Day 2, XYZ, Inc.

I tried to keep my eyes open.

Between the agonizing, hacking coughs, I took notes and made myself focus. Databases. Checking customers. Domains. Searches. Got it.

Our instructor asked how I was doing.

"I'm dying," was my raspy reply.

"You know, we don't make you work sick here. We want you healthy, and your co-workers healthy," he said.

I pondered this.

"I wasn't sure what I could miss from training," I squeaked. "I didn't want to get behind."

"We'll get you caught up. If you can't make it tomorrow, call the sick line. Don't worry about it."

And with that, I was told I could leave at lunch -- which I did. I made it home around 11:15 and promptly crashed until about 3:45. And still felt miserable.

But I've thought about the prevailing culture at Corporation X. Don't get sick or you won't get paid. Don't get sick or you get fired if you miss too much work. If you do get sick, you better be here or there won't be anyone to close.

What a load of shit.

I'm fairly certain I've ended up with bronchitis. I wheeze when I breathe, the coughs come from deep in my chest. My throat doesn't hurt as much since I'm not oozing snot any longer. I have no voice, and know I shouldn't talk.

That's why it's an easy decision to spend tomorrow sleeping. Why make myself worse? Why continue to let the Corporation X mindset rule my work habits?

Granted, I had some kick-ass work habits and I have no doubt I will kick ass and take names at XYZ, Inc. But those habits are more of a product of The Mothership than Corp X. Maintaining the same high standards set by The Mothership will make the new job cake. We went over call flow briefly today and it's quite easy.

I mentioned today that I'd be interested in working four 10s... our instructor said that would make some folks happy. And as for OT, my gawd, if you want it, you can work it.

It will feel a little odd calling off in the morning, knowing that my decision won't be scrutinized or dissected. I'm not going to abuse it -- knowing I have 3 weeks of vacation ensures that. But really, how much does it really cost a company to pay employees while they're sick? A day's wages. And I know there are other costs -- how much that employee would've made the company for the day.

But really, when you're dealing with a multi-billion dollar corporation opposed to the ghettofabulousness of Corporation X, there's no comparison. One employee doesn't make as much of a difference when you have low turnover and low absenteeism. And in terms of inspiring loyalty... take care of your people, and they'll take care of you. That one employee will come back healthy and ready to work hard, not wanting to let down teammates or fail the project.

That's the lesson Corp X will never get. That's why it will continue on in mediocrity -- or worse -- as the good people, the nuclei, get fed up and find better jobs.