is working on. He's a martyr. But this time, rather than ask him what he was busy with, I quickly started inquiring about tasks and results I was needing him to focus on THIS WEEK - like over the next 3 days. With each inquiry, I could hear the sadness getting louder and louder. And his responses became not laden with pride in his busy-ness, but instead his tone was a little more of defeat - "OK - I'll get it done by then." Like a child that had lost a battle.
You see, I really didn't care how "busy" he was. He has several items on his punch list this week that MUST be done THIS week. And he's been farting around for 6 weeks - procrastinating - giving his "busy" excuse and now he's down to the wire. I wasn't mean. I wasn't snarky. I was merely stating the facts firmly about what needed to be done and the deadline. I could also hear a tone of irritation in his voice. As if his tone was yelling out "you're an idiot and you have no clue how busy I am, yet you just keep repeating these deadlines to me." In some ways I was amused - in a sick kind of twisted way. Because for so long he's thrived on presenteeism and being "busy". But now? Not so much a matter of interest to me.
He got nasty with another employee and refused to help some teammates because he was upset about not being chosen to be an administrator for the new phone system. The employee with whom he got nasty pointed out to him that his attitude was not hurting those who had made the decision to not make him an admin on the phone system - but was instead hurting his teammates who were trying to achieve results. I had to laugh. I just wonder how long it will take until he's totally stripped and denied of everything by which he's always defined himself. I wonder if he'll redefine himself in the process or just merely get fed up and walk away. It's a shame he is the way he is. Because it slows us down - this migration and transition to a new way of thinking. He so badly wants to keep everything status quo - and his desire to maintain tradition must be repeated through negative comments over and over to anyone who will listen. Hopefully, now, most are shutting him down or tuning him out.
On a positive note - when I spoke to some other team members yesterday, I did NOT hear the frustration in their voices that I had picked up on two weeks ago. I could hear them moving forward and their conversations were focused around results - how to reach them in certain situations (upcoming wedding, etc). I wasn't hearing the "can't happen because...." - I was hearing requests for coaching on HOW to MAKE IT HAPPEN. That was a nice glimmer of hope!
This morning - off to coffee with my recently retired mom - first time in the 44 years of my life we are spending time together during the week - and neither of us are sick or on maternity leave!!! I feel sad for her - having lost all that time "working" - yet happy for me that I am able to make time for my children - and still meet results!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Follow Up to "Sigh"
So the water issue resolved itself. After my last post, I refused to even acknowledge the irrelevant discussion about the storage of the water. It's non-productive. And about 12 hours or so after that, I got an email from the staff member who was complaining, indicating that he just realized the water bottles were SEALED, therefore he could live with them being stored under the sink. DOH! Of course they are sealed. Seriously? I didn't even respond. The whole thing was childish to begin with.
It's funny to watch this particular staff member. For as long as I've known him and worked with him at Company X (forever) - he's begged and pleaded to work from home. And yet, he complained about where the water bottles would be stored in the new office. He also commented that he had just had his photography mounted and framed for his office and NOW? He cannot hang things on the walls in the new space. I'm beginning to think he might just like to hear himself complain. I suggested he hang them on this one wall in the new space if it meant that much to him - an area for all to enjoy - a gallery of sorts. He liked that idea and did just that! He's quite proud of them and thanked me for the opportunity to display them. See? It's even BETTER than having them in a dim, old, crappy, isolated office. Here, everyone who comes through the door can see and admire them. Let's think of the positives people - NOT the negatives!
One of my colleagues read my last post and sent me a private message - some unsolicited advice. Which I appreciated - because I respect her and admire her perspective on things. She suggested that I need to have the tone of hope and positiveness in my voice - otherwise if the naysayers hear frustration, I'm giving them the upper hand. (I totally just summarized what she said and hope that is really the message she was giving me - ha!) She's absolutely right! And that's JUST the kick in the butt I needed to keep plodding forward.
I'm sure I'll have another post today as I have a meeting with My Dwight. And that always proves itself to be interesting. When I zipped through the old space yesterday, he still had mounds and mounds of shit that he needs to sort through. He's a hoarder. Bottom line. Hoarder. Of shit. Electronics shit. He was nowhere to be found so I just kept adding more stuff I found to his pile of shit to sort through. I also emptied several bookcases and drawers and threw the contents away or set them out to be donated. These people have had 6 weeks or more to go through and decide what they want and what is junk. At this stage, we have 3 days to get ourselves completely out of the old space so I'm making the decisions for them - it's ALL junk. I loved how the spaces that were once occupied by former employees and which have sat vacant for 2 years were untouched by anyone. Did they think those former employees were going to come back in and clean out their areas? The sense of entitlement and lack of accountability we have built and established with these people over the years is just staring me straight in the eye right now. It's quite a large dose of reality!
After leaving the old space, I zipped into the new space to do a quick run through. I was pleased to find the boss emptying a hideous file cabinet and to hear him tell me it looked ugly and he was getting rid of it. (I had told him that LAST week, but it needed to be his idea). I was NOT pleased to find a mound of trash sitting on the floor. I asked who the boxes belonged to. No one spoke. So I again asked and when I got no answer, I said, "Well my instructions were that each of you dispose of your own moving boxes and to NOT pile trash around - so obviously this stuff doesn't belong to anyone here." Yes. I was pissed. I should have left them laying there and given instruction to get it cleaned up. But, falling into old routines seemed easier at the moment and they all "looked busy" - so I just cleaned it up myself. Someone did get up and assist me. It was tough - hauling that cardboard out the back door to the recycling dumpster 20 ft. away. And I looked over at My Dwight and there he was, front and center, "working". And I looked at the gal who never opens her email and had to take the remaining cubicle that wasn't claimed. Her. With her 3 computers and 4 monitors on her desk. She looked VERY busy. And it dawned on me at that moment - it's safe. That's their safe spot. Their security blankie. Sitting at their cubicle - with tons of equipment - "working". On what we do not know, per se. But I've been at Company X for 12 years now and never EVER, through ANY of it - been so damned busy that I can't look up from my desk. Or read my email. Or communicate with others on my team. It's a crutch. A cocoon.
Now.... to rid them of that cocoon and allow them to be butterflies - - - that's our task and our biggest hurdle.
It's funny to watch this particular staff member. For as long as I've known him and worked with him at Company X (forever) - he's begged and pleaded to work from home. And yet, he complained about where the water bottles would be stored in the new office. He also commented that he had just had his photography mounted and framed for his office and NOW? He cannot hang things on the walls in the new space. I'm beginning to think he might just like to hear himself complain. I suggested he hang them on this one wall in the new space if it meant that much to him - an area for all to enjoy - a gallery of sorts. He liked that idea and did just that! He's quite proud of them and thanked me for the opportunity to display them. See? It's even BETTER than having them in a dim, old, crappy, isolated office. Here, everyone who comes through the door can see and admire them. Let's think of the positives people - NOT the negatives!
One of my colleagues read my last post and sent me a private message - some unsolicited advice. Which I appreciated - because I respect her and admire her perspective on things. She suggested that I need to have the tone of hope and positiveness in my voice - otherwise if the naysayers hear frustration, I'm giving them the upper hand. (I totally just summarized what she said and hope that is really the message she was giving me - ha!) She's absolutely right! And that's JUST the kick in the butt I needed to keep plodding forward.
I'm sure I'll have another post today as I have a meeting with My Dwight. And that always proves itself to be interesting. When I zipped through the old space yesterday, he still had mounds and mounds of shit that he needs to sort through. He's a hoarder. Bottom line. Hoarder. Of shit. Electronics shit. He was nowhere to be found so I just kept adding more stuff I found to his pile of shit to sort through. I also emptied several bookcases and drawers and threw the contents away or set them out to be donated. These people have had 6 weeks or more to go through and decide what they want and what is junk. At this stage, we have 3 days to get ourselves completely out of the old space so I'm making the decisions for them - it's ALL junk. I loved how the spaces that were once occupied by former employees and which have sat vacant for 2 years were untouched by anyone. Did they think those former employees were going to come back in and clean out their areas? The sense of entitlement and lack of accountability we have built and established with these people over the years is just staring me straight in the eye right now. It's quite a large dose of reality!
After leaving the old space, I zipped into the new space to do a quick run through. I was pleased to find the boss emptying a hideous file cabinet and to hear him tell me it looked ugly and he was getting rid of it. (I had told him that LAST week, but it needed to be his idea). I was NOT pleased to find a mound of trash sitting on the floor. I asked who the boxes belonged to. No one spoke. So I again asked and when I got no answer, I said, "Well my instructions were that each of you dispose of your own moving boxes and to NOT pile trash around - so obviously this stuff doesn't belong to anyone here." Yes. I was pissed. I should have left them laying there and given instruction to get it cleaned up. But, falling into old routines seemed easier at the moment and they all "looked busy" - so I just cleaned it up myself. Someone did get up and assist me. It was tough - hauling that cardboard out the back door to the recycling dumpster 20 ft. away. And I looked over at My Dwight and there he was, front and center, "working". And I looked at the gal who never opens her email and had to take the remaining cubicle that wasn't claimed. Her. With her 3 computers and 4 monitors on her desk. She looked VERY busy. And it dawned on me at that moment - it's safe. That's their safe spot. Their security blankie. Sitting at their cubicle - with tons of equipment - "working". On what we do not know, per se. But I've been at Company X for 12 years now and never EVER, through ANY of it - been so damned busy that I can't look up from my desk. Or read my email. Or communicate with others on my team. It's a crutch. A cocoon.
Now.... to rid them of that cocoon and allow them to be butterflies - - - that's our task and our biggest hurdle.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Sigh...
I always envisioned this blog would be inspirational. A vehicle for delivering to my devout readers all the amazing things this culture shift has brought to my life and the life of others. Instead, what I find is irritation, frustration and the urge to scream. Is this how it's supposed to be? Is this normal? Or are we just dysfunctional beyond hope?
Friday was our big "move". We had known for weeks that we were moving. And yet, as I walked through the space we were abandoning, all I saw was shit. Literally, piles and piles of it. Granted, the old and now un-used cubicles are being hauled off Monday. And Tuesday, a charity store is coming with a truck to pick up many of the odds and ends. But there will still just mounds and mounds of items that had not yet been sorted through and identified as "stay" or "go". It was frustrating to me.
And people were complaining about just about anything. There was a "spot" on the wall at the new office that did not match the rest of the paint. The landlord is picky. The storage room was laid out all wrong. But I just kept smiling and would just walk away - refusing to let the petty complaints spoil my day. The comments are unproductive - and have nothing to do with results - I don't have time to listen to them. Around 10:45, I texted over to the new office, "Do you all want to order pizza for lunch?!" The response? "Is Company X buying?" I just really wanted to break down into the fetal position on the floor and start crying. Instead, I replied back, "Is it possible to have ONE day without the negativity? Or are we that far gone? Of course Company X is buying - why else would I care what you want for lunch?" Spoiled rotten children. Brats. So we got them pizza. And we continued to plow through the mess and attempt to get ourselves organized at the new place. Knowing that next week we will have but 4 days to clean out the old place and it's a complete disaster area.
Yesterday I got an email from a staff member - asking, "Why are the water bottles stored in the bathroom? That's disgusting." I responded that I had last seen them in the kitchen, and another employee responded that they were indeed last seen in the kitchen at 8:00 p.m. Friday night. So obviously, the landlord had moved them. There must be some reason he doesn't want them stored in the kitchen. I explained that and then asked if they were wiped down with antibacterial wipes prior to placement on the water cooler, could we live with that or was this really a matter I needed to take up with the landlord. Response? "I'll bring my own water - this is disgusting."
And my whole mood changed. (of course the cloud cover that came through at about the same time didn't help either). I mean seriously? You have your freedom. You have a beautiful, new tool to use if you choose. And we're worried about petty shit like this? It's got NOTHING to do with results. And guess what? If we just canceled the water service - it would save us $75/month. So maybe that's what we'll do. I hate trivial bullshit. And this is right up there in that category. I can't deal with the childish behavior. I can't tolerate the incessant complaining about nothing. I can't find anything inspirational in any of it.
Is it me? Am I just at my limit with these people? Am I dealing with them incorrectly? Is it that perpetual sound of the bass in an Eminen song pumping through my vents at home from my daughter's room that causes my fuse to be short? My recent management style has been along the lines of STFU. I even decided to write a book about my style. It will be short. Four Words. Pre-highlighted. STFU. What do these people WANT from us? From me? Is this still just a normal reaction to their new freedom and a diversion for holding themselves accountable to results? I don't know. I don't have the answers.
I wish I did.
Friday was our big "move". We had known for weeks that we were moving. And yet, as I walked through the space we were abandoning, all I saw was shit. Literally, piles and piles of it. Granted, the old and now un-used cubicles are being hauled off Monday. And Tuesday, a charity store is coming with a truck to pick up many of the odds and ends. But there will still just mounds and mounds of items that had not yet been sorted through and identified as "stay" or "go". It was frustrating to me.
And people were complaining about just about anything. There was a "spot" on the wall at the new office that did not match the rest of the paint. The landlord is picky. The storage room was laid out all wrong. But I just kept smiling and would just walk away - refusing to let the petty complaints spoil my day. The comments are unproductive - and have nothing to do with results - I don't have time to listen to them. Around 10:45, I texted over to the new office, "Do you all want to order pizza for lunch?!" The response? "Is Company X buying?" I just really wanted to break down into the fetal position on the floor and start crying. Instead, I replied back, "Is it possible to have ONE day without the negativity? Or are we that far gone? Of course Company X is buying - why else would I care what you want for lunch?" Spoiled rotten children. Brats. So we got them pizza. And we continued to plow through the mess and attempt to get ourselves organized at the new place. Knowing that next week we will have but 4 days to clean out the old place and it's a complete disaster area.
Yesterday I got an email from a staff member - asking, "Why are the water bottles stored in the bathroom? That's disgusting." I responded that I had last seen them in the kitchen, and another employee responded that they were indeed last seen in the kitchen at 8:00 p.m. Friday night. So obviously, the landlord had moved them. There must be some reason he doesn't want them stored in the kitchen. I explained that and then asked if they were wiped down with antibacterial wipes prior to placement on the water cooler, could we live with that or was this really a matter I needed to take up with the landlord. Response? "I'll bring my own water - this is disgusting."
And my whole mood changed. (of course the cloud cover that came through at about the same time didn't help either). I mean seriously? You have your freedom. You have a beautiful, new tool to use if you choose. And we're worried about petty shit like this? It's got NOTHING to do with results. And guess what? If we just canceled the water service - it would save us $75/month. So maybe that's what we'll do. I hate trivial bullshit. And this is right up there in that category. I can't deal with the childish behavior. I can't tolerate the incessant complaining about nothing. I can't find anything inspirational in any of it.
Is it me? Am I just at my limit with these people? Am I dealing with them incorrectly? Is it that perpetual sound of the bass in an Eminen song pumping through my vents at home from my daughter's room that causes my fuse to be short? My recent management style has been along the lines of STFU. I even decided to write a book about my style. It will be short. Four Words. Pre-highlighted. STFU. What do these people WANT from us? From me? Is this still just a normal reaction to their new freedom and a diversion for holding themselves accountable to results? I don't know. I don't have the answers.
I wish I did.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Move Day Tomorrow!
Well, the group made it through their first collaboration effort - that which involved figuring out how to handle inbound customer calls to ensure that a live body was always reached. Despite the hatred and discontent I was told was running wild through the group over this matter and despite threats of implosion - they survived. And best of all, they delivered to me a written plan to achieve these results! I knew they could do it. Hopefully the next go around, they will also believe in themselves.
But alas, the phone lines have not been successfully ported to the new provider, so we are still farting around with old technology and such, and tomorrow we physically move our offices and lose our existing phone system/provider. But guess what?! On their own, and without any instruction, they devised a contingency plan! They're really starting to get the hang of this "think like a responsible adult" thing!
As I mentioned, tomorrow we physically move offices. Rather than assign seating at the new location, we posted the layout and had everyone select their own space. I posted the document in Google Docs online and watched the flurry of activity as everyone opened the document and quickly claimed their space. It was funny to watch. Quite a few people stuck to their "group" and arranged themselves neatly beside each other as they currently are. Others took the opportunity to remove themselves from others and try to isolate themself from those with whom they don't necessarily get along, or care to be beside. One person has yet to claim a space, so I guess she'll just take the one that's left open. It's a shame she doesn't open her email more often. Always about 10 steps behind everyone else because she lives in her own little world and doesn't follow email. She'll learn. Or maybe it just doesn't matter that much to her.
