Business Solutions for Spring 2020

6 S P R I N G 2 0 2 0 Who’s Minding Your Business? Justin Waldrop Technical Operations Manager Justin Waldrop started in the telephone industry at 16, working with his father, before earning an associate’s degree in applied science for telephony from Lincoln Trail College. After work experience at GTE, he joined Madison Communications in 2013 as Technical Operations Manager. Waldrop said, “Here at Madison Com- munications, I manage the best team I have ever worked with, made up of two supervisors and 10 technicians. My department maintains the Central Office, Head End, and all outside plant facilities, and is also responsible for the daily installs. I make sure my techs have what they need to get their jobs done right and that other departments stay updated with information.” What does Waldrop find most reward- ing about his job? He replied, “The communications industry is a fast- paced and demanding environment. In order to keep up with technology, you have to learn something every day. I strive to give my team all the resources and training required to make their jobs easier. My greatest reward is seeing team members improve themselves personally and professionally.” Outside of work, Waldrop is involved with the Staunton Area Emergency Management Council and has an active family life. “I have a wonderful girlfriend Michele, an 18-year-old son Tristan, and three dogs. I love going to concerts, playing Rocket League with my son, and going hunting with grandpa,” he said. In recent years, more and more companies have begun to recognize the need for a little levity around the office. Why is that? The answer is simple. Studies have demonstrated that laughter has positive effects on both our physical and mental health. In fact, laughing enhances the immune system, lowers blood pressure, and even releases natural antidepressants and pain- killers in the body. This boost to our systems can result in fewer missed days, less illness, and reduced stress. Many employers now say that a good sense of humor is a key factor when choos- ing new hires. This trait is often reflective of a person’s flexibility at work and an ability to build good rapport with colleagues. Improved morale, greater creativity, and increased productivity have all been reported by companies making efforts to add humor to their environment. Of course, injecting humor into the workday isn’t always easy. Many workers don’t feel there’s time for it—and if used inappropriately, it can even be offensive. With that in mind, consider these tips: Be self-deprecating We all appreciate people who can laugh at themselves from time to time. Don’t take yourself too seriously! Find humor in stressful situations By pointing out the funny side of a task or project your team is working on, your colleagues will easily relate—and no one will get their feelings hurt. Add humor to the agenda Devote the first two or three minutes of each meeting to humor and lighten the conversation before getting down to business. Avoid sarcasm Sarcasm may work with your closest friends but in a work environment, it can be misinterpreted as a put-down or a thinly veiled comment on someone’s actual work habits or skills. Likewise, remarks and jokes related to race or gender are strictly off-limits. With just a little effort, you can make sure that the workplace is a little less serious and a little more fun for everyone. After all, Americans typically spend more waking hours at work than at home, so it’s a good idea to find ways to enjoy it. Make Room for Humor at Work