Character in the Workplace

 

"We meet God the Creator as a worker in Genesis 1. The image of God in man

means man is to be a worker. The way we work will reveal how much we have

allowed the image of God to develop in us."

– R. Kent Hughes

Author

 

 

There is a crisis in the American workplace. It is not a lack of money or jobs (although both these elements add to this crisis). It is not even a spiritual crisis. It is a need for outstanding workers. There is no doubt that there are some out there, but it is a dying breed. The workforce has been trained to think that it is all about them, what they deserve, and how to get the most from a company with the least amount of work. 

People of character understand that the key to a good workplace is the quality of the workers. The key to quality workers are those who love their job, take pride in their work, and are loyal to the company. It is what use to be called a good work ethic. Author Pearl S. Buck (1892-1973) said, "The secret of joy in work is contained in one-word – excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it."

One of the reasons that so many are not performing with excellence and being the best workers is that they do not like what they do. That is a shame. If you do not like your job, find one you do like. Don't fall on the excuse that the economy is terrible and no one is hiring. People find good jobs they love every day. How? They look for them and do not give up until they find them or they create them. 

People of character learn that employers are always looking for the best workers. Sadly, too many workers are just putting in the time. If you become a worker who strives for excellence, work hard, and are willing to do more than is expected of you, you will be in high demand. Studies have shown that businesses look for people with a strong work ethic. Former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) said, "Far and away, the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing."

Be the example of a hard worker. Live by a strong work ethic and take pride in what you do. As a person of character, you are loyal, which means you do what is best for the whole company to succeed, not just yourself. Loyalty is not blind obedience to some leader; it helps the company excel in what it does by excelling in what you do. It means that you can be depended on always to give your best and perform with excellence. People of character should be the workers who set the pace for all others. If you are the one who cares more about what you give than what you get, you will have more job offers than you could ever fill. It works if you do.

 

You can learn more about Personal Development from the author and speaker, John Patrick Hickey. To get his books, training material, or book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   

© 2021 John Patrick Hickey. No part of this material may be reprinted or published without the written permission of the author.