I did have to laugh as I noticed my Dwight placed himself front and center in the office. That way he could see everyone that comes and goes and everyone could have a good view of him - right outside of the CEO's office. It's comical. He's so transparent. I wonder what would happen if he were the only person to use the office as a tool for several days. Would he absolutely wither without the audience? Or would he start phoning people and making up shit to get attention?
My role is changing some in that I'm doing less "doing" of the work, and more delegating. Which is something I always needed to do anyway, but never could bring myself to let loose of that much control. It's getting easier for me, though and I'm trusting my staff more. My days consist more of managing, touching base with people, checking the status of things, moving obstacles or coaching. It's been an adjustment for me - but I'm enjoying it. Some days I feel as if I'm not working. As if I'm not achieving results. And it's on those days that I have to remind myself that THIS is what I'm SUPPOSED to be doing - coaching, mentoring, delegating, empowering. It just feels weird. I mentioned to my boss that I was working on a project and he asked, "WHY? Why are YOU working on that?" Ummm - because my help was needed? He wasn't upset that I was working on the project - just seemed put out that I was actually participating in the activity rather than managing it or delegating it.
There are days/weeks I don't even leave the house. EVER. And being somewhat of a recluse to begin with, I'm finding that I become agitated when I do have to leave the house. I need to make it a point to incorporate some type of outing each day to avoid total Howard Hughes status in the near future. Yesterday it occurred to me that I sit in silence (sans the occasional phone call) most of the day. Talking to my dog. (Who loves the attention, BTW). There is no laughter, no socializing. And then I missed the buzz of an office. The laughter. The fun. The commaraderie. But quickly I remembered: I didn't feel those things at the office to begin with. I haven't for years. I've always had to somewhat separate myself from those activities because I am the boss. And I was more lonely THERE than I am here, at home, alone. Then I reminded myself that work is not a family and if I was really yearning for some social interaction - I could just as easily hook up with my staff for their update meetings in person instead of on the phone. I think I might suggest that to a few of them in the coming week. It's fall. The weather is beautiful. It should be enjoyed and not ignored. I can be a complete recluse when it's 10 below out.
The boss asked yesterday if we feel or see that anyone is completely off track or if anything is completely being ignored. I have not had any of these feelings. I see my staff getting things done - the things I feel are important. My days are not typically filled with garbage and drama and I just see the results. I hope that soon others will start to filter the "shit" from their lives and just set their sights on the results only. They'll really find themselves so much happier!
But alas, the phone lines have not been successfully ported to the new provider, so we are still farting around with old technology and such, and tomorrow we physically move our offices and lose our existing phone system/provider. But guess what?! On their own, and without any instruction, they devised a contingency plan! They're really starting to get the hang of this "think like a responsible adult" thing!
As I mentioned, tomorrow we physically move offices. Rather than assign seating at the new location, we posted the layout and had everyone select their own space. I posted the document in Google Docs online and watched the flurry of activity as everyone opened the document and quickly claimed their space. It was funny to watch. Quite a few people stuck to their "group" and arranged themselves neatly beside each other as they currently are. Others took the opportunity to remove themselves from others and try to isolate themself from those with whom they don't necessarily get along, or care to be beside. One person has yet to claim a space, so I guess she'll just take the one that's left open. It's a shame she doesn't open her email more often. Always about 10 steps behind everyone else because she lives in her own little world and doesn't follow email. She'll learn. Or maybe it just doesn't matter that much to her.
I did have to laugh as I noticed my Dwight placed himself front and center in the office. That way he could see everyone that comes and goes and everyone could have a good view of him - right outside of the CEO's office. It's comical. He's so transparent. I wonder what would happen if he were the only person to use the office as a tool for several days. Would he absolutely wither without the audience? Or would he start phoning people and making up shit to get attention?
My role is changing some in that I'm doing less "doing" of the work, and more delegating. Which is something I always needed to do anyway, but never could bring myself to let loose of that much control. It's getting easier for me, though and I'm trusting my staff more. My days consist more of managing, touching base with people, checking the status of things, moving obstacles or coaching. It's been an adjustment for me - but I'm enjoying it. Some days I feel as if I'm not working. As if I'm not achieving results. And it's on those days that I have to remind myself that THIS is what I'm SUPPOSED to be doing - coaching, mentoring, delegating, empowering. It just feels weird. I mentioned to my boss that I was working on a project and he asked, "WHY? Why are YOU working on that?" Ummm - because my help was needed? He wasn't upset that I was working on the project - just seemed put out that I was actually participating in the activity rather than managing it or delegating it.
There are days/weeks I don't even leave the house. EVER. And being somewhat of a recluse to begin with, I'm finding that I become agitated when I do have to leave the house. I need to make it a point to incorporate some type of outing each day to avoid total Howard Hughes status in the near future. Yesterday it occurred to me that I sit in silence (sans the occasional phone call) most of the day. Talking to my dog. (Who loves the attention, BTW). There is no laughter, no socializing. And then I missed the buzz of an office. The laughter. The fun. The commaraderie. But quickly I remembered: I didn't feel those things at the office to begin with. I haven't for years. I've always had to somewhat separate myself from those activities because I am the boss. And I was more lonely THERE than I am here, at home, alone. Then I reminded myself that work is not a family and if I was really yearning for some social interaction - I could just as easily hook up with my staff for their update meetings in person instead of on the phone. I think I might suggest that to a few of them in the coming week. It's fall. The weather is beautiful. It should be enjoyed and not ignored. I can be a complete recluse when it's 10 below out.
The boss asked yesterday if we feel or see that anyone is completely off track or if anything is completely being ignored. I have not had any of these feelings. I see my staff getting things done - the things I feel are important. My days are not typically filled with garbage and drama and I just see the results. I hope that soon others will start to filter the "shit" from their lives and just set their sights on the results only. They'll really find themselves so much happier!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
By George I think I've Got It!
I stood back and reviewed a collaboration document my staff was working on with regard to the ongoing argument over phone coverage. And all of a sudden - it hit me - DING!!! I've got it!!! The staff that has been at the corporate office all this time and has the burden of the phones due to antiquated technology harbors ill feelings over that fact and the fact that otherwise permanently remote staff don't have to deal with the phones as much. So they want the otherwise remote staff to now just offer to take the initial burden so they can feel "free" for a bit. They're currently meeting.... I wonder if they see what I see? Perhaps they're too close to it. Time will tell!
My Dwight....
Forever the optimist, forever naive. That's me. I'm a quick study and I always have been... on subject matters that interest me. On other things - like innernets, hardware, electricity - I like it - I use it - I need it. But to understand HOW it works - does not interest me. I let those kinds of things just remain a forever mystery to me. But ROWE - now THAT interested me. So when I read the book, I totally got it. And embraced it. And immediately started living it, preaching it and spreading the word to anyone who would listen or was within earshot. And for those that did not "get it" - I just moved on to the next victim willing listener and spread the word some more. And being the Molly Brown spirit that I am, I, like a fool, assumed everyone at Company X would also "get it" and embrace it.
Alas, such is not the case. And unfortunately, those who are not getting it, are clouding my ability to see the beauty of what is unfolding for those who do. So my frustration with the heel diggers really is a double edged sword. It slices me down the middle vertically and horizontally. I'm now 4 people. Which is not good. I need to be one person. A whole person.
Although late yesterday, I believe I might have received a glimmer of hope from one of the ones I perceive to be a heel digger. A meeting with that person today will undoubtedly reveal the truth of the matter to me - and I can then fix that. I can save this heel digger - I can. This situation is salvagable. I believe what is driving this person to dig their heels so deeply into the ground and thereby cause me daily anxiety and keep me up at night (after night, after night) is my Dwight Shrute in the office. I believe Dwight and his perpetual self-contrived bullshit is driving the ones who cannot yet freely depart from the office (due to phone technology that is being replaced this week) to insanity. While those who are "stuck" at the office have attempted to infuse freedom and liberty into their lives - Dwight never leaves his vigil. He's there day in and day out - spreading fear and creating chaos through his dramatizations.
When I spoke last to Dwight on the phone earlier this week, he told me it was a complete disaster at the office. I pressed on as I really wanted to understand what was going on back there. He willingly explained that earlier there had been a family matter with one of the employees that resulted in the police arriving at the office and talking to this employee. Okay. Fine Dwight. And now how did that involve you? Did they solicit you to give a statement? Were you in any way directly involved in this incident? No. He admitted he was not. So I merely replied with, "Then I'm not understanding why that is causing you to feel stressed and I'm certain the other employee would prefer the matter remain private."
Not happy that he had not convinced me of the disasterous state back at the office, he pressed on. "I guess this whole phone situation is just creating problems - the whole 'not knowing' what we're doing with the phones - it has everyone upset." Well, now Dwight. I thought the decision regarding the phones had been made - you have ordered the necessary hardware devices and placed the order to have our numbers ported - so it should be live yet this week, isn't that correct, Dwight?" Yes. Yes. That is all true. "Hmmm - so now Dwight - HOW is it exactly that there are any feelings of 'not knowing what we're doing'?"
Further irritated that he had not convinced me of the impending implosion back at the office, he again pressed on. "I guess the right word I'm looking for is total chaos" Oh - so the office is in total chaos now? Please - explain to me what is creating this chaos. "Well there are boxes everywhere, the entire place is torn up, it's in total disarray." Right Dwight. That's right. We're moving. In a week. So it's not like gremlins broke in over night and tore the shit out of the office. We did that to the office - in preparation of the move. That is next week.
Clearly defeated, he replied, "Will that be all?" Yes Dwight. That will be all.
Having dealt with Dwight for many years now, I'm quite certain that because I did not raise up and display the fear and terror that he was hoping to instill in me as Ilay back on my couch eating bon bons each day choose to work from my home each day and have no idea what is actually transpiring in the office, he no doubt ran to every employee that he could find - likely called a few on the phone even - and told the same pathetic, non-productive bullshit stories - seeking his fix. He's a drama addict. And if there isn't any real drama - then he creates it. He thrives on it. And now that many people have dispersed from the office - he has a smaller audience and as people start to give a shit less about office on-goings and petty bullshit and focus on results - he's lost. He can't find his fix as easily.
Ah but alas, Dwight is charismatic. And has successfully wooed another employee (at least one that I'm aware of) to buy into his drama. And thus the heel-digging and push back. And what a ride they've been on for the last couple of weeks - WEEEEE!! It's fun! Look at us! We are the mighty all-powerful. The voices of two will conquer the desires of 18. But wait - the one that got drug in all of a sudden feels alone. Unloved. Not appreciated. NOT FOCUSED ON RESULTS. And admits that s/he is in the middle of a shit storm and can't get out. AHA!!! The second I heard this admission - I KNEW what was going on. And THIS, my friends, I can solve. THIS I know how to coach through. Never fear little bear - I can drag you out of that shit storm. So I'm optimistic about the meeting with the victim this morning. And in two weeks, when everyone has the technological ability to work from outside of the office - I wonder what Dwight will do? Plod in day in and day out? Stand vigil at his post - - waiting for the next naive soul that wanders in to use the office as a tool so he can apply his charismatic charm on them and convince them Company X is in a state of chaos and out of control? Go home and work Dwight. Please. Everyone's sick of your shit.
Perhaps I'll order him out of the office for a two week period. But seriously, if everyone would just stand up to Dwight and say, "What does this conversation have to do with meeting results?" And if they said it to him again and again and again - he would eventually GET IT. I think at my next staff meeting, I'll just make reference to non-productive discussions - especially those that are negative in nature - and encourage everyone to feel empowered to shut it down when they hear it. Ahhh - Dwight. You will NOT win this game. Not this time.
Alas, such is not the case. And unfortunately, those who are not getting it, are clouding my ability to see the beauty of what is unfolding for those who do. So my frustration with the heel diggers really is a double edged sword. It slices me down the middle vertically and horizontally. I'm now 4 people. Which is not good. I need to be one person. A whole person.
Although late yesterday, I believe I might have received a glimmer of hope from one of the ones I perceive to be a heel digger. A meeting with that person today will undoubtedly reveal the truth of the matter to me - and I can then fix that. I can save this heel digger - I can. This situation is salvagable. I believe what is driving this person to dig their heels so deeply into the ground and thereby cause me daily anxiety and keep me up at night (after night, after night) is my Dwight Shrute in the office. I believe Dwight and his perpetual self-contrived bullshit is driving the ones who cannot yet freely depart from the office (due to phone technology that is being replaced this week) to insanity. While those who are "stuck" at the office have attempted to infuse freedom and liberty into their lives - Dwight never leaves his vigil. He's there day in and day out - spreading fear and creating chaos through his dramatizations.
When I spoke last to Dwight on the phone earlier this week, he told me it was a complete disaster at the office. I pressed on as I really wanted to understand what was going on back there. He willingly explained that earlier there had been a family matter with one of the employees that resulted in the police arriving at the office and talking to this employee. Okay. Fine Dwight. And now how did that involve you? Did they solicit you to give a statement? Were you in any way directly involved in this incident? No. He admitted he was not. So I merely replied with, "Then I'm not understanding why that is causing you to feel stressed and I'm certain the other employee would prefer the matter remain private."
Not happy that he had not convinced me of the disasterous state back at the office, he pressed on. "I guess this whole phone situation is just creating problems - the whole 'not knowing' what we're doing with the phones - it has everyone upset." Well, now Dwight. I thought the decision regarding the phones had been made - you have ordered the necessary hardware devices and placed the order to have our numbers ported - so it should be live yet this week, isn't that correct, Dwight?" Yes. Yes. That is all true. "Hmmm - so now Dwight - HOW is it exactly that there are any feelings of 'not knowing what we're doing'?"
Further irritated that he had not convinced me of the impending implosion back at the office, he again pressed on. "I guess the right word I'm looking for is total chaos" Oh - so the office is in total chaos now? Please - explain to me what is creating this chaos. "Well there are boxes everywhere, the entire place is torn up, it's in total disarray." Right Dwight. That's right. We're moving. In a week. So it's not like gremlins broke in over night and tore the shit out of the office. We did that to the office - in preparation of the move. That is next week.
Clearly defeated, he replied, "Will that be all?" Yes Dwight. That will be all.
Having dealt with Dwight for many years now, I'm quite certain that because I did not raise up and display the fear and terror that he was hoping to instill in me as I
Ah but alas, Dwight is charismatic. And has successfully wooed another employee (at least one that I'm aware of) to buy into his drama. And thus the heel-digging and push back. And what a ride they've been on for the last couple of weeks - WEEEEE!! It's fun! Look at us! We are the mighty all-powerful. The voices of two will conquer the desires of 18. But wait - the one that got drug in all of a sudden feels alone. Unloved. Not appreciated. NOT FOCUSED ON RESULTS. And admits that s/he is in the middle of a shit storm and can't get out. AHA!!! The second I heard this admission - I KNEW what was going on. And THIS, my friends, I can solve. THIS I know how to coach through. Never fear little bear - I can drag you out of that shit storm. So I'm optimistic about the meeting with the victim this morning. And in two weeks, when everyone has the technological ability to work from outside of the office - I wonder what Dwight will do? Plod in day in and day out? Stand vigil at his post - - waiting for the next naive soul that wanders in to use the office as a tool so he can apply his charismatic charm on them and convince them Company X is in a state of chaos and out of control? Go home and work Dwight. Please. Everyone's sick of your shit.
Perhaps I'll order him out of the office for a two week period. But seriously, if everyone would just stand up to Dwight and say, "What does this conversation have to do with meeting results?" And if they said it to him again and again and again - he would eventually GET IT. I think at my next staff meeting, I'll just make reference to non-productive discussions - especially those that are negative in nature - and encourage everyone to feel empowered to shut it down when they hear it. Ahhh - Dwight. You will NOT win this game. Not this time.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Craziness
Working in a ROWE is rather bizarre. I honestly have no clue what day it is. All of my adult life, I've awakened and KNOWN what day of the week it is - and either dreaded it (bleh - it's only Wednesday) or I've celebrated it (woo hoo! Friday). It occurred to me this morning when I woke up - I have no clue what day it is. None. And I don't really care either. That's the really bizarre part. It just doesn't matter. It's a day - and I am alive. And I will work on activities that drive me to meet results and I will play some and I will have no stress and I will be happy and content.
I'm doing something scary this week - NOT going into the office at all. And I'll admit that by Wednesday I was starting to have some angst over it. But I'm over it. I almost dropped by the office - but then decided there was actually no purpose for me to do so - so why waste the gas? All it would have done was eat up an hour of my life and it would not have been helping me to meet a single result. So I stayed put.
I'm starting to get the swing of having freedom - although I admit it does involve building structure into my day. I figured out quickly that I just don't function well without structure. Get up early, work a little. Focus on my family and getting the little one off to school. Work some more. Throw in some exercise for good measure. Work some more. Focusing on what NEEDS to be done.
