I recently saw this large sign outside a Madison business:
NOW HIRING.
MUST HAVE A CLUE.
Those succinct words say volumes about one part of our worker shortage in America.
I’m aware that the lack of workers, like so many problems, is complex. However, I also believe a great epidemic of cluelessness is sweeping America. Talk to anyone who does hiring in retail establishments and you will hear tales of woe about many of their new hires.
The old fashioned notion of a work ethic appears to be a foreign concept to many current job applicants. Perhaps a refresher course is needed. I would propose the following list.
- You must show up for work.
- Your job’s starting time is not a suggestion.
- “My cousin’s in town” is not an excuse for skipping work.
- Your vacation does not start two weeks after you are hired.
- You were hired to do a job. You and your phone were not hired.
- Your boss isn’t a descendant of Cruella de Vil.
- Your fellow employees aren’t all idiots.
- Some customers will be idiots, but they must be tolerated.
- Pajama bottoms and flip-flops are not casual business attire.
- Do not lean in if you are not financially independent.
Because of the severe worker shortage, those who do show up every day and put in an honest day’s labor have to pick up the slack. They are overworked, overwhelmed and tired out.
Kudos to everyone who shows up. Our country can’t run without you.
So true