This post is written by Micheline Alam, Senior Registry Officer at The Tax Court of Canada.

  • The problem: Employees can get disengaged with their work
  • Why it matters: Happy employees make better workplaces
  • The solution: Find what motivates you and your employees

I imagine that some people are inspired by the almighty dollar while others may be influenced by their title and the size of their office. After 15years plus devoting my career to being a public servant, some may ask what keeps me going?

If I’m being honest, it has come down to two factors for me: one is work ethics - deciding what kind of employee I want to be. Second, it is a desire to serve fellow Canadians. It is my way of contributing to my community. I find my job to be meaningful and that it brings purpose to my life.

An offer of employment comes with many obligations as much as it does a salary. I believe once I have signed the letter of offer, I am now responsible to fulfill the requirements of the job, regardless of how small or large the task. As a result, it is extremely important to me to be someone that my organisation can rely on. What does that mean? It means being punctual and showing up every day. It means putting my best foot forward and offering to help those that come after me. I may not be the best at what I do or the wisest at the office but I definitely get the job done! Knowing that I am the “go-to” person drives me to want to be there for my team.

I also think if I were seeking help and assistance from a government office or any service provider, how would I want to be treated? How long would I want to wait to hear back? How many times have we had an issue with an online purchase, our cellphone bill or applied for a health card, birth certificate or passport and needed assistance?

I work for a court, so this could possibly be one of the most complicated and overwhelming processes that the people I interact with have gone through. As a registry officer, my job is to guide clients through the process and the paperwork and help them to understand each step.

What motivates me

The legal world is a confusing place for many. I studied law. I have also worked in criminal and family courts. I have also worked for the Supreme Court of Canada. I currently work for the Tax Court of Canada.

It is common for people of all backgrounds - even lawyers - to reach out to our office for help. However, imagine waiting days, weeks or even months to hear back? Client service standards serve a purpose. I try to respond within a 24-hour window. Oftentimes, it is the first time that an individual has had to go through a legal proceeding in their life.

Ultimately, if I know that I was able to help just one person through the ambiguous legal situation they find themselves in, then I am satisfied and motivated to continue assisting litigants. I note that people are often frightened and overwhelmed when facing a legal matter. I have spent the majority of my career explaining to litigants which forms they need to fill out, how to fill them out and explaining that documents filed in court proceedings must be served on the responding party. I have spent time with clients describing the steps of a court procedure. For me, knowing that I am instrumental in providing information that is vital to litigants and their court proceedings motivates me.

Therefore, my sense of purpose derives from the service I give to our clients. Always try to remember why you signed up for the job.

In other words, I find my work to be meaningful.  

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