How does what you do connect to the College's mission? To an outsider, the stratified layers of employees at Hamilton may make this connection difficult to distinguish, but to Tracy Knofla, who travels around the country doing training for corporations, higher education and non-profit organizations, the structure isn't what matters - what matters are the individuals.
Knofla, of High Impact Training Co., is coming to campus to conduct professional development programs on Wednesday, Jan. 14. In an afternoon session, "Thriving in Chaos," employees will have the opportunity to review the factors that make their lives chaotic and identify techniques to survive the chaos.
"In spite of what you might think, not everyone is negative," said Knofla. "It's just that the negative voices are the loudest. My goal is to help you find folks who, like you, are finding the meaning in their work."
She explains that she has found negative attitudes come from people who don't feel valued. She said, "Negativity comes if you're not feeling appreciated. On the other hand, we'll work our butts off for little pay if we're convinced that we're making a difference." She said this is why it's important for all employees to take the time to make the connection between what they do and the institution's goals and mission.
Every employee at Hamilton has a role to play in fulfilling the College's mission. Knofla helps employees see this but also focuses on the role each plays in fostering and perpetuating chaos for themselves. She said, "We will look at not simply surviving, but thriving. No matter how busy you are, you can grow in every area of your life -- at work, at home, as family and in health and wellness."
What makes Knofla appropriate for a Hamilton audience is that she has worked in higher education and understands the pressures college employees experience from students and parents. She knows first-hand the dynamics of the higher education market place and will speak directly to issues that are important in the college setting.
This will be Knofla's third visit to Hamilton presenting programs on communication, assertiveness, customer service and finding meaning in work. She promises the sessions will be lively and fun. "There will be laughter amidst tough discussions. You won't be bored. It's a good use of time."
"People working in higher education should be held to higher standard," said Knofla. "They should be encouraged to take advantage of learning opportunities."
In addition to "Thriving in Chaos," Knofla is offering a morning session titled "Encouraging Supervisors to Supervise," a workshop designed to help supervisors develop and improve supervisory skills.
Registration information will be distributed in December. If you have questions, contact Carol Bennett, csbennet@hamilton.edu.
