I've read a (very) few blogs and understand them to be sort of online journals. Well, I happen to be a journalist - in both the sense of keeping a personal journal and of being a member of the press. I like to write, especially in me journal. I can write anything and be censored only by meself. The problem comes in writing in this electronic journal. Here, y'see, my censors are legion, to steal a phrase.
Time, too, is a problem; at least with the job I have now, although that may soon not be a factor. Yes, I'm in danger of losing my job - right in time for the holidays, thankyouverymuch. I'll get into some details of that sad tale in a bit. For now, I'm on another track, so bear with me.
My journal, y'see, is highly personal -- part diary wherein I lambaste those who dare to anger me or indulge in some of the greatest self-pity mankind has ever seen. I could - and should - win an Oscar for the pity I bestow upon myself. Anyway, I've found it takes a great deal of courage to open this particular onion to public eyes.
I probably will, in time, but it'll be a bit slow in coming.
Okay, the part I'm sure you all have waiting for: my job woes.
I've worked there for going on 2-1/2 years now. I've come to realize that this position is all I'll ever be allowed to obtain. For some reason (I have plenty of ideas about those, but no proof), I will never be promoted, but will always be relegated to phlebotomist status.
Well, the other day, I was called into the overseer's (oops, I mean manager's) office. Seems they think I'm just not fast enough in performing my duties. Of course, they've thought this since I began, but never give any specific or precise data to support their acusations. I was asked to sign this document wherein I was informed that I would improve my speed within an idefinite period of time or face further disciplinary action. The last paragraph of the Employee Acknowledgement section said that I understand I am in serious trouble and in jeopardy of losing my job.
Ya know, I find this both threatening and downright offensive. I told the manager so, too. I also, with the utmost respect, told him that I could not, in all good conscience, sign that document. I was offended by the threatening tone of the last paragraph and simply could not legitimize it by signing. Now, he just shrugged and countersigned that I refused to sign and why.
My peril comes from his boss: a man-hating virago whose greatest joy in life is hurting people with her power. She has fired people for looking at her wrong (oh, she has other "reasons," of course). So, she's the one I must now deal with. Guess I'll see in a day or twa, huh?
It's not so bad if I do get fired. For one thing, I was looking for a job when I found that one. For another, I'll simply sit back and collect unemployment. And for yet another, my very first stop afterwards will be to the ACLU.
Ain't life frickin' grand?
The Auld Scot
2 comments:
Thing is, if they are going to accuse you of being too slow, they need to give you information on exactly what you are doing is slow! And, they need to provide training to you in a timely manner to show you what they think you are doing wrong and how to correct it to their satisfaction.
Of course you know all that. At UIHC we are informed about all this stuff at our annual competancy review. In the bottom end of the business line, the folks who deal with "man-hour production" have determined that we should be able to draw a patient in ten minutes or less. Looks good on the bottom line, but the reality can be far different (Forgive me, Wolfie, I'm doing my fair share of explaining for those who read comments - I know you know everything I'm blithering about.)
I'm sure it's no different in blood banking. Plus, you get to deal with people who are jerks, or people that want desperately to donate, but might puke or pass out, and lots of things that I never see in my phlebotomy job. But, that doesn't discount the fact that your management team can't slap their asses with both hands; and a visit with the ACLU might do 'em a world of good. And, for the record, if they want to send an undercover phebotomist in to see how things work in that management system, tell 'em to give me a call. I've worked for too many jerk managers to let someone get away with that crap.
And, just for those who *don't* know you, TW was not only a medic in the military, but he spent around 20 years as a paramedic. He can thread a catheter in a vein while in an ambulance running hot.
If you were here, you know UIHC would have had you on the phleb team without hesitation...*wicked grin*...they'd never know what hit 'em with both of us in the same place. Bartable chess, anyone?
If it would happen you find yourself out of the needle game, it'll give you more time to....hmmmm...write??? Come visit me??? Just some helpful suggestions!
My shoulder beside yours, Warrior. And, when needed, I've got your back, too. You know that.
Kate
As usual i'm WAY late. But what happened with this?
And for the record, coming from the patient side of things...someone coming at me with a sharp object better take the time to explain and make sure i'm comfy before biting! I'd rather have that extra couple of minutes to prepare myself. Ugh!
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