What might today’s worker have in common with the plain, black government pen?  You know the one.  It is in post offices and federal offices and throughout the military

I grew up around those black, plastic objects since my father was a government employee.  They were definitely not flashy, but I had no idea of what went into the making of them until I read an article by Ylan Q. Mui from the Washington Post.

72 years ago, a 16-page legislative mandate was drafted with the specifications for this pen, which included requirements that it:

• Must be able to write continuously for a mile, under 125 grams of pressure
• Must function in temperatures from 160 degrees to 40 degrees below zero
• Must produce writing not be completely removed after two applications of bleach
• Produce no more than 15 blobs per 1000 feet of writing

Think of the many types of pens you have used over the years and the price ranges.  Some are stylish and we love to show them off.  Others just feel comfortable.  No matter what changes have evolved, that black pen still endures.

When I read about the features of this long-lasting icon, it reminded me that we too often go for the “flash” in the workplace.  Who is the “favorite son” of the moment because of a big deal?  Who dominates a room when they enter?  Aren’t these the ones that immediately come to mind when it’s time for promotions?

Yet there are always long-time, steady back office workers, the ones you go to when you need to know or find something, regardless of how long ago it happened.  These people show up every day, consistently maintain their productivity, and provide the backbone of a company.

We will always be attracted to the flash, but make sure that you hold onto and value the background resources that are steady and reliable.  They are the ones that will be supporting you and your productivity levels when the flash has moved on to other showcases.