Fieldamental #25: Always Remember that We're a Family

ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT WE’RE A FAMILY. Our relationships go deeper than simply being team members at work.  We genuinely care for and about each other.  Whether it’s a kind word during a tough stretch, a friendly smile each morning, or a helping hand in stressful times, show your compassion.

When I reflect on what I’m most thankful for, 3 aspects of my life always stand out: my faith, my family and my health.  Bill and I are a part of a 7 child family; we have over 25 Nieces & Nephews and over 30 Great-Nieces & Great Nephews.  We are blessed with a very close family that enjoys spending time together.  One of the best aspects of being a member of a big family is that we get to celebrate “life highlights” together; weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and babies being born.  These celebrations just seem more fun when the family can be together to enjoy them.  The power of the family is true during the tougher times; when someone is sick or when others need help or support.  We can rally around the family member that needs help and we can find a way to support them in their time of need.  The struggles are lessened by the strength of the family.

Field is more than a family owned business; Field is an extension of our family.  The “Field family” started as 12 people in 1990 and has grown to over 145 Field family members in 10 states and 3 countries today.  When we truly recognize that we are a family, it is easier to trust & respect each other, “be there” to support each other during challenging times, go the extra mile for each other and forgive each other when our feelings are hurt.  As a family, we get to celebrate the excitement of being awarded a major new customer together, celebrate milestone anniversaries of being in Field Family and recognize new additions to the Field Family to mention just a few.  We also need to support each otherduring challenging heath issues and personal struggles.

Field Team

During a recent Focus Group meeting, the topic of our “open door philosophy” came up.  Many of our newer team members were not aware of this aspect of our culture.  As a Family, we are always interested in what is going on with you in other aspects of your life, not just what happens at Field.  It can be easy to share the joys in your life, but sharing your challenges is important as well.  Our open door philosophy is a commitment and interest by our Leadership in being available to listen to what is going on in your life.  The only issues we can’t help you work through are the ones we don’t know about.  Don’t hesitate to share your struggles or challenges with others in the Field family, we can work together and find a way to help.  The other aspect of this issue that came up in the focus group was a “perception” that Field leadership team may be too busy to deal with personal issues.  Nothing could be further from the truth.

I would like to take this as an opportunity to invite anyone to spend time one on one with me or any of our leadership team to discuss any topic you like.  This could include your career at Field, training opportunities, family issues, anything that is on your mind.  Stop by my office, schedule a time in Outlook, give me a call, or just leave a note on my desk indicating you would like to get together, I look forward to talking with you!