NCJ Number
206970
Journal
Corrections Today Magazine Volume: 66 Issue: 5 Dated: August 2004 Pages: 86-88
Date Published
August 2004
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the benefits of good work environments and outlines various ways management can create a “great place to work.”
Abstract
Fortune magazine annually publishes a listing of the 100 best companies to work for; a correctional facility has never been listed. Any type of organization can be a great place to work, including correctional facilities. One of the most important aspects to creating a great working environment is the attitude and behavior of the management. If management respects employees and includes them in the organization’s mission and vision, the organization and its customers will benefit as well. Studies have demonstrated that organizations with happy, satisfied employees are more profitable and have higher customer satisfaction. These benefits can apply to the correctional industry as well. By improving employee morale and satisfaction, correctional facilities would reduce the turnover rate, thereby reducing the resources needed to recruit and train new employees. Employees would also have more experience, translating into a better-run facility. Employee satisfaction would also draw more qualified applicants to the facility. The author next offers several tips for creating a “great place to work.” The most important aspect to creating a desirable work environment is to establish a high degree of trust between managers and employees. Key strategies for establishing trust between management and employees are offered, including sharing company news, such as daily sales results, with all employees. Rewarding employees for dedicated service and showing a personal interest in employees are the two final tips for creating a trusting relationship between employees and managers, and thus, for creating a “great place to work.”