I have been working on a project for over a year, but it started even before that. I think it is one of the best in my work here and has real importance, but when the CEOs newsletter comes out about what is new, IT is ignored. Instead they push the latest song, video, PR piece, etc. Is IT just not cool enough to pull off being a headline or wearing a lampshade on it's head?
When IT is invited to a party, they are just expected to help the CEO with the mic, laptop, projector and ppt. They are not to be allowed in the fun areas or strategically important. IT is only mentioned or talked about if there is a problem.
Actually now that I think about our last few staff parties, usually only part (if any) of the IT team comes. The rest are still back in the office keeping things running. Maybe those staff that stay back do it because there really is work to do... But I think they just dont feel welcome at the party. They werent invited to have fun and be a part of the team, noone includes them in that. No if they showed up at the party, people would ask them to fix their phone, look at their laptop, or analyze why their computer at home is going rattle, rattle, crash, boom, boom.
Why is this true, is it because IT staff like it that way? I dont think so, even if they say they do. I have been to the NTEN conferences, most of the people there dont appear to want to be left alone. I think it is because they are not recognized, celebrated or included, so they dont feel attached to the other staff or even the mission. How sad that we seclude some of brightest staff with the tools to make a real difference, to just keep the projector working for the staff slide show.
Sorry today's post is a bit negative, it is tough when you work on something that long and the billing goes to a song instead. But hey lets all just sing along and pretend that all is well.
NOTE: disclaimer... I do not claim to be an expert on this nor do I mean to apply this is true for all organizations.
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4 comments:
IT isn't at the party because when the rest of the staff is gone from their desks, it is the ideal time to upgrade, fix, and test.
Citybadger, That is funny and true. Thanks for the comment.
IT staff are never going to get recognition unless they form alliances with other departments that are more 'visible,' e.g. development. As long as we only see ourselves as 'techies,' we will be left out of the spotlight - unless there is a problem, when we are suddenly in the limelight.
It is also up to us to publicize our achievements to the entire organization.
Regards, NHR
http://nhr.vox.com
STOP right there! I am falling off my seat & that is so sad. Yes, it is soooooo true! I am always the one "hiding behind the podium" fixing the laptop, mic, or projector while everyone else is out there enjoying their cocktails. WOAH!
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