Elizabeth Morgan | Work ethics and productivity in Jamaica

“No ethic is as ethical as the work ethic”

– John Kenneth Galbraith, American economist and author

Productivity and the need to improve it in Jamaica are regularly raised in the media and elsewhere. There was focus on productivity last week when the Ministry of Labour and Social Security held its ‘Future of Work and Productivity Summit’ at the AC Hotel.

An issue for consideration is the link between work ethics and productivity. In literature reviewed, it states that productivity, increasing output more efficiently and effectively to promote economic growth, is linked to good work ethics, which lead to a healthier business environment.

From the Productivity Centre, the Planning Institute of Jamaica, and a study by the Caribbean Policy Research Institute, it is clear that the productivity level in Jamaica is very low and has been so for over four decades.

In spite of the unemployment rate recently recorded at 4.2 per cent near full employment, it was pointed out that productivity is continuing to decline. So, in reality, more people are employed but their productivity is less.

If productivity is not increased, the economy cannot grow to significant and sustainable levels. It will be recalled that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and others have forecast that the Jamaican economy will grow by 1.8 per cent in 2024, it seems, returning to the consistently low growth rates pre-COVID.

While there are many factors which contribute to improving productivity, such as innovation, value-added production, improved infrastructure, improving education and skills training, and emoluments, work ethics also contribute. Work ethic is defined as seeing the moral value of work and applying the principles and guidelines which accompany this. So, many of us went to schools with mottos lauding the value of work. Are positive work ethics being widely practised?

THE VALUE OF WORK ETHICS

It has been said that the work ethic in Jamaica is well below standards. These ethic problems are frequently found and identified both in the private and public sectors. They are seen in the micro, small, and medium-sized businesses and among the self-employed from every strata of the society.

Many of us can testify to them, giving many examples, if we are not guilty of them ourselves: the unreliable technicians, contractors, workers, with no respect for time and commitments; the erratic or autocratic approach; the lackadaisical attitude; the employee constantly on the phone; the unpleasant supermarket cashier; the cantankerous vendor; the chaotic work environment; the sub-standard work; the intolerant business owner; the incorrect information given in advertising, including opening hours, telephone numbers, with little concern about making corrections; the slow pace of work; management’s distrust of everyone; reluctance to share information; the business owner or service provider not reading emails, replying, or returning calls; and the protracted appointments, 2-3 hours after scheduled time. And, of course, there is the longstanding “Jamaica time” expectation that nothing starts on time. We all know about the indiscipline and chaos in the transport sector, among others.

Work ethics, it is recorded, guide professional behaviour. It encompasses integrity, responsibility, initiative, high quality including cleanliness, discipline, dependability, adaptability, and cooperation and teamwork, among others. Good work ethics are seen as crucial for success, as they drive productivity, foster employee and customer satisfaction, and enhance a company’s or a service provider’s reputation, contributing to individual and organisational achievements.

Work ethic, it is also said, should be considered both a skill and a personal trait. It is a blend of qualities and habits that define people’s approach to their work, all forms of legitimate work. Those with strong work ethics contribute to increasing productivity and overall performance, whether for the individual or a company. This benefits the country, if widely practised.

So, as we look at improving productivity, there is a need to focus on inculcating positive work ethics both at home, at school, in the workplace, and in civil society. We need to go back to believing that hard work, good values, and patience are pathways to success.

Elizabeth Morgan is a specialist in international trade policy and international politics. Email feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com