A New Paradigm

This week we read from a news article published by CNBC about job satisfaction. The article can be found at:
https://www.cnbc.com/2022/08/12/job-unhappiness-is-at-a-staggering-all-time-high-according-to-gallup.html

According to the article, 60% of workers feel emotionally detached at work. 22% of workers feel sad at work. 18% of workers feel angry at work. To say that it is common to feel unsatisfied and unhappy at work is, in reality, a reflection of the damaged relationship between workers and employers. Unfortunately, so many people are used to working in an oppressive environment that they don't even think to question if there could be a better way.

One of our "why's" at Bridgeview is to challenge the way workers and employers currently interact and encourage everyone to shift their focus to a new paradigm of cooperation. American workers and American companies need each other. Workers need employers who can provide them with meaningful work, who see them as people and not merely a number on a spreadsheet, and who encourage instead of belittle. Companies need workers who believe in the mission of the company, who are loyal and stay with the company for years, and who get along with each other so that those in leadership don't feel like they're babysitting. 

How can employers shift away from how things are currently done today? One way is to change the hiring process. Bridgeview has a longer hiring process than most contract manufacturers. We conduct a 30-minute phone interview, then we bring the person to the shop for a 60-minute assessment of skills, and then we invite the person back to the shop a second time for a 30-minute group interview. The process can take anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on how many applicants we have and how busy we are. We never rush into a new hire and we never hire solely based on the opinion of those in leadership. A potential new hire must meet everyone they would be working with and those people get to weigh in on how they thought the new person would fit in with the team. By adopting this hiring process, we have been able to hire on the most amazing and dedicated team members. These are people who believe in our mission, who are invested in succeeding, and who fit right in with the current team. 

How can employees shift away from how things are currently done today? Stop selling yourself short. Your work should mean something to you and to your employer. Stop applying to work at companies that see you as disposable. When you go to interviews, ask yourself these questions: Does the workspace seem oppressive or welcoming? Is the interview process all about skills, qualifications, and attendance, or is the interest in you as a person? Do you feel like you would be entering into a business transaction or into a lasting relationship?

What steps have you taken to shift to the new paradigm of employer/employee relationships?

Below:
Haley (left) is proud to work for her family's company. She helps to encourage her team with her humor and experience.  Richard (right) brings years of experience to his role at Bridgeview. He believes in our company's mission and feels like he is part of a bigger purpose.