Good Work: How Blue Collar Business Can Change Lives, Communities, and the World

Hataj, owner of Wisconsin gear manufacturer Edgerton Gear, argues in his impactful debut that finding one’s purpose in the kingdom of God can be wrapped up neatly into what one does for a living. The desire to do well in business and serve God need not be mutually exclusive, he contends, and businesses where owners and workers figure out how to combine the two can make for a God-serving community. He gleans insight from culture and biblical stories, and shares personal stories about deciding to take over his family gear shop. For Hataj, once profit isn’t seen as the end-all for motivation, a job becomes a tool for fulfilling personal purpose while serving customers and employees. Work relationships must survive through both boom and bust times, Hataj points out, and how one reacts to adversity can help spread Christianity within one’s workplace and communities. One memory about his father’s overcoming prejudice to treat customers well is particularly affecting. He also lauds the “three-legged stool” of business—quality, value, and service—and gives tips on leadership and customer service that can benefit all workers. Christians who struggle with wondering how to serve God will find Hataj’s impassioned testament quite persuasive. (May)