I don't work at McDonalds, but I often look at the employees
who take my order, prepare the food, and work there with this
in mind: There but for the grace of God, go I!Sure, some of these workers are young people working a first job,
and for them, there are educations to complete, and other, better
jobs on the horizon for them. But for others, this is all there
may very well be. When they get a little older, even working at
McDonalds won't be for them, as the life they lead, or the way
they look, won't make for a suitable appearance in a public
restaurant, and they won't get hired. I often wonder what they will
do when that day comes.The desire to better oneself must not be discouraged in any workplace.
When a worker gets a little old, or a little unattractive, minimum-wage
jobs such as are found at McDonalds will be for others. They'll have
to depend on what they know, their education, to qualify for decently
paying employment.While working at McDonalds, managers must treat employees with
respect, and try to develop a work-ethic, and a desire to learn,
not just how to clean pots, but to learn basic skills that will
serve them in later life.This is a sacred trust that managers have, and to violate it where
employees are concerned can only hasten the day when they, too,
will look back at their past and wish they had done something
differently.McDonalds, remember that the public can see how you treat your
employees. Go ahead and take advantage of them now while you can.
Keep on thinking that if you run one employee off with your attitude
many more will come along to take your mistreatment, and more
after that.Every dog has their day, and this is yours. Look to the future,
and decide now how you want that to unfold for you.
I'm not just picking on McDonalds because of the opportunity
provided by McSpotlight. This goes for all employers, and for
those in authority in the workplace who think they can get away
with poor treatment of employees.Commentary by Michael L. Dawley
Pearl, Mississippi. U.S.A
November 1, 1996