Once again I was tagged to answer a question. This time by Chris Shaw http://chrisshaw.wordpress.com .

Here is the question: Do you feel like you are being treated fairly at your current or past employers? The question stems from the fact that very few people today stay at a company 20 to 30 years like they did when I was growing up. Do you feel like the company feels a loyalty toward the employee or do you think that they look at you just as head count? No reason to get yourself in trouble, so you can refer back to past employers.

I have to say that my current job at Bryan Cave is the best job I have ever had. I’m not saying that I never get frustrated or aggravated or stressed, but overall it is a great place to work. Unfortunately, it seems that “The Cave” is not immune to the downfall in the economy, so they are cutting back on things that have been important to me like training and conferences. For example, I attended the PASS Summit from 2003 to 2007 on their nickel. Last year I felt like I really needed to attend PASS even though my request was turned down, so I paid my own way and burned some vacation days to do it. I feel very grateful for those previous four trips when the firm picked up the bill and understand that times are tough. Not sure that I am willing to use vacation days to go again, though.

Honestly, I don’t know if the firm looks at me as an FTE or feels any real loyalty towards me. I think it is smart business to make employees feel that they are appreciated and part of the company. You can probably do that with either intention. 

 So, I guess I need to tag some more people. How about Tom LaRock, Tim Ford and Allen Kinsel.