Bring Them On!

This line of work I am having now takes me to a higher level of egocentric way of thinking. I have to not only think about myself and the people in my branch but also the 'people'. My previous work, now I realize, was just in a small scale. Though I know some people took note on what I had been doing with the people's professional development or the improvement of their personal quality in relation with their family, it turns out that it was ... nothing.

There have been three meetings in these past few days about the same thing. Indeed, I've learned.

First of all, I learn to behave there. The people I met were not the kind that I can mess around if I want to stay that long 'here'. But that's not the reason why, I am afraid. I just didn't want to embarrass my branch and my boss. So, yes, I kept my manner (I think the people there have to thank God for that ). I was supposed to keep my tongue as well but I failed. As usual. Microphone and I are like best friends.

Second, I learn that to belong to a community takes a lot of patience and open-minded way of thinking. Especially if you're new. AND a minority.

Third, I am forced to know all categories, all job levels, all benefits (lunch money, mileage, fringe benefits and others) and all employees' workloads. I also have to know what benefits are written in the company labor rules and regulations. Being one of the team members of labor rules and regulations didn't help me much in involving myself in the discussion though since they're going to change it any time soon.

Last but not least, I found out that in some cases of labor rules and the labor benefits, my boss and I share the same opinions. I am glad that we do. That's a start for future branch policy making and I am sure this shared view will make both of our lives easier.

So, ask me if you would....
Who belong to category 4? What's his salary? What's his benefits? What's the base of this benefit? When was the last time the rate was adjusted? What's the difference of a new teacher? What about a part time teacher? Now I can answer those!