Do Custodians Feel Like Part of the Staff?

This was the question on our poll that just ended. Why such a question you ask? They do don't they? Most of the time, yes. However, over the years, I have often heard the opposite comments from custodians. Negative comments implying that the custodians feel they are not part of the staff. Feelings expressed that they are looked down upon, that they feel ignored or invisible and are only called upon or communicated with when something is needed. Comments that they are uneducated and lack intelligence or know-how which is often hyped up in movies and books wherein they are portrayed as the "little guy", "just a janitor", "the cleaning person" or otherwise. I've seen where custodians are sometimes ignored when it comes to staff gatherings, meetings, updates or other building related memos. When asked about it later, the comment is often heard that 'oh, I thought you knew.'

I'm not saying this is always the case. There are many staff members who view and treat the custodial staff with respect and dignity and who appreciate their role in the building. Positive e-mails, cards and comments are often passed on. These are always appreciated.

Overall, the custodians are known and worked with. It's just on those occasional instances when they are walked on or treated with indifference that they begin to feel neglected and robotic in the jobs they do to keep the buildings running efficiently. It was nice to see in the votes on this poll that 86% said they felt that the custodians are part of the staff and the other 14% said they hadn't thought about it. Custodians always appreciate being recognized for the often unsanitary and repugnant work they have to do at times. This poll shows that is the case. Thank you for your support!