Authenticity
Dear Boss,
“Over on my personal blog, I defined authenticity as being the art of being genuine, real, Nona fide, true, etc…”
Today, I want to tackle this topic on my professional side. Recently, I worked for an employer whose job description indicated that it was a fun work environment. Soon after I began working for this company, I learned that statement was quite deceiving. Working for that company was anything but fun.
It was a highly intensive work environment where I was required to be physically active for my entire shift. For me, that translated to walking between 15-22 miles a day four days a week. Day one was always easy; day two was a bit challenging; day three was almost impossible; (by) day four, I was crying as I contemplated quitting week after week. I ended up with blisters on my feet and blood clots in my legs — I have the pictures to prove it.
Even further, due to safety regulations, we were restricted from using our cellular devices and from wearing earbuds or headphones. Also, there were social restrictions due to COVID. This made powering through more of a challenge. I was left with my thoughts for the entire day. Which was both therapeutic and challenging. I was surprised that I lasted 5 months. Had the employer been more forthcoming, I would not have applied in the first place.
Authenticity in our work environment is truly a fragile thing. Employers seek to hire, train, and retain highly competent employees. At times, their methods are more propagandize than genuine. On the flip side, employers tend to want to work for the best employers who offer a plethora of incentives in exchange for their services, as such, they too can be less forthcoming.
For instance, I failed to disclose that I had previously sustained some physical injuries that limited my ability to perform to their expectations. Had I been more transparent, I wouldn’t have been hired. As I reflect over this topic. I realize that we would have less turnover if we had more authenticity on both sides.
Well, I have a lot to say about this topic both personally and professionally. So, stay tuned!