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The Joys Of Janitorhood: Reflections On A Low Status Career Field

Fri, 2008-02-01 17:57 — ABN

Wonderful essay. ABN
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By JOHN O. ANDERSEN
February 1, 2008

I'm a self-employed janitor who specializes in carpet cleaning. I earn an adequate salary for our small family's needs.

No, in this field I will never be wealthy or even well-to-do. I don't have a company pension, stock options, or an annual paid vacation. If I get hurt, I may be up a gum tree. But I'm okay with all of that.

As a janitor, I'm near the bottom of the career hierarchy.

When was the last time you heard a kid say his dream was to become a janitor when he grew up? The mainstream view of janitorial work is something you do when your options have run out.

Yet if you're the right person, it can be an excellent career choice. Having been doing this since 1993, I think I can say I'm one of those people.

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