Obama Inauguration

I may have more to say about this once some digestion has occurred on my part. Or I may not. I’ll have a lot to say about the Obama administration when it deals directly or indirectly with the workplace and employment law.

A few things initially stuck with me about the event and Obama’s inaugural address, and I think these things relate to every employer and employee.

The historic nature of the event was extraordinary. I wonder whether employers and employees are aware of historic events that occur in the workplace. Can you think of one in your workplace? Was it celebrated?

Obama emphasized that, in times like these, we must not let fear overcome confidence. As between fear and confidence, which one is prevailing right now in your workplace?

The new president emphasized that all Americans are equal. That’s not always true, but it’s a principle that this country set forth upon its founding. While the principle has never been perfected, it should always be remembered. In your workplace, how do your employees feel about whether they’re treated equally?

Obama called on citizens to pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and remake America. Do your employees hear their supervisors and executives making this call, and do they believe they’ll get the help they need to do it?

He talked about America’s patchwork heritage. I like that description and wonder if most workplaces aren’t like that. Do all parts of your organization’s “patchwork heritage” feel apart of the whole fabric?

Obama singled out for praise employees who’ve been willing to cut their hours so that coworkers wouldn’t lose their jobs. With layoffs still occurring and being considered, isn’t that an alternative worth seriously contemplating?

Leaders of all employers of any kind should think about these points and answer these questions.