The Importance of Cross Training Part 2

Cross training is an important aspect for all organizations (small or large), it is a vital tool to ensure that all employees are well rounded. The sign of cross training does not mean that management will begin to lay off employees or fire them. It however means that in the event an employee is out on vacation, customers are not affected by any shortage of service. This is the most important and largest benefit of cross training. Your customers should never know if your company is having employee shortage issues. Customer service should never be affected. Therefore, it is beneficial for all to become cross trained. In addition, as I have mentioned in my previous posts, cross training provides the benefit of gaining knowledge.



With additional knowledge gained through cross training, this can also mean you are securing your seat in the company. The more you learn, the better the resource you are for the company. So it really is a win-win situation for all. Remember, the knowledge you gain will only benefit you in your career/life.

In addition, cross training can allow employees to obtain a raise, bonus or earn a positive annual review. Why are these rewards important? Well if you are willing to cross train amongst various departments, then you as the employee will be able to use that as an incentive during your annual to gain additional monies/rewards. So why not cross train? You as an employee should be willing to cross train, so it is in your best interest to tell your manager that you are interested in cross training because you want to grow not only in the company (which shows initiative), but you want to grow as a person in your career. Remember, rewards always pay off. But your work ethic has to be sincere and truthful. If you work with the highest level of integrity, then hard work really pays off.

Think about cross training, if your manager has not presented it to you, then in your next evaluation or meeting bring it up to see what your manager says. If your manager is not keen on it, then go to the next person above your manager. Remember, the more initiative you show, the more likely you will become recognized. You will stand out from the "average" employee who does the bare minimum. This way you can also be perceived as an individual who is committed, reliable and connected. You can secure your seat in the company.

The Importance of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the concept that corporations, businesses, and institutes use to create a sense of self empowerment amongst their employees. Emotional intelligence is the use of an individual's emotions to manipulate a situation through intelligence. Intelligence can range from positive comments, rewards, etc. Such positive aspects create a sense of self empowerment. For example, if you work in operations department in a logistics company then you will understand that stress levels are very high. If you are working in an export department that is constantly rushing to meet deadlines (i.e. deliver cargo to the airport/port before the cut off, etc) then you may have a breakdown. High stress level jobs sometimes result in the emotional breakdown of an employee's state. So what do corporations do to overcome or avoid such breakdowns? Well it's called emotional intelligence. By complimenting your good work ethic, giving you a reward for employee of the month, a free lunch, etc. organizations use such tactics at a vulnerable time to show their appreciation. You as a stressed out employee begin to feel that there is hope, self empowered, and most importantly appreciated. This is called emotional intelligence.

Providing rewards is also another healthy way of having a manager like them, despite their actions (actions may be good or bad). However, the benefits of emotional intelligence are truly meant in a positive manner. They are not there to harm you but also give you the boost you need to enjoy what you do, appreciate your company and manager, etc. Nevertheless, this should be a continuous process by organizations - that is to continuously self empower and reward employees. Rewards can speak large volumes, but so can a simple "Thank you".

It is rare to see or hear managers say "thank you" or a "job well done". Most people are out to reap and gain benefits for themselves so showing any form of courtesy or appreciation is rarely even heard of. However, if you are a manager, make sure to find a way to motivate your employee. This will help to gain loyalty as well. Loyal employees will also be more productive as they want to do the best they can for their manager. Think about it, use of emotional intelligence is a win-win for all!