One sure fire way of harming morale is to fail to recognize the little things that workers accomplish daily. Beware of waiting for the super events that are usually few and far between. Do you recognize your workers’ day to day accomplishments? This may seem like pandering but if handled correctly can be a boost to morale simply by taking note of the fact that you have noted they always show up on time, change their mop water as trained, report doors unlocked immediately and do other things that may be policy but can oftentimes be missed.

As mentioned early, get and read a copy of the One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard which explains One Minute Reprimands and One Minute Praising. This simple book gives great insight into the value of providing prompt communication to workers in a non-threatening way. It underlines the fact that you are engaged and very aware of their actions and actually care about them, their work and their lives. Practice and live the principles of the One Minute Manager so that it is genuine and not phony.

In a survey, it was determined that workers who performed great work took pride in their job because of who they were and their own value system. Money, although very important, came in third in the survey. Make sure that you give raises and bonuses whenever possible while remembering that a personal note, handshake or other recognition can go a long ways in productivity. We all like to be noticed in a positive way. Providing feedback in a respectful manner can go a long ways in reducing the need to for close supervision, retraining and corrective action.

Your comments and questions are always welcome. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean…..

 

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.


posted on 11/5/2013