A friend asked me yesterday how my "deal" is working out. I told him my "deal" works out in such a way that I'm getting my work done, meeting results, my boss is happy and yet - my house is clean. There is food in the pantry. Healthy snacks are provided for the girls when they get home from school. Their homework is done at a reasonable time. We eat dinner at a normal time. The laundry is all done. And I'm not stressed or pissed and I'm in bed every night by 10:00 like I prefer to be. THAT is how my "deal" is working out. I feel balanced. I feel content. I feel like this is where I should have been all of my life.
We've just about got the phone situation at the office figured out and soon - others in the company will be able to experience this feeling of balance and freedom - I'm excited for that day to arrive because a few are forced to be there on-site during "core hours" (and forced meaning they've chosen to handle the situation that way - I left it up to them to figure out how to accomodate incoming calls and this is their choice). I look forward to the day they can feel freedom like I can. And when they can experience that, I hope to see great results from them and really watch this new culture flourish.
The boss told me an awesome story yesterday. He said he was talking to friend of his over the weekend and explaining to his friend that we were working under ROWE. His friend said that she knew of a former company that worked under a similar arrangement. (At first when he said former company - I was nervous - certainly this story wasn't going to end well). He explained that the company was much like ours in terms of annual revenues and sales. Then they went into a similar culture as a ROWE and revenue quadrupled - they were striking on all cylinders - they were growing the way they wanted and they were successful.
But then, the owners decided they wanted to get more involved - wanted to really understand the day to day business and what was going on. So they came in and started getting involved and discovered what the CEO had done - this ROWE thing - people doing whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted. And they quickly retracted this freedom - and replaced it with a traditional work culture - they needed to see the people to know they were working. They didn't care that results were being met previously - but likely assumed that if they could see the people - then the results could be even greater. Quickly they started losing all of their employees and eventually - the company tanked. True story y'all. He's supposed to be getting me the name of the company (because I'm curious and nosy). But I loved the testiment to ROWE.
Pipeline shows 8-12 new contracts will close this month. THIS MONTH. Did you know that in some YEARS we don't even close that many? I'm nervous. But at the same time - totally pumped. Those contracts come into my group for delivery and handling. And my staff will have total control of the delivery - can they delight the customer? Will they delight the customer? Oh - how I so badly want them to shine! I know they can - they do every day - can and will they do it under ROWE? The true test is just around the corner!!!
I'm doing something scary this week - NOT going into the office at all. And I'll admit that by Wednesday I was starting to have some angst over it. But I'm over it. I almost dropped by the office - but then decided there was actually no purpose for me to do so - so why waste the gas? All it would have done was eat up an hour of my life and it would not have been helping me to meet a single result. So I stayed put.
I'm starting to get the swing of having freedom - although I admit it does involve building structure into my day. I figured out quickly that I just don't function well without structure. Get up early, work a little. Focus on my family and getting the little one off to school. Work some more. Throw in some exercise for good measure. Work some more. Focusing on what NEEDS to be done.
A friend asked me yesterday how my "deal" is working out. I told him my "deal" works out in such a way that I'm getting my work done, meeting results, my boss is happy and yet - my house is clean. There is food in the pantry. Healthy snacks are provided for the girls when they get home from school. Their homework is done at a reasonable time. We eat dinner at a normal time. The laundry is all done. And I'm not stressed or pissed and I'm in bed every night by 10:00 like I prefer to be. THAT is how my "deal" is working out. I feel balanced. I feel content. I feel like this is where I should have been all of my life.
We've just about got the phone situation at the office figured out and soon - others in the company will be able to experience this feeling of balance and freedom - I'm excited for that day to arrive because a few are forced to be there on-site during "core hours" (and forced meaning they've chosen to handle the situation that way - I left it up to them to figure out how to accomodate incoming calls and this is their choice). I look forward to the day they can feel freedom like I can. And when they can experience that, I hope to see great results from them and really watch this new culture flourish.
The boss told me an awesome story yesterday. He said he was talking to friend of his over the weekend and explaining to his friend that we were working under ROWE. His friend said that she knew of a former company that worked under a similar arrangement. (At first when he said former company - I was nervous - certainly this story wasn't going to end well). He explained that the company was much like ours in terms of annual revenues and sales. Then they went into a similar culture as a ROWE and revenue quadrupled - they were striking on all cylinders - they were growing the way they wanted and they were successful.
But then, the owners decided they wanted to get more involved - wanted to really understand the day to day business and what was going on. So they came in and started getting involved and discovered what the CEO had done - this ROWE thing - people doing whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted. And they quickly retracted this freedom - and replaced it with a traditional work culture - they needed to see the people to know they were working. They didn't care that results were being met previously - but likely assumed that if they could see the people - then the results could be even greater. Quickly they started losing all of their employees and eventually - the company tanked. True story y'all. He's supposed to be getting me the name of the company (because I'm curious and nosy). But I loved the testiment to ROWE.
Pipeline shows 8-12 new contracts will close this month. THIS MONTH. Did you know that in some YEARS we don't even close that many? I'm nervous. But at the same time - totally pumped. Those contracts come into my group for delivery and handling. And my staff will have total control of the delivery - can they delight the customer? Will they delight the customer? Oh - how I so badly want them to shine! I know they can - they do every day - can and will they do it under ROWE? The true test is just around the corner!!!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
NON-Disaster Hits
Well nearly. Well, yes. It was a disaster. Last Thursday, I drove in to use the office as a tool that day - I had a sales demo to conduct and wanted to make certain I had good internet connectivity and a fast machine so I could impress the prospect. When I arrived at 7:50 I was rather shocked at the number of cars already there. And I was even more shocked when I walked in and they were all standing around - "Internet and network are down - we've just been standing here since we got here." Uhhhh - did anyone call the network admins? Nope. So I sent a hurried text off to one of the guys. He was there in a matter of minutes - assessing the situation.
Evidently there had been some type of power surge which resulted in blowing out all the ports or something or other and the ISP needed to come out and fix the internet. I raced home to conduct my demo. And somehow all those people pulled together - without management making decisions and just got the shit fixed! Amazing! See. They ARE smart and they DO know what to do. And I could sit at home and continue working toward results all day without having to listen to the headache or get involved in the fiasco. I'm no help when it comes to stuff like that. It's all magic to me.
It's been a little awkward so far - being in the ROWE. Part of me wants to ask who is at the office. How are the phones getting answered? Who is tending the sheep? But I don't dare. I have to sit back and just release all control of those types of things and not worry about them. I have to focus on results. Are they meeting their results? And in my universe - I can't really determine that only a week into it. I see activity and I see movement. So I know people are working to achieve results. And I've been trying to stay out of the office - to give people time and space to absorb and adapt and not feel awkward by my presence. But I do feel a little disconnected. Like I'm shirking my responsibilities - even though I know I am not. Curious if they're shirking theirs.
My boss continues to come into the office 3 days a week. So then that has me on edge - he can't "see" me - does he know I'm working? Is he okay with this? Does he think I'm being remiss by not being there? Here I go - getting myself wrapped up in anticpation sludge. But it's difficult. When it's been ingrained in your head for years that you must be present in order to prove your worth. Hopefully this part of it gets easier.
I did have a couple of staff members who were confused over how to meet results - but after some lengthy conversations, I think they better understand it. The consultants told me to slow down and give them time to catch up to me. So that's what I've been trying to do. Letting them figure things out without my involvement as much as possible. I'm married to the results - NOT to the processes or activities that meet those results. I hope they are doing alright and embracing this new freedom.
Tomorrow we have manager's lunch and that always eases my mind some- seeing and interacting with my boss and my colleague. We are going to be hashing through our current employee handbook (laden with verbiage about hours and time) and also our culture guide. It should be a good session and hopefully an energetic one!
Evidently there had been some type of power surge which resulted in blowing out all the ports or something or other and the ISP needed to come out and fix the internet. I raced home to conduct my demo. And somehow all those people pulled together - without management making decisions and just got the shit fixed! Amazing! See. They ARE smart and they DO know what to do. And I could sit at home and continue working toward results all day without having to listen to the headache or get involved in the fiasco. I'm no help when it comes to stuff like that. It's all magic to me.
It's been a little awkward so far - being in the ROWE. Part of me wants to ask who is at the office. How are the phones getting answered? Who is tending the sheep? But I don't dare. I have to sit back and just release all control of those types of things and not worry about them. I have to focus on results. Are they meeting their results? And in my universe - I can't really determine that only a week into it. I see activity and I see movement. So I know people are working to achieve results. And I've been trying to stay out of the office - to give people time and space to absorb and adapt and not feel awkward by my presence. But I do feel a little disconnected. Like I'm shirking my responsibilities - even though I know I am not. Curious if they're shirking theirs.
My boss continues to come into the office 3 days a week. So then that has me on edge - he can't "see" me - does he know I'm working? Is he okay with this? Does he think I'm being remiss by not being there? Here I go - getting myself wrapped up in anticpation sludge. But it's difficult. When it's been ingrained in your head for years that you must be present in order to prove your worth. Hopefully this part of it gets easier.
I did have a couple of staff members who were confused over how to meet results - but after some lengthy conversations, I think they better understand it. The consultants told me to slow down and give them time to catch up to me. So that's what I've been trying to do. Letting them figure things out without my involvement as much as possible. I'm married to the results - NOT to the processes or activities that meet those results. I hope they are doing alright and embracing this new freedom.
Tomorrow we have manager's lunch and that always eases my mind some- seeing and interacting with my boss and my colleague. We are going to be hashing through our current employee handbook (laden with verbiage about hours and time) and also our culture guide. It should be a good session and hopefully an energetic one!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The Day AFTER ROWE Implementation Workshop
This is a copy of the post I made to my other blog. So if you checked in there first - this is the same entry! But if you don't follow that blog (which I can't blame you if you don't - it's horrendously obsene and shouldn't be read) - then read on!
I am. I'm a pioneer. And it's exhausting. Absolutely emotionally and physically exhausting. I wish someone had told me that ahead of time. But I guess nothing fantastic comes easy, and I'm up for the challenge. Once I get rested, that is.
See. Here's the thing. I come from a long line of pioneers. So do you. You likely have just never thought about it much. But I did. I gave it quite a bit of thought after my mom posted on my Facebook that she was proud of me for being a pioneer. But you know what? Had it not been for women like my grandmother, who forged their way into the workforce when women just didn't do those kinds of things, then I would have never gotten the opportunity to even be on this blazing trail.
And if it weren't for women, like my mother, who continued to push and work and fight and prove that women deserved a right in the workplace beyond basic typing and fetching, then I also would not be on this blazing trail.
See, those women were TRUE pioneers. And there are many others - they are not the only two, nor do I mean to imply they are. They are just the two I'm using as an example. They blazed a trail for me. The one on which it was norm for women to achieve great things in the workforce. The one on which it wasn't unheard of for women to hold high positions in the workforce. The trail isn't for everyone to travel - it's a personal choice. And that's okay. We are all individuals and have the right to make our own choices based upon our individual needs and desires. I chose this path.
When I first started walking along the path they'd blazed for me - it was awesome! Clear and smooth. Easy to travel. Then... I had the prodigal son. And all of a sudden, the path was cumbersome and bumpy and all sorts of unpleasantries were attacking me. I remember when I told my boss (a COMPLETE bitch - yes a woman - single mother, no less) that I was pregnant. She laughed with hysteria. Then she became quite somber. Irritated with me. And from that point forward she did everything in her power to make my life a living hell. Sending me out on audits that lasted for weeks and months upon end, which required I board a plane on Monday morning at some unGodly hour of the morning and not return until late Friday night. Hauling around a 75 lb auditor's bag, dressed in a suit, toting a suitcase and 6 months pregnant. 7 months pregnant. 8 months pregnant.
When I was about 7 or 8 weeks along, my placenta detached. Afraid to tell her I had a serious medical condition, I kept it a secret and just continued to plow through my duties, risking the life of my unborn child and myself. Must keep this job. Cannot mention medical complications. Too risky. Too taboo. (Everything turned out fine in the end and I won't bore you with the full details of the entire pregnancy - I promise).
I took my 6 weeks of maternity leave. When the prodigal son was but 10 weeks old, he contracted viral meningitis. But at the time, we did not know it was viral - we had to wait 48 hours to see if the culture would grow and determine if it was viral or bacterial. I called the bitch in the evening and alerted her to his sudden illness and hospitalization and that we were told that if it was bacterial, he would likely die. Do you know what that bitch said to me? "So, will you be in the office tomorrow or not?" I vowed right then and there I would immediately start looking for a new job. And I did. And within weeks I had found one and left.
The new job offered a bit more flexibility and since it was a government job, I was fairly well protected from any more antics like what I had experienced with the bitch. And it helped that one of my bosses was suffering with a terminal illness. (And I don't mean that in a bad way - he was empathetic). During this job, I became pregnant with the brunette and I was treated fairly and justly and not placed under undue scrutiny or assigned to horrible punishing projects. Again, being a government agency - I was protected. And through their amazing leave donation program, I was able to take a 7 week maternity leave and get paid through the entire absence!
Later, that post ended and I moved back into the private sector. And I had very little wiggle room. I soon found myself as a single parent with two very small children. I had a 30 mile commute to work and was always strapped for time. I remember one time, I had issues with the prodigal son that resulted in numerous morning melt-downs and screaming and spankings and just the most hideous sight I'd ever seen. And even after a 30 mile commute - my heart was racing so badly I thought I might have a heart attack - but I was panic stricken that morning - he was misbehaving and I was at risk for being late to work. I drove 90 that morning. To get to work on time. To sit in a room full of people and transcribe their words to paper so that the conversation could be logged for eternity.
And then one of the kids might get sick, so I would scramble to find someone to watch them while they were ill. Fortunately the local hospital had a sick child program on their pediatric ward and if they had the space - they would take your child for the day. It was such a Godsend. But then the brunette was hospitalized. And then she got chicken pox - TWICE. And at my next performance review - I found myself scoring in the top 5% of all officers across the national organization - yet written up - for shitty attendance. I remember being so sick, personally, one time that I could barely function. But I HAD to drag myself into the office - I could not risk missing a single other day. Driving, 30 miles, in a fever-induced fog. Praying I wouldn't pass out somewhere along the way. Sitting at a desk, so ill that my entire body shook. But by God - I was THERE. And they saw my dedication! And they approved.
When I first started at Company X - they were rigid. Most of the execs came out of banking and we pretty well adhered to banking ways of conducting business. Because we are a technology company, though, most of the staff started pushing for more freedoms and over time the ties were loosened some. But we would be chastised for wearing funny hats while working on Fridays. We were having "too much fun" - and certainly we couldn't be getting a damned thing done - what, with that silly hat on our head. You can't work, or think, or be creative with a hat on your head. And then, they decided we needed to push through more work. And soon many of us found ourselves at the office for 80-100 hours EACH WEEK. At one point, Company X paid for me to have a nighttime nanny. So here were my babies - under 10 years old - being shuttled to a daycare during the day - retrieved by a nanny at 6:00 and the only time they saw me was in the morning when I would wake them to shuttle them back to daycare. 80% of the employees of Company X were on some type of anti-depressant medication during that time. Gee. I wonder why.
Then we got a new boss and he was nuttier than the prior boss. And the reins were tightened again. He would retrieve me from my house in inclement weather - to make certain I got to work safely. He would play with us like puppets all day and when he grew tired of us - he would throw us aside and we'd be left lying there - wondering what in the hell just happened. I spent most of my day entertaining him - keeping him away from the staff so they could actually get some work done and achieve something. I shopped with him. I went to lunch with him. If he had a whim to go buy a vase - I'd go with him. He loved me. I was present. And yet, because I am a responsible adult, I was STILL working endless hours so I could get the results we needed to survive. When the blonde was born, I also got to take 7 weeks of maternity leave. It was paid time off also - because the nutcase had found that "in his experience, women in my condition have a propensity to sue employers and it was just less costly to pay me and appease me." Nevermind the entire issue was a matter because when he took over, he wiped out everyone's accrued vacation and I'd not had a day off in years.
I hated to see him go. I really did. I miss him every day. NOT.
For the last few years, we've been pretty loose at Company X. We have incorporated flex time; comp time; floating holidays; remote work; compressed work week. We have tried them all - trying to find something that made sense for EVERYONE. Yet we could feel it - we could sense it - the morale was dropping and getting lower and lower. What could it be? And it took us MONTHS to figure it out - people were sick. Sick from trying to balance their lives. We were offering what we thought were viable solutions and options - but it wasn't helping. Finally, I tripped across ROWE. And it made sense. It just had to work - it had to be the answer.
