Recently, I was scrolling through social media and decided to post a comment in one of the groups focused on front-line employees, such as custodians and janitors, specifically those in school systems and universities. I saw the opportunity to make a meaningful impact with a small gesture.
I asked a simple question regarding whether their employers were recognizing their effort, and immediately, I received the reply, “Hell, no.” I copied and posted a link to the ISSA’s International Cleaning Week homepage, and another person replied that they had never heard of it.
The next evening, I returned to that same social media group and read more comments, including this one: “I love my job, but I hate the negativity from teachers and faculty.” Another person said that they only stay at their job because of their pension.
While we have made great strides to elevate our industry, we have a long way to go in supporting the everyday heroes of our buildings: the frontline cleaning professionals.
A vital role
Custodians and janitors are crucial in ensuring and maintaining cleanliness, hygiene, safety, and the overall well-being of our workplaces, schools, hospitals, and other public or private spaces. Their responsibilities include cleaning floors, restrooms, windows, and common areas. They remove waste, restock supplies, and uphold health and safety regulations within our buildings.
Regrettably, these roles often go unrecognized since cleanliness and order are frequently overlooked, resulting in the hard work of these employees being underappreciated. Although their hard work may often go unnoticed, it is what prevents spaces from deteriorating into inhospitable and unhealthy settings.
Recognizing the contributions of custodians and janitors can boost their morale and promote a culture of inclusivity and respect in the workplace. Likewise, communicating appropriately with cleaning staff shows professionalism, respect, and appreciation.
Why they deserve recognition
Recognizing custodians and janitors is essential for several reasons. First, it contributes to their job satisfaction. Many custodians and janitors often work during hours when most employees are not present, making it easy for their efforts to go unnoticed. By acknowledging their hard work, we validate their contribution, making them feel a valued member of the organization.
Moreover, recognition encourages a positive and respectful work culture. When employees show their appreciation for custodial staff, it shows a commitment to respecting all organizational roles. Recognition also helps to diminish the stigma sometimes associated with cleaning jobs, as these roles are often perceived as menial or unimportant. In reality, these positions are critical for the seamless operation of any establishment and require both skill and diligence.
How to properly recognize custodial staff
So, what can we do to give our custodians and janitors the recognition they so richly deserve? Here are five ways to show our appreciation:
- Express gratitude regularly. One of the best ways to recognize custodians and janitors is by simply thanking them for their hard work. A genuine “thank you” can do much to make them feel appreciated. Whether in passing or after a big cleaning task, expressing gratitude ensures they know their efforts are noticed. It can be as simple as leaving a note on their cart as they work through the building.
- Acknowledge their contributions publicly. In some workplaces, custodians and janitors work behind the scenes, and their efforts may go unnoticed. Consider acknowledging them during meetings or in company-wide communications. Recognizing their work in a newsletter or an email can boost morale and encourage others to follow suit in showing appreciation.
- Celebrate milestones and achievements. Whether it’s a work anniversary, a particular project completed, or a nod to their excellent performance in maintaining cleanliness, celebrating milestones is a fantastic way to show our custodians and janitors that we appreciate them. Small gestures such as a personalized card, a certificate, or even a shout-out on social media can make them feel seen and valued. Recently, I visited a college in Massachusetts, and one of their key professionals was leaving for another opportunity. The entire department came together to share memories and enjoy a slice of cake. Not many organizations go the extra mile when someone departs, but this college takes immense pride in its team culture.
- Offer opportunities for professional growth. Many custodians and janitors take pride in their work and may hope to advance in their careers. Offering training programs such as those offered by ISSA, providing opportunities for skill development, or promoting them to higher positions when possible, shows that their contributions are respected, and that they have a future within the organization. An investment in their career growth can truly enhance employee satisfaction and retention.
- Small acts of kindness. A simple act of kindness can mean so much. A sense of camaraderie can be built by offering a cup of coffee, providing a comfortable place to relax during breaks, or engaging in casual conversation with them. These small gestures reflect that custodians and janitors are valued as essential members of the team.
Communicate effectively with respect
Communication is key in building positive relationships with custodians and janitors. Here are a few tips to keep in mind for effective communication:
- Be polite and respectful. Always communicate with custodians and janitors in the same courteous and respectful manner you would use with any other colleague. They should never be spoken to in a condescending tone and deserve the same level of courtesy extended to other team members.
- Be clear about expectations. When working with custodians or janitors, clear communication is essential. When you need a specific task completed, such as maintenance of a particular area or cleanup of a spill, explain the situation thoroughly. By giving clear instructions and/or providing written guidelines, you help ensure the tasks are completed correctly. Communicating their daily functions and expectations to all stakeholders helps eliminate potential friction among staff and faculty.
- Acknowledge their expertise. Custodians and janitors are frequently the initial observers of issues requiring attention, such as malfunctioning equipment, maintenance needs, or areas necessitating specialized cleaning. Listen to their concerns and address them promptly. Doing this demonstrates respect for their knowledge and expertise. This also contributes to enhancing the overall work environment for all personnel.
- Treat them as equals. Custodians and janitors are professionals in their own right. By treating them as equals, you contribute to a healthy work environment where everyone feels valued, regardless of their position. Avoid creating a divide between different levels of staff and encourage a culture of mutual respect.
- Utilize your association. ISSA and similar organizations provide numerous opportunities to engage with front-line cleaning staff throughout the year, such as International Cleaning Week and Custodian of the Year awards. Stay engaged.
Effective and respectful communication is key to maintaining positive relationships and cultivating a work culture where every individual is treated with dignity. Acknowledging their hard work and engaging in proper communication provides a healthier, happier, and more productive environment for all.
Recognizing the contributions of these important front-line workers is an essential practice to foster an inclusive, respectful, and appreciative workplace. By expressing gratitude, celebrating their achievements, and offering opportunities for professional development, we can ensure that our custodians and janitors feel valued.
