It has been interesting to begin processing my impressions of the organization my group observed last week; sharing information with the class and receiving feedback helped me develop connections that I had not initially seen. I tried to approach the visit with an open mind, a blank slate, but clearly, that was impossible, because we all have preconceived notions. Evaluating my biases/filters, I realized that I have had many personal experiences within the fitness industry, and I cling to certain perceptions/memories. In trying to disconnect from this biases, I wrote down notes of what I saw and heard in an attempt to be objective; however, I also realized that feelings are an observation as well, and try as I might to be a fly on the wall, my presence in the organization had an effect on the organization as well as my observation – that is undeniable.
I began thinking of my first impressions and drawing comparisons between my organization and the fitness club. I could see how the focus of both organizations is on client well-being and development. The fitness club focuses on peoples’ health and lifestyle and educational institutions often do the same, but through different approaches. Programs are a common theme between the organizations, along with an attempt to design something for everyone. Working in higher education, I believe postsecondary institutions were developed to provide many different options for students, and even within my department, that remains evident. At the fitness club, on a smaller scale, there is an attempt to meet the needs of clients of all ages, demographics, abilities, interests, etc.
One similarity between my organization and the fitness club was the mixed message provided by representatives. For example, our tour guide, a membership specialist, openly said she doesn’t work out; that seemed odd for someone who works in the fitness industry (although I did think about how many nurses and doctors can be seen smoking outside a hospital, so I suppose life is full of ironies). Reflecting on the observation, I was struck by my impression of a high-level administrator in my organization who recommends that students persist and complete their educational degrees/certificates, but this person never completed their dissertation and has been ABD for many years. I find it fascinating that people can advise others to do what they themselves are unwilling to do. It is the message parents often give their children: Do as I say, not as I do.
I consider myself a fairly perceptive person, and how an environment “feels” is very important to me. I was thoroughly impressed with the good-vibe, if you will, that I sensed in the fitness club. Similarly, I have a good-vibe feeling in my organization. There is a sense that people are available to help you, but that you are ultimately there by choice and must do-right by yourself because no one can do it for you. I think with fitness, both of the body and mind, that is particularly true. Educating people to live healthier lifestyles and/or to master skills for more productive and satisfying futures is quite thematic across the fitness and educational industries. The financial structures of the organizations may differ greatly, but I am sensing that the over-arching missions are more similar than I previously suspected.
Next Friday my group is revisiting the organization to interview the manager and learn more about the ins-and-outs of the business. I hope to ascertain more concrete examples of the culture and traditions that the fitness club maintains. I have a feeling that I will continue to expand my impressions of the club at the same time I begin to peel back the layers of my organization to reveal a deeper level of unexamined force fields (inspired by Wheatley, 2006).
No comments:
Post a Comment