And as I sat yesterday, in our ROWE Implementation Workshop. I regained my hope. I looked around the room - at the young people - with young children and those that don't yet have children. And I felt PROUD - PROUD to be a progressive thinker and willing to take risks - so that THEY can have a different life than I had when my older kids were young. I felt sad for those of us that didn't have this opportunity and lost time with their children. And sent our kids here, there and everywhere - hiding them - keeping their existence virtually mum - in hopes of keeping our jobs and not being overlooked for bigger things because we had kids. But my happiness and pride FAR surpassed my sadness for what I had lost. Because I knew in my heart - I was on the bleeding edge of a new movement in the workplace - and the inertia will build and this thing will take off - across the world. And I was a part of the movement in the early stages - I got on board when fewer than 100 companies in the US have adopted it. We are likely the FIRST company in Kansas to migrate to ROWE.
When I got home, I told the prodigal son and the brunette that I had just joined a movement that would forever change the way they worked and that they could thank me later. They just looked at me like I was nuts - which is pretty typical. But I did. And it will.
And so for those women (and men) that blazed the trail ahead of me - each generation widening the trail and changing its shape and direction - THANK YOU. And hopefully you will view what I've done and what I've stood up for - LIFE BALANCE - as keeping the flame alive. I proudly accept the torch you passed on to me and I hope you are proud of what I've done with it. And for those of you who have not yet embraced ROWE - follow it - watch it - join it - get on the bandwagon with me - because TOGETHER we can move this giant old rusty wheel much quicker and with much greater ease!!!
I am. I'm a pioneer. And it's exhausting. Absolutely emotionally and physically exhausting. I wish someone had told me that ahead of time. But I guess nothing fantastic comes easy, and I'm up for the challenge. Once I get rested, that is.
See. Here's the thing. I come from a long line of pioneers. So do you. You likely have just never thought about it much. But I did. I gave it quite a bit of thought after my mom posted on my Facebook that she was proud of me for being a pioneer. But you know what? Had it not been for women like my grandmother, who forged their way into the workforce when women just didn't do those kinds of things, then I would have never gotten the opportunity to even be on this blazing trail.
And if it weren't for women, like my mother, who continued to push and work and fight and prove that women deserved a right in the workplace beyond basic typing and fetching, then I also would not be on this blazing trail.
See, those women were TRUE pioneers. And there are many others - they are not the only two, nor do I mean to imply they are. They are just the two I'm using as an example. They blazed a trail for me. The one on which it was norm for women to achieve great things in the workforce. The one on which it wasn't unheard of for women to hold high positions in the workforce. The trail isn't for everyone to travel - it's a personal choice. And that's okay. We are all individuals and have the right to make our own choices based upon our individual needs and desires. I chose this path.
When I first started walking along the path they'd blazed for me - it was awesome! Clear and smooth. Easy to travel. Then... I had the prodigal son. And all of a sudden, the path was cumbersome and bumpy and all sorts of unpleasantries were attacking me. I remember when I told my boss (a COMPLETE bitch - yes a woman - single mother, no less) that I was pregnant. She laughed with hysteria. Then she became quite somber. Irritated with me. And from that point forward she did everything in her power to make my life a living hell. Sending me out on audits that lasted for weeks and months upon end, which required I board a plane on Monday morning at some unGodly hour of the morning and not return until late Friday night. Hauling around a 75 lb auditor's bag, dressed in a suit, toting a suitcase and 6 months pregnant. 7 months pregnant. 8 months pregnant.
When I was about 7 or 8 weeks along, my placenta detached. Afraid to tell her I had a serious medical condition, I kept it a secret and just continued to plow through my duties, risking the life of my unborn child and myself. Must keep this job. Cannot mention medical complications. Too risky. Too taboo. (Everything turned out fine in the end and I won't bore you with the full details of the entire pregnancy - I promise).
I took my 6 weeks of maternity leave. When the prodigal son was but 10 weeks old, he contracted viral meningitis. But at the time, we did not know it was viral - we had to wait 48 hours to see if the culture would grow and determine if it was viral or bacterial. I called the bitch in the evening and alerted her to his sudden illness and hospitalization and that we were told that if it was bacterial, he would likely die. Do you know what that bitch said to me? "So, will you be in the office tomorrow or not?" I vowed right then and there I would immediately start looking for a new job. And I did. And within weeks I had found one and left.
The new job offered a bit more flexibility and since it was a government job, I was fairly well protected from any more antics like what I had experienced with the bitch. And it helped that one of my bosses was suffering with a terminal illness. (And I don't mean that in a bad way - he was empathetic). During this job, I became pregnant with the brunette and I was treated fairly and justly and not placed under undue scrutiny or assigned to horrible punishing projects. Again, being a government agency - I was protected. And through their amazing leave donation program, I was able to take a 7 week maternity leave and get paid through the entire absence!
Later, that post ended and I moved back into the private sector. And I had very little wiggle room. I soon found myself as a single parent with two very small children. I had a 30 mile commute to work and was always strapped for time. I remember one time, I had issues with the prodigal son that resulted in numerous morning melt-downs and screaming and spankings and just the most hideous sight I'd ever seen. And even after a 30 mile commute - my heart was racing so badly I thought I might have a heart attack - but I was panic stricken that morning - he was misbehaving and I was at risk for being late to work. I drove 90 that morning. To get to work on time. To sit in a room full of people and transcribe their words to paper so that the conversation could be logged for eternity.
And then one of the kids might get sick, so I would scramble to find someone to watch them while they were ill. Fortunately the local hospital had a sick child program on their pediatric ward and if they had the space - they would take your child for the day. It was such a Godsend. But then the brunette was hospitalized. And then she got chicken pox - TWICE. And at my next performance review - I found myself scoring in the top 5% of all officers across the national organization - yet written up - for shitty attendance. I remember being so sick, personally, one time that I could barely function. But I HAD to drag myself into the office - I could not risk missing a single other day. Driving, 30 miles, in a fever-induced fog. Praying I wouldn't pass out somewhere along the way. Sitting at a desk, so ill that my entire body shook. But by God - I was THERE. And they saw my dedication! And they approved.
When I first started at Company X - they were rigid. Most of the execs came out of banking and we pretty well adhered to banking ways of conducting business. Because we are a technology company, though, most of the staff started pushing for more freedoms and over time the ties were loosened some. But we would be chastised for wearing funny hats while working on Fridays. We were having "too much fun" - and certainly we couldn't be getting a damned thing done - what, with that silly hat on our head. You can't work, or think, or be creative with a hat on your head. And then, they decided we needed to push through more work. And soon many of us found ourselves at the office for 80-100 hours EACH WEEK. At one point, Company X paid for me to have a nighttime nanny. So here were my babies - under 10 years old - being shuttled to a daycare during the day - retrieved by a nanny at 6:00 and the only time they saw me was in the morning when I would wake them to shuttle them back to daycare. 80% of the employees of Company X were on some type of anti-depressant medication during that time. Gee. I wonder why.
Then we got a new boss and he was nuttier than the prior boss. And the reins were tightened again. He would retrieve me from my house in inclement weather - to make certain I got to work safely. He would play with us like puppets all day and when he grew tired of us - he would throw us aside and we'd be left lying there - wondering what in the hell just happened. I spent most of my day entertaining him - keeping him away from the staff so they could actually get some work done and achieve something. I shopped with him. I went to lunch with him. If he had a whim to go buy a vase - I'd go with him. He loved me. I was present. And yet, because I am a responsible adult, I was STILL working endless hours so I could get the results we needed to survive. When the blonde was born, I also got to take 7 weeks of maternity leave. It was paid time off also - because the nutcase had found that "in his experience, women in my condition have a propensity to sue employers and it was just less costly to pay me and appease me." Nevermind the entire issue was a matter because when he took over, he wiped out everyone's accrued vacation and I'd not had a day off in years.
I hated to see him go. I really did. I miss him every day. NOT.
For the last few years, we've been pretty loose at Company X. We have incorporated flex time; comp time; floating holidays; remote work; compressed work week. We have tried them all - trying to find something that made sense for EVERYONE. Yet we could feel it - we could sense it - the morale was dropping and getting lower and lower. What could it be? And it took us MONTHS to figure it out - people were sick. Sick from trying to balance their lives. We were offering what we thought were viable solutions and options - but it wasn't helping. Finally, I tripped across ROWE. And it made sense. It just had to work - it had to be the answer.
And as I sat yesterday, in our ROWE Implementation Workshop. I regained my hope. I looked around the room - at the young people - with young children and those that don't yet have children. And I felt PROUD - PROUD to be a progressive thinker and willing to take risks - so that THEY can have a different life than I had when my older kids were young. I felt sad for those of us that didn't have this opportunity and lost time with their children. And sent our kids here, there and everywhere - hiding them - keeping their existence virtually mum - in hopes of keeping our jobs and not being overlooked for bigger things because we had kids. But my happiness and pride FAR surpassed my sadness for what I had lost. Because I knew in my heart - I was on the bleeding edge of a new movement in the workplace - and the inertia will build and this thing will take off - across the world. And I was a part of the movement in the early stages - I got on board when fewer than 100 companies in the US have adopted it. We are likely the FIRST company in Kansas to migrate to ROWE.
When I got home, I told the prodigal son and the brunette that I had just joined a movement that would forever change the way they worked and that they could thank me later. They just looked at me like I was nuts - which is pretty typical. But I did. And it will.
And so for those women (and men) that blazed the trail ahead of me - each generation widening the trail and changing its shape and direction - THANK YOU. And hopefully you will view what I've done and what I've stood up for - LIFE BALANCE - as keeping the flame alive. I proudly accept the torch you passed on to me and I hope you are proud of what I've done with it. And for those of you who have not yet embraced ROWE - follow it - watch it - join it - get on the bandwagon with me - because TOGETHER we can move this giant old rusty wheel much quicker and with much greater ease!!!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Today is THE Day
ROWE Implementation Workshop!! And yes. I'm awake at some ungodly hour of the morning. Plagued with inherited insomnia that has decided to kick in high gear - right now. I'll make it through. As I drifted off to sleep last night, I thought of the perfect Facebook status for today. And I considered getting up and writing it down - but decided it was so awesome that I would remember it. I did not. At 3:30 I woke up - wondering what that awesome thought was - and ever since I've been racking my brain.
Because my Facebook status is just that important.
Read a few emails from work that came in late last night - one of which mentioned that some people couldn't go ROWE until we had an alternative phone system. I'm sick of hearing that. I'm sick of hearing that so long as people must use the office as their tool to doing their work they cannot go ROWE. So I just shot off an email at 4:00 a.m. that reminded them ROWE has NOTHING to do with REMOTE - it has everything to do with RESULTS and the ROWE would go into effect immediately. Today is going to be very interesting for some. And for me - to witness. And I know that I will also learn so many new things - I'm certainly NOT the ROWE expert - but I do believe I have a far better grasp on the concept than some.
Who think this is a perpetual paid vacation. I wonder how long those people will survive in this environment. I'm happy to have some backup today with the consultants coming in. I wonder if they will punch people in the face? I doubt it. They only have to deal with people who don't get it in short spurts. I look to be inspired by them. Rejuvinated. The spirit I had when I first read the book rekindled. Strength and courage to continue this path of pioneerism. That's what I hope to get out of today.
I know I won't be disappointed! I'm ready!
Because my Facebook status is just that important.
Read a few emails from work that came in late last night - one of which mentioned that some people couldn't go ROWE until we had an alternative phone system. I'm sick of hearing that. I'm sick of hearing that so long as people must use the office as their tool to doing their work they cannot go ROWE. So I just shot off an email at 4:00 a.m. that reminded them ROWE has NOTHING to do with REMOTE - it has everything to do with RESULTS and the ROWE would go into effect immediately. Today is going to be very interesting for some. And for me - to witness. And I know that I will also learn so many new things - I'm certainly NOT the ROWE expert - but I do believe I have a far better grasp on the concept than some.
Who think this is a perpetual paid vacation. I wonder how long those people will survive in this environment. I'm happy to have some backup today with the consultants coming in. I wonder if they will punch people in the face? I doubt it. They only have to deal with people who don't get it in short spurts. I look to be inspired by them. Rejuvinated. The spirit I had when I first read the book rekindled. Strength and courage to continue this path of pioneerism. That's what I hope to get out of today.
I know I won't be disappointed! I'm ready!
Monday, August 30, 2010
1 Day to ROWE Implementation Workshop
It's the day before our ROWE Implementation Workshop. I should be excited. I should be on cloud nine. Or ten. Or even higher. I should have a huge smile on my face and greet everyone with enthusiasm.
But I am not and I do not.
I am in a foul mood. Irritated with everyone and everything. Anxiety? General fatigue from the weekend? General fed-upness with people that refuse to think outside of the box and instead of focusing energy on how they will make this ROWE work, they want to spend energy on coming with a million reasons why it won't? I think that is likely the best explanation for my overall foul mood today.
There is still not an answer on the alternative phone system. So really, what that means is that come Wednesday, there will still be a handful of people who will find themselves tethered to this office doing their work. And yet, it was in their control to find an alternative solution. I doubt they'll "get" that either. I'm certain that will just add fuel to their already burning heavily fire of negativity. I find their negative energy exhausting and draining. And worthless. Not to mention childish. I also find that I'd like to punch them right in the face.
I'm hoping that in our workshop tomorrow, the consultants pick up on this and really push those people to their absolute limit on changing their mindset. Here's hoping for a good night's sleep AND a wonderful day tomorrow.
But I am not and I do not.
I am in a foul mood. Irritated with everyone and everything. Anxiety? General fatigue from the weekend? General fed-upness with people that refuse to think outside of the box and instead of focusing energy on how they will make this ROWE work, they want to spend energy on coming with a million reasons why it won't? I think that is likely the best explanation for my overall foul mood today.
There is still not an answer on the alternative phone system. So really, what that means is that come Wednesday, there will still be a handful of people who will find themselves tethered to this office doing their work. And yet, it was in their control to find an alternative solution. I doubt they'll "get" that either. I'm certain that will just add fuel to their already burning heavily fire of negativity. I find their negative energy exhausting and draining. And worthless. Not to mention childish. I also find that I'd like to punch them right in the face.
I'm hoping that in our workshop tomorrow, the consultants pick up on this and really push those people to their absolute limit on changing their mindset. Here's hoping for a good night's sleep AND a wonderful day tomorrow.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
12 Days Left to ROWE Implementation Workshop!!
So I missed a few days in there - sorry about that. It's been an absolute flurry of activity since my last post. Moving. New phone system. New processes. Setting goals. Every single minute of my life seems to be consumed with work and seeking results. It's funny what you can actually accomplish when you stop filling up time and just getting busy on what matters. The husband says he hates ROWE because all I do is work - HA! I'll figure out how to balance it shortly. But right now, there is so much to do and to get done and I want to set a good example (and also I might be slightly OCD) so yes. Right now all I do is work. But I feel so productive. And my husband says that he hasn't seen me this excited about my job in a very long time. And I feel happy.
But I'll admit - I've also been VERY frustrated. Frustrated with staff. Who seem to think that ROWE is about how to be on a perpetual vacation. And I'll further admit that I've snapped a few times. Someone was complaining about being "tethered" to a phone. Uhhhh - we are in a service industry - specifically - the CUSTOMER service department - so if being tethered to a phone is a problem for you - perhaps this is not the job for you? Like I said - I snapped a few times. It happens I guess. My frustration lies with those who have NOT taken the time to read the book cover to cover (likely about 85% - 90% of the staff) - and are complaining and pushing back and digging their heels in. It's the exact opposite of what I expected. I expected the camp of naysayers to be much smaller - instead it's much larger. I suspect that is because the "leaders" of that pack are quite vocal and dominant. I've suggested to their followers that this culture may not work for everyone and some may not survive. I'm not kidding when I say it.
There has been the bitching about equipment at their homes - and suggestions that we pay everyone's cell phone bills. To which I've politely responded that we provide all the tools they need to meet their results at our office - if they CHOOSE not to work toward their results at the tool we provide - then that is their CHOICE and they will be responsible for the expense related to setting up their own environment elsewhere. We aren't mandating they work remote. We aren't mandating they use their personal cell phones to meet results. We aren't mandating they use their home computers to meet results. We are simply mandating they MEET RESULTS.
Then there was the bitching about the phones - yes - again. Always about the phones. When should they remove themselves from the queue? They wanted me to write an SOP around that - I refused to do so and instead suggested they use good, adult, professional judgment to determine when they should remove themselves from the phone queue. I provided a nice personal example: I'm RIDING in the car for 7 hours - with just my husband - I can likely stay in the queue. I'm attending a music program for my 8 year old - I likely cannot be in the queue. Use your best judgment and ask yourself, "Will I be able to FOCUS on the customer without distractions and provide excellent customer service?" If the answer is uncertain or no - then take yourself out of the queue.
