The Social Misconception Surrounding Janitors

“Why do some people look down on janitors? It’s a very necessary job.” This question has often puzzled me, particularly after my father took on a janitor position at my school district when I was seven years old. The social backlash was significant, with classmates and acquaintances ridiculing him. Even when our family was reunited under the same school, the stigma persisted. This has propelled me to delve deeper into understanding why some people view these roles with such disdain.

Job Hierarchies and Human Nature

Most cultures establish a societal hierarchy, whether it’s being born into royalty, nobility, or commoner status. In the United States, where the idea of a ‘classless’ society is widely promoted, people instead determine their standing by their job titles. For instance, the worst lawyer or doctor ranks higher than the best cook or janitor. This hierarchy influences our perceptions and judgments, often leading to bias against certain professions.

The human inclination to categorize and rank ourselves is deeply ingrained. From a young age, we are conditioned to strive for excellence. Kids who perform well or excel in sports are often celebrated, while those who fall behind might face scrutiny and criticism. These behaviors are rooted in human nature, and while we cannot change them, we can aim to rise above them and appreciate the value in all roles.

An Inside Look at Janitorial Roles

One personal experience that solidified my perspective pertained to a janitorial sub-contract at a home improvement store. Every 6 months, the contract would be altered in a way that was detrimental to us. We were expected to clean vast areas in just two hours, which was previously allotted four hours. The humongous washrooms alone took two hours to clean and sanitize. However, people rarely, if ever, looked down on me or appreciated the clean environments we maintained. Even top executives might have underestimated the effort and importance of our work.

Understanding the Role of Janitors

Janitors and cleaners are an integral part of any workplace, and their importance is often overlooked. In my role as a cleaning supervisor at a nursing home, I learned firsthand how crucial their work is. The establishment had 50 bedrooms, 5 large social areas, and 4 kitchen and dining areas. When discussing the roles, it became evident that without the cleaners, the place would be unhygienic and would have to be closed down. This is not unique to nursing homes or large establishments; the same applies to offices, schools, hospitals, and other settings.

Almost every organization relies on someone to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Chefs and porters, for example, are essential in providing food and drinks. If these roles were absent, the facility would have to close. It is vital to recognize the importance of everyone’s role within a workplace, regardless of whether it is ranked higher or lower on the hierarchy.

Championing Janitors and Their Importance

Janitors and cleaners do not just perform necessary tasks; they are indispensable to the smooth functioning of any organization. They ensure that environments are safe, hygienic, and pleasant. Despite their often invisible role, their work is crucial for maintaining productivity and well-being. If you or someone you know works in janitorial or cleaning roles, remember that you play a vital part in keeping organizations running. Hold your head up high and be proud of the important job you do.

Let us strive to value all roles equally, recognizing the unique contribution of every individual, regardless of their title or position. By doing so, we can foster a more inclusive and respectful work environment.