As adolescents, we’re taught to study hard in school so that one day we can have desirable careers with big, fat paychecks. This lesson sometimes leads to high expectations and even entitlement, which ultimately can lead to disappointment when we actually get into the workforce. Whether due to the economy, chosen industry or some other factor, luxurious salaries are not always in the cards.
But is money truly every professional’s bottom line?
A past professor once informed my intro to public relations class that high pay and seasonal raises only keep employees satisfied temporarily. He further claimed that words and gestures of affirmation (such as awards and other recognitions) are actually more motivating.
So essentially, no amount of money will ever keep us happy? Can that be right?
My professor’s seemingly outlandish assertions got me thinking. And somehow, I was reminded of a popular relationship book called, “The Five Love Languages,” which teaches romantic couples to understand what their partners need to feel loved. A quick quiz will illustrate whether you prefer quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service, physical touch or receiving gifts.
I started wondering if a similar formula could reveal our professional love languages. When we accept those first internships or entry-level positions, what are we most hoping to achieve throughout our careers? This is what I came up with:
- Quality Time: You enjoy when a more seasoned professional takes the time to mentor you, show you the ropes and help you improve your skills and understanding.
- Words of Affirmation: When you complete an assignment or share an idea, you want and need to hear “Great Job!” or “You Are So Creative!” Compliments keep you going and give you the courage to aim for promotions later.
- Acts of Service: There is just too much on your to-do list, and when someone takes the time to lighten your load, it makes your day. As an intern, you go out of your way to do favors for higher-ups because you appreciate when people do nice things for you. Thoughtful gestures mean the most.
- Physical Touch: Literally and/or figuratively, you love those pats on the back and high fives. When something exciting happens, it’s time to celebrate. Hugs all around!
- Receiving Gifts: You want those hefty internship stipends, seasonal bonuses and frequent raises! Kind words are great, but they won’t pay the bills!
So what do you think? Is money the only thing you seek when starting your career? What’s your professional love language?
Photo Credit: 90389546@N00
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This post was mentioned on Twitter by addy_dren: What is your professional love language:quality time,affirmation,service, touch, or gifts? via @lmnovo on #TNGG http://ow.ly/12x6Q...
It's funny how you can compare the two so closely. Like you said, words of affirmation are great — there's nothing better than the feeling when you know someone actually saw and liked what you did — but gifts (actually getting paid) would be nice eventually, too!
Also, I don't know if “no amount of money will ever keep us happy” — it's always nice to be financially secure, but it's not as enjoyable if you don't like the work you are doing or have other people around to affirm that you're doing a good job, you're good at what you do, etc.
Thanks for commenting, Angela! I completely agree with you! Although I didn't specify what my professional love language is, I really do think at least a little of everything needs to be involved! One of my favorite teachers said that when you love what you do, you make enough money. I think that's definitely true to an extent, but at the end of the day, we still need to be able to pay our bills and hopefully still live comfortably!
Interestingly and hilariously, I would definitely say that my actual love language does translate to this 'professional' love language- 'quality time'. One of my biggest gripes about my current career is the lack of mentoring I have received. My favorite job to date was a so-called crappy retail job, in large part because a manager really took me under her wing and taught me a lot. When I left that job I felt incredibly guilty because of how she had treated me.. I felt very loyal to her, even though I was 'meh' about the company.