I finally got so tired of the conversation that I told them that this would need to be something we all hash out during the ROWE Implementation Workshop - that I was done discussing it - they need to READ the book - and then we can hash it out with the experts on site.
I'm frustrated that they cannot see that what they sacrifice is so miniscule in relation to what they gain. "How can I ever do what I want when I want if I'm always tethered to the phone and our customers work standard hours?" I guess they're all forgetting the number of hours they spend socializing and facebooking throughout a normal business day and aren't realizing that they could run an errand during that time - without sludge. Or actually collaborate with one another on phone coverage and take days "off" and away from the phone. And it seems no matter how often or in what manner I explain it - they don't get it. Either I'm a horrible explainer - or they are just in a stage of not being willing to meet results and be accountable to those results. I think that's what it is more than anything, honestly.
And that's been a HUGE eye opener for ME as their boss. I've evidently let them get away with so much presenteeism that the thought of having to meet results scares them to death - they don't know how to do it. But they do. They just don't have faith in themselves yet.
I tested them on a project recently. They spent more than 2 weeks finding excuses to NOT meet the results. I held my ground. About week 3 they figured out their complaints and whining were not getting them anywhere and at my suggestion they started collaborating on the effort. They got it done - sort of. Not all of them did exactly what they were assigned to do or completed all the steps of the project - but for a trial run of "what happens when you force results" - I thought they did well. Although I know it was terribly painful for a few of them. Hopefully the next time it goes a little easier for them.
A few people are very distraught over "losing" their vacation time they have "earned" - as a matter of fact, one person is going ahead and taking some "deserved" vacation time next week so they don't "lose" it. That is frustrating to hear and watch. I hope in time they realize what a great gift they have been given - their time!
Now. There ARE some folks who have totally embraced this - and their enthusiasm is overwhelming! They are thinking outside of the box, preparing home offices, asking about goals, ready to ROWE. Some have already started the transition with our permission. I love it - they have personal commitments, and rather than asking for time off - they just ask if they can go ahead and ROWE now. YES!!! You can! We had one person apologize for ill behavior after he had read the book - said it was a total eye opener for him and how he had come to behave over the years. Said he felt like he needed a shower after finishing the book and pledged to commit 100% to this new culture. THOSE are the cases that warm my heart and excite me - the ones I KNOW will make this a success!
And we are throwing a ton of change at them at once - no doubt. Some are asking if we can slow down and do one thing at a time and then have a soak period, then move on to the next. No. We are going to do a total shift - all at once - so it's truely taxing on some. They'll live. I'm certain they've encountered more difficult things in their personal life and survived. In real life you don't get the chance, nor does it ever cross your mind, to request that things just "stop" so you can soak it all in. It's not how life works and it's not how work works - this isn't relaxation - it's WORK. And now that some have come to the realization that 8-5 is no longer a block of time you fill with shopping the internet or facebooking and that we have results to achieve and tons of new projects going on - it's just HARD on them.
But I can't help but think that at the end of the day they feel more successful. More productive. More engaged. And I can't help but think that makes them happier.
I know it has me!
But I'll admit - I've also been VERY frustrated. Frustrated with staff. Who seem to think that ROWE is about how to be on a perpetual vacation. And I'll further admit that I've snapped a few times. Someone was complaining about being "tethered" to a phone. Uhhhh - we are in a service industry - specifically - the CUSTOMER service department - so if being tethered to a phone is a problem for you - perhaps this is not the job for you? Like I said - I snapped a few times. It happens I guess. My frustration lies with those who have NOT taken the time to read the book cover to cover (likely about 85% - 90% of the staff) - and are complaining and pushing back and digging their heels in. It's the exact opposite of what I expected. I expected the camp of naysayers to be much smaller - instead it's much larger. I suspect that is because the "leaders" of that pack are quite vocal and dominant. I've suggested to their followers that this culture may not work for everyone and some may not survive. I'm not kidding when I say it.
There has been the bitching about equipment at their homes - and suggestions that we pay everyone's cell phone bills. To which I've politely responded that we provide all the tools they need to meet their results at our office - if they CHOOSE not to work toward their results at the tool we provide - then that is their CHOICE and they will be responsible for the expense related to setting up their own environment elsewhere. We aren't mandating they work remote. We aren't mandating they use their personal cell phones to meet results. We aren't mandating they use their home computers to meet results. We are simply mandating they MEET RESULTS.
Then there was the bitching about the phones - yes - again. Always about the phones. When should they remove themselves from the queue? They wanted me to write an SOP around that - I refused to do so and instead suggested they use good, adult, professional judgment to determine when they should remove themselves from the phone queue. I provided a nice personal example: I'm RIDING in the car for 7 hours - with just my husband - I can likely stay in the queue. I'm attending a music program for my 8 year old - I likely cannot be in the queue. Use your best judgment and ask yourself, "Will I be able to FOCUS on the customer without distractions and provide excellent customer service?" If the answer is uncertain or no - then take yourself out of the queue.
I finally got so tired of the conversation that I told them that this would need to be something we all hash out during the ROWE Implementation Workshop - that I was done discussing it - they need to READ the book - and then we can hash it out with the experts on site.
I'm frustrated that they cannot see that what they sacrifice is so miniscule in relation to what they gain. "How can I ever do what I want when I want if I'm always tethered to the phone and our customers work standard hours?" I guess they're all forgetting the number of hours they spend socializing and facebooking throughout a normal business day and aren't realizing that they could run an errand during that time - without sludge. Or actually collaborate with one another on phone coverage and take days "off" and away from the phone. And it seems no matter how often or in what manner I explain it - they don't get it. Either I'm a horrible explainer - or they are just in a stage of not being willing to meet results and be accountable to those results. I think that's what it is more than anything, honestly.
And that's been a HUGE eye opener for ME as their boss. I've evidently let them get away with so much presenteeism that the thought of having to meet results scares them to death - they don't know how to do it. But they do. They just don't have faith in themselves yet.
I tested them on a project recently. They spent more than 2 weeks finding excuses to NOT meet the results. I held my ground. About week 3 they figured out their complaints and whining were not getting them anywhere and at my suggestion they started collaborating on the effort. They got it done - sort of. Not all of them did exactly what they were assigned to do or completed all the steps of the project - but for a trial run of "what happens when you force results" - I thought they did well. Although I know it was terribly painful for a few of them. Hopefully the next time it goes a little easier for them.
A few people are very distraught over "losing" their vacation time they have "earned" - as a matter of fact, one person is going ahead and taking some "deserved" vacation time next week so they don't "lose" it. That is frustrating to hear and watch. I hope in time they realize what a great gift they have been given - their time!
Now. There ARE some folks who have totally embraced this - and their enthusiasm is overwhelming! They are thinking outside of the box, preparing home offices, asking about goals, ready to ROWE. Some have already started the transition with our permission. I love it - they have personal commitments, and rather than asking for time off - they just ask if they can go ahead and ROWE now. YES!!! You can! We had one person apologize for ill behavior after he had read the book - said it was a total eye opener for him and how he had come to behave over the years. Said he felt like he needed a shower after finishing the book and pledged to commit 100% to this new culture. THOSE are the cases that warm my heart and excite me - the ones I KNOW will make this a success!
And we are throwing a ton of change at them at once - no doubt. Some are asking if we can slow down and do one thing at a time and then have a soak period, then move on to the next. No. We are going to do a total shift - all at once - so it's truely taxing on some. They'll live. I'm certain they've encountered more difficult things in their personal life and survived. In real life you don't get the chance, nor does it ever cross your mind, to request that things just "stop" so you can soak it all in. It's not how life works and it's not how work works - this isn't relaxation - it's WORK. And now that some have come to the realization that 8-5 is no longer a block of time you fill with shopping the internet or facebooking and that we have results to achieve and tons of new projects going on - it's just HARD on them.
But I can't help but think that at the end of the day they feel more successful. More productive. More engaged. And I can't help but think that makes them happier.
I know it has me!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
And the count down to ROWE Implementation Workshop Begins - 27
Today was the first day back to work after the "big announcement". I didn't get to interact much with anyone other than the management team as my day was consumed with meetings, Web demos and enrolling my kids in school.
But I was able to reflect some and it occurred to me that the feedback I was getting yesterday, while terribly positive, seemed to mainly focused on and centered around working REMOTE. Not much chatter about getting RESULTS. I suppose this is a natural thing. They haven't read the book yet. And what they just heard is "you're FREE!" And I also suppose that having been chained to a desk all their working lives, they cannot imagine freedom can also be achieved from within the company provided work space - it likely seems foreign to them to consider doing work there, and just leaving whenever they feel like it to do whatever they feel like doing. It likely seems more comfortable to envision ROWE is achievable from the privacy of your own home - where no one can see you not-working during what we've come to believe are core working hours.
But it also tells me that we will have to immediately get busy on setting goals and results with these folk so it becomes clear that this doesn't mean everyone works 6 hours a week and gets paid the same salary as when they were present 40 hours a week. We still have WORK and we still have RESULTS that must be met. But I didn't want to kill their enthusiasm by pointing that out just yet. And as they read the book, things will become more obvious and clear to them. I think that the energy they exuded yesterday will propel them into wanting that freedom so badly, that being agreeable to achieving results will come naturally. I hope I'm right anyway!
Full speed ahead on the move - strange thing - I'm actually looking forward to being in the office a bit more tomorrow so I can interact with everyone and engage in conversations with them about ROWE and about the move. The next two weeks will be hit and miss for my availability to be on-site due to a million personal commitments on top of staying on task and meeting our goals at work. I feel almost slighted to have to be out as much as I'm going to need to be during this time. But I can and will make it work.
But I was able to reflect some and it occurred to me that the feedback I was getting yesterday, while terribly positive, seemed to mainly focused on and centered around working REMOTE. Not much chatter about getting RESULTS. I suppose this is a natural thing. They haven't read the book yet. And what they just heard is "you're FREE!" And I also suppose that having been chained to a desk all their working lives, they cannot imagine freedom can also be achieved from within the company provided work space - it likely seems foreign to them to consider doing work there, and just leaving whenever they feel like it to do whatever they feel like doing. It likely seems more comfortable to envision ROWE is achievable from the privacy of your own home - where no one can see you not-working during what we've come to believe are core working hours.
But it also tells me that we will have to immediately get busy on setting goals and results with these folk so it becomes clear that this doesn't mean everyone works 6 hours a week and gets paid the same salary as when they were present 40 hours a week. We still have WORK and we still have RESULTS that must be met. But I didn't want to kill their enthusiasm by pointing that out just yet. And as they read the book, things will become more obvious and clear to them. I think that the energy they exuded yesterday will propel them into wanting that freedom so badly, that being agreeable to achieving results will come naturally. I hope I'm right anyway!
Full speed ahead on the move - strange thing - I'm actually looking forward to being in the office a bit more tomorrow so I can interact with everyone and engage in conversations with them about ROWE and about the move. The next two weeks will be hit and miss for my availability to be on-site due to a million personal commitments on top of staying on task and meeting our goals at work. I feel almost slighted to have to be out as much as I'm going to need to be during this time. But I can and will make it work.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
A New Life Begins!
Today was the ROWE announcement. Not that it matter any in terms of how it was received, or the message delivered, but because it's part of who I am - I changed clothes no less than 10 times before work today. And the best I could come up with was odd. So that's how I dressed. Odd. On to more important things...
I was nervous, shaking, ready to get a move on with the whole thing. Moving the precious books to the conference room, getting the all-but-horribly-wrong framed picture down there also. Claiming my spot. My colleague set up a camcorder. We really wanted to record this so we could watch it back later and see the look on everyone's faces. (or is it everyones'?) I will try my best to recount it here although I'm certain I don't remember, nor did I actually comprehend a large portion of it due to my excitement. The video will tell it all!
We went through the normal routine - reviewing the monthly financials, running through the sales pipeline. And then the intro into Company X 3.0 - reiterating what we had stated last month. And the next thing I knew, the boss was passing the baton to me. His preview yesterday led me to believe his prelude would be about 20 minutes long. But it wasn't - it was only about 2 minutes long and then I heard him say he wouldn't mention the name, the culture or anything else - and that he was passing the baton to ME. So, I quickly glanced at the notes I had made last night and just started in - with a series of questions:
Who feels flex schedules are conditional?
Who is tired of endless meetings that are not well defined nor do you understnad why you are there?
Who feels stressed from trying to juggle home/work schedules & demands?
Who is tired of spending their weekends running errands?
Who is tired of asking permission to take time off & who feel like a child when they do this?
With each question I posed, the number of hands that rose grew and I could sense people were letting their guard down and answering honestly.
And while I do not remember (although, again, the video will tell), my notes indicate that I next asked them to imagine an environment where these things are no longer an issue - where they have the freedome to work any way they want. They no longer will feel guilty, stressed, overworked - they OWN THEIR time - the company does NOT. I think I got a "woo hoo" from the crowd. But maybe that was at a different time in the meeting...
And what IF at the same time:
There is an increase in productivity
We create talent retention & attraction
Optimize our space
Eliminate wasteful processes
Staff is autonomous & accountable
What IF you were treated like a trusted professional and ADULT?
I have no clue what happened at that point. None. I know at some point I explained this is an adaptive change and defined/described that term. I talked about how I heard about this and the strange series of serendipitous events that led up to this point. I thanked my boss. I thanked my colleague. For their open-minds. I named companies that were under ROWE, provided the website, Facebook address and twitter and handed out the books. I recall one person thanked me on the spot for the book.
Then there was a long discussion - which, again - I need to watch back on the video - but people were FOR IT. On board. GETTING IT. And yet, I also recall I continued to "sell it" to them. I guess I was just so excited that I wanted to make 100% certain everyone heard, understood and embraced, despite the fact they know very little at this point. I loved how well it was received.
And then there was more discussion and everyone had a bunch of questions and and we answered what we could. And encouraged them to write their questions down so we could get them answers. The rest of that conversation is a total blur.
And then we went to the new office space - and they loved it - and had a million questions. But were still positive and enthusiastic and energetic. And I was on cloud 9. And this part is also on video. (please tell me the video worked?) And one of my direct reports pulled me to the side and said, "If I thought it was even ONE bit appropriate - I would hug you RIGHT now." And I was delighted. He again came and thanked me personally later in the day.
And then I left and returned the picture to Claudio the framer and explained it was NOT right and he thanked ME for telling me and agreed to fix it within the hour!!! And I was glad I handled it this way. I thank our customers when we are given the opportunity to right the wrong - why on earth would I have assumed others would not want the same opportunity? Shame on me.
And then for my staff meeting this afternoon, I decided we would go to a local sports bar. Well live and learn. NOT a good choice considering we were trying to remote in two other staff members. We tried it. It doesn't work. Lesson learned. It was loud, we couldn't hear them and they couldn't hear us. I won't make that mistake again. BUT - I did ask everyone to state their initial "gut" reaction and here are the responses:
I'm not naive - as they read the book - they will start to realize it's not ALL a bed of roses - but for them to ALL go into the book with this attitude is so pleasing to me!!! Oh - the next few weeks will crazy - but I'm so very much looking forward to it!!!
ROCK & ROWE!!!!
I was nervous, shaking, ready to get a move on with the whole thing. Moving the precious books to the conference room, getting the all-but-horribly-wrong framed picture down there also. Claiming my spot. My colleague set up a camcorder. We really wanted to record this so we could watch it back later and see the look on everyone's faces. (or is it everyones'?) I will try my best to recount it here although I'm certain I don't remember, nor did I actually comprehend a large portion of it due to my excitement. The video will tell it all!
We went through the normal routine - reviewing the monthly financials, running through the sales pipeline. And then the intro into Company X 3.0 - reiterating what we had stated last month. And the next thing I knew, the boss was passing the baton to me. His preview yesterday led me to believe his prelude would be about 20 minutes long. But it wasn't - it was only about 2 minutes long and then I heard him say he wouldn't mention the name, the culture or anything else - and that he was passing the baton to ME. So, I quickly glanced at the notes I had made last night and just started in - with a series of questions:
Who feels flex schedules are conditional?
Who is tired of endless meetings that are not well defined nor do you understnad why you are there?
Who feels stressed from trying to juggle home/work schedules & demands?
Who is tired of spending their weekends running errands?
Who is tired of asking permission to take time off & who feel like a child when they do this?
With each question I posed, the number of hands that rose grew and I could sense people were letting their guard down and answering honestly.
And while I do not remember (although, again, the video will tell), my notes indicate that I next asked them to imagine an environment where these things are no longer an issue - where they have the freedome to work any way they want. They no longer will feel guilty, stressed, overworked - they OWN THEIR time - the company does NOT. I think I got a "woo hoo" from the crowd. But maybe that was at a different time in the meeting...
