A Constructive Look Back: Insights and Opportunities for Workplace Improvement
Verbesserungsvorschläge
While my tenure at GFaI was certainly a learning experience, I encountered several challenges. One of them was related to the team's psychological environment. There appeared to be a gap in creating a psychologically safe atmosphere, which at times led to misunderstandings. I observed that more support in emotional intelligence development within the leadership could potentially have mitigated these issues.
In my view, implementing team coaching sessions led by a qualified psychologist or professional coach might be highly beneficial for enhancing team dynamics. Such interventions are scientifically grounded and can foster an environment where all team members including manager feel empowered to share ideas, concerns, and feelings openly, without fear of repercussions or the dismissal of their input or needs. This approach could lead to improved communication, better understanding among team members, and a more supportive management style.
Unfortunately, in the absence of such interventions, I often felt a lack of psychological comfort in my professional interactions with the manager. I believe that with the right tools and commitment to team development, there's a significant opportunity for improvement in the overall work culture within the department.
Speaking about contract structure and compensation, my role offered a limited time contract with starting salary that may be considered low for a scientific staff with duties that span beyond full-stack web engineering. However, the opportunity for professional growth and the convenience of location provided a fair trade-off for me personally.
Toward the end of my contract term, there was some uncertainty and fluctuating communication regarding its extension, making work environment unpredictable. About one month before contract end, I was informed about decision not to extend my contract. This experience suggests that a more systematic approach to performance feedback and contract renewal could be beneficial. A formal warning system, for example, where employees are clearly informed of any issues with actionable steps for improvement, could ensure clarity and fairness in the decision-making process. Such a system could help safeguard against abrupt changes in employment status, allowing for a more stable and predictable work environment for all parties involved.