July 23, 2015

 Image Management as a Source of Power

As a TLS it is our job to put forth a positive attitude for our team. This helps them to feel comfortable and welcome within our groups. It also creates an atmosphere of trust and empowerment. We can encourage those around us to choose to do the right thing. Focusing on Image Management is one aspect of my job. On page 252 it talks about how everyone will create an image for themselves, good or bad. The question is, do we create it by chance or do we design it ourselves. Making a conscious effort to be positive, even in the face of adversity, takes conscious effort and lots of practices. There are always situations that come up, on a daily basis, that allow opportunities to learn how to react or behave. Sometimes the same situation will present itself more than once and we can try a way that might work better. There is always room for improvement in this area.

Personally, I think that I am a pretty fun person, but I can be strict at times. I think this is due to being a mom of so many and having to manage the chaos that comes with it. But in general, I feel that I prefer an integrated and relational approach to image building. I am dedicated and loyal and expect the same from those that I work with. These types of behaviors and attitudes help to reduce conflict and build the positive atmosphere in the workplace. Exemplification is another way to keep positive vibes at work. “Going beyond the call of duty” helps to lift the burden of others who may be affected by our behaviors. Being on time, doing our part, helping those who need assistance, and going out of our way to be of service to others are vital in a transactional setting. We are constantly coming up with different motivators to encourage improved performance to increase productivity, positive atmosphere and team unity in our center. In our weekly meeting with the managers one TLS was recognized for her efforts in this very thing. Going above and beyond not only for herself, but for the betterment of her team. 

Image Management is a Source of Power. If we can maintain a positive attitude and create those transactional relationships with those that we have stewardship over, then we will find those around us perform better and are more successful as a whole. When those relationships are in place, then when difficult situation occur, respect for one’s position is still intact, even when discipline might be necessary. If leaders take the time to get to know those that they work with, trust is built and those that need our help will confide in us because they know that we genuinely have their best interest at heart.