And what IF at the same time:
There is an increase in productivity
We create talent retention & attraction
Optimize our space
Eliminate wasteful processes
Staff is autonomous & accountable
What IF you were treated like a trusted professional and ADULT?
I have no clue what happened at that point. None. I know at some point I explained this is an adaptive change and defined/described that term. I talked about how I heard about this and the strange series of serendipitous events that led up to this point. I thanked my boss. I thanked my colleague. For their open-minds. I named companies that were under ROWE, provided the website, Facebook address and twitter and handed out the books. I recall one person thanked me on the spot for the book.
Then there was a long discussion - which, again - I need to watch back on the video - but people were FOR IT. On board. GETTING IT. And yet, I also recall I continued to "sell it" to them. I guess I was just so excited that I wanted to make 100% certain everyone heard, understood and embraced, despite the fact they know very little at this point. I loved how well it was received.
And then there was more discussion and everyone had a bunch of questions and and we answered what we could. And encouraged them to write their questions down so we could get them answers. The rest of that conversation is a total blur.
And then we went to the new office space - and they loved it - and had a million questions. But were still positive and enthusiastic and energetic. And I was on cloud 9. And this part is also on video. (please tell me the video worked?) And one of my direct reports pulled me to the side and said, "If I thought it was even ONE bit appropriate - I would hug you RIGHT now." And I was delighted. He again came and thanked me personally later in the day.
And then I left and returned the picture to Claudio the framer and explained it was NOT right and he thanked ME for telling me and agreed to fix it within the hour!!! And I was glad I handled it this way. I thank our customers when we are given the opportunity to right the wrong - why on earth would I have assumed others would not want the same opportunity? Shame on me.
And then for my staff meeting this afternoon, I decided we would go to a local sports bar. Well live and learn. NOT a good choice considering we were trying to remote in two other staff members. We tried it. It doesn't work. Lesson learned. It was loud, we couldn't hear them and they couldn't hear us. I won't make that mistake again. BUT - I did ask everyone to state their initial "gut" reaction and here are the responses:
- I feel as though I've made a career change without changing jobs.
- This opens up so many possibilities for me at home in terms of how to juggle responsibilities.
- This embraces technology which is good because we are a technology company and we've never "worked" that way.
- This will definitely help the finances of the company and I can see how it impacts that.
- This give me a whole new outlook
- THIS IS LIKE CHRISTMAS MORNING!!
- Communication will need to improve - but THAT is a positive thing
- Remote workers will no longer harbor guilt because they are "free" and the others are not
- Work can be better scheduled - focus on meeting goals will actually be easier
- Many will still use the office
- This change energizes the company
- There will be some kinks to work out
- Remote employees felt the energy through the phone during the morning meeting and they felt a part of it!
- I feel back in control
- I am able to make adult decisions about what needs to be done when and how
I'm not naive - as they read the book - they will start to realize it's not ALL a bed of roses - but for them to ALL go into the book with this attitude is so pleasing to me!!! Oh - the next few weeks will crazy - but I'm so very much looking forward to it!!!
ROCK & ROWE!!!!
Monday, August 2, 2010
One Day - Well actually now just shy of 13 hours....
I'm a nervous wreck. The anxiety has set in full force at this point. Will everyone be thrilled? Will there be naysayers? How will the naysayers affect my excitement? Will I be tolerant and let them process through it? Or will I just absolutely snap? I'm praying for courage, patience, tolerance - strength to see this dream through to the implementation.
Yesterday and most of today I was paralyzed. At a total loss as to "how" this would be announced. What would be said? How could I be convincing? Enthusiastic? Finally, tonight, I sat down by the pool with a very-intentionally-watered-down margarita and just wrote. Pen to paper. Thoughts. And somehow, at the end of 20 minutes, I had drafted something that I believe is heart-felt - that everyone will be able to relate to. I've read it no less than 6 times in 4 hours. And each time I feel good about it. I'm going with my gut.
Which is a nice segue into another story. Today, I went to pick up the customized framing of the CEO's published article. It was NOT what I wanted at all. It was about 90% what I wanted. Okay - well maybe 98% of what I wanted. When I dropped it off back on JULY 19th (because it evidently takes THAT long to frame something), I had this feeling that the guy did not "get" what I was saying. He was not the best speaker of the English language and I feared we might not be communicating that day. So I went over it with him numerous times. He drew some arrows and assured me he would remember what they meant. Well, evidently he did NOT remember. Because the damned thing does NOT have the NAME OF THE PUBLICATION. I thanked him and left and then I was irate. At myself. For not telling him it was NOT what I wanted. And as I drove home, I was disappointed - now the whole thing is ruined and I'm not excited about that part of tomorrow any longer because I will look like an idiot because EVERYONE will wonder "why didn't she get the name of the publication in the collage?" Because everyone knows THAT is the proper way to do it. But evidently, after taking my order Claudio (that is his name), went on vacation. And he JUST returned and when I phoned at 12:30 today he hadn't even started on it. And I asked if I needed to come by and go over it with him again and he said that wasn't necessary and he'd have it to me by 4:30. So I was angry at his shoddy work. When I got home, I retrieved all the left-overs from the bag, HOPING that one of the two copies of the publication still had a salvagable title page so I could call the framing place and insist they fix it tonight. I didn't really care that Claudio was supposed to get off work at 5:30 - he could stay there all night as far as I was concerned -but this WOULD be fixed by 8:00 a.m. tomorrow.
Sadly, BOTH copies of the publication had been mutilated - the title caption area unusable. THAT is what happened - he freakin' ruined them on accident and then tried to play it off. I'm furious. But honestly - my anxiety runs high right now and it is what it is and it cannot be resolved before tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. I just will make a mental note to phone the manager and express my dissatisfaction with Claudio and explain what happened and then tell ALL my friends to NOT get their custom framing done at that place. UNLESS they make it right by getting another copy and re-doing the whole thing at no charge. THEN I will tell everyone how amazing their service is. My gut told me that day I dropped it off that this would not end well. Should have made an excuse to get out of dodge back then and go elsewhere. And if this is the worst thing that happens tomorrow then I'm cool with that.
Back to ROWE. The frequency of time-off requests is staring me straight in the face lately. Screaming at me actually. Today - I had one person who wanted/needed to work from home. 2 people that put vacation requests on my desk. 1 person ask if they could attend a personal meeting for about an hour. One person request to change their flex schedule. 1 person ask for intermittent time off to juggle personal commitments and 1 person needing to leave ASAP due to family medical emergency. I have no clue how many similar requests/issues my colleague encountered today. Bless these peoples' hearts - they are BEGGING - CRYING - PLEADING for control of their time. I really, sincerely, honestly, hope tomorrow brings hope and joy to their hearts.
Yesterday and most of today I was paralyzed. At a total loss as to "how" this would be announced. What would be said? How could I be convincing? Enthusiastic? Finally, tonight, I sat down by the pool with a very-intentionally-watered-down margarita and just wrote. Pen to paper. Thoughts. And somehow, at the end of 20 minutes, I had drafted something that I believe is heart-felt - that everyone will be able to relate to. I've read it no less than 6 times in 4 hours. And each time I feel good about it. I'm going with my gut.
Which is a nice segue into another story. Today, I went to pick up the customized framing of the CEO's published article. It was NOT what I wanted at all. It was about 90% what I wanted. Okay - well maybe 98% of what I wanted. When I dropped it off back on JULY 19th (because it evidently takes THAT long to frame something), I had this feeling that the guy did not "get" what I was saying. He was not the best speaker of the English language and I feared we might not be communicating that day. So I went over it with him numerous times. He drew some arrows and assured me he would remember what they meant. Well, evidently he did NOT remember. Because the damned thing does NOT have the NAME OF THE PUBLICATION. I thanked him and left and then I was irate. At myself. For not telling him it was NOT what I wanted. And as I drove home, I was disappointed - now the whole thing is ruined and I'm not excited about that part of tomorrow any longer because I will look like an idiot because EVERYONE will wonder "why didn't she get the name of the publication in the collage?" Because everyone knows THAT is the proper way to do it. But evidently, after taking my order Claudio (that is his name), went on vacation. And he JUST returned and when I phoned at 12:30 today he hadn't even started on it. And I asked if I needed to come by and go over it with him again and he said that wasn't necessary and he'd have it to me by 4:30. So I was angry at his shoddy work. When I got home, I retrieved all the left-overs from the bag, HOPING that one of the two copies of the publication still had a salvagable title page so I could call the framing place and insist they fix it tonight. I didn't really care that Claudio was supposed to get off work at 5:30 - he could stay there all night as far as I was concerned -but this WOULD be fixed by 8:00 a.m. tomorrow.
Sadly, BOTH copies of the publication had been mutilated - the title caption area unusable. THAT is what happened - he freakin' ruined them on accident and then tried to play it off. I'm furious. But honestly - my anxiety runs high right now and it is what it is and it cannot be resolved before tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. I just will make a mental note to phone the manager and express my dissatisfaction with Claudio and explain what happened and then tell ALL my friends to NOT get their custom framing done at that place. UNLESS they make it right by getting another copy and re-doing the whole thing at no charge. THEN I will tell everyone how amazing their service is. My gut told me that day I dropped it off that this would not end well. Should have made an excuse to get out of dodge back then and go elsewhere. And if this is the worst thing that happens tomorrow then I'm cool with that.
Back to ROWE. The frequency of time-off requests is staring me straight in the face lately. Screaming at me actually. Today - I had one person who wanted/needed to work from home. 2 people that put vacation requests on my desk. 1 person ask if they could attend a personal meeting for about an hour. One person request to change their flex schedule. 1 person ask for intermittent time off to juggle personal commitments and 1 person needing to leave ASAP due to family medical emergency. I have no clue how many similar requests/issues my colleague encountered today. Bless these peoples' hearts - they are BEGGING - CRYING - PLEADING for control of their time. I really, sincerely, honestly, hope tomorrow brings hope and joy to their hearts.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Two Days
It's seriously all I can think about and talk about. Tuesday. The day we get to rock everyone's world with the big announcement. My friends are certainly sick of hearing about it - and likely why they are steering clear of me. Although they are not nearly as excited as I am. They don't "get" it. They are intrigued by it and it sounds neat to them, but they're pretty sure it will be a short-lived effort that will quickly go bad and be reversed. That once the newness wears off and the excitement wanes, we will just return to our old culture and life will go back to normal. While their negativity is a downer, it also is an encourager to me. I will prove them wrong by doing everything I can to make certain this does not go poorly. They'll see. And they'll be sorry they doubted me.
I have been spending a lot of time thinking about how my direct staff and I will determine the desired results for our department. They don't and cannot typically work on deadlines. So much of their work load is determined by customer demand and on customers' time schedule. We cannot define it by number of calls taken, responded to, etc. because we really have no idea how many calls will come in. It has to be a goal that is more esoterical in nature I think. I have to really give this some heavy thought and start formulating my ideas and putting them on paper. I'm also thinking that different people will have different desired results because their roles are slightly different. And to be honest, I'm getting a little nervous about my ability to manage in this manner. I know I can do it. I'm capable of doing it. It's just not how I've been doing it for a very long time, so I have to give it some serious thought and consideration. It's also possible that in some ways I have been doing it, but I've never actually thought about it and written it down.
Friday I went and picked out the fabrics for the new office space. That's fun! Picking out fabrics. I'm spacially retarded so I really do not "get" how this space is going to look when completed, but I trust the designer helping me so I'm pretty must just giving her ideas my blessing and moving forward with whatever she suggests.
I must make a point to start taking notes throughout the day about things to enter in this blog - I find that by the time I get home and sit down to update our journey, I've forgotten many of the details. And it is the details that I want journal. Counting down.....
I have been spending a lot of time thinking about how my direct staff and I will determine the desired results for our department. They don't and cannot typically work on deadlines. So much of their work load is determined by customer demand and on customers' time schedule. We cannot define it by number of calls taken, responded to, etc. because we really have no idea how many calls will come in. It has to be a goal that is more esoterical in nature I think. I have to really give this some heavy thought and start formulating my ideas and putting them on paper. I'm also thinking that different people will have different desired results because their roles are slightly different. And to be honest, I'm getting a little nervous about my ability to manage in this manner. I know I can do it. I'm capable of doing it. It's just not how I've been doing it for a very long time, so I have to give it some serious thought and consideration. It's also possible that in some ways I have been doing it, but I've never actually thought about it and written it down.
Friday I went and picked out the fabrics for the new office space. That's fun! Picking out fabrics. I'm spacially retarded so I really do not "get" how this space is going to look when completed, but I trust the designer helping me so I'm pretty must just giving her ideas my blessing and moving forward with whatever she suggests.
I must make a point to start taking notes throughout the day about things to enter in this blog - I find that by the time I get home and sit down to update our journey, I've forgotten many of the details. And it is the details that I want journal. Counting down.....
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Meet Stacey
Stacey, from Culture Rx, was assigned to help me stay sane during this transition. She's brilliant and I was happy to meet with her over the phone today. It's funny. I had a list of things to cover and on that list was the logistics of the workshop - she also had that on her list. And our punch list items were nearly identical! That's how I knew I really liked her because she and I were on the same wave length!
1. Logistics - Jodi & Michael will need to stay in Topeka. I suggested something on Wanamaker as the rest of this town is pretty unpredictable and disgusting. She will send me a Power Point presentation and also some sludge buttons (I love buttons - I'm pretty sure that's what she said - that's what I wrote down so I do hope I'm not mistaken here. But if they are party hats instead of buttons that's even better because I do love a hat!) She will also send me some handouts that I'll need to get to the remote staff. We're going to use our cool WebEx virtual training center so the remote staff can participate and see, etc. Stacey thought Jodi would love our technology so I'm VERY excited to share it with her! We determined we'd have lunch brought in. I did ask if there were any special diet considerations on their end and she indicated Michael is a Vegan. Egads. I wonder if there are any Vegan places in town? We're kind of a Sirloin Stockade, Golden Corral kind of town. I know there are two vegetarians on our staff, so hopefully one of them can help me with this mission. She said Jodi isn't particular. I'm hoping she'll just eat a tub of chocolate ice cream with me for lunch!
2. I talked to her about what to do with our vacation/sick time. We don't have an accounting issue because we do not accrue it on our books. But it is there and accrued. We talked about allowing people to continue to use the time from September 1st when we go live with ROWE until December 31st. But I was nervous about that - if everyone is working under ROWE AND taking vacation/sick time I fear we'll get behind on work and everyone will pretty much be gone all the time trying to hurry and burn up their vacation/sick time. (It's that whole sense of entitlement thing that drives people to do that kind of thing). I suggested we just take it away, but leave the accrued vacation hours on the spreadsheet in case ROWE doesn't work and we have to revert back to a traditional (boring, non-productive, undesirable) work culture - then everyone would just pick up where they left off. We finally decided that I would just watch peoples' reaction on Tuesday and listen to the buzz around the office after they had read the book. Based on reactions and buzzing, we could then decide how to handle this matter. I haven't taken a vacation yet this year personally - and have a TON of hours - I'm willing to forfeit them to go to ROWE - hopefully others see it the way I do.
3. I was concerned about medical leaves and returning to work, etc. Lump in this conversation short and long-term disability. We decided that we could still require people to provide a doctor's note releasing them to return to work if they were absent for more than 3 days. We do that to ensure they are fit to work and don't end up hurt or sick and then sue us. Stacey agreed that we should continue this policy. We don't offer short-term disability, but some staff could have it through their voluntary benefits. We do offer long-term disability. Stacey admitted that it can get tricky with these two benefits because people are often-times able to work from home, so the insurance company then hassles them about paying the disability, etc. She said to just keep them intact for now and handle them on a case by case basis. While I don't see it as anything we will face in our near future - anything is possible and I just hope it doesn't turn into a major ordeal if we have to handle a situation like this.
4. We talked about our announcement to the staff next Tuesday. I asked her if she thought it would be appropriate for me to read an excerpt from the book as an opening. She thought that would work well and that I should also state why this is good for the company and why it is good for them. Then hand them the book and tell them their homework is to read it before August 31st.
5. We then talked about a situation we currently have wherein we offer up "extra work" for a cash bonus. We do this when unforeseen projects come up and threaten to derail our other major projects/deadlines. She thought we could continue to do this once in a while but to be aware that people might intentionally start using the system to ensure they get "extra" work and that cash bonus. Good point. I'm glad she brought it to my attention!
I am SO excited for next Tuesday. I think I'll see if my colleague will video tape the announcement, because I'm not sure I'll be able to absorb every person's reaction there on the spot. My bagful of excuses is going to be on vacation next week and unable to attend the meeting. I really want him there - we're day two into me prodding and encouraging him to give up and hour of his vacation to conference in. The excuses are amazing - wife doesn't like it (she will when she hears what we had to say)
- cell phone doesn't have coverage there (try a land line - they're amazing)
- other parties in his traveling party don't like it (don't know them - don't care)
- the meeting is too long (it's an hour - you'll survive)
- I've forgotten the others
I hope he makes it to the meeting and I hope he can make this transition.
