What Does Work Ethic Mean? I Know It When I See It

by Sharlyn Lauby

Back in 1964, Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart coined the expression “I know it when I see it” to describe his threshold test for pornography. I was reminded of the phrase recently (not in a conversation about porn) but in a discussion about work ethic. When asked to define work ethic, the person said, “I don’t know if I can describe it but I know it when I see it.”

Work ethic is an important subject. Companies want to hire people with a good work ethic. I’ve never seen an employment ad indicating the company requires  a mediocre or poor work ethic. When managers tell me what kind of employees they want working at their organization, excellent work ethic always comes up.

But when I ask for a definition or specific examples of work ethic, I don’t get anything tangible.

Reputational Compliance

Reputational Compliance

Luckily, my friend Eric Chester has given us the answer. Eric has written a new book called “Reviving Work Ethic”. I’ve known Eric for many years and heard him speak a number of times (he’s a guaranteed Standing O at your next event).

Reviving Work Ethic is all about defining the term and then having a deeper discussion about how to instill the concepts surrounding work ethic into employee conversations. Very important and useful stuff! While his focus is primarily on young professionals, I can see this applying to any generation.

For example, one chapter of the book is devoted to having a positive attitude. Often cited as part of having a good work ethic – be positive. The chapter offers some history and research into why people aren’t positive (and why a negative attitude is perceived as “being cool”.) Then it shares leadership resources and tips to encourage positive behavior and engage in conversation about maintaining a positive attitude.

If you’re a manager looking for ways to explain work ethic to your employees, the book can give you some ideas. And if you’re an employee trying to find ways to articulate that you have a great work ethic, this might help you as well.

For more info about Eric’s Book “Reviving Work Ethic”, check out his website

Source: hrbartender

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