Anyone else feel generally unliked at their facility?
I’ve worked here for about 2.5 years and it seems like I’ve made very few connections at my job. People view me as safety cop/sticker police, which I try very hard not to be. I try to reason with people and treat them with respect. In my opinion I’m pretty laid back, but it just seems like people don’t like me. I’m not sure if it’s the role I’m in, or if I’m doing something wrong. Anyone else feel like this?
Comments (11)
Just get a stick and beat the tar out of them
explain that the beatings will continue until morale is better
we are in a hated profession
we are considered "Leaks in the payrole"
no one ever considers what we do is in the best interests of the company and employees
I have learned to not have feelings...…..you wont make it with them
good luck
It’s not unusual for the safety guy to be the least favorite. Both management and crew look at you as slowing down work and or making it more difficult.
Spend time at the job site talking to them about themselves. Family, hobbies, etc. My guys have accepted me as a part of the group and don’t mind now when I correct them on a safety shortfall.
I worked at a place for a few years where ever you wanted management including the owner of the company viewed me as an annoyance and was really disliked. It got to the point where I had to leave the company because I was being bullied.
It is not you! It's the job. People see us as telling them what to do when in reality we are trying to make a difference in their life. I agree with everyone, build relationships. Tell them about your family, hobbies and then ask theirs. Or a simple "What are you doing this weekend?" helps. I think your connections should be with your EHS team - hopefully you have another co-worker to help you.
I would try having personal conversations with everyone. Don't always approach them about safety. Learn about what they are like outside of work. That way when they see you they don't immediately think something bad is coming. You may just want to have a normal conversation. I've found people are more likely to approach you with safety issues if they feel comfortable on a more personal level.
I don't because I actually try time to time to go to the floor and work with them side by side. By doing so they gain your respect and now your not being a cop you are the commissioner. LOL
This was me at my last job. I've come to the conclusion that if you're making a conscious effort to work with people and they're not reciprocating, then it's likely an indication of the workplace culture as a whole.