Hmm. Blasé Pascal said something like, The heart knows reasons that reason cannot know. Consciousness yearns for meaning and purpose, and these are emotional concepts that are mostly outside of rationality. But finding that in yourself and helping others find it is what leadership is about.
An approach in the work place to all problems and opportunities that starts with a bit of reflection is powerful: 1) Why get out of bed for this job? 2) What are the highest ethical principles that come to bear on that judgment? and 3) What are the highest associated duties?
Then start engaging your rational tools that you've been trained (maybe over trained) to use to analyze your choices for action. Always leave process, cover your rear, and maneuvering (also less flatteringly known as manipulation) as after thoughts and gut checks that only serve to inform the ethical success of meaning, purpose and duty.
These are a few thoughts about what should be the beginning steps of critical thinking...Start building a culture of sincere quest for meaning and purpose bolstered by the discipline of critical thinking and you will see a learning organization develop that gets good and great stuff done.
Oh yeah, people like to work in such places. Even young people.
------------------------------
Esco Bell P.E., M.ASCE
Public Works Director
Mount Vernon WA
(360) 336-6204
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 03-20-2017 12:46
From: Aaron Frits
Subject: Turnover rate of young professionals
I work for a State DOT, and my office has fewer young professionals then in years past due to budget cuts and the lack of competitive salaries. Quite often those that we do hire gain enough experience to sit and pass the P.E., and then quickly accept another position outside of the agency and leave. What questions can be posed during the interview process that would help identify individuals more likely to stay with the agency past the attainment of the P.E.?
------------------------------
Aaron Frits P.E., ENV SP, M.ASCE
Road Design Leader
Lawrence KS
------------------------------