Welcome to the Wolff Learning Blog!
Behind the scenes
The #WolffWay
W- Work ethic
O- Off time
L- Lead with integrity
F- Find your passion
F- Find a way
To the people or the actions taken behind the scenes: you and the actions you take are appreciated.
The topic of behind the scenes likely falls under the the W- Work Ethic principle of the Wolff Way. So many actions which are not a full display can go unnoticed. No matter; the people in these roles- making things happen-continue to have strong work ethic so the show goes on. The organization moves forward. Our students learn.
The actions behind the scenes may or may not be noticed. Leaders in organizations often make decisions and improvements that no one can see on the surface. The improvements in processes or systems may increase operational efficiency or result in enhanced fiscal awareness. The people you work with see it. The people in your immediate circle see it. The fact that not everyone can see the work put in can be frustrating.
These behind-the-scenes actions often result in opportunity. How? These improvements allow us the opportunity to do more, to help more, to achieve more. If we take advantage of these opportunities, we often fulfill our intrinsic needs- through an increased sense of accomplishment or increased sense of self worth. If you are a leader in your organization don't stop. Keep going. Keep working. Build on it. Not only does it make us feel better internally but also leads to more opportunities to reach our extrinsic goals like a earning a job we are seeking, getting that raise, hitting those test scores or meeting your monthly quota.
This doesn't apply to leaders exclusively. If you go to a play or concert, the stage crew is an essential component for the show to go on. If you are a dishwasher in a restaurant, the customers do not have clean silverware or plates without you. If you work in a business where you are entry-level, the organization does not function without you. Technology staff- How many organizations would crumble without these individuals? And plumbers, well, their role in our lives speaks for itself!
Behind the scenes people also work in a school environment. So much of a great classroom lesson occurs before the class starts. Good teachers put in extensive preparation before the class. Great teachers put in considerable work after the lesson grading papers, providing students feedback, and reflecting on how to improve the lesson.
Ask any principal of a school where they would be without their clerical staff. Seriously, ask them. Teachers, think of all the little things that the clerical staff do for you. They answer phone calls and greet visitors. They navigate the day to day operations of a school successfully. Clerks keep the entire machine moving in the right direction.
Whether in a school or business setting, think about the custodial staff. They do so many little things that allow teachers to teach and principals to lead. They answer the call when a kindergarten student has an accident (it happens!). They keep our business workspace clean and safe.
I'm here to say thank you. You are appreciated. The improvements you make are appreciated. The preparation you put in is appreciated. The work you do is appreciated.
Keep after it.
