The Vocational Shrink

Vocational Shrink

The Book

The workplace is an exciting arena filled with every kind of person, attitude, lifestyle and skill level imaginable. In studying them all, from the least skilled blue collar to the highest-qualified white collar, a variety of habits and recurring patterns appear as they deal with the idiosyncrasies and corporate politics present in the work environment.

One of the most interesting aspects of analyzing their traits is the realization that individuals in all echelons of power practice these survival skills to some extent. While managers may choose different levels and behavioral devices than their subordinates, the constant eye toward performance reviews and future promotions causes them all to scurry into their favorite “levels” for relief and safety. These counterproductive reactions to workplace stress can lead to limited cooperation and selfish, protectionistic attitudes.

Not only did I come to recognize these reactive trends, but also to realize that many of the ways particular individuals behaved were subconscious, habit-driven responses that varied by personality type . . . and were totally below their conscious awareness. Norman Vincent Peale taught, “The secret of life isn’t what happens to you, but what you do with what happens to you.” In the workplace what people do with what happens is often a reaction, almost an instinct, based on deeply-seated habits they’re unaware are controlling them. I’m not an actual psychologist – just “The Vocational Shrink” – but have always been fascinated by the patterns of human performance and workplace interactions.

After years of observation, research and more careful analysis, what started out as a fun and harmless game of identifying and cataloging the unique reactions of fellow employees became the a progressive Ten Levels list. Moreover, three things became obvious:

1. Employees progressed up the levels over time.

2. Personality type, age and education had the most effect on which levels a person chose and how long they stayed there.

3. All of this was well below their conscious level of thinking. These were habit patterns – reactions – not well-thought-out choices.

These observations about working people and their characteristics have been incorporated into the Ten Levels of Workplace Disillusionment. While the identification and classification of these behaviors have had me and colleagues rolling on the floor more than a few times, and demonstrated that the Ten Levels have a decidedly humorous, “human” side, we’re actually dealing with some very serious issues for both workers and employers. During 20 years building a career in the employee recognition and motivation business, I’ve gathered the insights and experiences that have resulted in this book.

This straightforward, funny, yet poignant look at life in America’s factories and offices will help you and your employees make sense out of the craziness and, over time, make work more enjoyable, cooperative, profitable, and safe – the key components that all Human Resources departments are looking for to improve their bottom line. Click here to learn about The Game that can help you and your employees better see and understand some of the common negative behavior habits that are costing you money. The Vocational Shrink – The Game