Courage in the workplace may have a lot of definitions, but one that stands out regards learning to act in a truthful manner using your instincts.

Courage is action.

If the thing is unsettling to you, act.  Wasted time, poor results and disengagement is at stake.   Outside the workplace, far more grievous issues can arise.

Aristotle highlights the importance of courage:

“Courage is the first of human qualities because it is the quality which guarantees the others.” – Aristotle

Thank-you, Jeffrey Coons for your courage!

Read on to hear his reaction to receiving this quarter’s “Courageous” award!

The Interview

What is your role at Clickstop?

I’m the Prepress Manager and backup press operator. My experience and role are unique, because I’m also printing, which means I see both sides (When I was completing my Press Operator training, at HP, many commented on how rare that was).

For those not familiar with printing, prepress encompasses the workflow, prior to the art actually being printed. I setup variable data, check quality, check specs, manage color, setup the art to be printed on press sheets, and make sure the files actually make it to the press, correctly. There’s also a graphic design component, as well as plenty of customer service.

How long have you worked at Clickstop?

The printing company I worked at was acquired by Clickstop in February 2018. We were all excited to become part of the Clickstop team!

How did you feel upon being recognized for this award?

Flattered. Being recognized by your peers is always meaningful.

What do you believe has led up to this recognition? 

I definitely resonate with the three “C” code elements (Courageous, Communicate, and Curious). My major in school was Communication Studies, so I appreciate and understand the need for honest communication, within a company.

If I see something troubling, broken, or inefficient, I will speak up. We’re fortunate to be part of a company that honors this behavior. I simply won’t accept the “that’s how it’s always been” mentality. If there’s a better way, let’s do it!

Have you had struggles within this Core Trait / Safety Expectations?  If so, what have they been and how did you overcome them?

What’s probably even more challenging than speaking up is following up! I won’t stop discussing an issue until it’s been resolved, or at least being worked on. It’s really easy to stop worrying about an issue, once it’s been brought to the table.

I think it’s human nature to want to remain in that comfortable spot of simply acknowledging and slowly working on a problem. However, merely shining a spotlight on a lion, doesn’t make it any less dangerous.

Why is this Core Trait important to the success of Clickstop?

It’s what allows us to be different, stronger, and better. We won’t rest in complacency and apathy. Even though it’s challenging and may stir up a little anxiety, we need to continually question areas we see room for improvement.

What brought you to Clickstop?

I love printing, and as luck would have it, Clickstop came to me (through our acquisition). The company’s reputation excited me, and I was all for making the transition and joining the team.

What keeps you at Clickstop?

I value the autonomy and freedom of being able to decide the best way to do my work, how the company’s code and values are actually lived out, and the excitement of being growth focused.

Why should others want to work at Clickstop?

You will be valued, treated with respect, and surrounded by hardworking and intelligent people.

What is one thing you loved as a child that today’s kids would know nothing about (ex. Walkman, Spirograph, Cabbage Patch Kids, etc.)

Holograms! (e.g., The “Super Natural” toyline, “Visionaries” toyline, etc.) I loved getting hologram stickers and I think there was even a store that sold hologram art, the first time I visited the Mall of America.

What is the coolest/craziest place you ever been to?

I love San Francisco. I would love to live in the Ocean Beach neighborhood, near Golden Gate Park.

What is your favorite activity that you like to do with your family?

Nature walks with my fiancé. We love Hartman Reserve!