Snow Days

sjam613

Shared on Wed, 02/14/2007 - 10:50
So we haven't had a ton of snow this year in CT and today is the first winter storm we have gotten.  People complain about the snow and while I hate dealing with getting to work I do live in New England!  If I hated snow so much I would try to locate myself somewhere that it is unlikely to occur.

With that being said, I have a dilemma every time that a storm occurs.  Being in a management position I have to come across as I want you to be safe but the company wants you here in the office.  It occurs in just about every office out there where people go through hell to drive into work just so they can look dependable.

I know life can't be like school and every chance of snow means you shut down.  On the other hand it is a shame that there aren't circumstances where a company would prefer that you stay home safe with your family.  I don't mind driving in the snow at all but it is a little crazy to me during our slow season to drive 35 miles each way in snow/icy conditions.

I remember one time in my early 20's as an assistant buyer I didn't feel like dealing with my shitty car in the weather.  I called my boss and received this response, "I would rather you be calling me from a ditch in the road than from home".  I always will remember that and keep it in mind when I can tell that my employees are uncomfortable with coming in or staying here.  The trick is to know when someone is truly worried and when someone is trying to take advantage of you.

So I will sit here today (everyone is here but one person) and keep an eye on the weather.  I will be picking up the tab today for lunch for everyone to thank them for coming in and sitting here while business is slow.  Hopefully my boss will call in from Atlanta so we can determine the path for the rest of the day.

Comments

Baine's picture
Submitted by Baine on Wed, 02/14/2007 - 10:57
As I sit here at noon, waiting for my 8:30am patient who has called assuring she is on here way (read idiot) I feel you pain. I just want to leave, but being in charge... I was going to call in today, before i heard about the snow. Funny, how a blizzard kept me from calling in to work.
BalekFekete's picture
Submitted by BalekFekete on Wed, 02/14/2007 - 11:37
Interesting post here. I'm in the EXACT same position in my current job - middle management where there isn't a good middle ground. Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on the point of view) I didn't have to make the decision today. I had a meeting with the President of our affiliate, and the General Manager of our Canadian office ... so I **WAS** coming in, irregardless of the weather. :) But...I am sending the other 2 people in our department (out of 14) who managed to get in home early so they don't get stuck after everything starts re-freezing later. B.
sjam613's picture
Submitted by sjam613 on Wed, 02/14/2007 - 12:15
I am ending up closing at 3 today.
the5thchild's picture
Submitted by the5thchild on Wed, 02/14/2007 - 13:27
Ah... sure is nice to live in California. ;) To be honest, I spend a lot of time in Alaska, for work, and have discovered that I love that type of weather. I hate it here in CA and would much rather live in an area that has actual "weather". :)

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