6 days to announcement!!! And actually - only 3 business days!!!
Thank you to Stacey for all the wonderful advice today!
1. Logistics - Jodi & Michael will need to stay in Topeka. I suggested something on Wanamaker as the rest of this town is pretty unpredictable and disgusting. She will send me a Power Point presentation and also some sludge buttons (I love buttons - I'm pretty sure that's what she said - that's what I wrote down so I do hope I'm not mistaken here. But if they are party hats instead of buttons that's even better because I do love a hat!) She will also send me some handouts that I'll need to get to the remote staff. We're going to use our cool WebEx virtual training center so the remote staff can participate and see, etc. Stacey thought Jodi would love our technology so I'm VERY excited to share it with her! We determined we'd have lunch brought in. I did ask if there were any special diet considerations on their end and she indicated Michael is a Vegan. Egads. I wonder if there are any Vegan places in town? We're kind of a Sirloin Stockade, Golden Corral kind of town. I know there are two vegetarians on our staff, so hopefully one of them can help me with this mission. She said Jodi isn't particular. I'm hoping she'll just eat a tub of chocolate ice cream with me for lunch!
2. I talked to her about what to do with our vacation/sick time. We don't have an accounting issue because we do not accrue it on our books. But it is there and accrued. We talked about allowing people to continue to use the time from September 1st when we go live with ROWE until December 31st. But I was nervous about that - if everyone is working under ROWE AND taking vacation/sick time I fear we'll get behind on work and everyone will pretty much be gone all the time trying to hurry and burn up their vacation/sick time. (It's that whole sense of entitlement thing that drives people to do that kind of thing). I suggested we just take it away, but leave the accrued vacation hours on the spreadsheet in case ROWE doesn't work and we have to revert back to a traditional (boring, non-productive, undesirable) work culture - then everyone would just pick up where they left off. We finally decided that I would just watch peoples' reaction on Tuesday and listen to the buzz around the office after they had read the book. Based on reactions and buzzing, we could then decide how to handle this matter. I haven't taken a vacation yet this year personally - and have a TON of hours - I'm willing to forfeit them to go to ROWE - hopefully others see it the way I do.
3. I was concerned about medical leaves and returning to work, etc. Lump in this conversation short and long-term disability. We decided that we could still require people to provide a doctor's note releasing them to return to work if they were absent for more than 3 days. We do that to ensure they are fit to work and don't end up hurt or sick and then sue us. Stacey agreed that we should continue this policy. We don't offer short-term disability, but some staff could have it through their voluntary benefits. We do offer long-term disability. Stacey admitted that it can get tricky with these two benefits because people are often-times able to work from home, so the insurance company then hassles them about paying the disability, etc. She said to just keep them intact for now and handle them on a case by case basis. While I don't see it as anything we will face in our near future - anything is possible and I just hope it doesn't turn into a major ordeal if we have to handle a situation like this.
4. We talked about our announcement to the staff next Tuesday. I asked her if she thought it would be appropriate for me to read an excerpt from the book as an opening. She thought that would work well and that I should also state why this is good for the company and why it is good for them. Then hand them the book and tell them their homework is to read it before August 31st.
5. We then talked about a situation we currently have wherein we offer up "extra work" for a cash bonus. We do this when unforeseen projects come up and threaten to derail our other major projects/deadlines. She thought we could continue to do this once in a while but to be aware that people might intentionally start using the system to ensure they get "extra" work and that cash bonus. Good point. I'm glad she brought it to my attention!
I am SO excited for next Tuesday. I think I'll see if my colleague will video tape the announcement, because I'm not sure I'll be able to absorb every person's reaction there on the spot. My bagful of excuses is going to be on vacation next week and unable to attend the meeting. I really want him there - we're day two into me prodding and encouraging him to give up and hour of his vacation to conference in. The excuses are amazing - wife doesn't like it (she will when she hears what we had to say)
- cell phone doesn't have coverage there (try a land line - they're amazing)
- other parties in his traveling party don't like it (don't know them - don't care)
- the meeting is too long (it's an hour - you'll survive)
- I've forgotten the others
I hope he makes it to the meeting and I hope he can make this transition.
6 days to announcement!!! And actually - only 3 business days!!!
Thank you to Stacey for all the wonderful advice today!
One Week Before Announcement!
Wow. Seriously almost an entire week has passed since I last posted. That's just what happens when you are in a ROWE - totally lose track of the days - that's what my new friend Stacy at Culture Rx tells me! And I cannot wait to find out for myself!
Monday I got stuck at a baseball tournament unexpectedly so I was dashing around juggling meetings and appointments so I could be at that tournament. Do you know that I did it! I juggled it all. I did not feel one ounce of guilt for it either. It's liberating! Not feeling guilty is a wonderful thing.
Tuesday I went to the new office space to see the suggested floorplans and layouts they had put together. They looked great so now they are trying to price it all out. Gosh I hope they can find what we want/need within our budget. I'm starting to get nervous because we don't have it all finalized and yet we're taking the staff over there next Tuesday morning. I explained to the design group that it was critical we walk in there with a plan. We can't be hauling the group over there and then, when asked where everyone will sit and what it will look like, respond with "we dunno". Hopefully they get it done - I better call over there tomorrow just to prod them along.
Tuesday most of my direct staff and I participated in a demo conducted by Parature. The demo was of their hosted Help Desk solution. It is awesome!!! 360 degree help desk so customers can help themselves and track their own tickets to see progress, etc. It also integrates with Facebook and other social media channels. I'm very excited to further investigate this type of solution. I fear the Parature solution is outside our budget based on some initial pricing the sweet gal gave me, but we're going to put together and RFP and submit it to them anyway. I mentioned it to one of our sales guys and he said it sounded cool and he was very excited about all the changes. I told him to go close some deals so we can move forward with ALL of the changes. :-0
My fuse was short with one of my staff members AGAIN yesterday. He really is a bagful of excuses. At one point during a conference call I was literally pulling my hair and laying my head on my desk. And all I could think was, "I cannot WAIT until we go to this ROWE because in that environment I'd bet he figures out how to get things done in the time frame provided. And when it's HIS time at stake, I bet he doesn't sit on the phone with me for hours upon end being obtuse and coy." I'm unamused. Needs more time. I finally just snapped and said we were going to be moving very fast and very furiously and we don't have time to offer extensions on every project - they just need to get done so we can move on to the next project.
The Work Sucks (and how to fix it) books arrived!!! 20 beautiful books neatly packed in a box. I tore into the box and just stared at them. It's real! It's happening. And I adore those books. I caressed a few of them. And I need mine back from the Chairman. I'm LOST without it! I wanted to look something up in it today and I couldn't. (I was not in the office today so I couldn't look it up in one of the 20 books sitting in the box either!) I checked on his progress yesterday - he had not ready but maybe 2 chapters since I loaned him my book last Thursday - but he assured me he likes what he's read thus far. I really hope he gets it done before Tuesday. I better follow up with him tomorrow or Friday also.
Up next - conference call with Stacey from Culture Rx. OH - but Cali sent the contract to me - I signed it and my colleague took pictures of me signing it - just my hand holding the pen and signing my name!!! It can be a part of the scrapbook we're putting together!
Monday I got stuck at a baseball tournament unexpectedly so I was dashing around juggling meetings and appointments so I could be at that tournament. Do you know that I did it! I juggled it all. I did not feel one ounce of guilt for it either. It's liberating! Not feeling guilty is a wonderful thing.
Tuesday I went to the new office space to see the suggested floorplans and layouts they had put together. They looked great so now they are trying to price it all out. Gosh I hope they can find what we want/need within our budget. I'm starting to get nervous because we don't have it all finalized and yet we're taking the staff over there next Tuesday morning. I explained to the design group that it was critical we walk in there with a plan. We can't be hauling the group over there and then, when asked where everyone will sit and what it will look like, respond with "we dunno". Hopefully they get it done - I better call over there tomorrow just to prod them along.
Tuesday most of my direct staff and I participated in a demo conducted by Parature. The demo was of their hosted Help Desk solution. It is awesome!!! 360 degree help desk so customers can help themselves and track their own tickets to see progress, etc. It also integrates with Facebook and other social media channels. I'm very excited to further investigate this type of solution. I fear the Parature solution is outside our budget based on some initial pricing the sweet gal gave me, but we're going to put together and RFP and submit it to them anyway. I mentioned it to one of our sales guys and he said it sounded cool and he was very excited about all the changes. I told him to go close some deals so we can move forward with ALL of the changes. :-0
My fuse was short with one of my staff members AGAIN yesterday. He really is a bagful of excuses. At one point during a conference call I was literally pulling my hair and laying my head on my desk. And all I could think was, "I cannot WAIT until we go to this ROWE because in that environment I'd bet he figures out how to get things done in the time frame provided. And when it's HIS time at stake, I bet he doesn't sit on the phone with me for hours upon end being obtuse and coy." I'm unamused. Needs more time. I finally just snapped and said we were going to be moving very fast and very furiously and we don't have time to offer extensions on every project - they just need to get done so we can move on to the next project.
The Work Sucks (and how to fix it) books arrived!!! 20 beautiful books neatly packed in a box. I tore into the box and just stared at them. It's real! It's happening. And I adore those books. I caressed a few of them. And I need mine back from the Chairman. I'm LOST without it! I wanted to look something up in it today and I couldn't. (I was not in the office today so I couldn't look it up in one of the 20 books sitting in the box either!) I checked on his progress yesterday - he had not ready but maybe 2 chapters since I loaned him my book last Thursday - but he assured me he likes what he's read thus far. I really hope he gets it done before Tuesday. I better follow up with him tomorrow or Friday also.
Up next - conference call with Stacey from Culture Rx. OH - but Cali sent the contract to me - I signed it and my colleague took pictures of me signing it - just my hand holding the pen and signing my name!!! It can be a part of the scrapbook we're putting together!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Nothing a Little Sugar Can't Cure (the hiccup, that is)
Met with the Chairman today. Gave him the whole back ground on this journey of mine leading up to the introduction of ROWE. He listened intently and with sincerity - like he always does - because he is a man of heart and reason. He was excited! He couldn't wait to get his hands on the book - but for some reason I was having trouble handing it over. I don't like loaning out my book - HA! It's like my Bible or something. I like to look at the highlighted words, and then look between the highlighted words to see what I may have missed the first go around. And then I highlight some more. I imagine that soon, the entire book will be yellow!
But I handed it over at the end of our conversation. He asked what he could do to help. I indicated he could read the book and then come back to me with questions or concerns and I would talk through those with him - but ultimately I need and want him to be a cheerleader for this - but I want it to be genuine and sincere. He committed to read the book and get back with me. I think I might have noticed a slight skip in his step as he left my office!
He then hopped immediately on e-mail and sent his son and business partner in his other business the name of the book and recommended they also read it right away because they are having some cultural issues in that business as well. He asked me to confirm this is a good idea before he hit "send" - I assured him it is an AWESOME idea!!!
I can't WAIT to hear his feedback after he's read the book! I hope he's at home reading it right now!
We have started toying with Google Apps here in the office - slick online tool! I set up a site for the sales staff, posted a few things out there and also put all the tools and documents they need to do their jobs on their site! Monday I will walk them throught it and I hope they find it as helpful as I want them to!
Sat in on a webinar about Social Media in service today - very fascinating. I wonder how many of my staff also listened in as I suggested they do. It will be interesting to hear their reactions and thoughts to this. Add that to the list of things to work on - Social Media - B There or B Square.
And I've signed us up for a demo of a hosted Help Desk solution - I really hope people are starting to catch on to the fact that we're serious about change and we're moving at lightening speed!!!
Great Day!
But I handed it over at the end of our conversation. He asked what he could do to help. I indicated he could read the book and then come back to me with questions or concerns and I would talk through those with him - but ultimately I need and want him to be a cheerleader for this - but I want it to be genuine and sincere. He committed to read the book and get back with me. I think I might have noticed a slight skip in his step as he left my office!
He then hopped immediately on e-mail and sent his son and business partner in his other business the name of the book and recommended they also read it right away because they are having some cultural issues in that business as well. He asked me to confirm this is a good idea before he hit "send" - I assured him it is an AWESOME idea!!!
I can't WAIT to hear his feedback after he's read the book! I hope he's at home reading it right now!
We have started toying with Google Apps here in the office - slick online tool! I set up a site for the sales staff, posted a few things out there and also put all the tools and documents they need to do their jobs on their site! Monday I will walk them throught it and I hope they find it as helpful as I want them to!
Sat in on a webinar about Social Media in service today - very fascinating. I wonder how many of my staff also listened in as I suggested they do. It will be interesting to hear their reactions and thoughts to this. Add that to the list of things to work on - Social Media - B There or B Square.
And I've signed us up for a demo of a hosted Help Desk solution - I really hope people are starting to catch on to the fact that we're serious about change and we're moving at lightening speed!!!
Great Day!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Hiccup
We hit a slight hiccup today - I imagine it will not be the last either. It hasn't derailed us and I'd rather expected it so I'm not really horribly upset by it.
As we look to move into this new office space, we had not planned to accomodate our chairman in our new space. Since he became our chairman back in 2000 or maybe it was 1999, we've always provided him a private office. But the new space doesn't really allow us to do this AND we didn't really feel it was in his best interest any longer. He's not actively involved in the day to day operations or activities of the company. He's actually about 99% hands-off. But he's a gem of a man and has a huge cash investment in our company, so we typically oblige him when it comes to the private office.
Well, we had to tell him we weren't taking him with us. And because of his age and some other stressors in his life, he is a tad fragile of late and this news did not settle well with him. He became upset and took it personally and accused us of not wanting him around any longer and it was all just kind of sad. See, yesterday, I saw him in the parking lot and I just had this gut feeling that something was "off" with him. So I suggested to the CEO that we bring him in, tell him straight up we're moving to a ROWE and be forthright in the fact that we don't think he can handle being in the office and not seeing everyone there every day. I think he's the kind of man that can understand this and appreciate the honesty and candor. Well, the CEO is heading out on vacation tomorrow and didn't want to open that can of worms until his return. So this morning, that's when the chairman got upset and took it personally and was crying and it was just all so horrible. Like I said - he's a very kind man that has put so much faith and trust into us - and especially me - over the years - I just felt horrible. Sneaky. When in fact, there is NOTHING to hide. NOTHING.
So the CEO and I went to lunch and the CEO determined that my idea yesterday about coming out in the open with the Chairman NOW vs at the Company Meeting on August 3rd would in fact be a better approach. So I get the fun task of speaking to him about ROWE and explaining that and selling him on the idea and hopefully getting him to a point that he is a cheerleader for this movement also. I feel pretty confident that I can get him there. We've shared thousands of frank moments together over the last several years and I believe that trust is still there.
I don't know what it's like to be in your mid-70's (yet) and I don't know what it feels like to not feel "needed" any longer. I also don't know what it feels like to not feel "wanted." The fact that he currently feels all of these things is heartbreaking. He believed in me time and again. He trusted me and empowered me over and over. I actually look forward to my conversation with him about ROWE because I believe that in some ways, I'm giving back to him what he gave to me so many times - BELIEF - TRUST - INCLUSION. I just hope there aren't tears involved. Although it wouldn't be the first conversation between he and I that involved tears. And we got through those - we can get through this!
As we look to move into this new office space, we had not planned to accomodate our chairman in our new space. Since he became our chairman back in 2000 or maybe it was 1999, we've always provided him a private office. But the new space doesn't really allow us to do this AND we didn't really feel it was in his best interest any longer. He's not actively involved in the day to day operations or activities of the company. He's actually about 99% hands-off. But he's a gem of a man and has a huge cash investment in our company, so we typically oblige him when it comes to the private office.
Well, we had to tell him we weren't taking him with us. And because of his age and some other stressors in his life, he is a tad fragile of late and this news did not settle well with him. He became upset and took it personally and accused us of not wanting him around any longer and it was all just kind of sad. See, yesterday, I saw him in the parking lot and I just had this gut feeling that something was "off" with him. So I suggested to the CEO that we bring him in, tell him straight up we're moving to a ROWE and be forthright in the fact that we don't think he can handle being in the office and not seeing everyone there every day. I think he's the kind of man that can understand this and appreciate the honesty and candor. Well, the CEO is heading out on vacation tomorrow and didn't want to open that can of worms until his return. So this morning, that's when the chairman got upset and took it personally and was crying and it was just all so horrible. Like I said - he's a very kind man that has put so much faith and trust into us - and especially me - over the years - I just felt horrible. Sneaky. When in fact, there is NOTHING to hide. NOTHING.
