One of my oft repeated phrases at work is one of my most important leadership philosophies about employees: “Take care of your people, and they will take care of you.”
I immediately follow that with: “That doesn’t mean molly-coddelying them. It means giving them the training, tools, and direction to do what needs to be done; and THEN making sure they know when they are headed off course.”
Applies in the exact same way to welfare in my mind. I can’t take care of my employees if I don’t hold them accountable. WE can’t take care of our citizens unless we do the same.
Neither will grow up to take care of the organization unless they are held accountable for their part.
Reed you are so on point with this. My hubby has his own business. Usually he handles all the work himself but when overloaded he hires contract help. He's got a soft heart and will give anyone a chance if they ask, have the right attitude and rudimentary skills. We've been burned by deadbeats but also been completely blessed to see people turn their lives around because they're given the chance and some training.
One thing I am very proud of my hubby for, he also works hard to help successful contract workers find permanent employment when work runs out with him. He not only employs, he mentors and tries to help them from short term employment to long term positions. And yet, I must admit, less than half he's given a chance do well. He will give good training and guidance, have a heart to heart when work habits get sloppy then have a "come to Jesus" discussion before letting contractors go. But all too many who really need the work for themselves and families get let go.