Recently, I stumbled upon a profound memory from my early days as a City Manager back in 2003 in Avondale Estates, GA. I took on the role of a sanitation worker for two days to learn more about the service we provided and the plight of our employees.
During this eye-opening experience, I gained invaluable insights, including:
- **Respect:** Appreciating the dedication of individuals who provide essential services often overlooked or undervalued.
- **Realities:** Experiencing firsthand the challenges and realities of handling waste, from the aroma of dirty diapers and kitty litter left in the hot sun to navigating traffic on a garbage truck.
- **Perception:** Witnessing a spectrum of reactions from residents, ranging from gratitude to disdain towards those in manual labor roles.
These moments left an indelible mark on me, shaping my management approach and reinforcing the importance of empathy, respect, and understanding in leadership. I'm curious to hear from you: What personal experiences have influenced your management style positively? Share your insights!
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