So the CEO and I went to lunch and the CEO determined that my idea yesterday about coming out in the open with the Chairman NOW vs at the Company Meeting on August 3rd would in fact be a better approach. So I get the fun task of speaking to him about ROWE and explaining that and selling him on the idea and hopefully getting him to a point that he is a cheerleader for this movement also. I feel pretty confident that I can get him there. We've shared thousands of frank moments together over the last several years and I believe that trust is still there.
I don't know what it's like to be in your mid-70's (yet) and I don't know what it feels like to not feel "needed" any longer. I also don't know what it feels like to not feel "wanted." The fact that he currently feels all of these things is heartbreaking. He believed in me time and again. He trusted me and empowered me over and over. I actually look forward to my conversation with him about ROWE because I believe that in some ways, I'm giving back to him what he gave to me so many times - BELIEF - TRUST - INCLUSION. I just hope there aren't tears involved. Although it wouldn't be the first conversation between he and I that involved tears. And we got through those - we can get through this!
Monday, July 19, 2010
ROCK 'N ROWE!
I totally stole that from my new BFF Cali Ressler! I'm pretty sure she is starting to catch on to the fact that I'm a creeper of sorts - I sent her a picture of me today. Weird, I know. But see, their website has pictures of their team members so whenever I'm on the phone with them, I know who I'm speaking to. But we don't have our pictures on our website, so they really don't know who they are speaking to when I'm on the phone or emailing with them. So I was really just trying to be polite by sending my picture! I'm like that - courteous.
Today Cali and I talked via phone to go over a few questions I had and to also set the date for the ROWE implementation workshop. Thank God she's not an attorney, I cannot shut my mouth when I'm on the phone with her. It would be so much easier if we could just sit around on the floor with a keg of wine and hash this stuff out. But then I would likely also forget everything she is conveying to me - so it's for the best that we are forced to talk on the phone or over email. I should likely confirm she's not charging me by the minute for those calls.
Things are moving so quickly now that my mind is reeling - ROWE implementation; office move; new technology for training, phone system, and who knows what else at this point - we're exploring everything and have torn down the walls that have been confining our thinking for so long and just going crazy with change! I hope the staff can accept it, embrace it, foster it and grow from it! (And also I hope they can keep up after sitting stagnant for such a long period of time - I think they can - they're a pretty cool group and surely we haven't totally killed their spirit with the stifling culture).
Cali has promised to assign a babysitter to me. Or maybe she's my psychiatrist? She gave her the link to this blog - HI STACEY!!! Cali assures me that Stacey will ensure that my sanity is maintained through this. THANKS STACEY! And if you manage to salvage my sanity through this - have I got a job for you at my house!!
First things first: Get the book in here - it's en route currently and will be passed out to all staff on August 3rd at the company meeting. (I thought it was the 2nd - but it's the 3rd. See. Already confused!) Also at that meeting we will be launching our new campaign for our training center - which will include new technology and a new name! And also we will announce the move to new space. AND last, but not least, my colleague and I are presenting the CEO with a custom framing of his article that was recently published in a business publication! I can't wait for this meeting! I bought a new dress - but only one - it's for when the CultureRX experts come to conduct our implementation workshop. (It was on CLEARANCE - don't judge!) But now I'm thinking I want a new outfit for the company meeting that day also - because so many cool, fresh ideas are being presented and all! Yes. I realize the culture is the most important thing and this blog is about THAT journey - but a gal needs new clothes too and when you see an Antonio Melani 75% off - you have to buy it. That's just how the world works.
Anyway - today I also met with the new landlord, who is also conveniently a corporate interior designer. We went back through the new space, discussed the new ROWE plan (he looked at me like I was crazy - he was likely thinking we'll end up out of business and questioning his decision to lease to us for 5 years) - how the office would become a tool, what we want to accomplish with the space/layout, etc. AND - here's the super amazing part - I gave up my big office. I totally did. Instead, I offered to split my office with my colleague. So he and I will have a shared space to use when we are physically at the office. Fortunately he lives in a house full of females so he's already been well trained and is super easy to get along with. Plus - I'm totally driven by impulse most of the time, and he's a thinker - so I think we'll make a well-balanced team in that shared space. The designers should have an initial drawing to me as early as Wednesday of this week! I can't wait to see it! I also hope we can get it all done within our limited budget.
The new landlord is so awesome that he also agreed to let us use the new space for our ROWE Implementation workshop! I am so excited about that because the space is so radically different than the morgue in which we currently "work." I think I might kiss that landlord and his designers before this is all over! They told me the building has a tin roof and when it rains it is very loud and that sometimesherds flocks of birds will land on the roof and you can hear their little toes running around. I don't care. I think it sounds fun! The front door allows an amazing view to the west - which means that I can see the storms coming in without the trees blocking my view. (Which does remind me I did not ask where the fraidy hole is located in case of a tornado - I better find out).
The boss is STILL totally on board with this plan! And to prove it - he's practicing his anti-sludge skills with me. I was running behind this morning due to a mix-up with the driver's ed teacher (not mine - my daughter's). So I emailed him to let him know the issue and that I'd be at the office shortly. He didn't respond at all and when I joined our 8:30 call 2 minutes late - he didn't ask any questions or skip a beat. On that same call, he discovered one of his direct reports was on vacation today - as per his calendar. He didn't say a word about that either. Then, this afternoon, I had to decline a meeting request from the boss - I really could not make the meeting because my son is having his wisdom teeth pulled that day. The boss just replied and said, "All meeting are optional". He WANTS this to work. I can tell he does. That is very encouraging to me!
So, in the words of Cali - We are ready to ROCK 'N ROWE!!!
Today Cali and I talked via phone to go over a few questions I had and to also set the date for the ROWE implementation workshop. Thank God she's not an attorney, I cannot shut my mouth when I'm on the phone with her. It would be so much easier if we could just sit around on the floor with a keg of wine and hash this stuff out. But then I would likely also forget everything she is conveying to me - so it's for the best that we are forced to talk on the phone or over email. I should likely confirm she's not charging me by the minute for those calls.
Things are moving so quickly now that my mind is reeling - ROWE implementation; office move; new technology for training, phone system, and who knows what else at this point - we're exploring everything and have torn down the walls that have been confining our thinking for so long and just going crazy with change! I hope the staff can accept it, embrace it, foster it and grow from it! (And also I hope they can keep up after sitting stagnant for such a long period of time - I think they can - they're a pretty cool group and surely we haven't totally killed their spirit with the stifling culture).
Cali has promised to assign a babysitter to me. Or maybe she's my psychiatrist? She gave her the link to this blog - HI STACEY!!! Cali assures me that Stacey will ensure that my sanity is maintained through this. THANKS STACEY! And if you manage to salvage my sanity through this - have I got a job for you at my house!!
First things first: Get the book in here - it's en route currently and will be passed out to all staff on August 3rd at the company meeting. (I thought it was the 2nd - but it's the 3rd. See. Already confused!) Also at that meeting we will be launching our new campaign for our training center - which will include new technology and a new name! And also we will announce the move to new space. AND last, but not least, my colleague and I are presenting the CEO with a custom framing of his article that was recently published in a business publication! I can't wait for this meeting! I bought a new dress - but only one - it's for when the CultureRX experts come to conduct our implementation workshop. (It was on CLEARANCE - don't judge!) But now I'm thinking I want a new outfit for the company meeting that day also - because so many cool, fresh ideas are being presented and all! Yes. I realize the culture is the most important thing and this blog is about THAT journey - but a gal needs new clothes too and when you see an Antonio Melani 75% off - you have to buy it. That's just how the world works.
Anyway - today I also met with the new landlord, who is also conveniently a corporate interior designer. We went back through the new space, discussed the new ROWE plan (he looked at me like I was crazy - he was likely thinking we'll end up out of business and questioning his decision to lease to us for 5 years) - how the office would become a tool, what we want to accomplish with the space/layout, etc. AND - here's the super amazing part - I gave up my big office. I totally did. Instead, I offered to split my office with my colleague. So he and I will have a shared space to use when we are physically at the office. Fortunately he lives in a house full of females so he's already been well trained and is super easy to get along with. Plus - I'm totally driven by impulse most of the time, and he's a thinker - so I think we'll make a well-balanced team in that shared space. The designers should have an initial drawing to me as early as Wednesday of this week! I can't wait to see it! I also hope we can get it all done within our limited budget.
The new landlord is so awesome that he also agreed to let us use the new space for our ROWE Implementation workshop! I am so excited about that because the space is so radically different than the morgue in which we currently "work." I think I might kiss that landlord and his designers before this is all over! They told me the building has a tin roof and when it rains it is very loud and that sometimes
The boss is STILL totally on board with this plan! And to prove it - he's practicing his anti-sludge skills with me. I was running behind this morning due to a mix-up with the driver's ed teacher (not mine - my daughter's). So I emailed him to let him know the issue and that I'd be at the office shortly. He didn't respond at all and when I joined our 8:30 call 2 minutes late - he didn't ask any questions or skip a beat. On that same call, he discovered one of his direct reports was on vacation today - as per his calendar. He didn't say a word about that either. Then, this afternoon, I had to decline a meeting request from the boss - I really could not make the meeting because my son is having his wisdom teeth pulled that day. The boss just replied and said, "All meeting are optional". He WANTS this to work. I can tell he does. That is very encouraging to me!
So, in the words of Cali - We are ready to ROCK 'N ROWE!!!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
And it's.... A GO FOLKS!!!!
Got approval yesterday to engage the services of CultureRX to assist us in the ROWE implementation! Very much looking forward to my call with Cali next week to hammer out some of the details and questions around their proposal and get this ball rolling!!!
Also - finalizing the lease agreement with a new landlord on hip, cool and ultra amazing new office space! VERY excited about that as well! I think the space will definitely foster creativity to those who choose to use it a tool to meeting their expected results and goals!
AND - approval to move forward to investigate Virtual PBX technology to fix our little inbound service phone line issue and allow our employees the freedom to work from wherever they want and still achieve our goal of above excellent customer service! Have assigned two team members to research and investigate this!
Things are moving VERY quickly. Our hopes are to make an announcement in our next company meeting - August 2nd about all of these changes and then move sometime between September 15th & 30th and have this all in place by then! It should definitely be a whirlwind of activity - but I'm VERY much looking forward to the challenge and embracing and loving every moment of it!!
Also - finalizing the lease agreement with a new landlord on hip, cool and ultra amazing new office space! VERY excited about that as well! I think the space will definitely foster creativity to those who choose to use it a tool to meeting their expected results and goals!
AND - approval to move forward to investigate Virtual PBX technology to fix our little inbound service phone line issue and allow our employees the freedom to work from wherever they want and still achieve our goal of above excellent customer service! Have assigned two team members to research and investigate this!
Things are moving VERY quickly. Our hopes are to make an announcement in our next company meeting - August 2nd about all of these changes and then move sometime between September 15th & 30th and have this all in place by then! It should definitely be a whirlwind of activity - but I'm VERY much looking forward to the challenge and embracing and loving every moment of it!!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Still plugging along....
Monday. Bleh. Why must one dread the Monday so? Is it the screaming of the alarm clock that does it to us? I think it must be. Who says work needs to start at 8 a.m. on Monday? Why is that relevant? OH WAIT! It's NOT!!!
While on a conference call today, I heard the most disgusting thing I think I've heard in a very long time. From the mouth of a prospective customer, "Unless I have a mandated deadline from the Board, I just don't stay on track with these types of projects very well. So YOU will need to stay on top of me to get this deal done." What? Are you kidding me? Did that prospect just ask us to babysit him? I'm not a babysitter, thank you though. That's ridiculous. I'm sure that increasing the profitability of their company is always on the mind of the Board - and I'm pretty certain they want it achieved ASAP. But it made me wonder how many people on our team feel that way - that unless they have a specific deadline they just don't get things done. I bet quite a few of them are like that. Sad. Very sad. But I think we can change that attitude - no - I KNOW we can change that attitude!
Good day today. The boss is still on track for ROWE. He's pretty excited about it also, which excites me quite a bit! He is even keeping my book one more night because he's taking notes from it. So he not only read it, but it appears he has been studying it also! Tomorrow, I'm going to give him Cali's proposal in hopes that he approves having her team come in and help us to implement this! Should be a great management meeting!
Departmental meeting today was good - continued to go over our lists of tasks/activities and identify value in those items. So far, the ONLY activity that adds no value (which we eliminated after the meeting last week) was the time tracking item. Interesting. But yet today, I kept hearing complaints of certain things taking too much time. Too much time from what? What is the purpose/goal of the task? Does it add value? If it results in the rentention of $16,000/yr fee from that one customer - is it really too much time? I wonder if, when we move to ROWE, they will continue to think of some tasks as too time consuming? I'll be interested to see how it unfolds. I wonder if they will start to think differently and realize it wasn't the customer that was taking their time and too much of it - but instead it was being chained to that desk that was taking their time and controlling their lives. I also wonder, if it is THEIR time at stake - if they won't get creative on their own in terms of finding new ways to achieve the same results that take less time. I would think they would.
We have a staff member who spends hours on the phone with a specific customer. Literally hours and hours on the phone - and then stays at the office VERY late and works tons of hours to meet her deadlines. She says she can't get the customer off the phone. But I'm wondering - if she doesn't have 40 hours a week of our time to fill up - and instead is on her time - if she just won't find a polite, but direct way to communicate to the customer the need to end the incessant conference calling. I'd bet a paycheck that she does!!
There were some sideline emails going around today that were not productive, or professional, or even civil. They were just plain nasty for the sake of being nasty. And I wondered, "I bet when it's no longer OUR time to fill, but instead his/her time - they won't waste a minute of their freedom to shoot off nasty-grams like this and I'd bet this crap comes to a screeching hault." I mean - why would I take 5 minutes out of MY time to say something nasty about someone else when it has no impact on reaching the goal? I wouldn't. I hope the others see it the same way.
So many wonderful positive things that I can foresee coming our way!
While on a conference call today, I heard the most disgusting thing I think I've heard in a very long time. From the mouth of a prospective customer, "Unless I have a mandated deadline from the Board, I just don't stay on track with these types of projects very well. So YOU will need to stay on top of me to get this deal done." What? Are you kidding me? Did that prospect just ask us to babysit him? I'm not a babysitter, thank you though. That's ridiculous. I'm sure that increasing the profitability of their company is always on the mind of the Board - and I'm pretty certain they want it achieved ASAP. But it made me wonder how many people on our team feel that way - that unless they have a specific deadline they just don't get things done. I bet quite a few of them are like that. Sad. Very sad. But I think we can change that attitude - no - I KNOW we can change that attitude!
Good day today. The boss is still on track for ROWE. He's pretty excited about it also, which excites me quite a bit! He is even keeping my book one more night because he's taking notes from it. So he not only read it, but it appears he has been studying it also! Tomorrow, I'm going to give him Cali's proposal in hopes that he approves having her team come in and help us to implement this! Should be a great management meeting!
Departmental meeting today was good - continued to go over our lists of tasks/activities and identify value in those items. So far, the ONLY activity that adds no value (which we eliminated after the meeting last week) was the time tracking item. Interesting. But yet today, I kept hearing complaints of certain things taking too much time. Too much time from what? What is the purpose/goal of the task? Does it add value? If it results in the rentention of $16,000/yr fee from that one customer - is it really too much time? I wonder if, when we move to ROWE, they will continue to think of some tasks as too time consuming? I'll be interested to see how it unfolds. I wonder if they will start to think differently and realize it wasn't the customer that was taking their time and too much of it - but instead it was being chained to that desk that was taking their time and controlling their lives. I also wonder, if it is THEIR time at stake - if they won't get creative on their own in terms of finding new ways to achieve the same results that take less time. I would think they would.
We have a staff member who spends hours on the phone with a specific customer. Literally hours and hours on the phone - and then stays at the office VERY late and works tons of hours to meet her deadlines. She says she can't get the customer off the phone. But I'm wondering - if she doesn't have 40 hours a week of our time to fill up - and instead is on her time - if she just won't find a polite, but direct way to communicate to the customer the need to end the incessant conference calling. I'd bet a paycheck that she does!!
There were some sideline emails going around today that were not productive, or professional, or even civil. They were just plain nasty for the sake of being nasty. And I wondered, "I bet when it's no longer OUR time to fill, but instead his/her time - they won't waste a minute of their freedom to shoot off nasty-grams like this and I'd bet this crap comes to a screeching hault." I mean - why would I take 5 minutes out of MY time to say something nasty about someone else when it has no impact on reaching the goal? I wouldn't. I hope the others see it the same way.
So many wonderful positive things that I can foresee coming our way!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)