Making a difference

I’ve been thinking about Seth Godin’s post, Ego, for a few days now. Basically Seth says that “People like to be recognized, respected and trusted.” He suggests that “If I come to your fancy restaurant for dinner, why not ask me about some of my preferences on the phone and laser print a menu that highlights some of my faves.” I really like this idea. Imagine having an experience that is customised for you next time you go out for dinner.

As well, I like to be recognised as a repeat customer if I visit a shop regularly. It’s not about expecting freebies or obsequious service though – just a simple “Hello [I recognise you, I know you have been coming here every time you need a {insert item name here}]” will suffice.

This year I was reassigned to a different faculty (or division as they are known at MPOW). I moved from business to science and engineering. Apart from the change in disciplines (challenging enough!) I have found the change very interesting to observe. It’s made me realise how much the interactions and relationships between people matter, and what a huge difference knowing a person makes, even in more formal situations.

By the time I left the business school I had built up a really nice network and had a good grasp of who’s who, what’s what and all the division’s priorities. There were a few moments in the first few weeks in science and engineering when I thought that I must have been crazy to think that this change was going to be a good thing. It was very unsettling to realise that I had no networks, I had no idea who I needed to talk to to get X done, or what people in this new area thought of Y. I had to start all over again.

So what’s all this got to do with Seth’s post, you’re wondering? Well, I’ve been pondering how that added human dimension is vitally important in my job. Besides having the skills to know where to find information, people skills, being interested in the people you’re supposed to be helping also makes a huge difference. Looking like you care (and actually caring) has a very positive influence on your interactions with people (not very profound I know). Especially at MPOW, which is a large university where it is easy for students (and staff, sometimes) to feel like they are Just A Number. I hope I do make a difference to the students I do come into contact with. Remembering that anything I do could make a difference to whoever I come into contact with (students, staff, colleagues) – this is a good thing to keep in mind. Especially when I’m answering that umpteenth EndNote query.

Late post, because I have a day off today.