A Daily Reminder...

I hope everyone has taken notice of the message that appears once you have logged into your computer. In our efforts to remind you of our operating agreements, these phrases will rotate periodically. As a group, we have agreed on 6 phrases that will be used to sum up the messages of our operating agreements. For those of you are unaware, here is a little verbiage on what these slogans mean to TYS:

Operating Agreements (General)

Use Good Judgment

This slogan will be used to relate the operating agreements on a larger scale. Using good judgment has been an ongoing theme around the office. As we do not want to create a rules based environment, the partners have encouraged us to use good judgment in all aspects of our work. From showing up to a meeting on time, to communicating appropriately with your peers, it is always important to use your best judgment.

Communication Agreement

Your Taillight is Out

When your taillight is out on your vehicle, often times you are unaware. In this particular situation, you may rely on someone else to let you know (preferably not a police officer). This slogan says to us, that you can’t always assume that someone knows how they are doing. Whether the feedback be positive or constructive, it is important to communicate with others how they are doing. Besides, how else would one know when their taillight is out?!

Conflict Resolution Agreement

Be the Buffalo

This slogan refers to a story we feel sums up our conflict agreement. “The cow runs away from the storm, while the buffalo runs directly at it – and gets through it quicker.” When it comes to conflict, we don’t want to avoid it. We want to address it right away so we can move forward. We want to be the buffalo.

Accountability Agreement

Whose Rock Is It?

This slogan has been chosen to sum up the accountability agreement. Ultimately, someone must always step up and take responsibility for the product of our work. Who will rise to the occasion and become accountable?

Decision Making Agreement

It Starts With a Huddle (Huddle Up)

A huddle is a good representation of our decision-making agreement – identifying the stakeholders involved, making the decision, and communicating it to the rest of the team.

Attendance Agreement

Your Voice Needs to be Heard

Show up and be present… and your voice will be heard! This slogan sums up our attendance agreement. We live and work in a collaborative environment where everyone has as an equal voice. Take advantage of this opportunity and speak up when you need to!

Hopefully this gives some of you a bit more insight into where we were coming from with our slogans. Although they may not mean anything to an outsider, I think each and every one of us can find meaning in them in how they relate to the environment we work in.