We take our work seriously, not ourselves
We take our work seriously, not ourselves means:
This value is all about the way we approach our work and the way we conduct ourselves. We want to be serious about our work and we want to perform to the best of our ability, always. At the same time we want to retain a sense of humour and approachability in our dealings with one another and with students and clients. We believe that the most valuable and serious work gets done in a working environment that is enjoyable and reinforcing.
This includes:
- Supporting our approachable, informal open culture which is warm and welcoming.
- Highlighting one of our differentiating characteristics – the ability to be competent professionals while retaining our sense of humour.
Some behaviours that support this value:
- Undertaking our work with the utmost care and diligence.
- Expecting others to respect me for my contribution to the University rather than my status.
- Setting out to be friendly, approachable, on first name terms with students and colleagues.
- Learning from mistakes made by ourselves and others.
- Avoiding too much emphasis on formality, job titles etc.
- Keeping things in perspective and accepting what cannot be changed overnight.
- Using humour appropriately.
- Seeking to make the working environment positive and enjoyable for those around us.
- Regarding the contribution that people make to the University as more important than their status.
- Being prepared to listen to criticism that is given constructively and to evaluate it.
Examples of LJMU value in action:
- Delivering high quality research in a positive and enjoyable environment.
- Staff fostering good, open and supportive working relationships with students.
- Staff working flexibly to resolve problems.
- Holding school/faculty events enabling people to acquire recreational skills (e.g. cycling, dancing).
- Running team building programmes to enhance performance on cross-institutional projects.
- Participating in charitable events e.g. sponsored fun runs.
- When introducing people to LJMU or presenting on LJMU externally they experience a non stuffy style that is open, warm and friendly.
- The more focussed use of formal committees, greater use of informal working groups and the training of chairs.
